The Los Angeles Rams are looking to build off their impressive win in the 2021 NFL season opener with a quick road trip to take on the Indianapolis Colts.
Meanwhile, the Colts hope to bounce back from their Week 1 loss to the Seattle Seahawks with their second game at home. Even if this is another favorable matchup for the Rams, the Colts have more than enough firepower to make things interesting in Week 2.
Rams Offense vs. Colts Defense
Matthew Stafford managed to put on a show in his debut at SoFi Stadium with a historic 156.1 passer rating versus the Chicago Bears. He was able to spread the wealth among his deep receiving corps, which bodes well for their versatile attack moving forward.
Running back Darrell Henderson helped them maintain a balanced attack with 70 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries. Despite suffering some notable injuries going into the season, the Rams will have the benefit of a healthy roster going into Week 2.
The pass defense for Indianapolis was rather generous against quarterback Russell Wilson, giving up 11.0 yards per attempt, which was amped by a 69-yard bomb to wide receiver Tyler Lockett in the second quarter. The run defense did not fare much better after allowing 5.2 yards per carry.
Rams Defense vs. Colts Offense
The Rams’ defense picked up right where it left off as one of the most opportunistic groups in the league. They hounded quarterback Andy Dalton with three sacks and three quarterback hits while forcing two turnovers.
Unfortunately, they proved to be quite porous in the run game after also allowing 5.2 yards per carry and two touchdowns versus the Bears. Even if guard Quenton Nelson is listed as questionable with foot and back injuries, it will surely be in the game plan for the Colts.
Nelson, who is one of the best lineman in the league, should be matched up with Aaron Donald for a lot of the day, which will be fun to watch.
1. Put Emphasis On Containing Run Game
Despite finishing the 2020 campaign giving up the third-fewest rushing yards per game (91.3), they proved to be vulnerable in the ground game versus Chicago. Running back David Montgomery was one of the few bright spots for their offense after averaging a whopping 6.8 yards per carry to go with a touchdown.
Even if running back Jonathan Taylor struggled to get much going against the Seahawks with a mere 3.3 yards per carry, he could fare much better in Week 2.
2. Keep Eye On Backfield Receivers
Colts’ running backs were just as involved in the passing game as they were in the run during the season opener. In fact, Taylor and Nyheim Hines finished as the top options for quarterback Carson Wentz with six receptions apiece.
This versatile backfield could prove to be quite a challenge for the Rams’ linebacker corps if overlooked.
3. Rack Up The Air Miles
Stafford fulfilled head coach Sean McVay’s wish of bringing back an explosive element to the offense with multiple big plays downfield in Week 1. He will now be going against a Colts’ secondary that gave up four touchdowns on 18 completions by Wilson.
This is an ideal opportunity for McVay to continue experimenting with Stafford’s arm while getting a rhythm going early on in the season.
How to Watch
Time: 10:00 a.m. PT
Location: Lucas Oil Stadium
TV: Fox
