The NFL season is quickly approaching and the Los Angeles Rams are primed for a big year. After trading for Matthew Stafford, this team is in line for a much improved passing game. With a stout defense and an electric offense, the Rams will be making plenty of noise throughout the season.
LA's offense should be in full swing as there is plenty of talent on this roster. Even though Cam Akers fell to injury, Darrell Henderson looks to take over the starting role. However, after trading for Sony Michel, the Rams' backfield becomes less clear. The passing game on the other hand should be the driving force for this offense, as Matthew Stafford could have a monster season.
The Rams' defense is shaping up to be one of the best with Aaron Donald leading the way. He's a wrecking ball on the defensive line and could be in for another big year in 2021. Los Angeles as a whole has the talent to win a stacked NFC North. We'll see how it plays out, as the Rams have some stiff competition in their division. With that said, here are four bold predictions for the Rams 2021 season.
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4. Sony Michel leads the Rams in rushing yards
It's been a rocky career so far for Sony Michel, but he's now on a Rams team where he could prosper. Michel actually looked great in the final stretch last season and has flashed greatness periodically. For now, he is the main backup behind Darrell Henderson, but that can change as the season goes on.
The Rams could use a committee in their backfield, but Sean McVay has a knack for utilizing a workhorse instead. We should see Henderson begin the year as the featured back for the Rams, but Sony Michel has the talent to eventually take the job away. Keep an eye on LA's backfield, as it'll be murky to start. However, Michel could literally run away with it and serve as the Rams best running back.
3. Matthew Stafford leads the league in passing yards
It's no secret that Matthew Stafford is a gunslinger who airs it out frequently. He's done it throughout his entire career with the Detroit Lions and it'll be no different with the Rams. Los Angeles throws the ball often and seems to be a perfect scheme fit for Stafford. The Rams should be an electric offense, as they're primed to be a top passing team in 2021.
We've witnessed Jared Goff throw for a ridiculous amount of yards during his time with the Rams. For that reason, Matthew Stafford leading the league in passing yards shouldn't really come as a shock if it happens. He has a fantastic wide receiver duo in Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp, which is the best receiver room Stafford has had in the last several years. Look for the Rams passing offense to be one of the best this year, with Matthew Stafford leading the league in passing yards.
2. Aaron Donald wins Defensive Player of the Year again
Aaron Donald has already won the Defensive Player of the Year award three times in his career. He's a monster on the defensive line and double-teaming him isn't enough. It's like watching the Hulk go to work as Donald destroys opposing offensive lines on a weekly basis. He's the driving force of the Rams defense and could be in for another award-winning season.
He's the type of player that makes his entire team better around him. Opposing offenses have to prioritize blocking Donald, creating opportunities for his teammates. He is a vital piece to the Rams defense and should be in for another big season. Look for Aaron Donald to continue dominance as he chases after a fourth DPOY award.
1. Rams win the NFC West
The NFC West is stacked, as each team looks like a playoff contender. The San Francisco 49ers are healthy, the Seattle Seahawks have a stacked offense, and the Arizona Cardinals have a ton of potential. This might just be the toughest division in football. Los Angeles has their work cut out for them, but they have a great chance to get the job done.
It'll be a close race, but the Rams have what it takes to win the NFC West. They arguably have the best defense in the division, an extremely competitive wide receiver group, and a quarterback who airs it out with the best of them. Look for the Rams to take the lead late in the season, as they have the potential to be a top-three team in the NFC.