Los Angeles Rams: 3 bold predictions for Week 1 of preseason against Baltimore Ravens

The Los Angeles Rams begin their 2018 preseason campaign with a game against the Baltimore Ravens. Here are some predictions to keep an eye on.

The Los Angeles Rams kick off their preseason schedule against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night. LA, coming off of an 11-5 campaign in 2017, will begin the month long process of evaluating what may come in their 2018 season, one in which optimism and expectations are sky high.

First, exhibition football seldom yields big surprises. Mostly, it’s a four-game exercise where the primary and overriding concern is health. The Rams have been remarkably fortunate in avoiding significant injuries the last two seasons back in Los Angeles.

That said, look for head coach Sean McVay to take some long looks at the bigger question marks. The Rams first two picks in this past draft were spent on the offensive line, an area where concern should exist as age is a factor.

Also, LA has what I believe is a potential significant weapon in former Tennessee running back, John Kelly. Yes, veteran Todd Gurley is fresh off of a record year that saw him earn OPOY honors, and a new deal, but Kelly is a guy who will push the running back corp. He has the potential to be a solid contributor who is a three-down back, AND can also catch the ball out of the backfield.

Expect him to get a long look these next four games.

The preseason isn’t much for serious football, but it is about evaluations. The Rams are set at most key positions, so depth is where coaches will be keying in on.

That begins Thursday night in Baltimore.