5 possible surprises from LA Rams training camp

Surprise 2

The LA Rams stuck to their offensive playbook far too long in 2019, particularly after players began to fall to injury.  Despite a struggling offensive line decimated by injuries, the Rams continued to test opposing defenses deep.  Coach McVay miscalculated the time needed for that play to develop.  Too often a besieged Goff was forced to chuck the ball and hope WR Brandin Cooks would run under it. On many occasions, he was unable to do so.

Eventually, the playbook became more realistic.  The Rams began to run two tight end sets to help with protection, giving more options to run the ball. It also gave more time to find an open receiver. And it opened up the offense to new formations.  TE Johnny Mundt could line up on the line of scrimmage or in the backfield.

More ways to use two tight ends

So the offensive brain trust could amplify that effect.  One of the most effective plays against a strong pass rush is to outflank the defenders to the outside and attack the perimeter.  Coach McVay worked on that to some success later in the year. But the team can do much more on those principles.

McVay loves to stretch the defense sideline to sideline. Defenses have discovered that overwhelming the offensive line stops those plays by taking away the time needed for Goff to set his feet.  The Rams can counterpunch by running a two-tight end, two-wide receiver formation, and setting running back Darrell Henderson in motion.  Motion to either side sets up a mini-screen play where the tight end and wide receiver become blockers. A pitchout or handoff sets up an outside run.