The main concern for the Los Angeles Rams entering Week 12 was their lack of points. While the defense had remained impressive throughout the season, the offense was unable to score touchdowns. However, Sunday’s 49-21 loss to the New Orleans Saints truly demonstrated the team’s defensive flaws outside of Aaron Donald and the pass rush.
The secondary was continually torched by quarterback Drew Brees, who completed 28 of 36 passes for 310 yards, four passing touchdowns and a rushing touchdown. The Rams were able to sack Brees twice during the contest, courtesy of Donald and Robert Quinn.
However, head coach Jeff Fisher and the secondary were unable to make any in-game adjustments to slow down the Saints. The Saints scored at least a touchdown in each quarter, but the separation occurred in the second half.
Going into halftime, the Rams were trailing by only a touchdown. In the second half, the Rams were outscored 21-0.
Donald was asked about what to take away from another difficult loss and repeatedly stated that there is only one thing the team can do, via TheRams.com:
“They’re making plays. We made a couple mistakes, but like I said, we just got to watch the film and see what it was.“
Donald has continually been frustrated this season, as he has seen constant double teams amongst the offensive line. While the other Rams’ defensive lineman have had productive games, watching the secondary get torched is difficult for the overall morale of the team.
With that loss, the Rams fell to 4-7 on the season, as the team has now lost both games with No. 1 overall pick Jared Goff under center. Goff did have three touchdown passes for the game, but was limited to 214 passing yards.
The rushing attack was only able to muster 69 yards on 13 carries. The Saints’ defense made strong adjustments during the game, as Gregg Williams’ disciple Dennis Allen kept the Rams in check.
Donald was asked about the toll losing takes on a team and responded by stating that wins are all that matters in the NFL:
“Anytime you lose a game, you’re going to be upset, but you just got to try to find a way to win. It’s about winning games in this league and if you aren’t winning you aren’t going to be happy.”
With both the Seattle Seahawks and Arizona Cardinals losing in Week 12, the Rams didn’t lose ground in the division, but also missed out on an opportunity to gain ground in the NFC West.
Donald finished the brief press conference by stating that the team must continue to keep playing through the adversity. The Rams have a Week 13 matchup on the road against the New England Patriots.
