Running Game For Los Angeles Rams Takes Strides in the Right Direction

After two weeks of ineffective running, the Los Angeles Rams were able to make some improvement to the ground game in Week 3.

After back-to-back weeks in which the ground game could not gain any momentum and failed to reach the end zone, the Los Angeles Rams were able to take major steps in the right direction during their Week 3 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Although the rushing game is still far from where it was last season, it was good to see the major improvements by the Rams.

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Following weeks where Rams star running back Todd Gurley had averaged just 2.7 and 2.8 yards per carry, and the longest run of 11 yards between both games, Gurley came back with a much better performance against the Buccaneers. Against Tampa Bay, Gurley managed 85 rushing yards on 27 touches, with his longest gain being a 16-yard run.

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Most importantly, Gurley scored two touchdowns and was able to get creative in his running to claw for extra yards when he could as this is definitely a positive sign for the Rams and their fans.

Benny Cunningham and Tavon Austin also had productive days from the backfield despite only having four touches between them. These two players made the most of their opportunities, and ate up some decent yardage to help Los Angeles on offense. Credit to Rob Boras for his much improved play calling to stretch the field and target receivers beyond what had become the routine short passes, highlighted by Brian Quick’s 44-yard touchdown reception.

The offense will not be anything like the kind of offense you see by the Arizona Cardinals or New Orleans Saints, but with a little variety and heaving the ball down field, the space will be there for Gurley and company to feast on more effectively. Now it’s just a matter of staying creative. But for now, it’s nice to enjoy the first place Rams.