The Los Angeles Rams were able to dismantle the Andrew Luck-less Indianapolis Colts in Week 1, winning 46-9. Jared Goff threw for 306 yards and one touchdown, impressive numbers for a second-year quarterback with plenty to prove after an alarming rookie season.
While the Colts defense allowed big plays to several of the Rams receivers, Los Angeles’ defense was nothing but outstanding. Trumaine Johnson intercepted Scott Tolzien in the first quarter, resulting in the team’s first pick-6 of the afternoon. Lamarcus Joyner picked off Tolzien in the second quarter, resulting in another touchdown for the Rams’ defense.
As dominating as the defense looked, it can only get better as Aaron Donald is set to return after ending his holdout. There was uncertainty as to when Donald would make his 2017 NFL debut, but according to Alden Gonzalez of ESPN, it appears the defensive tackle will play in Week 2:
The Rams expect Donald to play in Sunday’s home game against the Washington Redskins, though the extent “is going to be predicated on how he feels going out to practice and getting involved,” head coach Sean McVay said while addressing the media late Monday afternoon.”
This is obviously good news for Los Angeles as having Donald on the field only makes their defense even more dangerous. The early returns from defensive coordinator Wade Phillips have been promising and it will be fun to see what he can do with a three-time Pro Bowler in Donald.
With their defensive leader back, the Rams are in good shape heading into their matchup against the Washington Redskins. After the defense’s showing against Indianapolis, it should be fun to see how they fare against a highly-touted Washington offense.
