The Los Angeles Rams were able to survive the Indianapolis Colts’ comeback attempt as they escaped with an overtime win in Week 4, but things don’t get any easier as they head back home to take on the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 5.
The Eagles have carried their momentum from last season into 2023 as they remain undefeated. Philadelphia also had to play an overtime game against a scrappy Washington Commanders squad, but they got the job done and will look to stay perfect against Los Angeles.
The Rams have been more competitive than analysts originally thought, but this is going to be a much tougher test for the young roster. The Eagles have been one of the best teams in the league so far and don’t have many weaknesses to exploit on either side of the ball.
Rams Offense vs. Eagles Defense
Fortunately for Los Angeles, they get a massive weapon back in Cooper Kupp, who practiced this week and is ready to go. Kupp’s return gives the offense a massive boost as Matthew Stafford, who is also set to play despite dealing with a hip contusion, will have his full complement of weapons at his disposal.
However, even with Kupp on the field Stafford could run into trouble trying to find time to throw as Philadelphia boasts one of the best defensive lines headlined by Fletcher Cox and standout rookie Jalen Carter.
However, the Eagles do have a banged up secondary so if Stafford can hang in the pocket just long enough he should be able to push the football downfield.
A lot of that will be on the offensive line though, and they are without right guard Joseph Noteboom. The expectation is that left tackle Alaric Jackson will return after a one-week absence though, which is big for L.A.
Rams Defense vs. Eagles Offense
The real challenge for the Rams will be how they stop the Eagles offense as Jalen Hurts remains one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the league. Philadelphia’s bread and butter is the run game, so between Hurts and D’Andre Swift, Los Angeles is going to need to be diligent closing running lanes.
Even if the Rams slow down the run, they’ve still got to worry about the outside as A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith who are headaches to cover. So far, the secondary has done a decent job of limiting explosive pass plays, but Brown and Smith can both torch them if they’re not careful.
Keys to Victory
1. Gap discipline defending the run game
The Eagles’ offensive line has arguably been the best run-blocking unit in the league which means the Rams will really need to stay disciplined covering their gap assignments. This is particularly true with Philadelphia as Hurts has shown an inclination to take off himself whenever he feels there’s a lane to run through.
2. Attack through the air
It goes without saying, but if there’s a weak spot in the Eagles’ defense it’s their secondary which should mean ample targets for Kupp and Puka Nacua.
