8 critical keys for LA Rams debut preseason game

The LA Rams are facing something in the next 24 hours that they haven’t faced in nearly 24 months. It’s their first preseason game, at home at SoFi Stadium, and no doubt you are all set in terms of what time you are ready, what you are taking for tailgating, who you will be planning to meet, and what you expect to see when you get there.

For goodness sake, indulge yourselves to the fullest. Drink in the smell of tacos, brauts, ribs, sip your ice-cold beers and sparkling wines as you psych yourself up to the first LA Rams preseason game at SoFi stadium. It’s been a long time in coming. Now you can let loose a little bit. Laugh loud and long. Greet friends and family with hugs, not handshakes. This is a time to heal, to reclaim, to remember that positive begets positive.

Okay, that was a great motivational speech, but we’re talking about a preseason game with up to 35 players (starters, banged up, and newcomers) not playing. This preseason game is evolving into a shopping trip for new school clothes at the second-hand thrift store.  Most of the players involved won’t be starters in 2021, and some may not start ever in their NFL careers.

Well, I suppose that could be one way to look at it.  Of course, there are other avenues of investigation too. For example, we know that the LA Rams will need to employ a running back by committee approach this year. That being said, which running back is most effective in blocking on passing downs? How will the defense construct its front? Will there be an occasional four or five defensive linemen on the field in the short-yardage situations?

The players may be different, but the playbook is the same. It will be the perfect opportunity to witness the debut (albeit vanilla) of the 2021 offense, defense, and special teams. So what should you look for? So glad that you asked.