2012/2015

In 2012, the Rams had a new staff, a new offense and defense, and because of Smith’s Demise, they basically inherited only 2 linemen: Saffold and Dahl. Yet they started fairly strong. They had Jackson and rode him.

What’s similar this year?

New coordinator, with a tweaked offense but it’s the same offense. Foles is new to that offense.

They basically have only 2 starting linemen so far: Saffold and Robinson.

They do have some RBs: Mason and Cunningham, and down the road a bit, Gurley.

What’s different this year?

Settled defense full of more experienced players who are in year 2 of knowing this DC’s system. Additions on defense since then: McDonald, Gaines, Joyner, Ogletree, Donald, Fairley, and Barron.

They do have some home-coached OL depth, unlike 2012 (Rhaney, Barnes, Jones, Bond, Washington, Baker). In 2012, they had to rely on guys they signed both before AND during the season: Turner, Ojinakka, Hunter, Richardson, Williams, Barksdale, Smith (all of whom played that year). They were mostly experienced veterans but they were also mostly not all that great. This year of course they also have 4 rookies.

They have receivers. If Quick comes back soon, they have at least him, Britt, and Bailey, all much more experienced. Add in Tavon and Cook for some more catches.

They actually started fairly strong in 2012, in spite of immediate multiple OL injuries. Counting just games 1-4, they came close to beating Detroit on the road, took the Washington game, lost to Chicago, and beat Seattle at home.

So if this is the Strange Repeat of 2012 Year, they could start out strong this time, too.

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