Former Los Angeles Rams left tackle Andrew Whitworth has his feet planted firmly on the ground. He understands that offseason marketing for any team is only window dressing. The real action happens on the field.
And yet, he recently did something he seldom does in boldly predicting Rams victories in the next three games. The opponents? The Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills. Each is expected to make the playoffs, as all three did last season.
The above trio has a combined record of 5-1. The Rams bring a 1-1 record on the road in Denver on Sunday Night Football, before traveling to Philadelphia next week. It's not the best time for injuries, but LA already has four key contributors on injured reserve. Those injured include powerhouse wide receiver Puka Nacua and edge rusher Myles Garrett.
The list doesn't end there. Offensive linemen Justin Dedich and Keagen Trost and running back Ronnie Rivers are on IR along with Garrett. Nacua and safety Kam Kinchens are doubtful against the Broncos after missing Week 2.
And yet Whitworth believes.
Rams have reason for optimism despite sobering start
Is Big Whit onto something? All that Super Bowl chatter has been tempered. The Rams' NFC West rival Seahawks, 49ers, and even the Cardinals have all been beating expectations.
Any more losses in the next few games could bury the Horns in a hole they may not be able to recover from with a brutal schedule in a tough division.
But Whitworth is not someone who issues bold predictions just to make waves or get views. He is a matter-of-fact realist. And he has detected something that many have missed completely. LA is winning in the trenches.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford has been sacked just once. The Rams have sacked opposing QBs twice. Meanwhile, Rams running backs have rushed for 285 yards while opponents have mustered only 226 yards and have yet to score. The defense held Giants running back Cam Skattebo impressively in check.
While it's still early, positive trends are starting to form. The offensive line is running red hot under the radar. Meanwhile, the defensive front has gotten its second wind thanks to the timely return of Aaron Donald.
The games are played for a reason. And anything can happen. But Whitworth's unshakable faith in his former team is refreshing to see. He knows the players and coaches better than anyone.
As always, thanks for reading.
