3 LA Rams innovations from Coach McVay in 2020

Innovations to run and pass on offense

The LA Rams found success by running two tight-end formations and sending the uncovered TE into his route. That was just one of the keys to an offensive rejuvenation in December 2019.  The Rams discovered a number of innovations late in the season which I expect will see plenty of opportunities this year. Let’s discuss what that entails.

The team rediscovered the power of the tight end. Not only as a blocker but as a receiver.  As defenses grow faster on the edges, counting on collapsing a pocket before the quarterback can locate his receiver, the tight end becomes a valuable counter move. Whether lined up next to the tackle, split out, or in the offensive backfield, a solid pass-catching tight end pressures the defensive secondary.  But when lined up in a tight formation or in the backfield, they provide an added blocker which negates speed rushes and hole plugging linebackers.

Multiple backfield sets

The Rams pushed defenses hard with an offense that featured wide receivers as a staple for gaining yards. Now that other offenses are finding ways to replicate that type of offensive pressure, look for the Rams to change direction and feature the offensive backs in 2020. Why? Simply stated, it works. That’s the takeaway Coach McVay had from Super Bowl LIV, and that’s what he’ll put into the offensive playbook in 2020.

The Rams did not draft running back Cam Akers and sign rookies James Gilbert and Xavier Jones after the 2020 NFL Draft just to handle the ball between pass plays. The team plans to add their talents to the untapped potential of second-year veteran Darrell Henderson and veteran Malcolm Brown in multiple-backfield sets.  The Rams remain a run-based offense and demonstrate that each season. Much like special teams, 2020 will feature the Rams getting back to what worked in the past.  Look for a significant improvement to the run game this year.