The Los Angeles Rams snapped a four-game losing streak Sunday as they traveled across the country and came away with a 9-6 victory over the New York Jets.
The Rams were not able to find the end zone in the game, but their defense and special teams came up big as they were able to limit the Jets offense.
Special teams in particular played a big role in the Rams game-winning score, as early in the fourth quarter the Rams had a three-and-out deep in their own territory.
With the game tied at six, the Jets were ready to get the ball back with good field position to set up a go ahead score, but instead Rams punter Johnny Hekker boomed a punt 78 yards to the Jets 5-yard line, and the coverage team did a good job of containing the return man as Jalen Marshall was only able to return the punt 10 yards so the punt was a net of 68 yards.
The Rams defense was able to hold the Jets offense, setting the Rams up with good field position on the ensuing drive which set up the game-winning field goal with just under seven minutes remaining in the contest.
Here is video of the fifth longest punt in franchise history, via the Rams official Twitter account:
P @JHekker discusses this booming 78-yard punt, the 4th longest in franchise history. 🎥 | https://t.co/YbdxdFl1BT https://t.co/YjtF0VQCj3
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) November 13, 2016
According to Myles Simmons of therams.com, believes the Rams history of calling fake punts led to the change in field position:
“It was a huge punt,” Rams head coach Jeff Fisher said. “They left their defense on the field — they were looking for a fake. And, as we always say, our fake history helps us at times. And the plan was just to bomb it, and he hit it perfectly. And the guys did a great job covering as well.”
The 9-6 win was the Rams second this season without scoring a touchdown. Rams kicker Greg Zuerlein was also a big contributor in the win, as he converted all three of his field goal attempts.
