The Los Angeles Rams were provided a stark reminder that they are still far from a finished product following a disappointing loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 6.
Among the most notable factors in their 24-16 defeat was the lack of connection between quarterback Jared Goff and wide receiver Cooper Kupp after the latter registered just three catches for 11 yards on nine targets. Even more concerning were the missed opportunities that had a chance to swing this NFC West matchup in their favor.
The first came when Kupp could not track a deep ball from Goff in the third quarter while the other occurred on a potential touchdown the following possession. The drive ultimately resulted in an interception that helped seal the victory for San Francisco.
Head coach Sean McVay admits that while Goff and Kupp struggled mightily to get anything going, he is confident that they can get on the same page, per Emmanuel Morgan of the L.A. Times:
“They were just a little bit out of sync,” Rams coach Sean McVay said. “I do believe those two are guys that will connect on opportunities that we get moving forward.”
There is certainly good reason for McVay to be optimistic about the top two members of the passing game getting back on the right track. Kupp immediately emerged as a safety net for Goff since his rookie year and their rapport has only grown with each season.
Despite the loss of Brandin Cooks this offseason, the Rams were confident in the state of the receiving corps being led by Robert Woods and Kupp. To no surprise, the latter had retained his role as Goff’s safety net and go-to option on third downs after leading the team with 363 yards heading into Week 6.
Of course, the pair already had their work cut out going against a stingy secondary that was allowing the third-fewest yards per game (215.6) through the air going into the primetime showdown. Regardless, Goff and Kupp will need to prove that they are capable of producing when needed if they hope to establish themselves as bona fide playoff contenders down the road.
They will have a chance to redeem themselves against a stout Chicago Bears’ defense in Week 7.
