Los Angeles Rams: 3 storylines for Week 2 preseason against the Raiders

With a precedent set, it’s hard to determine how much, if any, first string players actually play on Saturday against the Raiders. McVay is on the record as to his struggle trying to figure out how much time he should give starters. That said, it’s hard to imagine the Rams having a second week where they aren’t on the field.

Even if it’s for a series or two.

Add to that, the fact that the opponent on Saturday is the Raiders, a team Los Angeles will face to help kick of the season opener of Monday Night Football.

Which means it’s a second week where caution is likely to rule the afternoon, both in who plays and the playbook as a whole.

Which quite honestly is how McVay seems to like his exhibition football. It also means that next week against the Houston Texans, might be the more traditional interpretation of the Week 3 dress rehearsal game for LA.

Either way, the Rams will need to trot out their offensive and defensive starting units for some playing time. If for no other reason than to get them some tangible work and time in NFL game conditions.

One thing is now very clear in season two of the McVay tenure, and that is his genuine dislike of preseason football. A sentiment not exclusive to him.