The Los Angeles Rams took on the Cleveland Browns in what was a star-studded matchup. Despite the numerous names headlining this game, it was a low scoring affair which ended in a Rams 20-13 win. This win propels the Rams to 3-0 and upholds their tie for the lead in the NFC West.
This game was a far cry from their Monday Night Football matchup from last season against the Kansas City Chiefs. However, this game was also a nail bitter until the clock hit triple zeroes.
Both teams had their fair share of struggles early on in the game. It was a dominant showing from both defenses as both squads combined for a total of nine points by the end of the first quarter. A bit of a surprise when names like Odell Beckham Jr. and Todd Gurley are the staples of both offenses.
The Rams head coach Sean McVay spoke on the exceptional defense his team played and their role in the win:
“For the most part really they did a great job of keeping everything tight, making sure that we were on the same page and with an explosive offense like that to be able to limit them the way that they did is a huge credit to them.”
There was no question that the Rams defense were prime candidates for the game ball. They held the Browns to 270 total yards on offense and only 13 points. As a result, it kept Cleveland’s offense grounded.
Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield was 18 of 36 for 195 yards, one touchdown and an interception. The Rams were able to bother Mayfield all night and were able to accumulate three sacks on him.
Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald got his first sack of the season in this game along with three tackles. They also kept Beckham in check who finished with six receptions for 56 yards.
The Rams defensive effort did not go remiss as the offense once again could not get into a consistent flow. Rams quarterback Jared Goff was 24 of 38 for 269 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Wide receiver Cooper Kupp was Goff’s favorite weapon as he had 11 receptions for 102 yards and two touchdowns.
This is the Rams third straight win of the season and continues their impressive performances on the road. The Rams are 16-3 on the road (including playoffs) dating back to 2017 when McVay first took over. Their next game will come against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who are currently 1-2.
This post was originally from thescorecrow.com.
Brendan Abban is the owner/editor of brendanabban.com and hosts the KBR Sports podcast. Follow him on Twitter @Abbanbrendan or email him via [email protected].
