The new-look Los Angeles Rams continue to turn heads with their impressive showing as well as their new big-name acquisitions as of late. However, Sean McVay and his squad recently encountered a hurdle as WR Robert Woods was sidelined with a season-ending torn ACL injury in one of their practices a couple of days ago.
It can't be denied that the veteran was playing a crucial role in the team's offense as he produced 556 yards on 45 catches to go with four touchdowns before he went down with the injury. Though it was definitely a huge hit to the Rams, they are still fortunate that they have arguably one of the most complete rosters in the league today.
With Woods now out for the rest of the season, the other Rams players will have to step up and fill the hole left by the 29-year-old receiver in order to sustain their winning momentum moving forward.
Here are three reasons why Los Angeles will still be a contender even if they will be missing the services of their WR2 for the rest of the 2021 season:
3. Odell Beckham Jr. remains to be a major threat in the passing game
Coincidentally, the injury sustained by Woods happened a day before Odell Beckham Jr. was signed to a one-year contract by the Rams. After the incident, the three-time Pro Bowler will surely be expected to fill in the slot vacated by Woods and produce significant numbers for the receiving unit.
Yes, he wasn't the same type of player that he once was but he remains a threat that can get the attention of multiple defenders whenever he's on the field. Additionally, it is also not a secret that Beckham Jr. has had issues with his former QB in Baker Mayfield during his days with the Cleveland Browns. Given the situation, a change in scenery was necessary for the star receiver to potentially get back to his previous playing form, this time with a new team in the Rams.
Upon his arrival in Los Angeles, Beckham Jr. will be playing alongside a tenured orchestrator in Matthew Stafford who will surely give him his fair share of touches, especially amid Woods' absence. Certainly enough, the LSU talent will be one of the players who are expected to step up and contribute in the scoring department for the Rams offense moving forward.
2. The defense got a boost with Von Miller
This season, the Rams' defensive unit has yet to show out and maximize the talent that they have as compared to their previous showing a year ago. However, it isn't too late for defensive coordinator Raheem Morris to turn things around, especially with talented men at his disposal namely Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey.
The defensive rotation can now add linebacker Von Miller to their star-studded roster after the veteran was traded from the Denver Broncos a couple of weeks ago. Just like Beckham Jr., the 32-year-old has already been limited by injuries and has not been playing as dominant as he once was.
However, Miller remains to be a huge addition to the Rams as they will surely benefit from the pressure and disruptions that he can provide for the team's defense. Though he is already past the peak of his athleticism, the former Super Bowl MVP is still a good player who can surely impact a team with the Rams.
Ultimately, his veteran wits along with his championship experience will be crucial in helping the squad live up to the high expectations and achieve their goal of winning a title this season.
1. Rams QB Matthew Stafford is just that good
More than anything, perhaps the most important player on the field for the Rams is QB Matthew Stafford who has been revitalized upon joining the team this season. The veteran signal-caller has been doing an impressive job of leading his squad and allowing them to earn a 7-2 record in the stacked NFC West thus far.
Despite his hot start with the Rams, Stafford still raises some eyebrows in terms of his effectiveness come playoff time. Looking back, he only saw action in a total of three postseason contests and is still winless in the playoffs through 12 years played in the league.
Certainly enough, Stafford's lack of experience of playing on the big stage will be a significant disadvantage but his talent and veteran wits might just allow him to stay as effective when the time comes.
Fortunately for him, he already has more weapons and better coaching staff around him as compared to his days with the Detroit Lions. Hopefully, Matthew Stafford's playmaking skills along with the contributions of his talented teammates will be enough to sustain their good run until the playoffs.
If they manage to do so, then the Rams will definitely have a high chance of going back to the championship stage and securing a Super Bowl title this season.
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