The Los Angeles Rams were finally able to put an end to their three-game losing streak with a much-needed win over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 7 of the 2019 NFL season. The Rams put together perhaps their most complete performance of the season, resulting in a 37-10 win to move to 4-3 on the year.
First Quarter
The Falcons were able to strike first thanks to a season-long 52-yard field goal from kicker Matt Bryant on a drive that started with favorable field position. The Rams managed to respond with multiple conversions on third down to keep their drive alive and put kicker Greg Zuerlein in position for a manageable 40-yard field goal, however, his attempt missed off the left upright.
Fortunately, a quick three-and-out by the defense allowed Los Angeles to give Zuerlein a chance to redeem himself and he managed to take full advantage by cashing in on a 55-yard field goal. The Rams were able to end the first quarter on a high note after forcing another stalled drive for the Falcons that ended with cornerback Jalen Ramsey successfully locking up wide receiver Julio Jones in press man coverage.
Second Quarter
The offense finally managed to find their rhythm with a balanced approach before a questionable call in their favor helped get them in the red zone. This was all quarterback Jared Goff needed to cap off nine-play, 85-yard drive that resulted in a spectacular 13-yard touchdown grab by running back Todd Gurley.
The Rams’ special teams were able to come through once again after a 23-yard pass from punter Johnny Hekker to safety Nick Scott to keep the drive alive on fourth down. Although the offense failed to capitalize with a touchdown, Zuerlein was able to extend their lead to 10 at the two-minute mark.
An abysmal 20-yard punt by Hekker put the Falcons in prime position to score some points before the half. Fortunately, the outside linebacker Dante Fowler Jr. was able to generate pressure on consecutive plays to help Los Angeles maintain its 13-3 lead heading into halftime.
Third Quarter
The Rams wasted no time in getting back on the scoreboard with a nine-play, 75-yard touchdown drive that was highlighted tight end Gerald Everett’s three catches for 46 yards to take a 17-point lead. It did not take long for the offense to come back onto the field after a muffed catch by wide receiver Mohammed Sanu fell into the hands of linebacker Cory Littleton and they were able to score five plays later on a scramble from Goff to put them ahead 27-3.
Fowler kept his stellar outing going by securing the hat trick with three sacks against the Falcons. While both defenses were able to force three-and-outs on the ensuing rives, Los Angeles was firmly in the driver’s seat going into the fourth quarter.
Fourth Quarter
Although the Falcons had done what they could to keep defensive tackle Aaron Donald contained, it was only a matter of time before he was able to get to quarterback Matt Ryan and added the cherry on top by stripping him in the process. With the Rams protecting a comfortable lead, they opted to feature a run-heavy approach behind Gurley and running back Darrell Henderson to control the clock down the stretch.
Los Angeles managed to secure a 30-3 lead on the back of a 15-play, 62-yard drive with just six minutes left to go in the fourth quarter.
Ryan was injured on that sack by Donald, so Matt Schaub finished out the game at quarterback for the Falcons. He led a nice touchdown drive to make it 30-10 late, but that was the only positive on the day for the Falcons.
The Rams added a late touchdown on a fumble returned for a touchdown on a punt to put the cherry on top of the victory.
