5 gameday predictions for Rams' Monday night clash with Giants

The Los Angeles Rams have turned the page on disappointment and are all-in on Week 2 against the Giants on Monday Night Football. Getting in the win column will be paramount if the Horns want to avoid digging themselves a deep hole to begin the season.

While we'd all like to lock Week 1 away and burn the tape, it's impossible not to use it as a reference point. With kickoff just hours away, here are some last-minute predictions to look forward to and check back on once the clock hits double zeroes.

Hopefully the Rams look a lot more prepared and well-rested for this one.

5 gameday predictions as Rams host Giants on MNF

The run defense will be much better

Let's hope so. After allowing 174 yards on 5.8 yards per carry against San Francisco, nose tackle Poona Ford and the rest of the Rams defensive front must button up running back Cam Skattebo and the Giants rushing attack. That means a better effort from the linebackers, so ideally both Nate Landman (shoulder) and Omar Speights (hip) are good to go.

This crew was too good against the run a year ago to fall off the wagon a year later with largely the same personnel up front and more run-defense reinforcements from the secondary. Prediction: After Skattebo tagged the Cowboys for 81 yards on 18 carries, the Rams hold him to 50 yards or fewer.

Rams tight ends will be more involved

This group combined for four catches and 31 receiving yards in Week 1, on only six targets. That has to change this week, especially if receiver Puka Nacua, questionable with a groin issue, is hampered by injury or ruled out. Jordan Whittington is also doubtful with a quad injury.

Head coach Sean McVay should see this as an invitation to adjust after an ineffective offensive gameplan against the 49ers. Prediction: Unlike in Week 1, Terrance Ferguson will be targeted more than once. Right, Sean? Right?

Byron Young will bounce back

Especially with Myles Garrett sidelined, Young needs to be much better in Week 2. And he will be. After being neutralized by the 49ers, Young will be chomping at the bit to make his presence felt. This is, after all, a contract year. Each game is an opportunity to plump up his next pay day.

Aaron Donald will make a big play

Donald's much-anticipated debut is upon us. While he might not get the start, don't expect him to be solely a game-prep decoy. He'll be raring to go when his number is called. In a more limited role, if that's how LA chooses to use him, Donald's snaps should be concentrated on passing downs. How sweet would it be to announce his return with a sack? Prediction: Donald will record multiple pressures.

The game will be close

The Rams were 8.5-point favorites when the schedule was released, but that number is down two points as of Monday afternoon, an amalgam of injuries to Garrett and Nacua and the two teams' polar opposite Week 1 performances. Honestly, this feels like a game that could come down to the final possession or two. Prediction: the Horns come out on top in a tight one, 24-20.

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