Rams fans won’t love the latest projection about their 2025 start

NFL headlines have been filled with the dramatic uncertainties surrounding the Los Angeles Rams from the moment the team shifted focus from 2024 to the 2025 season. It’s been a thrilling roller coaster ride for fans. It began with the team and QB Matthew Stafford navigating complex contract negotiations. The drama continued with RB Kyren Williams’ new deal, LT Alaric Jackson’s medical condition, and Stafford’s lingering back injury.

While it’s difficult to anticipate how any of these events might impact the 2025 NFL season individually, there’s a growing consensus that the collective effect of so many distractions will dim hopes for a fast start. That makes sense, as the absence of both a starting left tackle and quarterback throughout training camp and much of the preseason throws off timing across the board.

Now, early-season projections are beginning to paint the Rams as a team that could stumble out of the gate. It’s not as if the schedule starts soft, either. The Houston Texans are a physical, formidable opponent. So when CBS Sports NFL analyst John Breech predicts a loss in the home opener, he’s not exactly reaching. Still, is it an overreaction?

Rams' undefeated 2025 season might end sooner than expected

Breech didn’t need to dig too deep into the details to predict a Week 1 loss. The issues he points to have been shouted from the rooftops since the start of training camp. The Rams haven’t had their starting quarterback or left tackle on the field for weeks, and that absence speaks louder than any analysis.

The secondary must shut down QB C.J. Stroud from finding WR Nico Collins, while the offensive line must protect Stafford from a formidable pass rush led by DEs Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. Even at full strength, this team would be challenged with that task. But with the lack of reps from key starters, this game becomes a bit scary.

The challenges to starting hot don’t end there. The team drafted rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson to spark a number of offensive innovations in 2025. But an injury limited his practice reps. He’s back on the field now, but the damage is done. The offense rarely gives rookies many early opportunities, and Ferguson may have lost his chance to contribute in Week 1.

The starters have had just two joint scrimmages, both led by backup QB Jimmy Garoppolo. While those sessions provided valuable experience and feedback, the vital chemistry of the offensive line — and the rhythm with the offensive weapons — never had a chance to develop.

The Rams were without Alaric Jackson for the first two weeks of last season due to a suspension. They lost both games, and that was with a healthy quarterback. There’s a huge incentive to have both veterans suited up for the 2025 opener. Unfortunately, Breech doesn’t see it happening, which is reflected in his prediction of a season-opening loss at SoFi Stadium. As always, thanks for reading.

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