The Los Angeles Rams missed the playoffs for the second time in 2022 under Head Coach Sean McVay. McVay’s team is hungry and must rebound this season.
Circumstances changed significantly for the 2021-22 Super Bowl Champions. From hoisting the Lombardi and celebrating in sunny Los Angeles to enduring a disappointing season. Like other teams, the Rams dealt with injuries, poor play on both sides of the ball and a lack of cohesion. The Rams were like a fast car that never left the garage.
So, the question is how can the Los Angeles Rams rebound in 2023?
Offense, Offense, Offense!!
The Rams’ offense was a shell of itself in 2022. According to data provided by ESPN, the offense scored 18.1 yards per game while recording 280.5 yards per game. The Rams had the league’s worst offense. Since 2018, McVay’s offense never finished lower than twelfth.
McVay must find a way to get the offense back into gear. A strong running game is the solution to fixing the offense. McVay’s offenses have flourished with strong running games. Los Angeles can control the clock, wear out opposing defensive lines and run play-action passes.
The passing game will improve throughout the season. Offensively, the Rams don’t lack weapons. McVay has Cooper Kupp, Van Jefferson, Tutu Atwell, Ben Skowronek and Tyler Higbee at his disposal. McVay’s weapons have different skill sets that need to be utilized.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford must get the aforementioned weapons the ball. Kupp isn’t the only option the Rams have and Stafford must give the other skill players a chance. Offenses work best when multiple players are involved.
Aggressive Defense
Fixing the offense should be the Rams’ top priority. Defense comes second. I don’t think the defense will be the Rams’ strong suit. Defensively the Rams must be aggressive. Defensive Coordinator Raheem Morris needs to dial up more blitzes, man coverages and change the picture for opposing offenses. Last season Morris called a lot of zone coverage. If the Rams can keep teams on their toes with different looks the defense can progress over time.