The Los Angeles Rams had a shot to get back on track in Week 3 as they took on a hobbled Joe Burrow, but they still lost to the Cincinnati Bengals and fell to 1-2.
This marks the second consecutive loss for the Rams and things don’t get much easier as they remain on the road for a Week 4 tilt against the Indianapolis Colts. Like Los Angeles, Indianapolis entered the 2023 season with low expectations, but so far they’ve been much more competitive than expected as they’ve got a 2-1 record and lead the AFC South.
The Colts are coming off a thrilling overtime win against the Baltimore Ravens and have proven they can hang on both ends of the ball. The Rams are gonna have to be much more focused if they hope to break their two-game losing streak.
Rams Offense vs. Colts Defense
The most glaring reason Los Angeles lost this past week was the poor offensive line play. After keeping Matthew Stafford clean for two weeks, the offensive line allowed him to get sacked six times. Facing constant pressure, Stafford was forced to throw much quicker than he would’ve liked and that could happen again as the Colts have a strong defensive front led by DeForest Buckner and Kwity Paye.
Rams left tackle Alaric Jackson hurt his thigh/hamstring in the Bengals game, which was a big reason for L.A.’s struggles. He is a game-time decision in this one and if he is unable to go, the expectation is that Joseph Noteboom would move over to left tackle.
Indianapolis has been a middle-of-the-road defensive unit and is particularly susceptible to pass plays. This means if the offensive line can hold up in pass protection, then Stafford should be able to connect on more passing attempts.
Rams Defense vs. Colts Offense
Defensively, Los Angeles will get a chance to see how they fare against Anthony Richardson, who cleared concussion protocol and will start. Despite being young and inexperienced, Richardson has shown he can be a legitimate dual-threat quarterback at the NFL level.
The pass rush has remained an issue for the Rams as they haven’t been able to generate much pressure off the edge, and that could prove to be problematic again. Aaron Donald remains a force on the interior, but someone else up front has to step up.
Keys to Victory
1. Protect Matthew Stafford
It goes without saying, but Stafford is a much more accurate passer when he’s got time to sit in the pocket so keeping him upright will be crucial to the offense’s success. On the few occasions he did have time to read the Bengals defense, he was able to hit on several deep passes so the offensive line’s got to give him more opportunities to do so against the Colts.
2. Limit Anthony Richardson from running
Richardson has shown some solid passing chops so far, but his real talent is running the football himself. The rookie is tough to bring down when he’s got open space, so keeping him in the pocket should be a priority for Raheem Morris’ defense.
