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Game 1: Rams vs. Lions - Defensive Review
Positives:
DL/OLB:
The defensive line and outside linebackers made a significant impact against the Lions' top-tier offensive line. Despite the absence of All-Pro Aaron Donald, the Rams' defensive front effectively limited the Lions to 20 points through four quarters. Key contributions came from Verse and second-year player Young, who both recorded sacks. Verses sack in the fourth quarter was crucial in disrupting Jared Goff’s rhythm, while Young also demonstrated his potential with a timely sack. According to Pro Football Focus, the Rams' defensive line achieved a 28% pressure rate against Goff, a notable accomplishment considering the strength of the Lions' offensive line.
ILB:
Reeder and Christian Rozeboom had commendable performances. Reeder was active throughout the game, notching 10 tackles and showcasing his sideline-to-sideline ability. Rozeboom contributed with 7 tackles and provided solid run support. While neither player is flawless, Rozeboom ability to cover ground and Reeders physical play were significant positives. The addition of rookie linebacker Jordan Speights in the upcoming weeks could potentially enhance the off-ball defense if he outperforms Reeder, adding depth and flexibility.
CBs:
The Rams' cornerbacks, Cobie Durant and Tre’Vius White, performed admirably. Durant/White effectively limited Amon-Ra St. Brown to 50 yards on 6 receptions, while White provided strong coverage throughout the game. The secondary also benefited from solid performances by Curl and JJIII. JJIII had a key interception, and Curl was reliable in both coverage and run support. Despite a roughing the passer penalty on Kitchens , the overall play of the cornerbacks and safeties was solid.
Negatives:
DL/OLB:
The performances of Bobby Brown III and Turner were less impactful. Turner struggled to create disruption in the backfield, and his performance raised concerns about his ability to handle increased responsibilities without Aaron Donald. BBIII , while showing potential, had difficulty against the Lions' offensive line, getting pushed around in both pass and run situations. The Rams' defensive line had a 14% run-stop win rate, indicating a need for improvement in stopping the run. As the season progresses, these players will need to step up their performance.
ILB:
Reeder and Rozeboom had their limitations. Reeder , while active, sometimes struggled with tackling technique and gap discipline, which allowed some runs to break through. Rozeboom’s lack of elite athleticism and occasional missteps in coverage were noticeable drawbacks. Both players will need to refine their technique and positioning to enhance the overall effectiveness of the linebacker corps.
CBs:
Durant had a missed interception opportunity, which was a low point in an otherwise solid performance. White, although effective for the most part, allowed a significant play due to a double move, which is a probably due to knocking off the rust as he continues to recover from injury. Overall, the cornerbacks were solid but need to refine their consistency and execution to avoid big plays.
Coaching:
Defensive coordinator Shulas game plan was effective. With a more aggressive approach, including press coverage and varied pre-snap looks, resulted in effective pressure and two sacks. His use of stunt packages contributed to a 25% sack rate, demonstrating a successful strategy against Goff. The improved approach over past seasons suggests that the Rams’ defense could perform at a high level if the positive trends continue and the team stays healthy.
Positives:
DL/OLB:
The defensive line and outside linebackers made a significant impact against the Lions' top-tier offensive line. Despite the absence of All-Pro Aaron Donald, the Rams' defensive front effectively limited the Lions to 20 points through four quarters. Key contributions came from Verse and second-year player Young, who both recorded sacks. Verses sack in the fourth quarter was crucial in disrupting Jared Goff’s rhythm, while Young also demonstrated his potential with a timely sack. According to Pro Football Focus, the Rams' defensive line achieved a 28% pressure rate against Goff, a notable accomplishment considering the strength of the Lions' offensive line.
ILB:
Reeder and Christian Rozeboom had commendable performances. Reeder was active throughout the game, notching 10 tackles and showcasing his sideline-to-sideline ability. Rozeboom contributed with 7 tackles and provided solid run support. While neither player is flawless, Rozeboom ability to cover ground and Reeders physical play were significant positives. The addition of rookie linebacker Jordan Speights in the upcoming weeks could potentially enhance the off-ball defense if he outperforms Reeder, adding depth and flexibility.
CBs:
The Rams' cornerbacks, Cobie Durant and Tre’Vius White, performed admirably. Durant/White effectively limited Amon-Ra St. Brown to 50 yards on 6 receptions, while White provided strong coverage throughout the game. The secondary also benefited from solid performances by Curl and JJIII. JJIII had a key interception, and Curl was reliable in both coverage and run support. Despite a roughing the passer penalty on Kitchens , the overall play of the cornerbacks and safeties was solid.
Negatives:
DL/OLB:
The performances of Bobby Brown III and Turner were less impactful. Turner struggled to create disruption in the backfield, and his performance raised concerns about his ability to handle increased responsibilities without Aaron Donald. BBIII , while showing potential, had difficulty against the Lions' offensive line, getting pushed around in both pass and run situations. The Rams' defensive line had a 14% run-stop win rate, indicating a need for improvement in stopping the run. As the season progresses, these players will need to step up their performance.
ILB:
Reeder and Rozeboom had their limitations. Reeder , while active, sometimes struggled with tackling technique and gap discipline, which allowed some runs to break through. Rozeboom’s lack of elite athleticism and occasional missteps in coverage were noticeable drawbacks. Both players will need to refine their technique and positioning to enhance the overall effectiveness of the linebacker corps.
CBs:
Durant had a missed interception opportunity, which was a low point in an otherwise solid performance. White, although effective for the most part, allowed a significant play due to a double move, which is a probably due to knocking off the rust as he continues to recover from injury. Overall, the cornerbacks were solid but need to refine their consistency and execution to avoid big plays.
Coaching:
Defensive coordinator Shulas game plan was effective. With a more aggressive approach, including press coverage and varied pre-snap looks, resulted in effective pressure and two sacks. His use of stunt packages contributed to a 25% sack rate, demonstrating a successful strategy against Goff. The improved approach over past seasons suggests that the Rams’ defense could perform at a high level if the positive trends continue and the team stays healthy.
