Quick touchdown for Watkins positive sign for Rams in first half against Saints

With Robert Woods out, Sammy Watkins wasted no time making an impact for the Los Angeles Rams in Week 12 by scoring on the opening drive against the New Orleans Saints.

As if losing to the Minnesota Vikings wasn’t already frustrating enough for the Los Angeles Rams, the team also received the crushing news on Robert Woods and how the wideout would be sidelined for a few weeks with a shoulder injury. Even though he was listed as the No. 2 wideout, Woods was still one of the hottest receivers on offense for the Rams over the last few weeks, and until he returns, Sean McVay hopes to see numerous players step up in the passing game, mainly Sammy Watkins.

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His numbers may not show it since he tends to receive extra attention from opposing defenders, but there’s a reason why Los Angeles was willing to trade for Watkins in the preseason since his speed can be a nightmare when he gets going on offense. And with McVay hoping to get more from his beloved No. 1 wideout against the Saints even more with Woods being forced to watch from the sidelines, let’s jus say Watkins wasted no time stepping it up for his teammates.

On the first drive of the game for Los Angeles on offense, Jared Goff was able to help the team drive 59 yards on seven plays, topped off with a five-yard touchdown catch to Watkins to help the Rams take an early 7-0 lead. In fact, Watkins ended up finishing the first half with three catches for 60 yards, including an impressive 31-yard bobbling catch.

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As for whether the Rams will hang on to win the game since they currently lead the Saints 17-10, only time will tell, but the team certainly wouldn’t mind another strong half from Watkins in the passing game. For a player that has been anxious to see more passes thrown in his direction after receiving extra attention from defenders for most of the  year, here’s to hoping Watkins continues to play at this high level in the second half against New Orleans to keep Los Angeles in great shape for the NFC playoff picture. Plus, after falling to the Vikings a week ago, a win over the Saints would make the Rams feel much better when it comes to having what it takes to compete with serious contenders.