Rams vs Chargers preseason Week 2: 7 storylines fans must monitor

(4) - Which WR wants it more?

The LA Rams targeted 10 players with at least one pass in their first preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys. Of that group, six players targeted with a pass were wide receivers. Of that group, five receiver had at least one reception, and four receivers made multiple catches. We all know that Jordan Whittington caugh six of nine passes for 74 yards. But did you also realize that WR Xavier Smith continued his uncanny streak of catching everything thrown near him, hauling in four of four passes for 22 yards?

Not to be overshadowed is WR Drake Stoops, who hauled in three of four passes for 27 yards. Even rookie WR Sam Wiglusz, who caught three of eight passes for 36 yards, made some very tough and crucial catches in the game. But the team's availble roster slots for receivers is nearly full. So which receiver wants it more? That will be the test in Game 2 of the preseaosn. Any wide receiver who shows consistent progress will make a strong case to take the lead over his peers.

(3) - Will the team's pass rush improve?

I think that Game 1 of rhe preseason proved that the Rams pass rush is far more dangerous than we have been led to believe by some NFL analysts. The Rams managed to get three quarterback sacks and eight quarterback hits against the Dallas Cowboys, and that was without several players on the defense who figure to have huge roles in bringing down opposing quarterback in 2024.

One of the key players fighting for a roster spot is OLB Brennan Jackson, a rookie who has not been practicing lately due to an undisclosed soft tissue injury. Will he be healthy enough to suit up for Game 2? If not, will one of the Rams other outside linebackers make their presence felt? So far, only Zach VanValkenburg has gotten to the quarterback. Will either Ochaun Mathis or Nick Hampton match that production this week?

And while they are at it, the Rams would love to see pressure from interior defensive linemen. Rookies DT Tuli Letuligasenoa and DE Anthony Goodlaw managed to get a quarterback sack each in Game 1. Another sack or more in Game 2 will certainly mean a lot to make their case for a roster spot.