NFL Preseason Week 3: 5 questions for Rams against Chargers

2. Will Rams’ defense keep Chargers in check?

The fact that it’s the third preseason game, and Aaron Donald is still holding out for a new deal from the Los Angeles Rams is a terrible sign, but at this point Wade Phillips just has to come up with a game plan for Week 1 that doesn’t involve the defensive superstar. Frustrating doesn’t even begin to describe how it feels to not have Donald with the team over the last month, but hopefully the two sides can reach an agreement sooner rather than later.

For the most part, the Rams’ defense didn’t look all that bad against the Oakland Raiders, but allowing Derek Carr to lead two touchdown drives in the first half was a bit of a concern. During their previous matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, the Rams weren’t tested as much since Dak Prescott rested and the unit dealt with Kellen Moore for the most part, but Saturday’s contest against the Los Angeles Chargers will be another true test.

There’s a reason why Philip Rivers is considered one of the most competitive quarterbacks in the league, and after two tough losses by the Chargers, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the veteran come out firing against the Rams. But if the Rams’ defense can manage to keep Rivers and the rest of the Chargers’ first-team offense in check for the most part, it will at least make everyone feel a little better about the whole Donald situation.