Is it really such a virtue to stay with the same personnel set?

I’ve watched every game this season, minus one, and it’s verging on a mantra for announcers to praise the sameness of Ram personnel sets. At least until the Chicago game.

Announcer after announcer said it was amazing how the Rams could line up with their three wideouts, rarely if ever vary this, and score so often. Yeah, it is amazing. But, if ya look at that in context, and think about the relative strengths and weaknesses of the defenses they faced, and the results when they were good, it begins to seem far less praiseworthy. In my NSHO, old fogey that I am, I actually see it as a top three obstacle in the way of a Rams Super Bowl trip.

Yes, I think it’s that big an issue. And now it’s also my main hobby horse, at least for December.

The Rams need to go Jumbo. They need to bring in Noteboom, play him next to the LT, or the RT, or Noteboom and Allen — and now perhaps even Denby. Stack the line. Obviously, make sure they’re following all the rules, but have at least six or seven linemen and run the freakin’ ball!!

Try all kinds of different personnel packages, with a two-receiver base. Two tight ends, seven linemen; two wideouts, seven linemen; two tight ends, a wideout, and six linemen, etc. etc. Even go eight along the line, a hogmolly for fullback (perhaps Smart or Suh), leading the way for Gurley. Even nine linemen, a big old fullback, and direct snap it to Gurley. No Goff for that play. Perhaps throw in a fake jet sweep to Cooks, but direct snap to Gurley first, which sets up a direct snap to the jet sweeper later.

Bottom line for me? The Rams have to find a way to defeat a great pass-rush, and the best way to do that is have the most possible massive blockers going up against them, and run the ball.

Second best way is a quick pass game, which the Rams don’t really have, either.

I love this team, but it’s driving me crazy to see them look one dimensional against great defenses.

Thoughts?