Last weekend the Los Angeles Rams offense was hit in the mouth by arguably their toughest defensive challenge of the season. The Minnesota Vikings put the clamps on the Rams offense and they were never able to truly get off the ground.
The Rams offense was held to 254 total yards and they were only able to score seven points in the whole game per pro-football-reference.com. An amazing feat since the Rams were the number one offense coming into this game.
The Rams were at least able to score twice in each game this season until their loss to Minnesota. While the Rams are a solid defensive team, this season their offense has been the focal point.
The Rams did not score over 20 points in each of their three losses this season. This team depends on its offense blowing the doors off of the opposition and the defense doing their part to contain the opposing offense.
They also depend on a steady diet of running back Todd Gurley. The Rams had issues trying to run the ball with Gurley against the Vikings. Gurley had 15 carries for 37 yards, one touchdown and averaged 2.47 yards per carry.
Despite the struggles in the ground game, the Rams were having success in getting the ball to Gurley as a receiver. Gurley had three receptions for 19 yards and averaged 6.3 yards per reception. However, they did not elect to take this course of action when trying to get the ball to Gurley.
The Rams have lost in both circumstances where they have not put Gurley in situations to make plays. He is the focal point of their offense and sets things in motion. They will need his production to get back to their winning ways.
Especially in the Rams next game against the New Orleans Saints who are surging right now. The Rams offense will be without its leading receiver in Robert Woods.
His absence will require other players to step up to ensure that this offense does not miss a beat. Their adjustments will come against a tough opponent in the Saints.
However, this Rams team has the talent to live up to the challenge.
Brendan Abban is the host of the KBR Sports podcast. Follow him on Twitter @BAbban24 or email him via [email protected]. This article was originally written and published on SB Nation.
