What Do the Rams Need to Do to Beat the Texans?
The Texans game is just 24 hours away, and in a wait-and-see type of offseason with the addition of star receiver Davante Adams and the team waiting for Matthew Stafford to return to the practice field due to a lingering back issue, that moment is finally here, and the team seems to be ready. The focus now shifts to their opening test for the start of the season. The Houston Texans are looking to protect their young quarterback and lean on an elite defense. This makes it a real question of what it will take for the Rams to walk away with a win at home.
Protect Stafford Against Houston’s Pass Rush
Matthew Stafford remains the most important player for the Rams, and with him missing most of training camp, the offensive line’s ability to keep him upright is critical to keep him available and healthy all season. Houston finished last season ranked as a top-10 defense and ranked fifth in allowing opponent rushing yards, which could force the Rams to become one-dimensional. In 2024, the Texans had a total of 49 sacks, with edge rushers Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter leading the way, combining for 23 of those sacks. Their ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks makes protection the priority for Los Angeles. If Stafford has time, the Rams can find balance offensively, but if he is under duress all game, it will be hard to establish rhythm.
Get the Receivers Involved Early
One of the Rams’ biggest offseason moves was adding elite route runner Davante Adams. His ability to create separation makes him a nightmare for defenses, and pairing him with third-year receiver Puka Nacua, who has been a great addition to this Rams offense and Stafford’s main target as WR One, gives him two dynamic weapons to lean on. However, Houston’s secondary isn’t going to allow that duel threat to have an easy day. Derek Stingley Jr. earned First-Team All-Pro honors last season with five interceptions and 23 passes defensed, while Kamari Lassiter added three interceptions and 10 pass breakups as a rookie. This is a duo that’s hungry for a big play and establishing itself as a defensive threat to opposing teams. The Rams will need to game plan to free up Adams and Nacua in creative ways, forcing Houston’s young corners into difficult matchups.
Pressure C.J. Stroud and Test the Offensive Line
As good as CJ Stroud was in his rookie season, he dealt with a sophomore slump in his second season, with the offensive line being a major issue. The Texans’ offensive line continues to remain a work in progress, with the hopes of protecting their quarterback better. Last year, Stroud was sacked 52 times, which was the second-most in the league, with the line also committing 24 false start penalties. This gives the Rams’ front, led by Defensive Rookie of the Year Jared Verse alongside playmaker Braden Fiske, a real opportunity to disrupt timing and make Stroud uncomfortable. Limiting his connection with Pro Bowl receiver Nico Collins will be key, and the Rams’ ability to pressure the pocket consistently could be the difference in the game.
For the Rams to beat Houston, they need to win on both sides of the ball against a team looking to fix the glaring issues they faced last season. Protecting Stafford, finding ways to get Adams and Nacua going, and putting Stroud under pressure are the three main ingredients. They’ve produced well in the preseason with the hopes of continuing their upward trajectory. If Los Angeles can execute in those areas, they can start the season with a statement win against one of the AFC’s top teams.
