What we've learned from the LA Rams after one half of preseason Game 1

The LA Rams are not out to win preseason games. The goal is to emerge healthy and learn enough about the players fighting for roster spots to make informed intelligent decisions. So far, the Rams have shown some resolve, concerning trends, and reasons for hope.

Keep in mind that unlike many teams, the Rams are not just sitting veteran starters for this game. Key rookies and backups are not playing in this game. That means that the Rams are willing to sacrifice competitive talent showing up in this game to mitigate risks. But are we seeing enough in this game to draw any conclusions? Even in vanilla offense and defenses, there has been plenty to unpack from this one in just one half of regulation play.

So let's get right to it.

Rams pass rush is getting oh so close

While neither the Rams or Cowboys defenses have recorded any quarterback sacks in this one, the Rams defense has been very close to getting after the quarterback. Defensive tackle Tyler Davis (1), outside linebacker Keir Thomas, and outside linebacker Nick Hampton (2) have all gotten solid quarterback hits that have looked good.

Rams DC Chris Shula is innovative

We have seen the Rams show a 4-1-6 look, a 5-1-5 look, and just about every other defensive configuration possible. While that seems to run counter to the vanilla defense rules of preseason games, the team has been rifling through different configurations rather quickly. The lack of sticking with a singular configuration does not allow future opponents to key in on down and distance scenarios to dictate the defense going forward. Oh, and early in the third quarter, the Rams' defense had turned the ball over on downs.

Rookie WR Jordan Whittington is the real deal

While he has caught five of eight passes, the 67 receiving yards by rookie WR Jordan Whittenton leads all receivers at the half in this one. Clearly he is a favorite target in this offense. But what I love about his performance is the undeniable physicality that he brings to the offense as soon as he catches the football. He breaks tackles, and makes the tough catches. That is what every NFL quarterback loves to see.

WR Xavier Smith continues to catch every pass thrown his way

Despite not getting better than even odds of making the 53-man roster, veteran WR Xavier Smith has caught all four passes thrown his way, as well as returning two kickoffs for 47 yards. As a receiver, he has put up 22 receiving yards. The Rams love the versatility of WR Xavier Smith. and his performance has improved his reputation and chances of making the team.

DT Tyler Davis is far better than the brochure

As the Rams hope to secure some continuity for their young defensive front, rookie nose tackle Tyler Davis is certainly showing up huge in this one. He has been a force to be reckoned with, as he put up multiple tackles, had one tackle for a loss, and even managed to get to the quarterback one. While he did not get a sack, I can see that his pass rush could end up with multiple sacks this season.

DB Kamren Kinchens delivers in this one

While he has just one tackle, Kamren Kinchens has made his presence felt in this one with solid pass coverage. And while he had just the one tackle, he made it count, delivering the type of hit that makes receivers wary in his vicinity throughout the rest of the game. I have a weak spot for smart hard-hitting defensive backs. The hit on San Francisco 49ers WR Deebo Samuel by former Rams DB Nick Scott was memorable. I could see Kamren Kinchens making those types of plays in the regular season.

The Rams have put up a very competitive game. Stay tuned, there are lot of bodies flying around.

At Halftime

Thanks for reading.