The Los Angeles Rams return home this weekend after a devastating loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Leading 26-7 early in the third quarter, the Rams looked to have the game under control and the reigning Super Bowl champion backed up against the ropes. However, the Eagles fought back and shattered the Rams’ hopes when defensive tackle Jordan Davis blocked the potential game-winning field goal and returned it 69 yards for a touchdown as time expired to give the Eagles the 33-26 victory.
The Rams look to get back on track this Sunday as they take on the 3-0 Indianapolis Colts, in what should be a highly competitive game. Both teams have started the year, playing well on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.
One key for the Rams initial success is the involvement of star wide receiver Puka Nacua.
Last week in Philadelphia, quarterback Matthew Stafford hooked up with Nacua 11 times for 112 yards. So far this season, Nacua has caught 29 passes for 333 yards, leading the NFL in both categories.
With the new addition of six time Pro Bowl receiver Davante Adams, there is less of a focus on Nacua which has allowed him to flourish through the first three games of the season.
However, running the football may be the Ram’s best bet come Sunday.
Indianapolis’ pass defense has proven to be a problem for quarterbacks thus far, forcing four interceptions through the first three games.
A large product of this due to Colts new defensive coordinator, Lou Anarumo. Anarumo, who has earned the nickname “Mad Scientist Football,” is known for fooling quarterbacks with his wacky schemes.
Rams running back duo Kyren Williams and Blake Corum, who’ve averaged more than 100 yards on the ground thus far, can expect a heavy load on Sunday to try and solve the problem.
While star power resides mostly on the Rams, the Colts offense has flourished due to the resurrection of Colts quarterback Daniel Jones.
Jones, who was cut by the New York Giants towards the end of last season and battled with now backup Anthony Richardson for the starting job in preseason, is playing at an MVP level. His comeback is something no one saw coming.
The Colts’ offensive line is a large reason for his success. They have allowed only two sacks in the three games played thus far, allowing Jones to take full advantage of the extended time he gets in the pocket.
The Colts went the entire first two games of the season without punting, the first team to ever do so, scoring 62 points in that span.
On top of Jones’ success, running back Jonathan Taylor has had an explosive start to the season. Taylor is leading the league in both carries (60) as well as rushing yards (338). The Colts are third in rushing yards per game, averaging over 150 per game.
With both offenses off to a strong start, there is a possibility of a shootout on Sunday afternoon.
The Rams take on the Colts at SoFi Stadium at 1:05 P.M. PST. The game can be viewed on FOX or streamed on the Fox Sports app.