Trend would indicate Rams Gurley could struggle in 2018

After finally following up to a huge rookie season, Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley will be looked to deliver again, even if a trend might say otherwise.

One clear cut winner in 2017 was Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley. In the Sean McVay offense that had LA reverse its fortunes in the span of one season, the will be fourth year RB will look to build on what could be an MVP season.

Could be, should be.

But one interesting trend to consider is what Gurley did in year two after a breakout rookie year.

He disappeared.

In what ended up as the last season of the previous regime, Gurley would be a non factor in a dismal 4-12 reintroduction to Los Angeles.

Could it happen again in 2018? Will it become one of those great in odd years, not so much in an even one?

A few things to consider is that Gurley will be a focus of defenses even more so next season. His second half was, and still remains MVP worthy. His ability to be a significant weapon catching the ball out of the backfield aided quarterback Jared Goff exponentially.

Related Story: Goff gets deserved Pro Bowl nod

The question now is “what’s next?”

The Rams relied heavily on him and he absolutely responded, but it was also a season where everything clicked.

The offensive line held. Receivers Robert Woods  and Cooper Kupp demanded attention.

And Goff played well.
Pro Bowl well.

The Rams and Gurley won’t be an unknown factor next season, meaning teams will scheme better to stop them.

How he responds to the added scrutiny will be something we all will see as it develops. Don’t forget, as the 2016 season slid into all manner of dysfunction, Gurley was seldom to be seen.

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Hey, if anyone deserves the benefit of the doubt for what may be, it’s Gurley. He was, perhaps, the best part of what happened in Los Angeles next to McVay first and Goff a close second.

But it’s a trend to pay attention to, especially if the offensive line isn’t as effective as it was this year.

Something worth watching.