The Los Angeles Rams managed to get back on track with a dominant win over the Chicago Bears in Week 7. With the NFC West proving to be quite the gauntlet, the next few weeks will be pivotal in determining where they stand for the playoffs.
A favorable matchup against the Miami Dolphins at the halfway mark in the 2020 NFL season could be just what they need to keep their momentum going.
Rams Offense Vs. Dolphins Defense
Tight end Tyler Higbee was a late scratch during the team’s win over the Bears due to a hand injury and he remains questionable heading into Week 8. Regardless, the offense can take solace in the fact that they remain deep at tight end with Gerald Everett and Johnny Mundt behind him.
The Rams will do what they can to maintain a healthy balance of run and pass to keep the opposition on their toes like they did last week.
This group has a major challenge going on the road to face a stingy Dolphins’ defense that is giving up the third-fewest points per game this season (18.8). They also remain extremely healthy with cornerback Jamal Perry the only player ruled out.
Rams Defense Vs. Dolphins Offense
The defense for L.A. enjoyed another dominant showing versus Chicago, however, they suffered a major casualty in the process with safety Terrell Burgess out for the season with a broken ankle. The only silver lining is that the secondary boasts no shortage of quality depth.
This group, led by Aaron Donald, will be licking its chops to welcome quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to the NFL in his first career start. Aside from tight end Adam Shaheen being listed as questionable, Tagovailoa will have a healthy supporting cast backing him up.
Keys To Victory
1. Bring the house on Tagovailoa
With the Tagovailoa era set to begin in earnest, the Rams have acknowledged the challenge that comes with going against a quarterback with no game film in the NFL. Despite the adjustment, it is safe to say that the concern lies with Miami as he gets set to square off against a group led by Donald and cornerback Jalen Ramsey.
Pressuring Tagovailoa will be much easier said than done. Not only does he boast a mobile skill set, but his offensive line has also given up just the ninth-fewest sacks in the NFL (10).
2. Offense is at its best when run is established
The Rams have been one of the best rushing teams in the league with 138.8 yards per game, which is good for seventh in the league. The efforts of the 2-1 punch in the backfield between Darrell Henderson and Malcolm Brown has clearly paid major dividends for the offense by taking the pressure off quarterback Jared Goff.
The Dolphins boast a middling run defense that is giving up 124.2 yards per game setting Henderson and Brown up for potentially another big day.
