The Los Angeles Rams continue to get back on track as they managed to win over a hapless Cincinnati Bengals team in London in Week 8.
The Rams headed into their bye week with a 5-3 record after back-to-back wins that followed a rough stretch where they suffered their first three-game losing streak during the Sean McVay era.
Los Angeles was able to gash the Cincinnati through the air as Jared Goff routinely found his pass catchers for chunk gains, primarily Cooper Kupp, who finished with 220 yards and a touchdown. However, the Rams saw Brandin Cooks exit the game after taking a shot to the head and he was later ruled out with a concussion.
McVay provided an update of how Cooks is feeling, stating that the plan was for him to see a concussion specialist during the bye week.
It appears that has taken place as Ian Rapoport of NFL Network is reporting that the results were positive, although the Rams still plan to be cautious:
During his team’s bye, #Rams WR Brandin Cooks saw a concussion specialist. Source said the visit was “positive” & that the hope is this latest concussion won’t necessitate a long-term recovery. Still, coach Sean McVay has said Cooks’ health is most important. They’ll be cautious.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 3, 2019
The concussion Cooks suffered was already the second scare he has had this year and he also left a game after coming down hard on a reception against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 5, although he didn’t end up being diagnosed with a concussion. As a result though, the team decided it would be in his best interest to see a specialist to ensure there are no other issues.
Even with the team on their bye week, it would not be surprising to see the receiver miss more time given how serious concussions are and how frequently he has gotten them. Fortunately for the Rams, they have receivers like Josh Reynolds, who are more than capable of filling the void and ensuring that the offense remains continues to run as normal.
With Cooks out, Reynolds was able to make an impact on the game as he was targeted eight times and reeled in three catches for 73 receiving yards and one touchdown. If Cooks does end up missing extended time, Reynolds should be featured in McVay’s three-receiver sets and will most likely act as one of Goff’s favorite end zone targets given his size and speed.
Sitting at 5-3, Los Angeles is starting to finally generate some positive momentum ahead of the second half of their schedule. Hopefully, they can extend their winning streak when they come back from the bye and take on the Pittsburgh Steelers back on the road in Week 9.
