LA Rams Coach McVay: 'We're a more physical football team,' and for good reason

When the LA Rams lost their Wildcard Round against the Detroit Lions in the 2024 NFL Playoffs, two things were clear. One: The team would be back to compete in the postseason this year. And two: The team had to become a more physical team. While we have yet to see anything concrete in terms of the first lesson learned in Detroit from last season. there is still plenty of time to go.

However, we have seen concrete evidence from the team on the second lesson learned. In the end, it could very well be that the results of the second lesson could be crucial to the first lesson. And we have continued to see evidence of that physicality throughout the preseason.

When LA Rams HC Sean McVay is talking to the broadcast booth from the sidelines, there are always good reasons to pay attention. And his chat from the sidelines during Game 3 against the Houston Texans kept the tradition alive:

Rams HC Sean McVay stated that he has seen even evidence that the Rams are 'A more physical, tougher football team,'

He's correct, you know.

While we have all enjoyed the Rams deep backups compete hard throughout the preseason, I had to continuously remind myself that there were far more talented players waiting to take the football field on Week 1. The Rams offensive line, all backups and in some cases, backups of backups, were a cohesive unit that was able to make and sustain blocks through three preseason games.

While they may not have faced starters from opposing defenses, they most certainly did face players who will be in the rotations of their various teams.

On defense, Rams players have compensated for a lack of experience with grit and energy. This defense has been swarming to the football, and with the exception of failing to wrap up Texans RB Cam Akers, seems to be much improved in terms of fundamental tackling.

The Rams aim to be a more physical team because that is who the best teams in the NFC are. While the Rams are likely to face the Detroit Lions down a backup quarterback and perhaps two starting offensive tackles. But even down several players, I remain quite optimistic about this team's chances in 2024.

This team is far deeper than in the past. And in two weeks time, we will all see how.

Thanks for reading.