5 reasons LA Rams starting defensive line excels in 2020

I-Familiar teammates

New defensive coordinator Brandon Staley will run the LA Rams through a base 3-4 defense, which is the same base defense run by former defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. The same base formation, yes, but completely different defensive philosophies. The Phillips defense enters with the same defense and flexes based on the down and distance.

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Some disguises, some blitzes, but a basic strength on strength dare to offenses to win battles on each play.

From defensive master Vic Fangio, Brandon Staley employs a more complex scheme. His playbook varies individual responsibilities based upon the opponent, down, and distance. If the LA Rams face an opponent with a hot running back, individual assignments will change to neutralize that player in the upcoming game. If the opposing quarterback is hot-handed while reading blitzes, Staley’s defensive school will disguise the blitz to appear like zone, and with the adaptation hope to throw off the offense’s rhythm and momentum.

The Rams projected front three are familiar with one another.  As the team moves from known to unknowns, the relationships among the team’s starters become ever more important.  The first games won’t be flawless. A player may mistake his role. Another player may misread what is happening.  Familiar players communicate, talk it out, and troubleshoot real-time.  That will be critical for the Rams in  2020.