How can Rams salvage Jimmy G after that tirade from Davante Adams in 2023?

Why the Rams may struggle behind Jimmy Garoppolo

The LA Rams may or may not have been interested in extending veteran QB Carson Wentz for 2024. But the team did sign veteran QB Jimmy Garoppolo to anchor the backup position for the team. At the time, there was a bit of confusion about the roster addition. After all, it was no secret that Jimmy Garoppolo would have to serve a two-game suspension to open the 2024 NFL season.

That suspension not only translates into not suiting up for two games. It also requires Jimmy Garoppolo have no contact with the team for two weeks to open the 2024 NFL season. That would not be a major hurdle for a player who had spent several seasons on the Rams roster. But the truth is that Jimmy Garoppolo was benched by Week 9 of the 2023 NFL season, and has played only three offensive snaps since October 2023.

With so little work, Garoppolo is not as NFL game-day ready as he might be had he started for the Raiders through Week 18. And his serving a two-game suspension will only amplify his rust-factor in 2024.

When the Rams faced Garoppolo, they were not simply facing a savvy quarterback. Rather, the Rams faced a run-centric offense that placed their hopes on hitting a preset number of rushes that were designed not only to gain yards and put points on the scoreboard, but were designed to frustrate the Rams offense and HC Sean McVay. That, it turn, compelled the team to take chances and let 'er fly.

All of which played right into the San Francisco 49ers' game plan.

Jimmy Garoppolo never lost a game to the LA Rams because he was never asked to win one. He was simply tasked with being an above-average game manager. And the proof of that role is on full display as the 49ers offense continues to flourish with Mr. Irrelevant, QB Brock Purdy.