One Way the LA Rams Can Find Victory in Week 12 vs. the Chiefs

Even with the loss from the LA Rams roster of both WR Cooper Kupp and Matthew Stafford, there’s still a way for the Rams to come out with a win against the Kansas City Chiefs

It’s been anything but sunshine this season for the defending Super Bowl champion LA Rams. With a record of 3-7, and their two best offensive weapons either on IR or subject to further evaluation on the NFL concussion protocol, the Rams’ playoff chances are dwindling as the weeks go on. Simply put, something has to change quickly if the Rams plan on salvaging their season.

That starts by winning Week 12 against the Kansas City Chiefs. Something which should be feasible considering the Chiefs are ripe for a trap game. However, this is the 2022 Los Angeles Rams we’re talking about.

Sunday could also be Rams QB Bryce Perkins’ first game as a Ram, and he will need to do so without superstar WR Cooper Kupp at his disposal. With that being said, there has been one commonality with each of the Rams’ wins this season. This will also be the key to the team’s chances against the Chiefs.

Will this be a trap game for the Chiefs?

Let’s not sugarcoat it.  The Rams offensive line has been really bad this year. They have allowed the fifth-most sacks this season, despite already having their bye. Retirements and injuries have turned what was a solid o-line unit into one of the league’s worst.

Despite this, the Rams’ line has been able to put together some good performances this season. In each of their three wins (Falcons, Cardinals, Panthers), starting quarterback Matthew Stafford was sacked no more than one time. However, in each of their six losses, the team allowed two or more sacks.

So will the Rams be able to keep Perkins upright this Sunday? Honestly, it doesn’t look great. New Orleans’ defense currently ranks fourth in sacks, totaling 32 on the season. That comes despite the fact that their pass defense as a whole has been less than stellar, allowing just the 26th-fewest yards per game.

Not exactly the type of matchup you’re looking for right after you lose your best offensive weapon.

This is the NFL though, where anything can happen. If the Rams’ offensive line does shock everyone and performs well on Sunday, guys like Rams WR Allen Robinson and Rams TE Tyler Higbee certainly are talented enough to get open. I just wouldn’t get my hopes too high, especially with the game being played at Kansas City.