Rams Head Coach Sean McVay, August 19, 2020

(On CB Jalen Ramsey’s play against RB Cam Akers)
“Yeah, I think it’s good. Those guys have a good relationship going back to Florida State and the appreciation they have for their Florida State background. I think (CB) Jalen (Ramsey) cares a lot about (RB) Cam (Akers) and he’s welcomed him to the NFL, if you will. But, those guys, I think it was a good physical, smart, real play — we like those. We just don’t want to take those shots from the side. It was a frontal shot, and that’s what’s made Jalen a really special corner.”

(On QB John Wolford’s hit at the end and his physical play)
“That was not smart. We don’t do that. I told (QB) John (Wolford), and I know it was with the best of intentions, but that’s a really bad place to put a DB when you can’t hit the quarterbacks. You get excited as a competitor around some of those redzone situations, but he’ll be smart. We’re not ever going to lower our shoulder on defenders when they have a red jersey — unless he wants to be tackled.”

(On the limited opportunities of physical practices during training camp)
“That’s one of the things that you educate these guys on. We’ll give our opportunities to push it a little bit, but do it in a smart way. We will do some tackle stuff with some guys to really be able to evaluate them, but you want to be smart with who you allow to do those kind of things. I think that’s one of the things that separates the pros from some of these younger guys as they understand how to practice full speed and they don’t let their emotions get in the way of playing the game the right way under the parameters at which we’re operating in practice.”

(On S Terrell Burgess)
“He’s done a really good job. Smart player, great athleticism for a safety. He has some flexibility to be able to play at the nickel position at the star for us. Really, very conscientious, made some big plays. When he gets his hands on the ball, he’s catching it. That’s one of the things I’ve been really impressed with. Our DB group as a whole, if they’ve gotten their hands on the ball, they’ve pretty much caught it. They’ve caused a lot of turnovers in a short period of time, which is great for our defense and not good for the offense. But, I’ve been very pleased with (S) Terrell (Burgess) and really our backend as a whole.”

(On having the ability to move pieces around in the secondary)
“It’s huge. To be able to have guys that can play in multiple spots, it gives you more depth. It also gives you versatility in some of the personnel groupings you can activate to an offense to cause confusion. We certainly have a lot of depth. I think Coach (Cornerbacks Coach Aubrey) Pleasant and Coach (Safeties Coach Ejiro) Evero have done an excellent job developing that backend. These guys are buying into some of the new principles that we’re implementing coverage-wise and I’ve been very pleased with that group as a whole. I think the leadership from Jalen and from (S) John Johnson (III) has been instrumental. (CB) Troy Hill has played a lot of football, done a lot of really good things and I think those guys are rubbing off on their teammates in a very positive way.”

(On an upcoming scrimmage at SoFi Stadium)
“Yes. You know, as far as the specifics around it, but the first scrimmage we’ll have, which will be the (August) 22nd, and will start around 5 o’clock (p.m.) to simulate a similar kickoff time to Dallas. Then on the (August) 29th, it’ll be around 1 o’clock (p.m.) that we’ll start that to get a feel for what a lot of our home games will feel like. Those are the general times that we’ll end up starting that. But, as far as the specifics around it, I’ll wait until I get the injury report, but it will be a lot of good work. We’ll try to mimic and emulate a game-like situation as much as possible in those two opportunities.”

(On whether the scrimmage will be physical or if the point is to become familiar with the stadium)
“It’s a little bit of both. We still want to practice smart, but we will have some opportunities with specific players, like I mentioned. Play real football, might tackle. Who those guys are is yet to be determined. I think that will provide a real opportunity for us to use and not necessarily use the lack of preseason games as an excuse to not evaluate these guys. Those two opportunities will serve as a chance for some guys that would have gotten a lot of snaps in the preseason to maybe play some real football where we’re tackling and doing things that a real one would entail.”

(On the growth and progression of the offensive line)
“I think they’ve done nice job, they really have. (Offensive Line) Coach (Aaron) Kromer does a great job developing those guys. They’ve got a lot of meaningful snaps. I’ve been particularly impressed with (OL) Austin Corbett and (OL) Joe Noteboom. Joe was really playing good football before he ended up getting injured against the Niners (San Francisco 49ers) early on in the (2019) season. I think he picked up where he left off. Looks very comfortable, looks healthy, looks explosive and strong. Same thing with Austin Corbett, who really has some position flexibility. Both those guys have done a really nice job. I think (OL) Rob Havenstein’s been outstanding, looking like the guy that we know he’s capable of and the command that (OL) Austin Blythe has demonstrated has been exactly what want from the center position. You know ‘Whit’ (OL Andrew Whitworth) is going to continue to do his thing. I think with some of the things that he got cleaned up, he looks as healthy as he’s been since we’ve been together, which is a very, very impressive thing. You’re not surprised by anything from him at this point.”

(On how long he expects S Taylor Rapp to be out)
“I don’t know specifically. I’m hoping that in the next week or so he’ll be able to get back out on the field. I’ll get with (Vice President, Sports Medicine and Performance) Reggie (Scott). He is making good progress, but I would anticipate in the next week we’ll have some clarity on hopefully him returning to play.”

(On how he would describe Defensive Coordinator Brandon Staley out on the field)
“He’s locked in. When you get into some of these competitive periods, I might try to yell across the field to get his attention on something. We talk about being totally present, and he is certainly present. He’s so present, that he can’t hear anything else. He’s got great focus and concentration. Everything that he’s done, he’s checking all of those boxes. We know that we have a long way to go, but his leadership in the meeting room, on the grass, his ability to make corrections in real time. That’s what separates the good coaches from the others, is the ability to quickly identify problems and fix them on the field before you have to wait to get to the tape to do that. He definitely has a feel for what’s going on with all 22 every single snap. And like I said, it’s not exclusive to the interviews with you guys, he’s done a great job, in what’s in my mind, the most important stuff even though I want him to be nice to you guys too (laughs).”

(On RB Darrell Henderson Jr.)
“He’s done a nice job. (RB) Darrell’s (Henderson Jr.) a guy that I think last year, had some unfortunate injuries that led to not maybe getting as much work as we thought he was going to get. But, he did flash some things that got us so excited about taking him out of Memphis. I think he’s taking a real big step in the right direction. He’s showing big picture understanding of everything in all phases – pass game, run game, protection. I continue to go back to just (Running Backs Coach) Thomas Brown’s influence on that room as a whole. It’s definitely showing. When you guys get a chance to meet him, you’ll realize why I think he’s such a special coach.”

(On the kicking competition)
“It’s very early on. We’re balancing up. We’re kicking field goals every day. Two guys each day and alternate it. So, one of those guys is getting every third day off. There’s going to be a lot of opportunities for those guys to compete for us to evaluate and figure out which one we feel best about come September 13th.”

(On whether there’s a chance two kickers will be kept on the roster)
“That’s a long way away from making that decision. Ideally, you’d have a guy that you feel really good about, but I certainly don’t want to lock myself into that answer right now.”

(On what he liked from RB Cam Akers today)
“He made a couple of nice runs down in the red area. We had a tight zone, he ended up winding back and you could see the speed to finish and get it in there. I think he’s run tougher the last couple days. You talk about how aggressively these defensive players in this league attack at the football and how important that ball security is. He’s got great natural ability as a runner. I think he sees things, he’s got a great feel and tempo to his game. But, you’ve got to make sure how important that is and I think he’s really been mindful of that. There’s been an increased urgency in him in the last couple days, specifically when the pads have come on, and that’s been very encouraging to us.”

(On the progression of QB John Wolford from last year to this year)
“I think just the ability to get reps. John didn’t get many reps other than running the scout team last year and he was splitting those reps with (QB) Blake Bortles, so you can really see. (Offensive Coordinator) Kevin (O’Connell) and (Quarterbacks Coach) Liam (Coen) have spent a lot of time. He’s put a lot of time in where he’s really got a great understanding and he can articulate and communicate to you exactly what we’re trying to get done and a lot of the different things in our offense. Then just getting the reps. Repetition is the mother of learning. I think he’s really taken advantage of it. I think he’s understanding the tempo of these different concepts. Be able to read with your feet, making quick decisions. Then you see the athleticism, when you get him out in space and you move the launch point, he’s got the ability to make a lot of different athletic throws off platform. He’s an exciting guy and you can see his teammates really enjoy being around him as well.”

Rams Head Coach Sean McVay, Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips, RB Todd Gurley II – – Dec. 26, 2019

***

Rams Head Coach Sean McVay

(On DT Michael Brockers showing up on the injury report yesterday)
“I think so. We’ll limit him (DT Michael Brockers) in practice, but we will be smart. He’s a veteran player, he was able to take part in the walk-thru. If we do have to limit him physically, that’s something that we’re okay with, just because of his understanding and his ability. He’s one of the rare guys that you do feel like, ‘All right, if you want to be smart and have him physically as healthy as possible for Sunday, take a little bit of that load off of him and his ability to get the above-the-neck reps, will be okay for us.”

(On what Brockers has meant to him since he’s been with the Rams)
“He’s meant a lot. You guys know, he’s got a great personality, he’s a charismatic player, he’s a charismatic person that you can’t help but be in a good mood when you’re around him. I think that energy that he brings every single day – he’s got a contagious laugh – but, he’s a great football player. I think he’s really played well in both phases – defending the run, rushing the passer – very conscientious with the way that he goes about his work. He’s got great-gameday demeanor too, just his command, his leadership abilities. I think he’s really taken a great step in the right direction as one of the key leaders on this football team. I think he’s really done a nice job taking to some of the things that (Defensive Line) Coach (Eric) Henderson has brought in, in addition to (Assistant Defensive Line/Defensive Quality Control) Coach (Thad) Bogardus. Really, he’s taken a lot of steps in the right direction. A lot of positives from Mike (Brockers).”

(On Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips comments on not having conversations with the Rams about his future and what his position is going forward)
“When those things come out, (Defensive Coordinator) Wade (Phillips) and I discuss those things so that we make sure there is a clear understanding of what goes on and we keep those things behind closed doors. Like anything else, after the season, it will be good for us to all take a step back. Our focus right now is on, let’s see if we can play a really good game against a tough opponent, finish off this season – cap it off the right way. Like anything else, we’ll take some time to be able to really reflect back on the year, look at what some of the things that we need to do as we are moving forward. Part of that, is talking to each one of the staff members, talking to your players, and then being able to have a direction as we progress in to the next season.”

(On what it’s been like working with Phillips until this point)
“He’s been great. Even from the very first time that we started working together. His experience that he’s had, to be able to draw on. I think our personalities, it’s a good balance – in terms of some of the things where you see just how even-keeled he is, has helped. Like I’ve mentioned in a lot of different ways, he’s always had a great perspective just based on his experience – whether it be as a head coach or as a coordinator, but It’s never pushed on you. He’s always willing to share and has a way that he thinks is the best way to be able to do it, but I’ve never felt like any of that was pushed on you. Guys love him, he’s got just a consistency that you can’t help but appreciate.”

(On what the team’s vibe has been like coming back from the holiday and going into the last few days of practice)
“I think it was good for them to get away, enjoy their families and be away for that time. Whether it was Christmas Eve or even today, they’ve got a good demeanor. We’ve got the right kind of guys in here and we’ve got an opportunity to try to finish off this thing the right way and that’s what we’re focused on. We’re going to enjoy these days and we’re going to maximize the opportunity that we do have and see if we can finish it off right.”

(On going into the final game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and if there is one game there that stands out to him or that was his favorite)
“I would have to say the one that stands out was probably the Cowboys game because it represented a chance to advance in the playoffs and get to a conference championship. That was our first win in the playoffs since we’ve all been here. That atmosphere, that environment, but there’s a bunch of special times. That was a special night when we played Kansas City for all the other things outside of football that represented things that are a lot bigger than the game and what that kind of offered in terms of a reprieve for the community. Those are some games that definitely stand out.”

(On what his thoughts about the Coliseum were before he came to Los Angeles and if he had an appreciation for its history)
“I knew just the history of the venue and all the different great things that had taken place there. But, probably couldn’t appreciate it fully until you get there and get an opportunity to compete there. Then you even start to even get educated on all the things that have occurred. It’s been a special place, there’s been a lot of good memories there. We’ll see if we can have our last one as a positive one.”

(On anything particular he wants to see from QB Jared Goff going into the final game of the season)
“I think you just want to play at a high level. Do a great job distributing the football, making good decisions, playing within the timing and rhythm of all the plays. All the things that get monotonous, but it’s so difficult to consistently do it snap in and snap out when you’re playing the quarterback position. I think you want to cap off the year with a good clean performance and see everybody do a great job around him. I think we want to just see our team cap it off the right way and play clean in all three phases. There’s been some instances where we’ve done that, and we’ll see if we can put it all together this last game.”

(On the final game serving as an evaluation opportunity for some of the younger players)
“Every game is a good evaluation tool. Those reps are invaluable for the players to be able to accumulate experience. Each week’s a new week, but those opportunities and, really, those games are so precious you’re only guaranteed those 16. We’re going to do the best we can to try to compete to the best of our ability. It is always an evaluation tool really for all of us to try to see how we do and to really be able to measure yourself and make sure that you’re getting better. Learning from previous mistakes and then that’ll be something that we’ll heavily use as we’re going into the offseason.”

(On if he is conscious of going into a game like this of player performance incentives, and if so, if he makes an effort to help them reach those)
“I would say this, I think it’s important to at least have an idea while still understanding that it’s about the team. The main thing that I was exposed to, really going back a couple years ago, was when we were fortunate to be in a position where we rested guys and how that affected some of the possible incentives and what can you do to try and make it right? Because you don’t want to punish guys by doing what’s best for the team if you’re resting them. This is a little bit different scenario. I think we’re going to do what we can to try and win the football game and if there are some things that are brought to your attention – if there’s specific escalators or things like that, I don’t know about those. But where it did become really important was when you might rest guys and they might be punished or penalized for that and those are things you want to try to avoid.”

***

Rams Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips

(Opening Remarks)
“Hope everybody had a Merry Christmas. We are looking forward to this ballgame. I know it’s a sudden end when you know it’s the last game, but we’re still looking forward to this week and having a winning season. We’re playing on pride and character and that’s two things I think we really have with this football team and the guys that we have. I’m looking forward to it.”

(On how he would evaluate the defense this season)
“About 8-7. We lost some close games that we won last year, basically. Some areas we’ve really done well – better than we did last year’s team. I think most, the run-game, those kind of things overall – yards-per-carry is way down from last year. But, we didn’t get as many turnovers – that’s a key thing, too.”

(On how OLB Dante Fowler Jr. has played this season)
“(OLB) Dante (Fowler Jr.) had an outstanding year. I think everybody can see that. He’s had what – 11.5 sacks already? Any time you get double-digit sacks, you’re up there as far as your production. He’s made a lot of plays behind the line of scrimmage, too. I don’t know the exact number, but he’s made a lot of tackles for loss, also. He’s had a very good season.”

(On if he plans to be back with the Rams next season and if he wants to continue coaching)
“I love coaching. That’s what I do and that’s what I enjoy doing. We did a lot of good things this year. Not enough, obviously, to be in the playoffs, but I thought we did a lot of good things as a team and defensively. I enjoy working with players, I think we’ve got a really good group. I think – like I said last week – they’re fighters. We didn’t end up winning that ballgame, but I thought we showed a lot of fight as a defense and a team. I enjoy coaching, I want to continue.”

(On CB Jalen Ramsey missing Week 17 and the opportunity that presents younger players)
“I think you saw (CB) Jalen (Ramsey) had an interception and caused the other interception in the ballgame against a good football team (San Francisco) with good receivers. He had an outstanding game. We did lose him this week so it does give our younger guys a chance. When you’re playing the last game and you’re not in the playoffs, you really want to see some guys get an opportunity that hadn’t had it. You’re looking at their future and you’re hoping that these guys will step up when they get the opportunity. That happens all across the board with whoever – linebackers, D-line, whoever. Whoever you have, you’d like to play them a little bit more to see where they are in their game.”

(On if he has had any indication from Head Coach Sean McVay or the team that he will be coaching next season)
“No, I’ve heard a lot of rumors out there, I don’t pay any attention to rumors. Like wherever I’ve been, I’m going to do the best that I can do. If that’s not good enough for somebody, then it isn’t. We want to finish with a winning season, I know that.”

(On if he feels like he performed well this season)
“That’s up to somebody else. We lost two years in a row to Pittsburgh when I first started in the AFC Championship game, then they won the Super Bowl. Then, we lost to Oakland and they won the Super Bowl and we got fired. Those things happen. Like I said, it’s up to somebody else to judge those things. You never know what’s going to happen in football. I know one thing, I’m going to do the best I can do and I’m going to be the best assistant coach I can be.”

(On what he has seen out of Cardinals RB Kenyan Drake over the last two weeks)
“I saw him (Cardinals RB Kenyan Drake) go for 166 (yards) last week, so with an 80-yard run. We were impressed with him last game we played them. They got behind, so they didn’t get to run the ball as much as I’m sure they’d like. They do have a really good running game. I think (in) average per carry, they’re right up there in the top of the league. He’s (Cardinals RB Kenyan Drake) showing he can be an outstanding back. It’s going to be a challenge for us to stop him and their running game.”

(On what DL Michael Brockers and LB Cory Littleton has meant to his defense)
“Both of them are outstanding players that are consistent. We look for consistency, but those two guys – (DL Michael) Brockers consistently plays the run really well against usually the best big offensive tackle they have, (LB) Cory (Littleton) just makes plays all over the field. Makes the most tackles of anybody on our team. Also, gets turnovers, interceptions and fumble recoveries. He’s played really well, both of them played really well the last three years for us.”

***

Rams RB Todd Gurley II

(On what stands out to him about playing at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum)
“It was cool. Legendary Coliseum – a lot of games there. Olympics, ‘SC’ (University of Southern California), all of the tradition. It was definitely, definitely cool. Excited about the new stadium, but just appreciate all the tradition that just went through the Coliseum.”

(On if there is a specific game or play that stood out to him at the Coliseum)
“I don’t know. I remember – I think – Reggie Bush was probably with the Bills, so that was cool that he got a chance to come back to the Coliseum. I don’t even think he played, but I think that was a pretty good thing because everybody was a Bush fan growing up.”

(On his thoughts going into the final week of the season and if it’s different than previous years)
“Same old cliché, quotes, finish the year off strong (laughs). You know, it might sound cliché but that’s – just finish it off strong, try to go out on a good note. Those guys (Arizona Cardinals) have been playing pretty tough. Try to make sure (Cardinals OLB) Chandler Jones doesn’t set the single-season sack record – I know it’s pretty close. Divisional game, so just let them know that we’re going to be back and just try to play our hardest.”

(On if he thinks not making the postseason and having a longer offseason will be beneficial for the team next year)
“Yeah, most definitely. Every offseason is different for everybody and the approach is different. It definitely will be – as far as just rest-wise – last year was everybody’s first time, really, playing in February. I don’t know, I haven’t really looked at it too much. We don’t have no choice but to rest. It’ll be cool, get your mind right, people get to go home and be with their family. That’s always a good thing and just get back ready for the next season.”

(On what his relationship with players like T Andrew Whitworth and DT Michael Brockers means to him with free agency approaching)
“It’s usually kind of like that each year. A guy that you always play with is either coming up on free agency, it might be your last year playing with them. I’ve played with a lot of great guys. Just being with (Michael Brockers) ‘Brock’, I’ve been with Brock the longest. I’m going to miss that fool, I hope he doesn’t go anywhere. I’m going to miss ‘Brock’, He’s a good dude. I’m going to miss all these guys in the offseason, for sure. I tell them, I can’t wait to get away from them. We have a lot of fun with each other, whether we are winning or losing because we know who each other are, as a person and as a player. (T Andrew Whitworth) ‘Big Whit,’ I’ve only been with him a couple of years, but he’s helped me out tremendously. Just being a good dad, a good football player – not even that – really just being a good person. Veteran guy you can talk to, he’s been through every situation. He really just leads by example, he’s just always doing the right thing and that’s why you see why he’s nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year. Brock’s the same way. He’s a good father. He’s a good teammate, good captain, he’s been our captain the last couple of years, him and Whit. To play with guys like that, it’s a blessing.”

(On if its mattes to him to rush for 100 yards in a single game and not reaching it this season approaching the final game of the season)
“It doesn’t really matter. I could‘ve rushed for 100 yards, I’ve been close. We’ve been in four-minute situations, so that doesn’t really matter to me. If that was the case, I would have did it on the first game.”

(On what stands out to him with Cardinals RB Kenyan Drake’s performances over the last couple of weeks since he’s been traded to the Cardinals from Miami)
“I felt bad for my boy (Cardinals RB) David (Johnson) but, he’s a great player. Just glad to see him happy, handling everything the right way. He still is an All-Pro back. They’ve got a guy in (Cardinals RB) Kenyan (Drake) who they futured. He’s a great running back as well. You’ve see what he’s done at Alabama, you see what he was doing at Miami. He’s been turning it up and he’s been killing it the last couple of weeks. I’m just super happy for him, that he’s doing what he does best, and that’s just balling out.”

(On going to the Super Bowl last season and their offseason being cut short and if he is looking forward to having more time this offseason to prepare for next year)
“I mean, I guess so. It’s just kind of weird because it’s like you’re not really prepared for the offseason and now it’s like it’s here. Like I said, we won’t be the only team at the house and we’ll still get the chance to watch some good playoff football and root for your brothers that are still in the playoffs. All the good relationships that I have with players. Players from the Houston Texans – get to watch (Texans WR) DeAndre Hopkins and (Texans QB) Deshaun Watson in the playoffs. I just kind of just look forward to that – supporting my brothers. Just going out to the Super Bowl and I guess doing events there and being able to go to the game and still support whoever is playing in it.”

(On having a full offseason to recover and prepare)
“I don’t really think that matters, honestly.”

(On his reaction to Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch going back to the Seahawks)
“It was cool. It just shows you the type of guy he (Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch) is and what they think of him. Even if they had whatever their differences are and he ended up leaving and going to the Raiders. They still believed in him as a player and as a man. Him and (Seahawks RB Robert) Turbin to sign both of those guys back and to be able to come back – they’re going to be counting on those guys. I’m excited to see him play, as well in the playoffs. It’s always good to see a guy like ‘Beast Mode’ back. Just having him on the field people are just going to be scared. They don’t even know how he’s going to run, but he just brings that type of energy and confidence that just helps the team out.”

(On the Rams having a number of free agents and if he has thought about what the free agent market has looked like)
“No, I don’t really pay attention to none of that. I’m always here for the players, so whoever gets picked up or paid, you know I’m always for that – congratulate those guys. I don’t really even pay attention to too much of that stuff.”

Rams Head Coach Sean McVay — Dec. 13, 2019

(Opening Remarks)
“From an injury standpoint, (TE) Gerald Everett will be out. We will rule him out for the game. (T) Rob Havenstein, while he was a full participant in practice, will be doubtful for the game. Then, (WR) Nsimba Webster should be good to go and then (RB) Todd (Gurley II) had his normal rest day on Friday.”

(On if the plan is to have OL Bobby Evans start on Sunday)
“Yeah, if that’s the case, we will keep it the same as what it’s been.”

(On how this year has compared to the last couple of years in terms of maneuvering through injuries)
“It’s been different, but it’s been something that inevitably you have to be able to deal with. I think it’s been a great learning experience for myself. You continue to gain the appreciation for the accumulation of experience as you just learn and navigate through the inevitable – good and bad times that come with being in this role. I think what it does give you is a perspective and an appreciation for how healthy we’ve been able to stay the first couple of years. Then when you look around, some of these things are not really preventable and that’s what you have to be able to deal with. I think it’s been a great opportunity to see guys continue to get opportunities, maximize those chances that they’ve gotten and us to work through some things that we haven’t had a chance to before. I know I’m learning a lot and you kind of appreciate it. It certainly gives you a better perspective on what’s been really, some unique things that we’ve been able to have taken place over our first couple of years – in terms of the health that we’ve had.”

(On using IR less than most other teams in the NFL)
“We’ve had more injuries than we have had over the previous couple of years. When you look around the league, this is kind of par for the course and the first two years are not the norm. I think it’s a credit to (Director of Sports Medicine and Performance) Reggie (Scott) and his staff. Even before we got here as a coaching staff, there had been a consistency in terms of the amount of injuries – some preventable some not – but I do think the things that you can do in terms of implementing sound process and procedures for the players to try to limit their exposure to some of these things that do take place. That’s been a really credit to what these guys were doing way before I got here.”

(On it seeming like every week there is someone on the injury report)
“I think it’s such a physical game too, where you get those bumps and bruises and then sometimes you get the soft tissue injuries or get a guy that is in a skilled position. You look at a Gerald Everett, because of the need, sometimes these are things that wouldn’t keep another position out maybe quite as long. It’s kind of by each individual and ultimately what’s best for the player and then how that affects the team.”

(On if TE Tyler Higbee has surprised him in the last two games or done something he has not seen in practice or game situations)
“I would say surprised, but I think he’s (TE Tyler Higbee) done what we always thought he could do and it’s great to be able to see him do it in these real games. He’s shown that kind of stuff in practice. I think it’s great that he’s wouldn’t gotten the opportunity to deliver in a big way on really, first down, second down and third downs. I think, like anything else, the more experience you get, and then the more success you have, the more your confidence grows. He’s always been a confident player, but certainly, there’s I think, a lot of confidence that he can draw off from what he’s done over the last couple of weeks – playing well in all phases. Talking about protection, run game and then also when he’s used as a pass receiver.”

(On RB Todd Gurley II’s comment on TE Johnny Mundt excitement to block and how would he describe his role over the last couple of weeks)
“He’s been big. I think he’s a selfless team player and he epitomizes some of the things that you want to see. I think guys that get excited, what you love so much about our team in general, is how excited the teammates get watching people compete without the ball. That’s one of the things that you love about our receiving core as well. I think (TE) Johnny Mundt has been outstanding. He’s a guy, that when you look at the Chicago game, that was by far the most amount of snaps that he had ever played, did it in one game, delivered in a big way and then last week, represented a lot of the same. He’s done a great job and he’s a great competitor. It’s fun watching him go. I know the defensive guys really get excited watching him do it as well.”

https://www.chargers.com/news/game-preview-vikings-vs-chargers-week-15

Chargers Game Preview: Vikings vs. Chargers, Week 15
Storylines
Vikings’ Efficient, Balanced Offense
The Chargers face a difficult challenge trying to contain the Vikings’ strong offense, powered by quarterback Kirk Cousins and running back Dalvin Cook, who are each deserving of Pro Bowl selections this season. Cousins also has several receiving weapons in wideouts Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs, and tight end Kyle Rudolph. In 2018, Thielen and Diggs were tied for third among teammate receiver duos with 18 combined touchdowns. Collectively, the Minnesota offense ranks seventh in points per game this season. The offensive line also protects Cousins well, having surrendered the seventh-fewest sacks.
“I know this (Minnesota) offense like the back of my hand,” Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn said. “It’s the one I grew up in. Half of those coaches I either played for or coached with. So you have to be disciplined with your pre-snap reads, because they make it look identical… It’s simple for them, but it’s complicated for others, and that’s the way they like it.”
During Lynn’s playing career as a running back for the Denver Broncos, current Vikings offensive line coach Rick Dennison, assistant head coach Gary Kubiak, and tight ends coach Brian Pariani were all part of the Broncos coaching staff Lynn learned under. Consequently, Lynn possesses a deep understanding and knowledge of the threat posed by the Vikings offense.
Running Backs Who Can Catch
Both teams feature a running back who plays a prominent role in the passing game. The Chargers’ Austin Ekeler leads the league in yards after catch, while Dalvin Cook ranks third in the category. Ekeler also leads running backs in yards receiving (830) and in receiving touchdowns (8), and he stands second in receptions (73).
“Ekeler’s a really good back,” Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer said. “He’s fast, quick, catches the ball well (and) accelerates well.”
Both Cook and Ekeler are undersized – each at 5-foot-10 – and elusive. Like Ekeler, Cook is his team’s second-leading receiver, having hauled in 50 passes for 503 yards this season.
“I’ll tell you, he’s a good back,” Lynn said of Cook. “He’s fast and he’s gotten that wide zone read down… he’s definitely a threat.”
Meanwhile, Ekeler further emphasized his receiving ability last week, compiling over 100 yards receiving and 100 yards rushing. By going for ‘100 and 100,’ Ekeler became the second Chargers player to ever accomplish the feat, with the other being Lionel James in 1985.
“Austin (Ekeler) has turned himself into just about as versatile as anyone else in the league,” quarterback Philip Rivers said. “His route trees continue to grow, (and) it’s still expanding. He wants that. He wants to compete and learn and see how much he can get better.”

Ekeler says that he has no preference when it comes to rushing or catching the ball. As long as the ball is in his hands, Ekeler knows he has a chance to prove himself.

“It’s just nice to establish myself in the league and show people I can consistently make plays,” Ekeler said. “That’s what I feel like this year has been for me. (I’ve) been building year after year in my role to show people, ‘Hey, this is a small town kid, but he can make plays (and) he belongs.’”

Minnesota’s Defensive Credentials
Entering Week 15, the Vikings rank 14th in total defense. They’ve allowed the fewest rushing touchdowns this season with five. Minnesota’s also recorded 13 interceptions, tied for third in the league. The unit has also allowed the seventh-fewest points per game – slightly stingier than the Bolts, who have given up the eighth-fewest.

When asked how he would characterize his defense’s identity, Zimmer responded by saying, “Typically, we’re pretty solid, fundamentally sound, have different ways to pressure the quarterback, and hopefully we can (contest) catches.”

Rivers mentioned that he’s faced Zimmer’s defensive schemes multiple times in his career from when Zimmer coached for the Cincinnati Bengals and when the Bolts last played the Vikings three years ago in the preseason.

“They’re good, they work well together, and they fly around,” Rivers said. “They make you earn every first down, so nothing will come easy, and it’ll be a heck of a challenge.”

Led by defensive end Danielle Hunter (more about him below), the Vikings pass rush is excellent, causing quarterbacks to lose the third-most yards on sacks in the NFL.

“Those guys, they can get after the passer,” Lynn said. “That defensive line is outstanding. I like the interior guys as well. Pretty similar to what we saw last week, but maybe even better.”

Sunday will mark the Chargers’ first game of the season since being eliminated from the playoff race, but they can still play spoiler. The Vikings currently hold the sixth and final spot in the NFC playoff picture, with the Los Angeles Rams standing just a game behind Minnesota.

While Chargers players and coaches have seen the standings and understand what’s at stake, the Bolts are focused on improving internally each week.

“We want to win for us,” Rivers said. “But certainly, there’s a lot on the line for them. The Rams are pulling for us as well. It’ll be a heck of a game. Again, our focus is to be 1-0 this week. That focus served us well last week. We’ll have the same approach, and we’ll see if we can find a way to get another one.”

In the meantime, the team expressed their satisfaction with winning last week by such a large margin, and hope to ‘go 1-0’ again this week in a similar fashion.

“Shoot, we need every game, my goodness,” Ekeler said. “It seems like we’ve been so close week in and week out for the past few weeks, so it’s a good feeling to finally have a dominant win where all phases of the game are clicking. We’re looking to do the same thing this week.”

Vikings Players/Matchups to Watch

QB Kirk Cousins
In his second year with the Vikings, Cousins is enjoying his best season, ranking near the top of the NFL in most passing categories. He’s thrown 24 passing touchdowns, and, among starting quarterbacks, only Aaron Rodgers and Patrick Mahomes have thrown fewer interceptions. Cousins also ranks third in yards per pass attempt and fourth in completion percentage. The eighth-year Michigan State product will be coming off an efficient performance, in which he went 24-for-30 with 242 yards passing and a touchdown pass.

“I think he’s played much, much better (than last season),” Zimmer said. “He’s always been really accurate. He throws the ball well. He’s getting the ball out of his hands, and I think he’s (been) going to the right places. I think the offensive line has helped him as well. He’s playing with a lot of confidence right now.”

Minnesota Vikings
Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers joins Cousins at the top of some passing leaderboards this season, as the Bolts’ veteran ranks third with 3,748 passing yards while Cousins ranks ninth with 3, 274. Additionally, Rivers’ 12.4 yards per pass completion is sixth in the NFL, while Cousins isn’t far off, ranking 10th with 12.0.

“I think Kirk’s been a consistent player his whole career,” Rivers said. “Competitor, accurate, and has done a heck of a job leading those guys. They’ve been scoring a lot of points and haven’t turned the ball over, (and) their defense has gotten a lot of takeaways. They’ve won nine football games for a reason. (Cousins) has certainly had his hand in it, leading the group.”

RB Dalvin Cook
Vikings running back Dalvin Cook has shown everyone what he’s made of in 2019. Tied for the most rushing touchdowns in the NFL with Derrick Henry, Cook is also second in total yards from scrimmage behind Christian McCaffrey, elite company for the 24-year-old.

When asked what the difference has been for Cook in 2019, Zimmer attested that because of Cook’s ability to stay healthy all year, opposing teams and fans are finally seeing what he can do.

The running back, who attended Florida State with Chargers’ Pro Bowl safety Derwin James, also ranks fourth in the NFL in rushing, third in yards after catch, and third in touches. And he is well-rested, having only played 34 of Minnesota’s 73 offensive snaps against the Lions.

Receiving Threats: WR Stefon Diggs, WR Adam Thielen, and TE Kyle Rudolph
The Vikings also possess a talented receiving corps in wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen, along with tight end Kyle Rudolph.

Despite not having played an entire game since October 13 due to injury, Thielen is still tied for the team lead with six receiving touchdowns. He’s tied with Rudolph, a two-time Pro Bowler who has scored five of his six touchdowns over the Vikings’ previous five games.

“Adam (Thielen)’s a really good player,” Zimmer said. “He’s a tough, competitive kid. He sets up routes and gets in the right place (and) blocks. He does all the things you need a receiver to do. When he gets back in, he’s another weapon that I think (defenses) will have to respect.”

Meanwhile, Diggs ranks fifth behind league-leader Mike Williams in yards per reception with 17.8 and is 10th in the league in total yards receiving. Similar to Williams, Diggs has a propensity for explosive playmaking, as the receiver is tied for fourth in the NFL in plays which exceed 20 yards with 17. However, Diggs is worst among receivers with four fumbles, and three of those were lost.

DE Danielle Hunter
With 12.5 sacks this season, the 25-year-old defensive end is tied for fourth in the NFL. Additionally, Hunter has the most total tackles among the top-14 sack leaders this season, demonstrating that he can do more than take down opposing quarterbacks.

The 2018 Pro Bowler will be coming off a monster game against the Lions, in which he sacked David Blough three times and became the youngest player in NFL history to reach 50 career sacks. On the season, quarterbacks have lost 100 yards on Hunter sacks. Hunter has recorded sacks in all but three games this season, and according to ESPN’s count, he is tied for fifth in the league with 16 tackles for loss.

K Dan Bailey
Vikings kicker Dan Bailey has been one of the most consistent place-kickers in the league this season. The 2015 Pro Bowler has made 90 percent (18-for-20) of his field goals, including all three 50-plus yard attempts.

All-Time Series
The Chargers and Vikings have split 12 all-time meetings, with the Bolts taking three of four at home. The Vikes won the most recent game between the teams, 31-14, in Minneapolis.

Vikings’ Last Time Out
In their last game, the Vikings defeated the Detroit Lions at home, 20-7, in a divisional matchup to improve to 9-4. On the day, Minnesota shut down its NFC North foe, not allowing Detroit to eclipse the 100-yard mark until the fourth quarter or to score until just before the two-minute warning with the game already out of reach. The Vikings have now won seven of their last nine contests.

Injury Reports

Broadcast Information
Sunday, Dec. 15, at 1:05 p.m. PT
ROKiT Field at Dignity Health Sports Park (Carson, CA)
TV: CBS – Greg Gumbel (play-by-play), Trent Green (analyst) and Melanie Collins (sideline)
National Radio: ESPN – Marc Kestecher (play-by-play) and Jack Del Rio (analyst)
Local Radio (English): KFI-AM 640 – Matt “Money” Smith (play-by-play), Daniel Jeremiah (analyst) and Shannon Farren (sideline)
Local Radio (Spanish): KFWB-AM 980 – Mario Solis (play-by-play) and Jorge Villanueva (analyst)

URL = https://www.vikings.com/news/vikings-chargers-numbers-of-note-vikings-looking-for-rare-win-in-los-angeles
EAGAN, Minn. — The final month of the 2019 season is in full swing.

Minnesota (9-4) sits in second place in the NFC North and would be a Wild Card team if the season ended today.

The Vikings are set for their final regular-season road game in Week 15, a trip to the West Coast to face the Chargers.

Los Angeles is 5-8 and has been eliminated from playoff contention. The Chargers are coming off their biggest win of the season — a 45-10 road win against Jacksonville.

Here’s a look at 10 numbers of note heading into Sunday’s matchup:

27 — The Vikings are looking for their first win in Los Angeles in 27 years. Minnesota’s most recent victory in the City of Angels occurred on Nov. 29, 1992. Of course, L.A. didn’t have a team after the 1994 season because the Rams left for St. Louis and the Raiders headed back to Oakland. The Rams returned for 2016, and the Chargers moved from San Diego for the 2017 season. The Vikings last beat the Chargers in Southern California in 1981 — a game that was in San Diego, where the Chargers were based from 1961-2016 after playing their inaugural season in Los Angeles (1960 as a member of the AFL).

8 — The Chargers are 5-8, and all eight of their losses have come by seven or fewer points. Los Angeles has four losses by seven points, three defeats by three points and a 2-point loss in 2019.

52.5 — Danielle Hunter has 52.5 career sacks, and on Sunday became the youngest player in NFL history to reach 50 career sacks. Hunter has 12.5 sacks so far in 2019.

0.56 — Kirk Cousins has four interceptions in 2019, and is on pace for his lowest total in his five years as an NFL starter. Outside of Week 2’s game against Green Bay, Cousins has thrown two interceptions (both hit off his receiver’s hands) in 356 pass attempts. Cousins’ interception percentage in those 12 games is 0.56 percent.

154.4 — Philip Rivers posted a quarterback rating of 154.4 in Sunday’s win over Jacksonville, the highest mark in 225 career games for the Chargers quarterback. Rivers completed 16 of 22 passes for 314 yards and three scores.

500-plus — Los Angeles has a whopping four players with at least 500 receiving yards and is the only team in the NFL to have four players at that mark. Keenan Allen has a team-high 947 yards, while Mike Williams has 841 yards. Austin Ekeler has 830 yards as a running back, and tight end Hunter Henry has 536 yards.

4 — The Chargers defense ranks fourth in total defense (304.8 yards per game) and in pass defense (196.6) yards per game. Los Angeles’ offense also ranks fourth in the NFL at 6.06 yards per play.

5 — Vikings Head Coach Mike Zimmer is 5-2 in his career against the AFC West. Minnesota went 3-1 against the division back in 2015, and would have the same record against the AFC West with a win Sunday. The Vikings beat the Broncos and Raiders at home in 2019, but lost on a last-second field goal to the Chiefs.

22 — Harrison Smith recorded the 22nd interception of his career Sunday against the Lions. The Vikings safety (who wears No. 22) is now tied for seventh in franchise history with Orlando Thomas and John Turner.

20 — The Vikings are a victory away from 10 wins, which would mark the 20th time in franchise history of getting to double-digit wins in the regular season.

Rams Head Coach Sean McVay – – Nov. 23, 2019

(On WR Robert Woods’ status)
“It’s looking good, but like we’ve said and kind of like he said the other day, ‘We’re just taking it a day at a time.’ It’s been great having him back around here. I know everybody feeds off his energy. He’s had a good week of practice, really, a good two days I should say. We’re just taking it one day at a time right now. That’s what he and I had discussed and that’s what we are doing.”

(On if it’s about Woods’ physical condition that he may not play)
“No. He is good physically. It’s just making sure that’s the No. 1 priority – that situation. That’s just kind of taking it a day at a time with that.”

(On if it means if Woods is fully locked in on football)
“No. It just means that we’re just taking it one day at a time with the situation that he’s dealing with. Things are looking good, but out of respect for him, with everything that is going on we just said, ‘Let’s just take it one day at a time, keep the main thing your family. That’s the No. 1 priority, football comes next.’ If it means that nothing ends up inhibiting his ability to take care of both and he can be a part of this thing on Monday night, we are a better football team and that would be good for all of us.”

(On if RB Malcolm Brown is good to play against the Ravens)
“Yeah, he’s good – he’s feeling good. He had a baby girl, I’m really happy for (RB) Malcolm (Brown). That’s exciting.”

(On the players that were listed with an illness on the injury report)
“They are feeling good. (LB) Natrez Patrick was a guy that missed practice today. He ended up getting sick. It kind of went around, a couple guys. (WR) Josh (Reynolds) and (P) Johnny (Hekker), who were both sick the other day, are feeling better. I think yesterday having that day off, so, really given them a full 48 hours was beneficial and they look good.”

(On having a reputation for using his tight ends in Washington and if using tight end sets is something he expects to do more as the season progresses)
“I think what’s been good about this year, is you can see that we’ve got the ability to play with a couple different personnel groupings if we feel like that’s what the game dictates. It was (TE) Johnny (Mundt) and (TE) Tyler Higbee that did a great job stepping up. We’ve seen (TE) Gerald (Everett) be able to play. With Tyler, we’ve seen all three of those guys on the field. There is a lot made about just being in 11-personnel as much as we’ve been over the last couple of years. I would just say, we’re continuing to really just identify week in and week out what we feel like is the best way to try to attack the opposing defense, but it is also about your players first. That’s kind of a thing that just ends up being adjusted and adapted by the week.”

(On how he thinks practice went on Saturday)
“I thought it was good. The guys felt good, we were able to do a little bit more with them coming off a day off than what we are typically accustomed to doing on in-season, normal Sunday game, Friday routine. It was a sharp, crisp day and that’s exactly what we expected.”

(On coming off a Super Bowl appearance and knowing the team’s talent how curious he is to see how the Rams stack against a team like the Ravens)
“I think it’s exciting. It’s a great opportunity for us. There is challenges week in and week out in the NFL, but when you look at just the momentum, the way that these guys (the Ravens) have played – especially over the last month – really going back to wining six in a row, it is an awesome opportunity, really for our football team to play a great game at home and see how we do. I know the guys are excited about competing and those opportunities, you cherish those, and you look forward to it.”

(On if he likes playing in the Monday Night Football environment)
“I would say this – it’s fun being the only game on, but for us it really doesn’t change anything. It’s about getting ready for a game. The only thing that I think sometimes you prefer, it’s a long day waiting around. The benefit is, you have your day where you get a chance to see a little bit of football – being a fan of the game – and watching the day before but, you feel like Monday is an eternity. I think all things being equal, me as a coach, you’d prefer to stay on a regulated rhythm, because once that thing kicks off, it’s a normal football game. To be able to play on national television, the atmospheres that we’ve had at night, especially at the Coliseum, those always bring out some fun environments for the guys to be able to compete in.”

(On if he will watch the 49ers and Packers game)
“I’ll be watching that, I’ll be watching a lot of games, unless we are having our meetings. That’s what you like about when you have the bye or a Thursday game or, even a Monday night game, you get a chance to really see some stuff in live action, instead of just watching from the highlights.”

(On if it will be fun to watch 49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan and Packers Head Coach Matt LaFleur coach against one another)
“Yeah, I think it’s really because they are two good football teams. Obviously, those are two friends of mine, but I’m excited just to see those guys go at it. Those are two of the best teams in the NFC right now, so it’ll be a good matchup.”

(On how it feels the field will be for the game on Monday following a USC game on Saturday)
“I think our guys in equipment do a great job of kind of educating our players. You could even see last Sunday, it gets to be slippery, there’s some moisture on the field and you want to make sure that you’ve got your footing. Really, I’ll probably be able to tell you after the game, see how messed up it ends up getting. Usually, (Head of Equipment) Brendan Burger and his staff do a great job of putting our players in a position to make sure they are ready to go equipment-wise.”

(On if he is watching the games as a fan on NFL Sunday Ticket or NFL RedZone)
“You’ve got the RedZone and you’ve got the ability to click on any of the other things. It’s like warp speed, going from one thing to the other. Typically, RedZone.”

Rams Head Coach Sean McVay, Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips, RB Todd Gurley II – October 24, 2019

***

Rams Head Coach Sean McVay

(On CB Troy Hill appearing on the injury report and if he expects Hill to play Sunday)
“Yeah, we do. We want to be smart with him. Anytime that you’ve got those DBs with those soft tissue muscles, you want to be smart about it. He’s making really good progress. He’s had some soreness, but we expect him to be ready to go.”

(On if RB Malcolm Brown will be out for the game on Sunday)
“Malcolm Brown is going to be out, so he’ll be out for the game. He’s making progress on that ankle, but not good enough to where he’s going to be able to do the things necessary to play that running back position. We’ll go into it with the same three that we had last week and feel good about that group.”

(On what he’s seen from RB Darrell Henderson and why he didn’t play a considerable amount of snaps last game)
“Well, I think he did a good job. I think it was a nice little balance. I thought he and (RB) Todd (Gurley) really spelled each other really well throughout the game. Then (RB) John Kelly did a good job kind of coming in and finish it up. I think we’re learning about (RB) Darrell (Henderson) as well. I think you saw some physical runs. You knew that he had the speed and the athleticism to catch the ball out of the backfield. To see him put his pads down and make some good physical runs. I thought the third-and-1, on the third play that we had offensively when (Falcons DT) Grady Jarrett’s free in the backfield, he makes him miss and ends up coming out for a big conversion. I think he took a lot of good steps in the right direction, did a good job in protections. I think he’s going to be a really good player for us.”

(On if he’s reached an ideal balance of the workload between his running backs)
“In a lot of instances, how the flow of, ‘Are we getting plays off?’ You want to be able to get (RB) Todd (Gurley) in the rhythm of the game. I thought we were able to do that while still getting Darrell (Henderson) some touches. I thought that worked out pretty good for us. It’s something that, really, each of theses seven games has kind of dictated different things. When you’re able to have some balance then you’d like to say, ‘Well, yeah you can naturally get Todd a little bit more involved.’ But you see him make some plays in the pass game. At the end of the day, what you’re saying is, you’ve got (RB) Todd (Gurley), you’ve got (RB) Darrell (Henderson) – and then if (RB) Malcolm’s (Brown) available – those are guys that you want to find a way to get involved and make sure they’re getting their work. Todd’s still our starter and those types of things. I think that balance is something that we’re kind of working through and figuring out what is the best formula for success for our team.”

(On if the offense has found its identity now that the team has reached the midpoint of the season or if they’re still figuring it out)
“I think we’re still figuring it out. What’s been good about it is, the guys have been so receptive to the things that we want to get corrected. It’s as much as players and coaches alike figuring out, ‘All right, what are the things we want to do? What are we doing to best suit our skill sets of our players with some of the new pieces that we do have in place?’ I expect us to run the football more consistently. That’s the one thing really, I think really, all in all it’s been tough sledding because – whether it be the game gets out of reach with the Tampa game or just some of those things. We just need to be more efficient in the run game snap in and snap out – and kind of figure out that identity. I think that has been a big reason that we haven’t felt as consistent as what years past have been.”

(On if he can point to anything specifically that’s causing the inconsistency in the run game)
“I think it’s a collaborative effort, the run game. Really, football is the greatest team sport. It takes all eleven (players). There’s not one culprit. Sometimes it’s, ‘Are we putting the players in good spots?’ And that’s where you’ve got to look at yourself and make sure that you can say yes to that. Sometimes, it’s an execution thing. Really, what it’s about is we’ve got to do a better job of consistently playing performances that are indicative of being able to control the football, having some balance, but ultimately scoring points and putting ourselves in a position to win football games.”

(On what T Andrew Whitworth has meant to the team the last couple years and how he’s playing now)
“I think he’s playing well. I thought he played really well against Atlanta, especially. His leadership has been invaluable, and in a lot of instances, I’ve learned from him. He’s been a great sounding board for me. As a guy that has played so long, he’s got such great wisdom and he’s also has a great perspective on things. I think that has been invaluable, really, for our team. He really just looks over his teammates. He can still play at a high level. Then he’s got a great way of being able to find that balance of, ‘All right, here is what needs to get done, if there is something that maybe I can do to help better benefit what we are doing with the players.’ He’s been outstanding. He’s been one of the key parts of why this thing has gone the way it has the last three years.”

(On what kind of practice the team will have on Friday in London)
“It will be more of a modified walk-thru type deal, so we will do a little bit more today. You want to get these guys active and moving around. With the travel and some of those things, you do leave yourself susceptible to some of the soft tissue injuries that can typically occur. So, we want to be safe and smart about that. We kind of have gotten ahead from our install – in terms of what a typical week entails. So, today will represent kind of a combination of a Thursday and Friday. Then tomorrow will be an accumulation of those things in a jog-thru, in a way.”

(On how Bengals Head Coach Zac Taylor’s familiarity with the team impacts preparation)
“He’s a great coach. He’s done an excellent job for us when he’s been with us. I would say, the one thing that has helped my perspective on that is when my first year here we played Washington in the second game, and their offense was very similar. You almost realize sometimes you try to give too much information. It ends up thinning out and watering down things when you still have to play your call, make a reactionary check. So, I think we’re mindful of the things that maybe he would be able to help out with and adjust those, so that it’s not exactly what they anticipate. But I do think there is an element of, you don’t want to overthink it because you still make a call. You don’t know when we are going to do it and then there’s a call that they have to react to on defense as well or on offense. Those are the things I kind of learned when we played Washington in a very similar situation.”

***

Rams Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips

(Opening Remarks)
“Cincinnati, obviously (Bengals Head Coach) Zac Taylor is there. He’s familiar with our defense from being with us. Also, they put in an offense that’s really throwing the ball really well, which we expected when he went to Cincinnati. (Bengals QB Andy) Dalton’s a really good quarterback and they’ve got really good receivers. The running game hasn’t been as good as he wanted, I’m sure, but they do have the leading rusher, (Bengals RB Joe) Mixon, was the leading rusher in the AFC last year. Again, the passing game, we know is going to be good because it comes from ours, really. They can take advantage of it.”

(On how Taylor’s knowledge of L.A.’s offense changes his approach)
“You have to do what you do well no matter what. But, you have to change a few things as far as when you call things or things like that. You have to play what you play and play it well enough so they can’t run things against you. It’s always that case whether they’ve been with you or not.”

(On how the addition of CB Jalen Ramsey enables the defense to maneuver)
“(CB) Jalen Ramsey’s come in and we’ve certainly changed a few things with him. We played a lot more man defense than we played throughout the season. It worked well for us. His forte is he can play man-to-man, so you want to utilize that. He did a really good job, but also the mentality last week – up against a really good passing team, I thought we played really well.”

(On how man-to-man coverage in the secondary affects the pass-rush)
“It’s a combination of both. If you can cover man-to-man, they may have to hold the ball a little bit longer and it gives the defensive guys a chance – the front guys a chance to rush. We play zone, too, but we did play more man-to-man and I expect to do that.”

(On how the defense has performed so far this season)
“About 4-3, yeah. That’s about how we’ve done. Some games we played really well. We haven’t been as consistent as we want, but I thought last game was an up-tick against a good team. We have played good run defense throughout the year. I think our run front is strong – probably stronger than we did last year. That helps us in that if we can force them in the passing game, we’ve got to play good pass defense.”

(On how he measures DT Aaron Donald’s success)
“Well, he’s a great player and plays great. That’s what I look at, he’s been playing great. That’s what we expect from him, that’s what he expects. Sacks aren’t everything. Certainly, he disrupts so many things and he helps other people in that when he gets double teamed, certainly other people are one-on-one and he’s double teamed a lot, we know that. But, he also dictates protections for them, which gives us a chance to rush better in some of those situations. You look at the film, he’s still a dominant force. Whether he gets 20.0 sacks or not, he’s still a dominant force.”

(On OLB Dante Fowler Jr. turning up to another level)
“Yeah, he had a great game last game. (OLB) Dante (Fowler Jr.) had a tremendous game in the run and the pass. That’s’ what we expect from him. He’s not going to get 3.0 sacks every week, but we expect him to play well and he did.”

(On if it’s rare in the NFL to find cornerbacks that can play man-to-man defense)
“It’s rare to find shut-down corners, yes. You can have man-to-man corners. If you have a guy that’s at another level, obviously he can help you.”

(On why that makes such a rare quality)
“Well, because there’s so many great athletes at wide receiver. To match up with those kinds of guys, it’s not easy. There’s some good man-to-man players, but then there’s a few great ones. Those are the guys that you can say, ‘Hey, he’s got it no matter what and can help somebody else.’ Some guys can play blitz coverage and other guys help somebody else. You basically eliminate one guy for us as far as what’s going on with us now. We didn’t completely eliminate the guy last week, but we did in a lot of situations – on third-downs and stopped them quite a few times. That’s the way it goes.”

***

Rams RB Todd Gurley II

(On how it’s been to be back in Georgia for the week)
“It’s been cool. Got some love, got a chance to play against the Falcons – had some Falcons supporters/Gurley reporters, so it was cool.”

(On if he was able to see friends and family while in Atlanta for the week)
“That’s what I’ve been kind of doing all weekend. Just spread it out each day, just try to do something different and see everybody for the most part.”

(On if he’s looking forward to the trip to London)
“Yeah, a little bit – little bit, little bit. I like London, but during the season – I wish we could’ve been there all week, but it was cool that we got a chance – at least we’re not in Jacksonville.”

(On the environment and atmosphere in London)
“It’s cool. A lot of energy. Those fans are a little different over there – pretty much get excited for everything. It’s cool just to be able to have the opportunity play an international game. This is something you can look back on and half the team, a lot of us aren’t going to go to London just to go to London, so a good opportunity for a lot of guys to get a little stamp on their passport and go over there and experience everything.”

(On his thoughts on his touchdown reception against the Falcons)
“It was just during the game. It’s literally what we do every day. We even do pat-and-go before the game. Just happened to be a touchdown in the game on a pretty good player in (Falcons LB) Vic (Beasley). It’s really just one of those things, ‘Just catch the damn ball,’ really.”

(On being able to keep his feet in bounds for the touchdown catch)
“We never get the opportunity. You give us the opportunity and we’ll be able to do it. We got like four or five great receivers, good tight ends, so I don’t get that opportunity as much – which I understand. We have great players – we got (WR Cooper) Kupp, we got (WR Brandin) Cooks, (WR Robert) Woods, (WR) Josh (Reynolds), (TE Tyler) Higbee. I let them guys do that.”

(On if he felt he and RB Darrell Henderson Jr. were able to get into a flow on Sunday)
“It was cool. Obviously, my first game coming back from the contusion, so we had a plan and we were able to get things going and rotate and stuff like that.”

(On if Henderson Jr. is getting over his rookie apprehensions)
“Well, just getting more reps now. The more reps you do, the more comfortable you are. That’s just like with anything – you got a job, but you can’t really do it and you don’t really know how to do it until it’s time to do it. Just like I told him (RB Darrell Henderson Jr.) before, when the opportunity opens up, you just got to be prepared for it and be able to just go out there and perform. That’s just how this league works.”

Rams Head Coach Sean McVay, Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips, – September 19, 2019

Rams Head Coach Sean McVay

(Opening Remarks)
“Injury update on (OL) Austin Blythe – he making good progress. He’s still going to be day-to-day, he won’t practice today. The same thing with (TE) Tyler Higbee.”

(On DT Aaron Donald and RB Malcolm Brown appearing on Wednesday’s injury report)
“Malcolm (Brown) had a little bit of a sore ankle – he should be okay. We were, more than anything – when he kind of just communicated that there was some soreness, better off being smart with it. That was kind of the approach that we took. He’s feeling better today, so I anticipate him participating (in Thursday’s practice). (DT) Aaron (Donald) is feeling better as well and he’s going to go today as well.”

(On if he believes Higbee will be available for Sunday’s game)
“I think it’s a good question. I think we really are taking it day-by-day, so we’ll find out Sunday at 8 p.m. Actually, you’ll find out before, because I have to turn the inactives in before then, right? (Laughs).”

(On how he emphasizes the Browns’ ability to make a big play early in the game to the defense)
“It’s a good question. Really, it’s about applying pressure to an offense by mixing up some of the looks, bringing certain guys going forward. Typically, you’re used to just a four-man rush – maybe thinking about bringing five, six, maybe seven guys. Just changing up some different things, being aware of what we’ve done to not let them dictate the circumstances. We always want to try and apply pressure to our opponents – I know most teams feel that way, vice versa. That’s kind of an overall philosophy, where we’re going to be aggressive, but smart on offense, defense and special teams.”

(On how the tight end role changes without Higbee playing)
“Really not much. (TE) Tyler (Higbee) is a very, very important piece, but (Tight Ends Coach) Wes Phillips is coaching (TE) Gerald (Everett) up to be able to do all the things that you’ve seen Tyler do in some of those early down and distances. We’ve seen Gerald play in a lot of those early downs as well, but then also be a key contributor in some of our known passing situations. Gerald is more than capable of doing those types of things, as is (TE) Johnny Mundt – if Tyler’s down, then he’ll be up.”

(On if he notices defenses changing their schemes against the Rams’ offense from year-to-year)
“There’s trends in the league that go around. Situationally, schematically, those are things that you kind of always want to adapt and evolve. In certain ways that you’ve seen us get defended differently, but you look around the league and you see some of that defensive structure showing up in some different places. It’s really – I think – a lot of times in the offseason especially, all the coaches around the league get a chance to really have access to every single play that occurred during that previous season. You’re going to study some of the teams that maybe had some success or that do some different things that you feel like fits – schematically and situationally – for your players. That’s where you kind of just see some of the things adjust year-to-year. A lot of people made a big deal about some of the fly-motions, different things like that or the jet sweeps. I think you see some trends, but at the end of the day, a lot of the things go back to fundamentals, techniques, executing and being able to do the things that have consistently enabled teams to execute, whether it be on offense or defense over time.”

(On if he remembers what the main points of emphasis were for defenses across the league last season)
“It depends on the situation. A lot of the calls that you see and a lot of the calls that we make offensively or that defensive coordinators make defensively, are predicated on the situation. Some of your 1st-and-10 calls are going to be different than your third-down menus. I think you see consistent themes in terms of, ‘What’s the intent of a call?’ Are you trying to beat a protection by overloading the back in a third down situation? Are you trying to stop the run game by creating a chance of loading the front, so that you minimize the opportunity to get some of your combination blocks? I think it goes back to what the intent is. There’s certain defensive systems and offensive systems that have core foundational elements to it. Like anything else, we’ll steal plays from other people if we feel like it fits. I think it all goes back to, ‘What’s the baseline identity?’ You see how productive Seattle’s been for so long – the famous ‘three-deep four underneath’ that they play. You see similar schemes in San Francisco, Jacksonville, Atlanta. It really depends on who you’re talking about and what their identity is and then how they adjust and adapt by year.”

(On if he has talked to LB Clay Matthews about letting him see his father’s ceremony of getting inducted into the Browns Ring of Honor)
“We talked about it last week. He told me that it was going to take place at halftime. I want to make sure that we’re understanding to making our adjustments, but then understand what a special moment this is for him, his family and to be able to experience that. To be there playing on the opposing team that night is pretty unique and hopefully this will lead to getting inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame as well.”

(On what he thinks about Matthews regarding his level of play with consideration to his age and how is doing this season and how many more years he thinks Matthews has in him)
“He sure looks like he’s doing really well. One of the reasons why we wanted him here so badly is because we saw it firsthand with how productive he was defending us when we played the Packers the previous year. He influenced the game in a variety of ways. I’ve been a fan of his just watching his versatility. In terms of the different things that you can do with him, how smart he is. He’s twitchy, he’s feeling good. You guys have all seen what he’s done over the first couple of games. He continues on this trajectory, it’s going to be really good for the Rams. It’s been good for the Rams so far and we’re really fortunate to have him.”

(On if he thinks there is a comparison to Browns QB Baker Mayfield such as Seahawks QB Russell Wilson)
“You have a natural tendency to go towards, ‘Okay, if it’s a smaller in stature,’ but what you see is a guy that plays the position at a really high level. He can make plays in rhythm, there’s no throws that he can’t make. I think he does a great job. He can drive intermediate and breaking cuts, you see a third-and-long that he hit against the Jets. Does a great job manipulating the coverage with his eyes and then hitting the backside dig. He can create off-schedule as well as anybody and then just the fiery competitor. He’s playing the position at a high level, he’s making good decisions. Everybody makes a big deal about how long you’re holding it. Each play, he’s doing a great job recognizing a three-man rush, breaking contain and then guys are working for him off-schedule. When you flip the film on, you see a really good quarterback who’s only getting better and who’s a great competitor that makes people around him better.”

(On what the fine line is between being disciplined and attacking on an off-schedule play)
“That’s what is so hard about the quarterback position is there is so many different situations, circumstances that dictate whatever that answer is. Ultimately, if the things are there in rhythm, you want guys to read with their feet, play within the timing and rhythm of the play, understanding that there is 22 moving parts that don’t go exactly how you want it as a coach. There’s a feel to it knowing when, ‘Okay, if the rush lanes or the integrity is lost, can I break contain? Getting some depth while keeping my eyes down the field.’ I think as much as anything, it’s a feel. I think he’s got a great feel for when to stay in rhythm or maybe even off-schedule in the pocket if the rush allows or if he’s got to get flushed and then guys do a great job working for him off-schedule”

(On what challenges there are when attacking defensively on an off-schedule play)
“Incredible, because now what that does is, you’re not having a static target that he might not be in a consistent launch point. He has the ability to make you miss. Then that also stresses the second and third levels because now you’re having to maintain coverage integrity longer. With some of your zone stuffs, you really have a chance to break down and then it’s really hard to cover in ‘man’ as it is against the caliber of players in this league, let alone when you start holding the ball for a little bit longer. So, it’s a problem.”

(On what his experience is with going against Browns WR Odell Beckham Jr.)
“He’s a great player. Consistently, he’s got the ability to score at any point no matter where he catches it. That’s referenced by last week with the Jets. There’s not many players in this league that can catch short, intermediate, down the field and can literally score on any single moment, any play. He’s an explosive play waiting to happen. He’s got great feel for how to separate in terms of his body control. Everybody sees what great hands that he has, they move him all around. There’s really no limitations in his game and you see why he’s been so productive and why he is a great challenge for us that we’re looking forward to on Sunday night.”

***

Rams Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips

(Opening Remarks)
“We’ve certainly got another big challenge this week. I think their offense makes a lot of big plays, a lot of explosive plays. Of course, anytime you have (WR) Odell Beckham Jr., you have the possibility to making those, but he’s going to make some himself. They’ve got a Georgia running back that is pretty good too. (Browns RB Nick) Chubb is a really good, young back. They got a great young quarterback. I’m not sure everybody realizes how good this young player is early in his career. There has been a lot of great ones that haven’t done as well as he’s done in there first, however many games he’s played. I remember (Former Browns Otto Graham with 14 touchdowns and 20 interceptions in the 1950s. I didn’t say I was coaching then, I said, I remember reading that Otto Graham, one of the greatest of all time, obviously, a Cleveland quarterback. (Browns QB Baker) Mayfield has got a whole lot of tremendous ability and has really done well. I think they expect so much of a first-round pick and so forth, but I think he’s played well and he continues to play well and he gets better that’s worrisome.”

(On how he defends a quarterback that’s not scared to take chances like Mayfield, and how he defends that)
“The off-schedule stuff is where the really good players come through and he’s’ shown that so far in his career. He gets off-schedule and makes some really big plays. Like I’ve said, they’ve had a lot of explosive plays. Not only can he throw it, he has a really good arm from the pocket, but he gets out there in space and finds somebody and throws it tremendously well when he gets out of the pocket. He’s not out of the pocket to run with it, he’s out of the pocket to make a big play and he’s done a good job with that.”

(On his impressions on WR Odell Beckham watching him through his career)
“Everybody knew how good he was with the Giants and he’s continued that. They throw a short pass and it’s an 89-yard touchdown. The Jets, everybody has had trouble stopping him. He had a 143-yards last week. He’s a really great player. You’ve got to try to double him as much as you can, certainly.”

(On what he will tell his DBs covering Beckham if he makes a big play)
“Anytime they make a big play on you, you go the next play. We’re trying to limit those and we’ve done a pretty good job with those so far this year. We’d like to continue that.”

(On how he will balance out what Browns WR Jarvis Landry and Beckham bring to the table with the smarts of S Eric Weddle and CB Aqib Talib)
“(Browns WR) Jarvis Landry is another guy that is tough to cover too, especially on the option routes and those kinds of things. He can really get open on those things. Both of those receivers, with a quarterback that can give them the ball, is going to be problems for you. We’ve got to realize that and play our techniques really well. We need to rush, obviously. We need to stop the running game on first and second down, try to get them in longer passing situations, then you can an advantage.”

(On DT Sebastian Joseph-Day stepping in the right direction)
“(DT) Sebastian (Joseph-Day) did come in and played well. He’s playing with our base defense, not our dime, sub defense. He played well in the preseason and he’s done a good job so far. We haven’t seen a whole lot of base defense against the two teams we’ve played, so we’ll see how many snaps he gets this week.”

(On LB Clay Matthews’ dad being inducted to the ring of honor this weekend and what Matthews has brought to the team)
“ Clay Matthews come in and done a great done, Clay the III, has done a great job for us. We’ve said all along that he’s a good player and he’s shown that already. His dad going into the ring of honor it’s well deserved. I’ve coached in that division a long time against Cleveland, Otto Graham wasn’t there then. Gut Clay Matthews was and I thought he was a great player. He was a great player. To play 19 years at outside linebackers is unheard of. I know offensive linemen can play a long time, you just don’t see many defensive players, especially at that position where you got to run, you got to hit, all those things, you got to cover, he’s a really good cover guy too. It’s really neat that they’re putting him in the ring of honor and I hope he’s wearing a Rams jersey when they do it (laughs).”

(On what told him that LB Cory Littleton and LB Bryce Hager would be able to play at a high level)
“I mean you don’t have to be a high draft choice to be able to play in this league. Those two guys have shown that. Cory (Littleton) had a tremendous year last year and Bryce (Hager) came the last couple of years when we had injuries and played really well and has gotten better and better. You’ve got to be a solid football player to be able to play in this league and both those guys, no matter when they were drafted or not, can do that. You see it throughout the league, inside linebackers, I think we miss more probably on the inside linebackers than we do anybody (in the draft) as far as higher draft choices and those guys coming through. College football has changed a little bit, it’s harder to find that inside, rough tough, inside linebacker. Because so much college football is just outside passing game and all that. But both those guys played well against the run and the pass.”

(On how he would asses CB Aqib Talib and Marcus Peters)
“ Marcus (Peters) and Aqib (Talib) have both played real solid for us. We haven’t given up many big plays and they’re not going after them. You always see a ball game you say, well their going after this one cornerback because the other cornerback can’t really play. They haven’t gone after either of our corners very much because both of them can play.”