Matthew Stafford INT at 2:00 mark may be costly for LA Rams second half

The LA Rams felt like they were heading in for a score. After getting the football with 5:47 left in the first half, the Rams advanced the football to the Cincinnati Bengals’ 39-yard line. At first-down and ten yards to go, the offensive was called for a five-yard false start. At third-down and 14 yards to go, the Rams intended to get a deep pass to second-year wide receiver Van Jefferson.

That pass was short and claimed in the air by the Bengals free safety Jessie Bates III. The Bengals got a touchback and were unable to capitalize after taking possession, but they were able to put the Rams defense back on the football field.

The Rams have absolutely tried to run the ball, but 12 carries for 26 yards simply won’t get it done. The LA Rams need to come out with a 12-personnel jumbo blocking package and move that football on the ground. Until the Rams start breaking some runs, that Bengals defense will eventually find the range on Stafford’s passes, especially now that OBJ is injured and questionable to return.

The LA Rams play so far is concerning. They are making the big plays, but the little fundamental plays are not going their way. Not only have the Rams committed a turnover that may have taken three points off the scoreboard, but they missed one extra point and have allowed a 20-yard punt return.

That missed extra point occurred because holder Johnny Hekker let the ball slip out of his hands on the hold.

The halftime score is too close to feel warm and fuzzy just yet. Can the Rams hold the lead? Or will the Bengals spot their opponent a lead only to come back and snatch one more upset victory?

Halftime Score

If the Rams plan to win this one, their pass rush will need to get to Burrow in the second half. The Rams defense will need to create some turnovers too.