McVay Credits Rams’ O-Line During Hot Streak
Once left for dead, the Los Angeles Rams have won three straight games to thrust themselves back into the playoff race. One of the biggest reasons for the Rams’ turnaround has been the superb play of their offensive line. Over the past two games, the big boys up front have kept the jersey of quarterback Matthew Stafford nice and clean, allowing no sacks and only five hits. They’ve also been excellent in run blocking, as L.A. has averaged six yards per carry over that same time frame. Amidst the offensive line’s hot streak, Rams coach Sean McVay gave the guys in the trenches their fair due while complimenting the offense as a whole.
“You always want to be able to keep your quarterback clean, pick and choose your spots, but I think it’s real credit to Matthew and then ultimately the player’s execution,” McVay told reporters. “The offensive line deserves a ton of credit, but I also think it’s a reflection of the entire unit. Matthew, those guys that are protecting, the backs, tight ends, even receivers separating in the timing and rhythm. Those are things that have been in alignment with good efficient football.”
It’s not like the Rams have been facing scrubs in that time either. The Arizona Cardinals may be just 3-10, but their pass rush isn’t half bad with 32 sacks on the season. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns have arguably the league’s best defense and a strong Defensive Player of the Year candidate in Myles Garrett, whom the Rams managed to keep off the stat sheet completely. Granted, Garrett wasn’t at full strength after suffering a shoulder injury the week before, but a less-than-100 percent Garrett is still better than most players in the league. At the end of the day, football is a game that’s won and lost in the trenches, and the Rams have been dominating in that area recently.
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