Reviewing The X-Factors In The Rams Win Over The Lions
It was a frustrating game, to say the least but the Los Angeles Rams came away with a win over the Detroit Lions. It was another one of those games where certain players, units, etc. played down to their opponent. A couple of key plays made this game and it honestly could’ve gone either way for the Rams at just about any point. Dan Campbell and the Lions were clearly desperate for a win. Ultimately the Rams were simply just too talented. Let’s review the x-factors from this game.
No More Red Jersey For Goff
The Lions were missing two starters from their offensive line and had multiple players struggling this year in pass protection. However, the Lions actually kept Jared Goff fairly clean. The Rams only managed 12 total pressures with Leonard Floyd leading the way with 3. Aaron Donald was largely held in check as was Terrell Lewis. The game essentially started with an all-or-nothing blitz. Unfortunately, that backfired as D’Andre Swift took a screen for a 63-yard touchdown.
The impact came from the shots Goff did ultimately take on. Jalen Ramsey destroyed Goff at one point and it clearly sent a message to Goff and the Lions. Sebastian Joseph-Day and Kenny Young each chipped in with a sack for the Rams only 2 sacks of the game.
Donald laid a big hit on Goff late in the game. It caused Goff pain and embarrassment as he threw an interception to Ramsey in the end zone with the score close. Goff ultimately threw a second interception to Nick Scott to seal the Rams’ win. The Rams’ ability to pressure Goff into turnovers at key moments was one of the most exciting x-factors in this game.
Take Away Goff’s Security Blankets
Swift and T.J. Hockenson made up 58% of Goff’s target shares in this game. That was predictable as Goff is a bit of a check-down Charlie. Ultimately that duo totaled 14 receptions for 144 yards. However, 63 of Swift’s yards came on a broken play where someone clearly missed their assignment. Take that away and you’re looking at a measly 81 yards for 6.2 yards per reception. Goff did not complete a pass over 20 yards as he attacked the middle of the field all day.
Ultimately Young and Troy Reeder allowed 10 receptions for 109 yards. It ended up being Kalif Raymond who was Goff’s best weapon as he ate up the linebackers for 5 receptions and 95 yards of his 114-yard performance. Despite Goff and Raymond having a connection, Goff clearly got uncomfortable late in the game. With the Rams up and time running out and his favorite targets covered well, Goff did what he has become known for and threw 2 late interceptions to help the Rams seal the deal. The defense’s ability to take away Goff’s security blankets was one of the most important x-factors in this win.
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Offensive Onslaught
The Rams rushing attack was atrocious in this game. The offensive line didn’t do a great job of opening holes for Darrell Henderson who struggled to get anything going in his 15 carries. However, Matthew Stafford didn’t need the offense to be balanced. He just took it upon himself to shred the Lions depleted secondary to the tune of 334 yards and 3 touchdowns with no turnovers. Cooper Kupp of course continued his record pace as he caught 10 passes for 156 yards and 2 scores. Robert Woods added to that with 6 receptions and 70 yards.
Van Jefferson and Tyler Higbee each added over 40 yards receiving with Jefferson having 1 of Stafford’s 3 touchdowns to his name. A.J. Parker gave up the most yards with 71 against the Rams. Daryl Worley also gave up 64 yards and a touchdown, the Lions clearly were not happy with his play as he was released this week. Stafford’s ability to put this game on his shoulders to come back after being down 10-0 was one of the most critical x-factors in this game.
Former Rams quarterback Jared Goff gets hit by the Rams ferocious pass rush.