It only took one game for Rams' knockout signing to pack a lethal punch

The ‘Peanut Punch’ is as much a part of NFL legend as the onside kick or Hail Mary pass. And with veteran inside linebacker Nate Landman, the Los Angeles Rams are getting their own weaponized version of the play made famous by Charles Tillman. The former Bears star forced 44 fumbles in his career, and Landman, with seven in his first four seasons, is channeling that same disruptive energy.

Forcing fumbles is a huge momentum changer, as fans learned in Week 1. It only took one play for Landman to land a Peanut Punch to knock the football loose, ending the Texans' offensive drive and hopes for a comeback victory.

Related: 4 winners (and 3 losers) from Rams' gritty Week 1 victory over the Texans

It was one of two turnovers created by the Rams defense. And both ended promising Houston rallies. Those are the plays that make this defense so dangerous. With a strong pass rush, improved run-stopping, and a solid secondary, their ability to generate turnovers isn’t just a bonus; it’s a core ingredient for success in 2025.

Nate Landman's 'Peanut Punch' is vital to Chris Shula's defense

Forced fumbles don’t just happen in the NFL. They’re almost an art form — timing, technique, and the right instincts all have to align. Landman talked about the game-changing play afterward and appreciated the opportunity to come through in a key moment.

""It meant a lot. ... Just a great moment for us, for the Rams."

ILB Nate Landman

New players love to showcase their ability to contribute, and Landman certainly did that in his debut. He tied for the team lead in tackles alongside safety Kam Curl with 10. He also added some spice to the pass rush, recording a QB hit. But it’s his trademark Peanut Punch that has fans buzzing this week.

If you were wondering about the legality of the Peanut Punch and its history, ESPN writer Matt Bowen covered the topic superbly in a 2016 article about Chicago Bears Charles Tillman and his ridiculous knack for forcing fumbles. Tillman ensured that he was square to the ball carrier. As he began his tackle, he punched at the football. His record was four forced fumbles in one game and 10 forced fumbles in one season.

If you’re wondering about the legality and history of the Peanut Punch, ESPN writer Matt Bowen broke it down in an article about Tillman and his uncanny knack for forcing fumbles. The former defensive back always squared up to the ball carrier. As he began his tackle, he punched the football loose. His record? Four forced fumbles in a single game. Ten in one season.

Landman already has one forced fumble in 2025, with 16 games still to go. He logged three in each of the last two seasons. Now he’s set the stage perfectly to surpass that career high. And that’s great news for defensive coordinator Chris Shula, whose unit has been stressing turnovers since Day 1.

Elite defenses do more than stuff the run and sack quarterbacks. They generate takeaways and control the line of scrimmage. So far, so good. And fans can’t wait to see what their Peanut-punching inside linebacker has in store for Week 2.

As always, thanks so much for reading.

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