Neither PFF or the NFL respects the LA Rams roster at RB

When the LA Rams traded for Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, much of the chatter in the comments section and in forums that discussed his potential in the LA Rams scheme focused on two topics: How well he would perform in HC Sean McVay’s offense, and how he would not be required to be the main cog in the Rams offensive machinery.  The LA Rams‘ rushing attack would prove to be a solid complement to Stafford’s passing proficiency.

One year later.

The LA Rams’ ground assault is anything but formidable. After the LA Rams allowed RB Sony Michel to walk away uncontested the Rams have accepted the fact that their running game has more questions than answers. In fact, the Rams’ offseason approach to their rushing offense has been a bit enigmatic at best.

Sometimes, less is . . . less

Sony Michel and WR Robert Woods accounted for 216 rushes, 891 rushing yards, and five rushing touchdowns. Other players on the roster in 2021 who are returning accounted for 204 rushes, 792 rushing yards, and five rushing touchdowns.

It was not a question of bad blocking. The LA Rams offensive line, while not elite, was among the top third in the NFL throughout the season. When the Rams struggled in the passing game due to rapid injuries and the need to integrate new players into the offense, the Rams committed to the running game with amazing effectiveness.

That commitment was abandoned in the NFL Playoffs as the team found more and more success from the chemistry between QB Matthew Stafford and WR Cooper Kupp and Odell Beckham Jr.