The Los Angeles Rams had to scramble to put together a joint practice after the Chargers unexpectedly canceled the meeting setup between the two so. cal teams. The Saints emerged as the next best option, as they were setup in the Rams former training camp stomping grounds of UC-Irvine.
The two squads faced off in the shadow of LA Galaxy’s stadium at Dignity Health Sports Complex in Carson, CA.
The second and final joint practice was seen as a necessity for the Rams, as they use these occasions to get the most accurate assessment of their squad — an unavoidable byproduct of the dogged resting of starters and important backups.
While the offense struggled to get the ball moving, the defense fared far better against the Saints.
Los Angeles Rams Defensive Line Impressive Vs. Developmental QB Room
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Due to the setup of the fields (two fields with simultaneous action) and media restrictions, LAFB was no able to see all of the action. But an 11 on 11 red zone drill was fully documented. Of the ten plays ran from the 10 and 15 yards lines the Rams defense came out on top 8 times.
The two exceptions were a touchdown scored on a quick slant just behind the linebackers and an outside zone run from former Rams draft pick Cam Akers, who was able to break the edge containment and outrun the defenders to the end zone.
The main reason for the success was the defensive line pressing one of the three quarterbacks that the Saints are testing out for the starting spot; Spencer Rattler, Tyler Shough, and Jake Haener.
The pass rush achieved two sacks and four pressures. The first sack was on an all-out blitz — a gutsy call in the red zone. But the play was nearly over before it began. The second the sack was aided by strong coverage, in which Shough had nowhere to go with the ball and was ‘sacked’ (thud tackling was employed, on the pass rush, the play is allowed to continue.) The pass rush was so dominant that Jared Verse forced a false start — a probable common occurrence for the upcoming season.
Several members of the secondary made noteworthy plays, but it was more marked by the quality of group play rather than of individual efforts.
Although Cam Lampkin deserves a shout-out for a pass breakup in the end zone. Lampkin intercepted a pass versus the Cowboys in last Saturday’s preseason game.
Other Notes: Rams Defense
The Rams’ defense allowed a rather strange explosive play in the form of a short crosser to Mason Tipton. The pass itself was less than 10 yards, but resulted in a 60-yard touchdown. Every member of the defense looked out of position and was confused by the seemingly routine play.
The secondary struggled against Rashid Shaheed, who connected with Rattler on a 20-yard gain early, followed by a monster 50-yard pick up, in double coverage.
Nate Landman forced a fumble on an Alvin Kamara run. The punchout has become Landman’s calling card. He is just the latest member to be added for, at least in some part, his ability to create turnovers. The Rams have cited turnover creation as a reason for adding Kam Curl and Kam Kinchens, as well as Jaylen McCollough.
Emmanuel Forbes returned to action this week after missing time due to injury. The slight cornerback made a big man hit on a running back, nearly causing a fumble.
Derion Kendrick made an impressive PBU to end a Saints drive.
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