Kick returns, AD, and power running propels LA Rams to early lead

Special teams. Is that right? Special teams? Yes, I’m sober and serious, special teams. And the running game. The running game? Yes, the running game. Well, before you go into complete shock, let’s also toss out something you can believe. The Rams touchdown began as a tackle for a loss and a forced fumble at the hands of All-Pro defensive lineman Aaron Donald.

In less than five minutes expired in Week 13, with the LA Rams hosting the Jackson Jaguars, the team’s kickoff return unit started the fireworks with a 65-yard kickoff return as a result of practice squad player Brandon Howell’s debut on the team’s special teams.  That return set the offense up at the Jacksonville Jaguars’ 34-yard line.  Why does field position matter?

Well, the Rams offense was only able to generate 12 yards of offense. So that set up the LA Rams for a field goal, and that gave the Rams an early lead.

Defense turnover helps the offense

After the Jaguars’ offense stepped onto the field at their 31-yard line, it was the defense’s turn to step up.  The defense only need two plays, until Aaron Donald slashed through the line, tossed running back James Robinson around like a rag doll, and shook the football loose. Another LA Rams All-Pro, defensive back Jalen Ramsey, scooped up the football and ran it back to the Jaguars 27 yard line.

After the LA Rams were backed up, quarterback Matthew Stafford came out and threw a beautiful pass to Odell Beckham Jr. for 27 yards. Then, the LA Rams handed the ball off to Sony Michel, who carried the football and several Jaguar defenders into the end zone.

Stafford is only three of seven for 30 yards. But today, the LA Rams running game is getting a bit of work, and the Rams Sony Michel has rushed 8 times for 40 yards and one touchdown. That’s enough to get the Rams out to a quick lead in this one

At the beginning of the Q2

Can the Rams hold on for the win?