The Los Angeles Rams (4-2) are looking to redeem themselves on primetime when they host the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football to wrap up Week 7.
Rams Offense Vs. Bears Defense
The Rams simply could not get anything going against the stingy San Francisco 49ers’ defense after mustering up just 311 total yards while losing the possession battle by nearly 16 minutes last week. Aside from tight end Tyler Higbee being listed as questionable with a hand injury, they can take solace in the fact they have been one of the healthiest teams in football.
Los Angeles will have their work cut out once again versus this stout group for the Bears since they have playmakers at every level starting with outside linebacker Khalil Mack and safety Eddie Jackson. They are dealing with some wear and tear after listing Mack as questionable with a back injury. Safety Deon Bush (hamstring) and cornerback Buster Skrine (ankle) are also questionable, however, defensive lineman Akiem Hicks is expected to join the team after missing two practices with a non-COVID-19 illness.
Rams Defense Vs. Bears Offense
One of the most glaring weaknesses of the Rams’ defense so far this season has been their inability to contain the run. With defensive tackle A’Shawn Robinson still on the mend, the onus will fall on defensive coordinator Brandon Staley to make the necessary adjustments around defensive tackle Aaron Donald.
Meanwhile, the Bears are still relishing in their switch under center from Mitch Trubisky to Nick Foles. They also have a relatively clean bill of health on offense with offensive lineman Jason Spriggs (thumb/back) and right guard Rashaad Coward (finger) the only ones listed as questionable.
Keys To Victory
1. Be Better On Third Down
Aside from losing the possession battle by a substantial margin in Week 6, the Rams also converted only 4-of-12 third downs. Their inability to sustain drives not only prevents them from establishing any rhythm, but it also keeps the defense on the field longer than they need to be.
The Bears allowed the Carolina Panthers to convert a mere 3-of-13 third downs last week and will be looking to keep that momentum going.
2. Capitalize Off Attention Aaron Donald Draws
Staley has done a solid job of utilizing Donald’s skill set at multiple positions up from as he currently leads the NFL with 7.5 sacks. Following consecutive weeks of dominant play from the pass rush department, they failed to generate any pressure on quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo.
Head coach Matt Nagy has never been subtle about his plans to key on Donald. It will be interesting to see if Leonard Floyd is able to do some damage off the edge versus his old team.
How to watch
Time: Monday, 5:15 p.m. PT
Location: SoFi Stadium
TV: ESPN
