The Los Angeles Rams put up a good fight against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 5, but they came up short as their offense stalled out in the second half.
However, the Rams have a great opportunity to bounce back as they draw the Arizona Cardinals at home for Week 6 looking to get back to .500 at 3-3.
Like Los Angeles, Arizona has been much friskier than anticipated as they’ve been competitive in all their games so far. Although they own a 1-4 record, the Cardinals have played sound football on both sides of the ball and could very well give the Rams problems.
L.A. showed they have enough talent to win games, so getting a victory over their division rival is incredibly doable if they play up to their potential.
Rams Offense vs. Cardinals Defense
With Cooper Kupp back, Matthew Stafford’s got his full allotment of weapons at his disposal. Kupp didn’t show any signs of rust against the Eagles as he and Stafford were able to connect for several chunk gains and the star receiver should eat again against the Cardinals, who just gave up a huge day to Ja’Marr Chase.
Kyren Williams has been good against teams who struggle against the ground and Arizona represents a decent matchup for Sean McVay to ride his running back. Williams may not be very efficient with his carries, but he’s a physical runner who can fall forward and gain extra yardage.
Rams Defense vs. Cardinals Offense
Surprisingly, Arizona’s offense has been able to manufacture points and Josh Dobbs is at the heart of that as he’s got a solid grasp of the scheme and is smart with his throws. Marquise Brown is the number one option, so being able to slow him down is the key to stifling the pass attack.
Meanwhile, James Connor has been having a solid year though he out after exiting Week 5 with a knee injury and being place on injured reserve.
Keys to Victory
1. Go back to the run game
Attacking the Eagles’ secondary was the correct decision in Week 5, but in Week 6 McVay needs to re-establish the run with his backfield. Stafford has looked great throwing the football, but more complementary football can help them keep the defense off balance.
2. Pass rush needs to step up
Philadelphia boasts one of the best offensive lines in the league and it showed as Jalen Hurts had ample time on nearly every drop back to get through his progressions. Against Dobbs and the Cardinals, the pass rush needs to get home in order to ease the burden on the secondary.
