Why the Rams Defense Has a Chance to Dominate Against the Weakened Ravens Offense
After a tough loss in overtime against the San Francisco 49ers, where backup quarterback Mac Jones was having his way with the Rams' defense in the first half, the team now faces another backup in Baltimore’s Cooper Rush as Lamar Jackson continues to recover from a hamstring injury. At 3-2, the Rams are well aware they can’t afford another slow start, especially against a team still trying to find a spark on offense with its backup. This game allows Los Angeles the chance to rebound and show that their performance on defense last week was just an off night. The Rams will need to stay focused and not allow the struggles of the Ravens' offense to turn this into a trap game, especially after a divisional loss.
Cooper Rush struggled in his first start for the Ravens last week against the Texans' defense, throwing three interceptions and getting sacked once. This could be a sign of what is to come as they face an aggressive defense in the Rams. Zay Flowers, the Ravens' top receiver, has also been limited in practice this week as he deals with a shoulder injury, only adding to the challenges for this offense. The Rams' secondary, led by Quentin Lake, Kam Curl, and Cobie Durant, will have opportunities to capitalize if Rush makes mistakes as he tries to find rhythm with this offense.
The Rams' defensive front has been one of the most impactful in the league this season. They are currently ranked third in the NFL with 15 sacks, 5.5 of those sacks coming from Byron Young, who has become a prominent leader in the Rams' pass rush. Jared Verse has also been just as impressive with two sacks and is tied for third this season with two forced fumbles. In a recent media session this past Thursday, Verse said he would be “ F**king furious” if Jackson was not available to play, as Jackson has been on his list of quarterbacks he wants to sack. While that matchup will have to wait for another time, Verse and the Rams defense must now turn their focus to limiting Cooper Rush and take advantage of this weakened Ravens offense.
The Rams' defensive line will also look to keep Derrick Henry at bay, as the All-Pro running back has not looked like his usual dominant self so far this season. Henry is ranked 16th among running backs and is averaging just five yards per carry, which places him 73rd in the league. Ball security has also been a problem for him, as he is currently leading the NFL in fumbles with three, all of which have been punched or ripped out. This could play directly into the Rams’ strength in key moments, as they are tied for fifth in the league with the most forced fumbles. If the Rams can keep Henry contained while keeping Rush in uncomfortable situations, Sunday could be a long day for Baltimore, and if Los Angeles can get back to the defensive level they’ve shown us earlier this season, it could be a statement win for the Rams heading into the second half of their schedule.
