Rams HC McVay, DC Phillips and RB Gurley II – 10/4/18

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Rams Head Coach Sean McVay – October 4, 2018

(On the sacks that happened late in the game and if that’s important for players to get)

“Yeah, I think over time, like anything else, the more push you can get in the pocket, whether it shows up on the stats as a sack or anything like that. It’s influencing and affecting your ability to be in rhythm and stay on schedule as an offense. When you move the quarterback off his spot, especially when you’re talking about your drop-back passing game, eventually it does affect you. The other night was a great example, where it’s kind of just that over the time, they ended up playing their best when they needed to. I think that was kind of an evolving thing as the game kind of wore on – when you’ve got to drop back. You always want to try to finish those plays, but there certainly is a lot to be said for even just creating that push, moving the quarterback off of his spot and how that affects and influences an offenses ability to stay in rhythm and on schedule.”

(On TE Tyler Higbee and G Rodger Saffold III being on the injury report and if either of them is in danger of playing on Sunday)

“No, I don’t think so. Really, with (G Rodger) Saffold (III), it’s just being smart with his knee and kind of a maintenance type deal. Then, (TE) Tyler (Higbee) got his knee a little bit in the game, but he returned. We expect those guys to be ready to go. As we kind of get closer to the week, they’ll be able to get some more work in, maybe even tomorrow. But, we don’t expect to not have those guys.”

(On how LB Mark Barron recovered)

“Yeah, he did good. Really, we only had a handful of, not necessarily even live reps, but full-speed reps, where you’re going faster than a walk-thru tempo. Today will really serve as a great measuring stick more than anything because this is our most physical tolling practice that we’ll have. We’ll put the pads on today. How he responds and how he feels tomorrow will be a big indicator on whether we feel like he’s going to be ready to go or not.”

(On WR JoJo Natson’s status)

“(WR) JoJo Natson’s doing a nice job. As far as if we feel comfortable, I know (Special Teams Coordinator John Fassel) ‘Bones’ feels good about him. But if you’re going to put somebody back there, just having gotten that surgery, we want to make sure we’re making smart decisions. That’s something that’s probably going to be a little bit closer. We’ll make that after tomorrow as well. If the case is he doesn’t go, then you feel confident in (WR) Cooper’s (Kupp) ability to consistently be back there and do a good job.”

(On how having a new kicker will impact him as a play-caller)

“Really, until we get a little bit closer, those are things that Bones and I will sit down, we’ll kind of discuss where we feel like that range is at. Really, in those two-minute situations – end of the half, end of the game – and then, obviously, in some of those where, hopefully, if we get ourselves into scoring position, what would dictate what we feel like is maybe a chance to go for it or not. That’s something that I think – he’ll kick today. He had the workout the other day. We were going to kick him yesterday, but because of his workout that he had, today will serve as a good chance for him to get some kicks and our guys to get experience with him. I think that will allow us to figure out what we want to do.”

(On QB Jared Goff saying he’d like to have back the interception he threw in the red zone and if that’s something he likes to hear from his quarterback)

“Oh no, I think (QB) Jared (Goff) has a great ability to not be affected, but to certainly learn from his previous plays, whether that’s good or bad. I think, really, he’s hard on himself and that’s what you appreciate. You want your leader to be accountable, to have a certain standard for the way that he expects himself to play and to lead our team. I know he mentioned that and the (Cardinals CB Patrick) Peterson play. Those are the two ones that you remember. One of the things I’ve been really impressed with Jared, really from the time that we got here, was his ability as a quarterback to respond from negative plays. A lot of instances, I have been around people where that affects their ability to continue to compete, then where you almost operate where your fear and failure – he is fearless. You want your quarterback to be a fearless competitor that isn’t afraid to fail, that will let things go, let it ride, but then you also learn from those experiences, so that you don’t make the same mistakes twice. He’s doing everything to give himself a chance to do that.”

(On if DT Ndamukong Suh was everything he expected in terms of his versatility)

“Yeah, I think he’s been a little bit more. I’ve always had a lot of respect for his game, but I think his ability to really play across the line, really, at any interior spot. He can play off the edge and he’s made a lot of plays, really, at all those spots. So, continue to come away impressed with him. Really enjoy getting to know him as well, where you really can appreciate, not only is he a really talented player, but he’s extremely smart – understands the game, asks great questions and that seems to be a consistent thing that you find as you get a little bit more experience as a coach. When you’re around really good football players, there’s a level of talent, but there’s also an intellect and an appreciation for the work that takes place throughout the course of the week and certainly he fits that bill.”

***

Rams Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips – October 4, 2018

(On leading the league in quarterback hurries, pressures, the four sacks the defense had in the fourth quarter against the Vikings and how important it is to have their production reflect the kind of pressure they’re putting on the quarterback)

“Yes. You always want to get pressure on the quarterbacks, that’s the number one thing. It helps your pass defense, obviously. I just thought pressure situations, I thought we played well defensively. I saw the league last week and almost everybody that had the ball at the last drive scored a touchdown or made plays. I thought playing under pressure is a really key thing when the game is on the line, those kinds of things. We did a good job of that. We still need to improve. We’re working hard to do that. But, we do have some talented guys that can rush the passer.”

(On the outside linebacker position and how the position has come along since training camp and if he’s using the players a little bit differently than he has used outside linebackers before)

“You use different players differently, no matter what position they’re playing. We try to do the things that they do well. It sounds simple, but if there’s certain things guys do well then we try to let them do those things, and not do things they don’t do well.”

(On if LB Mark Barron is able to play on Sunday)

“Yes, that would be great if (LB) Mark (Barron) is able to play on Sunday. He’s worked so hard to try to get back. He’s practiced this week, which is a really good sign, and he’s a really good player. We hope he gets back — I’m sorry I interrupted the question. When you said Mark Barron I said, ‘Alright, let’s go!’ We hope he’s there (laughs).”

(On if Barron will be eased back in or will he be full go if he plays against the Seahawks)

“I think you’ll still have to watch him. He hadn’t played any preseason or regular season games this year. But, he’s in good shape. He’s worked hard, so we’ll just see where he is in the game. He could get tired. We’re not going to play him an extended, every play certainly. But again, the things he does well, we’re going to try to get him in there for those things.”

(On what he saw from CB Sam Shields against the Vikings)

“(CB) Sam (Shields) had to play every play, which was different — he had a limited role the first couple of games. I thought his effort was tremendous. Sam, I think he could’ve gotten down a little bit mentally during the game, but he didn’t. He kept fighting and I thought our whole team did the same thing.”

(On Shields background and what he thinks it means to Shields to be able to playing after being sidelined for nearly two seasons)

“I’m pretty sure I know how he feels, too, but it’s a great feeling that a kid or young man that’s had the things that happened to him is able to play football again. I know how much he appreciates that, and we’re really glad we have him.”

(On DT Ndamukong Suh playing on the edge a couple times and being able to get sacks from there and what he likes about Suh’s versatility)

“We thought it was good match-ups when we put him out there. He can play, obviously he can rush from inside or outside. Some of it’s match-ups, some of it are schemes that we want to do and certain calls and so forth. We want to move those guys around. I mean we move (DT) Aaron (Donald) over the center, over either guard and Ndamukong can go over either tackle, either guard or the center. He gives us some versatility. Their protections have to change, or we get one of those guys or two of those guys one-on-one. That’s what we’re looking for.”

(On how familiar he was with Suh’s versatility)

“Yeah, we knew that. We looked at all the plays – he played quite a few plays at defensive end at Miami. We were well aware of that, but we still had to work with him and make sure he could do those things we saw on film, but he did that.”

(On what he has seen from S Lamarcus Joyner this season)

“Yeah, he hasn’t had a lot of action. I mean, the one game we played – Arizona – he said, ‘I just watched the game.’ He was in the middle and nothing really happened. But, he’s the same guy. He’s an active player that we going to try to utilize him as much as we can on certain things. He’s a safety net back there that can overlap almost any play. We played a three-deep zone and I know they threw a touchdown – we were supposed to have a guy in deep zone and he almost made the play against the Chargers. We were supposed to have somebody in that deep third, he was in the middle. He made the tackle and I’m sure everybody, Pro Football Focus said he gave up a touchdown or something, but he was actually playing the middle of the field. So, he can make plays.”

(On if the versatility of this current defensive line is consistent with what he’s had in the past)

“That’s unique. It’s not usual that you have guys, number one, have those kind of caliber players – three of them. But, they can pretty much play almost every position or at least can give you matchup situations that you don’t normally have. Again, yeah, I’ve had some great players, but most times they played one position and obviously they played that position well. There’s not many players that you can move around like our guys.”

(On what DL John Franklin-Myers has shown him through training camp until now)

“Yeah, we’ve liked him all along. We’ve said all along he’s doing better and better as he goes. He beat his man several times in the game. It wasn’t the only time that he did. Obviously, that’s a big time – quarterback still had the ball. He’s a young player and we want to get him in the ball game with the things he does well and keep working on that. The thing he does well is rush the passer, so he’s been in those situations and we’re trying to hone in on that. Now, he did – he’s rushed either side which is – he’s not just tapped in to just rushing one side. He rushed on the left side quite a bit and then when he made the play at the end, he rushed on the right side. He’s a good, young player and we hope he keeps improving.”

(On what kind of challenge it is to defend Seahawks QB Russell Wilson and what specifically makes it difficult)

“Yeah, he’s a tremendous player. All you have to do is watch the film and watch him play. He makes plays out of nothing. He makes plays that nobody else makes. He’s fantastic. He’s obviously an elite quarterback that can win a game. He can beat you himself. Not many quarterbacks can do that and he can also – he can beat you running with it or throwing it. He’ll run for first downs to keep plays and then run around enough and find somebody open. You have to cover them for a long time, with him, and that makes it hard. He’s been doing it since he’s been in the league. So, I can’t say enough good things about him. He’s a great player. I think they’ve done a good job offensively. They’ve run the ball a lot better than they did last year. They’ve got three running backs who can really run with the football – that are strong runners and their running game is good. So, you’ve got a strong running game and a quarterback that makes you more dangerous. I think (Seahawks Offensive Line Coach) Mike Solari, the line coach, has done a really good job with their offensive line. They were talking before about how their offensive line was hurting, but now they block well and protect well. So, again, it’s always a challenge, but it’ll be a challenge up there. They’ve got good players and good coaches.”

***

Rams Running Back Todd Gurley II – October 4, 2018

(On Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott crediting Gurley’s success to teams being more willing to use first round draft picks for running backs)

“I appreciate it. I guess, I kind of did start the first-round thing again. Those guys are great players, so they put themselves in a great position – (Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott) him, (Jaguars RB Leonard) Fournette, (Panthers RB Christian) McCaffery, all those guys – they put themselves in great positions to be where they’re at today. You see why they’re having success in the NFL, just like me.”

(On the importance of running backs to the passing game and if yards per touch is a better measure than yards per carry)

“I don’t really care about any one of them, honestly. As long as we get the yards and win.”

(On if he enjoys playing in the Seahawks loud environment)

“It’s cool. It wasn’t loud last year. I forgot how loud it was. Hopefully, it won’t be loud again.”

(On if he recalls having a long run last year in Seattle where he broke free for more than 50 yards)

“It’s like 3rd-and-20, everybody was playing off. They probably thought we were just going to do a little screen or something like that. (Head) Coach (Sean) McVay called the outside-zone run, (G) Rodger (Saffold III) had a great block and just kind of ran free, honestly.”

(On when he gets into the situation of running free and what’s going through his mind)

“I’m just like, ‘Oh, snap!’ Kind of just look at the screen or look around and it’s kind of like too good to be true, honestly. Wish those came like once or twice a year. Don’t very often because teams are great. Teams put themselves in good positions. They get paid just like we do. It’s just one of those plays, honestly.”

(On if there is any other way to look at this game other than an NFC West matchup)

“Yeah, every game is a must win. We just started off pretty hot. Had a 10-day rest and divisional game, so definitely want to go out there and get this win. Can’t give them anything to feed off of and just go up there and try to dominate.”

(On if he likes to hear others calling the Rams the best team in the NFL or if he blocks it out)

“If I’m watching TV, you hear it, but it is what it is. We know we’re good. We don’t need anybody else to tell us that.”

(On being at the center of the offense and everything working based off of him)

“Yeah, I tell those guys they need me out there (laughs). I tell them, ‘Thank me all the time.’ When I go in motion and they get their little touchdowns (laughs). But no, man, obviously Coach McVay – we want to have a well-balanced offense. It starts with the run, then the play-action and then everything else is going to take care of itself. But, at the end of the day – like I said before – if they’re going to stop the run, they (expletive) sure not going to stop the pass. We’ve got some great receivers. The O-line is fantastic. They keep (QB Jared) Goff back there clean all the time. So, whether we run or pass the ball, or whether I’m in there or not, everybody’s in their doing their job. They’re just balling out.”

(On if he still feels like defenses are keying in on him a quarter of the way into the season)

“Yeah, I would hope so. That’s what a smart defensive coordinator would do (laughs). I mean, I know players on every team and we talk all the time. They’re like…man, they tell me during the game. ‘We’re not going to give you nothing. So, you’re going to have to earn it.’ You hear it throughout the week, press conferences, whatever it is. Even in the game, guys are like, ‘Uh, uh (No.) 30. You ain’t getting nothing.’ But at the end of the day, we’re going to line up, we’re going to run the ball and you’re still just going to have to stop us. O-line does a great job of blocking for me. Even the receivers, man. Those guys – tight ends, can’t forget about those guys – but the receivers are out there. (WR Robert) Woods is doggone – he’s the lead blocker. He’s doggone a fullback some plays. So, credit to those guys, the receivers, just wanting to be out there and blocking for me and vice versa.”

(On if last Thursday’s atmosphere at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum was what he imagined when he envisioned football in L.A.)

“Oh yeah, it was great. It was just one of those moments, man. It was definitely a fun moment. Thursday night game, lot of high energy. It was like a dream come true. It felt like a night college game. You don’t get too many night games in the NFL, so it was definitely great energy. The Coliseum was rocking. Obviously, (celebrity hip hop artist) YG’s always there supporting at every game. It was just a good moment.”

(On if there are any celebrities in particular that he’d like to see come to a game)

“No, not really.”

(On Goff saying he’s confident in his pass protection skills and if he’s always been an enthusiastic blocker or if his blocking skills have evolved over his professional career)

“I mean, I’m just doing my job. One thing about this league is if you’re not going to block for the quarterback, then they don’t care who you are, you’re not going to be in the backfield. You know, that’s my job not to let my quarterback get hit. It’s not that hard, you just hold the guy up for two, three seconds, and then we got great receivers so they’re not getting shut down. Those guys are separating in the one-on-ones and doing their thing. He does a great job of just stepping up in the pocket and well awareness. But it doesn’t start with me, it starts with (C John Sullivan) ‘Sully’ up there making the right calls and everybody just really being on the same page. I’m a big guy so, hopefully, I can’t get ran over too much.”

(On having to take on players that are really fast and big while blocking and not being able to run past them)

“Yeah, especially when DBs come off from the slot or something. You just got to study guys honestly, because different guys are going do different stuff. Might get a spin move, you might get a fake and try to come underneath. You just try to do your job and stay grounded, not try to go for all the movement. Just study, and that’s why we practice. We deal with this stuff, do one-on-one stuff at camp and we always do fit drills with (Running backs) coach (Skip) Peete. That’s definitely a thing we pride ourselves on.”

(On what he’s seeing from Seattle’s defense this year)

“Obviously, definitely, a whole new change from years in the past. Still a lot of new guys figuring out the system. Like I said, they’re a simple defense anyways. They’re going to run what they run, line up, do their stunts and twists up front. Used to have (DE Michael) Bennett but now they have (DE Frank) Clark and (LB Barkevious) Mingo. Those guys are great — have a knack for just finding the ball. Like I said, starts with the protection up front, we all being on the same page and just taking care of the rest – winning on our one-on-ones. But great match-ups, very disciplined secondary. Got one of the best linebackers in (Bobby) Wagner. He’s always a great competitor to go against. Obviously (Seahawks LB) KJ Wright’s out right now, but hopefully we see whoever steps in for him. I’m pretty sure Bobby will have him in the right position to make plays.”

(On the barbecue at WR Brandin Cooks house and how great it is for them as a team to get together away from the field)

“It’s cool. I see these guys all the time. I appreciate (WR) Brandin (Cooks) inviting us to his house and catering food. The food was real good actually, put me to sleep for like — I woke up at like one o’clock. It’s just cool. Guys had their families there so you get to see the kids and the wives and just say hello and watch some football. It was pretty cool.”

Quotes & Notes 9/28/18: McVay Reviews Rams’ Hot Start

https://www.therams.com/news/quotes-notes-9-28-18-mcvay-reviews-rams-hot-start

Injury Report 9/28: McVay Provides Updates on Talib, Easley

https://www.therams.com/news/injury-report-9-28-mcvay-provides-updates-on-talib-easley

Daily Dose: Todd Gurley Tops Offensive Rankings

https://www.therams.com/news/daily-dose-todd-gurley-tops-offensive-rankings

Kupp Ready for Double Duty vs. Vikings

https://www.therams.com/news/kupp-ready-for-double-duty-vs-vikings

Shields, Hill, Robey-Coleman Ready to Step Up at Corner

https://www.therams.com/news/shields-hill-robey-coleman-ready-to-step-up-at-corner

Goff, Offense Off to Hot Start in 2018

https://www.therams.com/news/goff-s-offense-off-to-hot-start-in-2018

Injury Report 9/26: Peters, Easley Listed as Questionable for Thursday

https://www.therams.com/news/injury-report-9-26-peters-easley-listed-as-questionable-for-thursday

Rich Hammond: Rams’’ Aqib Talib having ankle surgery puts pressure on defensive line

. https://www.pe.com/2018/09/26/rams-aqib-talib-having-ankle-surgery-puts-pressure-on-defensive-line/

The Coach McVay Show

With Coach McVay out, Rams GM Les Snead stepped in to talk about the hot 3-0 start with the LA Rams. Snead also recapped the win vs. the LA Chargers with JB Long and D’Marco Farr, plus, gave an injury report on Aqib Talib and Marcus Peters. Also, is Jared Goff getting better each game? Les, JB and D’Marco discussed. And, Safety Blake Countess came on to talk about scoring a TD on a blocked punt in the win vs. the Chargers.

Brown Returns, but Blythe Still Poised to Start at RG

https://www.therams.com/news/brown-returns-but-blythe-still-poised-to-start-at-rg

Injury Report 9/20: Brockers Returns to Practice

https://www.therams.com/news/injury-report-9-20-brockers-returns-to-practice

Rams HC McVay and DC Phillips – September 13, 2018

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Rams Head Coach Sean McVay – September 13, 2018

(On if he’ll be able to go anywhere anymore without somebody asking him about a specific play and when it happened)

“You know what, (Senior Director, Communications) Artis (Twyman) just told me about that. That was like a month ago, which seems like an eternity with training camp and everything else. We did that out at (University of California) Irvine. So, it is not a joke when I say I really do not remember anything else. You’re going through things all the time. I have no life other than I love football and that’s a good thing because that’s what you do. But, it’s not like I’m just recalling it and that’s the only time you’ve ever done it from, ‘Okay, that play happened’ and you never go back. These are things that we as coaches always go back through. So, it’s kind of something that you’re always re-visiting, especially when it’s relevant plays.”

(On the growth and development of S John Johnson III since last year)

“I’ve been really impressed with him. I think even just last year when he started playing and makes a big play against Dallas in Week 4 and then really starts the rest of the year. He’s got a really good feel for the game – great instincts, great communication, great awareness and he’s an excellent tackler. He does a great job with close-quarter tackles, wrap tackles. You see him make the pick the other night where he’s in a lot of good situations against an excellent player in (Raiders TE) Jared Cook. I think he’s a complete safety and I think he’s really started to take leadership role, especially with just his command of the defense, the understanding. There’s a lot of different things that that safety position entails in terms of the understanding above the neck. He’s playing a lot of different spots for us and his versatility gives us some different things that we can present to offenses which make it really difficult. (S) John (Johnson III) is doing an excellent job. I think (Safeties) Coach Ejiro Evero has done great with him.”

(On how it doesn’t appear that Johnson is intimidated by what’s around him)

“Yeah, and I think that’s a credit to the way that that group operates. I think (CB) Aqib (Talib) being the veteran presence and one of the leaders. I think they all know that they have an important role and their communication and them all being on the same page is instrumental to our success. So, I think we talk about communication as one of the most important things we do in everything that we do and those guys embody that, especially with all the calls, the communication and the different things that are required, whether it be between the nickel and the safeties, the corners and the safeties and then working with the linebackers in unison as well. So, those guys have really done a great job and (S) John (Johnson III) especially.

(On how much it adds to the offense having three wide receivers who can run a jet sweep)

“Well, I think it’s a credit to those guys and the versatility. Being able to present a variety of looks is something that we try to do from an offensive standpoint. It’s definitely a valuable weapon. Really, that’s something that all of our receivers can do. So, that’s something that we work. It might be something that some weeks we like, some weeks we don’t, but it’s not really a specialty for us. It’s kind of a part of that running game for us and those guys enable us to be a little bit more versatile because of them being versatile as players.”

(On what he saw from the offensive line in Week 1, particularly from OL Austin Blythe)

“I thought they were excellent. I thought, starting with (C) John Sullivan’s communication and command up front, handling the noise, the different cadences, the communication in the run game. We had a lot of things where there’s a lot of plays called at the line of scrimmage and they’re adjusting and adapting based on whatever that defensive front structure is. I thought our two guards were excellent. I thought (G) Rodger (Saffold III) and both (OL) Austin (Blythe) played very well. They were productive in both phases, and (T) Rob (Havenstein) and (T) Andrew (Whitworth) alike. I thought it was a tough call on John. It looked like he has pretty good position on the one where we ended up getting that penalty, but I thought they played a clean game. Really, it’s as complete of a game as I’ve been around in terms of an offensive line just playing in unison – their communication, run game, pass game production, keeping the quarterback clean. They did a great job and let’s see if we can stack another good performance on top of each other against a great front this week.”

(On whether there is room for Blythe to be more of a contributor following G Jamon Brown’s return if he plays well)

“Yeah, I think we’re really pleased with Austin right now and those are things that we’ll discuss when the time comes. Right now, he’s done a great job. We do feel like he’s a starting-caliber player in this league. I think last week’s performance definitely indicated that and we’re hoping that he’ll play well again this week and that’s the expectation we have for him.”

(On the lack of involvement in the pass game from the tight end position in Week 1)

“Well, I think a large part of that was, fortunately with the exception of being in the red zone, we avoided a lot of those tougher third down situations. So, a lot of our first and second down passes were exclusively where you’re kind of the play action, some of the boots, different things like that, some of your screens where they’re more in the protection mindset than anything else. But, that’s definitely not something that we want to make a habit of. We always talk about using all five eligibles – spreading the field, making sure that everybody has got to be accounted for. Those are things that, I think if the flow of the game was a little bit different or if we were in some different situations, you definitely would’ve seen that occur and come up. But, just because of the way the game played out and some of the play selections. Then, when we were in those third downs, really it was just kind of where they fit in the progression. But, they’re certainly part of it. I think it was just more of a result of the way the game played out than anything else.”

(On his thought process on the sequence where he called back-to-back screen passes for RB Todd Gurley II)

“I think really, that play, they were two screens. They were a little bit different look. They pressured us on the second one and (QB) Jared (Goff) did an excellent job being able to get the ball off and then (RB) Todd (Gurley II) had a good lane down the sideline where he got 17 yards there. But, it was similar. Sometimes I can’t really explain it more than you just say, ‘Alright, let’s feel like getting another screen off’ or if kind of the rhythm and the flow of the game dictates. But, you kind of always go into it as a coaching staff having a plan of some of your priority calls within the framework of the game or the different situations. Then, as that dialogue is existing between the coaches during the game, we sometimes just get a feel and that was the case there.”

(On how he comes up with new ways to mix it up with Gurley when he’s evaluating in the offseason)

“Well, I think it’s an effort that’s done by our offensive staff as a whole. Really, it starts with, let’s look at ourselves first from a self-scout standpoint. Let’s see what did we do at a pretty decent level and then what are the things that we can improve on. How can we coach it better from the fundamentals, the techniques? Then, there’s the scheme analysis where you’re studying teams around the league. Even when you study some of these guys in the draft there’s always some, ‘That’s a pretty good idea.’ So, certainly we’ve stolen a lot of ideas or like I’ve said, we’ve got a great coaching staff that comes from a variety of different backgrounds that allow us to collaborate and figure things out. The nice thing about (RB) Todd (Gurley II) is that when you talk about a player that really has the ability to play all over the formation, in the backfield, can compete coming out of the backfield in the pass game, can run all the different types of run schemes that you want to implement, it’s our job as a coaching staff to maximize a special player like him. That’s where we’re fortunate to be able to work with him and try to use him in a variety of ways, whether that be through the run or the pass or kind of all over the formation.”

(On if it’s rare for NFL running backs to be able to do all those different things)

“Yeah, I mean he’s as complete a back as I – he’s the most complete back I’ve ever been around and it’s not even close and I’ve been around some really good backs that I feel really fortunate to have worked with. But, his versatility and the one thing too, as I continue to spend more time with him and you get around him, you realize how smart he is too. That’s one of the things that I think stands out just whether it be being exposed to special players or getting a chance to work with them as a coach, those really special players are unbelievably talented, but they’re also extremely instinctual and they’ve got an innate understanding and feel for the game that allows them to play at such a high level. I think that’s why you see Todd doing some of the things he does. His ability to articulate why he did what he did is pretty impressive. That’s where those special players just kind of have a feel and I think he’s one of those guys.”

(On the process of trying to be creative in finding ways to use the 11 personnel grouping is similar to finding new ways to involve Gurley)

“Yeah, it is. I think what allows us to be more versatile in that personnel grouping is the demeanor in what our receivers are able to do in terms of their contribution, whether it be in the run game or even in some of the protections or running routes or as a ball carrier. They can do a variety of different things and that gives us some flexibility. But, it also has a large part due to the fact that we want to get some other personnels going. (TE) Gerald (Everett) had the shoulder injury where he’s going to get himself back into a rhythm, but he was playing at a really high level this offseason program. We had big plans to be a lot more versatile in terms of some of our personnel groupings. I think you’ll see that as we go forward and some of these guys that enable us to do those different personnel groupings are available and are getting that practice time and they’re ready to go.”

(On any differences with S Lamarcus Joyner from last season to this season in terms of approach and confidence)

“Yeah, I think playing his second year, really, at the safety again, I think he’s extremely comfortable. He’s very confident. One of the things about (S) Lamarcus (Joyner) that you don’t have to know anything – you just watch him – he’s got a great play demeanor and a great energy where he kind of brings people with him. He’s got a good understanding. I think one of the things that stood out initially – and it goes back to his history playing the position at Florida State – but he’s got a great feel for being able to recognize certain things the quarterback is doing and when he’s as that post safety, taking great exit angles where he’s got great range. I think when you talk about those elite safeties, you talk about those guys that have the ability – some people say numbers to numbers and then the special ones can go red line to red line or sideline to sideline. We feel like Lamarcus is one of those players and I think that’s because of the urgency, that’s because of his concept trigger and recognition and then that’s also because he can run. When he goes, he goes. He’s done an excellent job, but I think just like anything else, conscientious, smart players that it means something to them get better and he certainly has done that.”

(On the first time he saw the play that they used for Gurley’s 19-yard touchdown against the Raiders)

“I think there’s college teams and different teams in the pros – (WR) Brandin Cooks had a couple touchdowns on something similar for the (New England) Patriots last year as well. So, I can’t remember specifically when I saw it for the first time, but there’s always when you’re just watching the game and you’re saying, ‘Okay, this is a certain scheme. Does it fit within the framework of our offense?’ You mentioned Kansas City (Chiefs), they do an excellent job mixing it up, but I think it’s also predicated on them having some special players like a (WR) Tyreek Hill. They use (TE Travis) Kelce in a variety of ways with some shovels, different things like that. Then, I think (WR) De’Anthony Thomas also had a touchdown on that same play. He had two touchdown passes, both from one yard out on that same type of deal. It was a cool, little play and you always enjoy and appreciate seeing good things like that around the league.”

***

Rams Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips – September 13, 2018

(Opening remarks)

“From the game, I think I was pleased. I know everybody else was. But, (LB) Cory Littleton played a great game. People were worried whether he could play mike linebacker and so forth. He had what? Thirteen tackles and a big interception in the game – played every play. So, I thought he did a heck of a job and showed that he can play. I mean, he made some plays across the field. He can really run, tackled well – the whole thing. We were pleased with our whole group overall through the second half, but I thought he showed up as much as anybody.”

(On DT Aaron Donald being hard on himself and how he thinks Donald performed)

“I feel the way he did somewhat. But, you watch the film and he’s playing against an All-Pro guy. I thought he did well against him as far as the rush is concerned. The quarterback got rid of the ball – I think it was 2.4 (seconds) or something like that. But, I thought (DT) Aaron (Donald) was past his – whoever he was rushing against, a lot of the time. So, that’s what you look at. He had a sack, but it was too low. For the first game back, I feel like him. I want him to do better, he wants to do better, but he’s still a great football player. They had a rough time trying to keep him out of there.”

(On how Donald looked in combination with DL Michael Brockers and DT Ndamukong Suh)

“Yeah, I thought our front was good. They’ve got a really good offensive line, really big offensive line. They’ve got a power running game for a while – they’ve got a power running back. To hold him under 100 yards rushing was due to those guys. The quarterback – I think the last two years, they’ve been sacked 25 times each year. I mean one of the lowest sacked teams in the league. Part of it, the quarterback gets rid of it, but they’ve got a really good offensive line. I thought we held up well overall.”

(On LB Mark Barron not playing in the game against the Raiders and being on the injury report yesterday and if that will be a week-to-week thing)

“Yeah, I think so. There’s going to be a point when he can, I hope. We hope it’s this week. We’ll just see.”

(On if he feels like there’s progress with Barron)

“Yeah, it’s hard to tell on our end too. They’re working with him. Our athletic trainers do a great job. He’ll get better with them working with him for sure.”

(On if he thinks more teams will try to use tight ends against their defense to try to have a better match-up with the linebackers)

“Well, it wasn’t all the linebackers. We took out the wide receivers in the running game. That’s what we were trying to do in the ball game, especially (Raiders WR) Amari Cooper. We wanted to stop the running game and Cooper. We had to make some adjustments because the big tight end was obviously a force that we didn’t realize they had. We knew they had him, but we didn’t know he’d be that big of a force. We changed up some things and put cornerbacks on him later on, and we got ahead. When you get ahead, they’re going to make some yardage in the passing game because you’re playing a little softer, so you don’t lose the game. I know people say prevent defense, but you don’t want to prevent yourself from winning the game. We had the game in hand, so we played it that way.”

(On CB Marcus Peters making the interception in the fourth quarter and if that was him making an off scheduled play)

“No, that was his man. We had him on the tight end and they tried to run a crossing route and he knew – he’s a smart player – he knew on the backside they’d been running that. Even though he wasn’t on him earlier, (CB Aqib) Talib was on him in the second half some time, too. But, he knew there were three receivers on one side and the tight end was there, he was going to run a crossing route and he took it away from him. So, it’s just him being a smart player and instinctive player.”

(On how LB Ramik Wilson did stepping in for Barron)

“Yeah, I thought he did all right. Like I said, I thought the running game – he showed up in the running game, which we needed him to do. Then, the passing game was really their low-end personnel stuff, so he wasn’t in there on that. But, he did fine.”

(On how OLB Matt Longacre and OLB Dominique Easley did)

“Yeah, I thought both (OLB Matt) Longacre and (OLB Dominique) Easley coming back off of injuries, I thought both of them showed, similar to what they’d been previously. Both of them moved pretty well in the ball game. Easley got a holding penalty early in the game, just showed all his power. Matt made a good play from the backside one time and caught him from the backside on a running play. So, they’re still coming back from injury, but I think they played pretty well.”

(On if he’d like to settle on either Longacre or Easley to play most of those snaps or if he’s comfortable with playing both)

“Matt split time with (Former Rams Robert) Quinn last year. So, it’s something we’ve done before. They’re still two different looks as far as a player. I think it’s hard on offensive guys sometimes to play against two different players. They’re both, I think, going to be good players for us. So, that’s what you want.”

(On if the Arizona Cardinals offense presents any particular match-up problems)

“Yeah, their running back (David Johnson) has been one of the top running backs in the league and he didn’t play last year. I know they want to give him more touches this game, so we expect David Johnson to be a big part of their game plan. We know (Cardinals QB) Sam Bradford is a great, accurate quarterback. One of the most accurate quarterbacks of all-time there for a while. And they’ve got weapons with (Cardinals WR Larry) Fitzgerald – he’s the guy. He catches 10 catches his first game this year. He’s a phenomenal player. They’ve got a tight end that can run, so we’ve got to be careful of that because we did get hurt with the tight ends. They’ve got a lot of good players and it’s going to be a challenge.”

(On if he saw the viral video of Head Coach Sean McVay recalling plays from years ago)

“Let me see, I forgot whether I did or not (laughs). Oh yeah, I think I did. Yeah.”

(On if McVay does that in meetings and if it’s a common thing for football coaches)

“I think it’s a common between savants, but I don’t know that football coaches. He has got tremendous recall, but he has got great people skills too and that’s the difference in him and some real smart guy. He’s way above my head that’s for sure. I think, I forgot (laughs).”

stlramz

As fans (and fantasy players) try to navigate the weekly injury reports, they should be aware how differently teams assign the injury designations.

In 2016, the “probable” designation was eliminated. That left “questionable,” “doubtful” and “out” as the categories in which teams could designate players.

What we have seen over the past two seasons is an evolution, or a coming to center.

The first seasons without the “probable” category, 78 percent of players listed as “questionable” were active.

Last season, that dipped down to 68 percent.

More significant to note, there was wide range between teams.

For example, almost all (96 percent) of the Bucaneers’ “questionable” players were active while only a little over a quarter (29 percent) of Steelers deemed “questionable” suited up.

Regarding doubtful, there is less disparity.

Essentially, it can be considered “out.”

Last year, just 2.5 percent (4 of 161) “doubtful” players ended up active. In 2016, it was 4 percent (eight of 207).

Of the four players who were active after being listed as “doubtful,” only one did not play at all. The other three played no more than half their typical number of snaps.

The system inherently allows for vagueness.

Besides the body part, the injury designation is all the team needs to say.

A team does not need to say right or left knee, nor identify the exact structure (i.e., MCL), just generically say “knee.” Add to this nebulous injury report how teams differ in their listings and you have what can be a confusing picture.

However, the data from 2017 can help guide what “questionable” might mean for every team.

Of course, teams can change how they use the reporting, as there is very little policing, and it is rare that a team is fined for an injury reporting violation.

Keep in mind that a team with the same head coach and GM like the Bucs might stay consistent in how they report while the Colts, with a new head coach and general manager, may not stay at 85 percent of their “questionable” players being active.

Similarly, the stable Steelers organization may stay near 29%. But new head coach Matt Nagy of the Bears may not continue at the John Fox rate of 40% of “questionable” players being active.

The process by which teams arrive at their designation also varies, as far as how much input there is from the head coach, general manager and medical/training staff.

For your fandom or fantasy use, here is the full season ending 2017 statistics for all teams, with number of active players in parentheses:

Team Questionable Doubtful
1. Buccaneers 96% (53 of 55) 0% (0 of 11)
2. Ravens 87% (77 of 89) 0% (0 of 12)
3. Colts 85% (23 of 27) 0% (0 of 2)
4. Jets 84% (27 of 32) 0% (0 of 7)
5. Chiefs 81% (21 of 26) 0% (0 of 6)
6. Dolphins 80% (55 of 69) 0% (0 of 13)
7. Seahawks 78% (40 of 51) 0% (0 of 13)
8. Redskins 76% (82 of 106) 20% (1 of 5)
9. 49ers 75% (30 of 40) 0% (0 of 2)
10. Giants 73% (33 of 45) 20% (1 of 5)
11. Titans 72% (13 of 18) None
12. Cardinals 70% (45 of 64) None
t13. Broncos 69% (25 of 36) None
t13. Packers 69% (40 of 58) 5% (1 of 20)
t15. Panthers 67% (28 of 42) 0% (0 of 1)
t15. Bills 67% (29 of 43) None
t17. Raiders 66% (41 of 62) 0% (0 of 7)
t17. Chargers 66% (35 of 53) 0% (0 of 3)
t19. Lions 65% (37 of 57) 0% (0 of 3)
t19. Bengals 65% (17 of 26) 0% (0 of 5)
t21. Patriots 64% (65 of 101) 0% (0 of 3)
t21. Saints 64% (18 of 28) None
t23. Cowboys 61% (42 of 69) None
t23. Vikings 61% (19 of 31) 50% (1 of 2)
25. Texans 59% (11 of 19) None
t26. Jaguars 56% (24 of 43) None
t26. Browns 56% (19 of 34) 0% (0 of 10)
28. Falcons 44% (4 of 9) None
29. Rams 43% (9 of 21) 0% (0 of 5)
30. Eagles 42% (14 of 33) None
31. Bears 40% (23 of 58) 0% (0 of 23)
32. Steelers 29% (7 of 24) 0% (0 of 3)

Vincent Bonsignore@VinnyBonsignore
The McVay/Gruden families goes way back. At times, each has extended a hand to the other to pull the next generation up the coaching ladder. The bond comes full circle when Sean McVay’s #Rams play Jon Gruden’s #Raiders. My story for ⁦@TheAthleticLA⁩

How close are the Grudens and McVays? When John McVay – Sean’s grandad – was director of pro personnel for #49ers & assessing a player in 3rd rd of ’79 draft, he called Jon Gruden’s dad Jim, a coach at Notre Dame, for insight. On Jim’s recommendation 49ers took Joe Montana

—

The MMQB@theMMQB
Some players believe the dismantling of the Seahawks this offseason was a way for management to “take the power back” and make Russell Wilson the unquestioned centerpiece of the team. @GregBishopSI and @RobertKlemko’s story:
https://trib.al/h7bCn5n

—

Downtown Rams@DowntownRams
It sounds like Austin Blythe will start the season at RG for the #Rams in Jamon Brown’s absense. Brown is eligible to return week 3 vs. the Chargers.

==

Joe Curley@vcsjoecurley
Rams injury report: Barron, DNP (ankle), Justin Davis, limited (hamstring) @CVRamsClub @DowntownRams

—

The Rams’ offense reached amazing heights last year, but now it must evolve. Here’s why: https://t.co/gkoOpptGqD

— Rich Hammond (@Rich_Hammond) September 7, 2018

Rams HC Sean McVay — 8/10

(On the status of any injuries and if DB Blake Countess and DL Ethan Westbrooks got injured)

“He was fine, (DL) Ethan (Westbrooks) came out of the injury report clean. I think it looked like he was coming off – whether it was his shoulder – I think the ref might’ve said to check him for his head just because of a collision, but he came out good. Didn’t think (DB) Blake (Countess) had anything with his shoulder. (WR) Josh Reynolds got his ankle that we’re waiting to figure out – whether that’s a sprain and how long that’ll keep him out. (CB) Kevin Peterson had his – he kind of tweaked his knee and we’re waiting on the final results from that as far as when he was coming on a nickel pressure early on in the game.”

(On his thoughts of QB Sean Mannion’s performance after watching the tape)

“I thought it was a combination of a lot of tough things. I thought most certainly (QB) Sean (Mannion) missed some throws and some things that are uncharacteristic of him. But the protection – there were a couple times he didn’t really have a chance to let things develop. He had a couple drops. So, I think it was kind of a perfect storm of really, a lot of things didn’t work out in his favor. He certainly had a part, but I think everybody that was involved, from an offensive standpoint, could’ve done a little bit better. There’s a reason why they’re such a good defense. There’s definitely some good things that we can learn from – a lot of different structures that you see on that tape as far as Baltimore’s (Ravens) defense is concerned. Like everything else, you get a chance from some of those tough circumstances to learn from and move forward and that’s what we’re looking forward to do as soon as tomorrow when we get practicing again.”

(On if anyone stood out during the game)

“I thought, really, when you go back and look at the tape, I thought on defense, Ethan definitely flashed some really good things. I think you just see good effort overall and good energy from the defensive side as a whole. (OLB) Samson (Ebukam) had some good rushes. I think from an offensive standpoint – kind of like what we mentioned – I think both those backs showed some really good things when you look at (RB) Justin Davis and you look at (RB) John Kelly. Thought (T) Joe Noteboom had a couple good series where he was able to demonstrate some good removal in the run game. Did a good job with his pass protection, his techniques, got a couple good jump sets in there. So, those were some encouraging things that you saw from those guys.”

(On if he would consider not playing starters at all in the preseason)

“No, it’s certainly something that, if you feel like – that was a big reason why you ended up wanting to play Baltimore in practice because if you can try to create and mimic and emulate those game-like situations while limiting the risk for injury that naturally occurs when you get into these live game situations, that’s always something worth exploring. You have so much respect and appreciation for the value of those live repetitions that you get in the four preseason games. But, at the same time, you talk to (Redskins Head Coach) Jay Gruden today and he’s losing a guy (RB Derrius Guice) that he was really counting on. On the (August) seventh here I think he mentioned to me that he wanted to get him a few carries, get him some touches and he ends up tearing his ACL and now he’s out for the year. So, it’s a really delicate balance of measuring the importance of getting some experience before that game, but then also making sure that you don’t put guys in harm’s way and at the risk of losing them for the season. You certainly don’t ever want to play scared, but you also do want to try to balance how can you do it in a smart way and getting guys ready to go, especially those guys that you know you’re counting on when the regular season kicks off.”

(On if there is a possible scenario where players such as QB Jared Goff, RB Todd Gurley and DT Ndamukong Suh wouldn’t play a snap during the preseason)

“I wouldn’t go that far yet just because there’s still so much time in between. But, like we mentioned, it’s not certainly out of the question, how we would approach the Oakland game. We talk about taking things kind of a day at a time. Those are things that inevitably, they kind of just – you have a better feel as you accumulate some experience and certainly some injuries – or hopefully if we avoid them – then you’re able to have those conversations. But, I wouldn’t go that far yet. But, there’s definitely going to be some good dialogue between our coaching staff with regards to how we want to handle, really, this next week if you will before we lead into that Saturday game. Also, in particular, because that’s the team we open with and that adds another layer to it as well.”

(On how he would evaluate the outside linebacker position opposite of Samson Ebukam)

“Yeah, I think (DE) Ryan Davis is doing some good things. He’s a guy that we had mentioned had shown some bright spots. I thought (DL) Justin Lawler came in and made some nice plays as well. Then, really, you’re counting on a (OLB) Matt Longacre when he gets back from injury – you look at the production that he’s had for us. Then, there’s some different things that we can do in some specific packages where you might see some other guys lined up in those spots. But, a lot of younger players playing in those outside spots. (OLB Trevon) ‘T’ Young is another guy that showed some different things last night where you see his length show up. But, I thought for the most part, you felt (No.) 50 and (No.) 98 coming off the edges. I thought Justin Lawler, (No.) 53, came in and did some nice things as well. He has kind of been a little bit hobbled with a hamstring, but he looked healthy and he did some nice stuff.”

(On if he discussed the National Anthem with the team before the Baltimore game)

“Yeah, we spoke about it, we talked about it as a team. Kind of consistent in what you guys have heard us say before, where we mentioned this was the approach that we felt like we wanted to take. If anybody felt differently, certainly open it to hearing your opinion or your perspective, and let’s talk it through. Nobody came up to me and had any issues. Everybody was out there as a team last night right in front, and then the staff was behind them kind of like what you’ve seen since (former Head Coach) Coach (Jeff) Fisher has been here. That’s something that we’re going to continue to do, and felt good about everybody being on board with that.”

(On if there’s anything in particular he wants to get achieved in the final five training camp practices or if it is more of a day-to-day, week-to-week)

“I think, really, for us last night served as a great opportunity. Say what you want, you don’t really scheme or different things like that, but I think just performing some of the elementary fundamentals and techniques of what leads to good football are things that we can focus on. Getting lined up, alignment, assignment, our technique, our effort defensively. Our communications in terms of just making sure we got our right matches, keeping our gap integrity in the run game. Then offensively, just simple, let’s use the right protection calls, let’s make sure that we’re going to the right people and then let’s throw and catch. Being able to separate, then being able to deliver the ball with accuracy and anticipation and then be able to consistently catch the football. Those are some things that for the confidence we have in a lot of the guys last night, things that we didn’t see, that we expect to see in terms of just executing where it’s just sound, crisp football are things that you’re going to see a point of emphasis made for our team. I thought last night served as a good opportunity to just make sure that you wake up. We have a renewed sense of urgency going into it, and it doesn’t really matter who it is. We just all go to do a little bit better job, but last night was a good learning opportunity for us. I think that’s some of the things you’ll see us emphasize as we move forward into these practices this week.”

http://www.rotoworld.com/player/nfl/12177/cooper-kupp

Cooper Kupp (knee) has been ruled out for Week 17.

Tavon Austin and Pharoh Cooper should alternate slot receiver run in Los Angeles’ regular season finale. Josh Reynolds and Mike Thomas should also play a lot.

==

https://www.cbssports.com/fantasy/football/news/rams-cooper-kupp-misses-practice-with-knee-soreness/

Kupp missed Wednesday’s practice with a sore knee, Lindsey Thiry of the Los Angeles Times reports.

Though he wasn’t listed on the injury report until this week, Kupp apparently has been bothered by his knee for a while. He aggravated it on a touchdown catch in Sunday’s 27-23 win over the Titans, yet still managed to play a season-high 94 percent of the snaps on offense. Rams head coach Sean McVay didn’t mention Kupp when listing the players who will be held out for Sunday’s game against the 49ers, but it’s safe to assume the rookie wideout is in some danger of missing the contest. Given that Jared Goff and Todd Gurley already have been ruled out, Kupp figures to handle a limited workload even if he ends up playing. McVay clearly doesn’t care about the difference between the Nos. 3 and 4 seeds.

Prime Time did this:

What Seahawks Fans Are Saying Before The Game

————
Age, injuries, lack of discipline, failure to address the o-line, questionable personnel decisions & unfriendly cap math have all but rendered the Hawks a middle of the pack team, at best, for the foreseeable future.
———–
What a disappointment this season has been, truly. We really need to fix attitudes of players and do an overhaul in all areas. RW has his worst game but when he tried to come back he didn’t had the support he deserved. Still I believe in Russ…not Walsh or the O Line or Bevell
———–
You guys are still pathetic and embarrassing. It hurts that I’m a fan.
———-
And if our real defense weren’t injured jags wouldn’t have stood a chance. Y’all need to quit acting like you the crap when y’all just kicked them while they were down (injured)

———–
Get rid of Germain Ifedi/O-line and Darrell Bevell
———-
In general, our o-line is pretty crap minus Duane Brown. Russell Wilson should not have to scramble for his life every play of the game
———-
In Russell I will always trust, win or lose. This man has heart, even when he’s not at his absolute best I know we will always have a chance to win with him. Now go get the Rams next week and win out.
———-
We continue to play from behind … we sugar coat our performance too often
———-
penalties, drops & interceptions…… oh my!
———-
This loss makes next week’s game incredible important. Injuried guys need to get healthy and backups need to find the fight and fire of the guys they are replacing. Hawks season depends on getting W next game. Take control of your future and make history…

———-
Need Wagner and Wright to be healthy somehow someway.
———-
We win and I’ll say we are in. Lose? Done.
———-
Go Hawks! Beat the hell out of the Rams (somehow)!
———-
Yes, oh my, we need Bobby Wagner….would have won today with him in there.
———-
With no Richardson, bennet, bobby, wright, Sherman, avril, or Kam.
LoL
———-
Actually it all will come down to titans/rams because we will lay an egg against Dallas
———-
If we have Bobby and KJ I feel confident in a win. Without them I don’t think so.
———-
I said something similar a couple weeks ago. This team is a pretender. Has been for some time.
———-
Seahawks win this easily.

I think the Rams are gonna choke their next 3 games.
————
Game of the Season next week. Agree with the OP.

Win and we likely win the division. Lose and well…Good luck.
———
I also believe I saw that Whitworth got hurt for the Rams, he is a big part of that offensive line.

Rams lost Kayvon Webster for the season to a ruptured achillies. Their top corner Trumaine Johnson is also in the concussion protocol. Could be a big hit for the Rams this weekend.

It doesn’t look like we are the only team that sustained some big injuries this week.
———–
I honestly think we beat the rams and fall to Dallas.
————
I said last week that the Eagles need to take their frustrations out on the RAMS. They Did. Seahawks need to do the same. They beat the RAMS next Sunday, the division is theirs for the taking.
———-
I could see us beating the Rams next week but losing at Dallas and ultimately losing the division despite sweeping the Rams. That’s just the kind of infuriating, inconsistent crap this team had been doing all year.
———–
Rams are a grass team. Seahawks always struggle on grass fields. Cue the first Rams game in LA. We barely won.
————
this will not be your typical rams seahawks low score slugfest. With these offenses and pedestrian defenses there will be fireworks.
———-
And the Rams could lose at Tennessee. That’s a 10 a.m. game, and the Titans have played well at home.

Ain’t over till it’s over.
————-
Yeah I still think the Rams lose to the Titans. Which is why I think this game next week is huge. Rams aren’t an unstoppable force, like us, they can lose to any decent opponent.

Keep an eye on the injury reports, Rams could be without both their starting corners.
———–
Rams D sucks. Other than that D Line, they have nothing. Teams are putting up 30 burgers on them all the time, and the Hawks will do the same. Gotta’ watch the cheap shots though. Take a look at the replay of the Wentz injury, that guy was flat out going for the knees, period.
———-
If Wagner plays at 75% or better we win. If not, we lose.

Pretty simple, IMHO.

If Wagner is out, Gurley will DESTROY.
———–
Should be a hell of a game, by far the best 2 teams in the division.

They gave up:
27 to Washington
39 to the Niners, yes the Niners
30 to the Cowboys
43 to the Eagles (well, minus the Defensive TD for Philly)
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The Rams are dangerous. It’s going to be a challenging game.

The things working in our favor are improved play by the Seahawks offensive line, particularly by Duane Brown, and some fairly weak play by the Rams’ cornerbacks (at least in comparison to the blanket coverage we witnessed against Jacksonville).

Their rookie SS John John Johnson III is actually a very good player. The play from both of their safeties has been pretty strong in terms of their cover skills. Not hard hitting, downhill guys, but they have good instincts.

We also need to attack the middle of the field in the passing game. Their LBs are pretty weak in coverage.
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Can the Seahawks establish a running game and make the Rams pay for overaggressive pursuit into the backfield?

The Rams are ranked 30th in rushing yards allowed per carry and 28th in rushing yards allowed per game.