5 under-the-radar key factors to LA Rams TNF win in Week 16

Key IV: The Rams were able to stop the Saints offense on fourth down

Whenever the Rams face a competitive opponent, it's unrealistic to have any expectations of complete dominance over the other team. But the Rams defense did have a bit of success against a well oiled NFL offense and a veteran quarterback who has a solid reputation.

So how did the Rams fare? Well, whenever the New Orleans Saints went for it on fourth down, the Rams defense held. That resulted in the Rams' offense taking over on downs three separate times, which was huge in this game. And that is something that nobody is talking about even two days after the win.

Rams D stopped the Saints from marching in

The Saints are not a team that arrived as one of the destitute teams in the NFL. While they entered the Week 16 matchup witn a record of 7-7, their offense has some of the most recognizable names in the NFL. Veteran quarterback Derek Carr is considered by many NFL analysts to be an elite passer. Saints RB Alvin Kamara is an incredibly dangerous dual-threat running back who can burn defenses either on the ground or as a receiver. And second-year Saints WR Chris Olave put up 1000 yards in his rookie season, and has matched that performance with two games to go in the season.

The Saints offense has a wide range and assortment of weapons that can match up with and overcome almost any NFL defense in 2023. This offense scored 34 points against a very good New England Patriots defense. And yet, when the Saints offense needed that one big play, the Rams defense stopped them.