Last minute scratch for LA Rams could pose problematic in must win scenario

The LA Rams have been rolling right along since their Week 10 BYE. Much of the team's success has been thanks to a stable offensive line. Behind the blocking of Alaric Jackson, Steve Avila, Coleman Shelton, Kevin Dotson, and Rob Havenstein, the Rams have been opening huge running lanes for RB Kyren Williams, and have protected veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford to enjoy a huge spike in offensive output.

An offensive output that is purring right along at a clip of averaging 30 points per game.

And yet, the LA Rams are not of the woods just yet. The LA Rams may have enjoyed a stable configuration of their offensive line in recent weeks, But there is no such thing as a sure thing in the NFL. In Week 17, the LA Rams blind side offensive tackle Alaric Jackson will not play. That means that the Rams must turn to OT Joe Noteboom, who has been fighting through an injury in recent weeks.

This could be a significant absence for the Rams.

Without Jackson at left tackle, the Rams will not only be forced to depend on Noteboom to handle the load at left tackle, but Noteboom himself is not exactly 100 percent healthy. If Noteboom is injured in Week 17, If Noteboom is injured or unable to go for any reason in this game, who do the Rams send into the game? Would OT Warren McClendon be drafted to play left tackle? Would the Rams be forced to slide Steve Avila to left tackle, and backfill his guard position with Tremayne Anchrum Jr.?

The Rams need a win in Week 17. Scratching starting offensive tackle Alaric Jackson on game day is not exactly a step in the right direction to accomplish that goal. Regardless of what fans might think about swing tackle Joe Noteboom, his performance today in Week 17 could vindicate him from past mistakes.

The LA Rams need a win. To get it, the Rams need OT Joe Noteboom to play his heart out in subbing for Alaric Jackson. Let's hope Noteboom can come through.