Rams' vital X-factor could put Jaguars defense on ice skates

The Los Angeles Rams have been most effective on offense when they can dependably generate explosive plays. Fans know the thrills and chills of watching veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford throw coast to coast to an open wide receiver, Tutu Atwell, to win the game. After all, the offense certainly wanted to get more explosive this season.

After six games this season, we can say will full confidence: Mission accomplished.

With Puka Nacua sitting out in Week 7, the offense will need to rework its winning formula. That could mean leaning heavily upon wide receiver Davante Adams. It could also mean rerouting the offense through another player altogether.

But all things remaining equal, the offense could simply put pressure on the Jacksonville Jaguars defense to defend deep routes.

There are many reasons to love what Stafford can do in the pocket. But perhaps his least appreciated superpower is throwing such a catchable deep pass.

Rams may view throwing to Tutu Atwell as winning formula for Week 7

There are many schools of thought for ways the offense can adapt to Nacua's absence in the Week 7 clash with the Jags. The offense could:

1. Reroute targets to Adams
2. Lean more heavily into a committee approach at WR
3. Use more 12-personnel to lighten the receiver load
4. Run more often
5. Test Jaguars safeties with deep passing

Atwell checks the boxes in three of the five options. He could contribute simply as one of several receivers. His skill set complements that of 12-personnel. And he is the offense's primary deep-ball threat.

In similar circumstances in both 2023 and 2024, Atwell became a solid contributor. Unfortunately, when starting receivers Nacua and Cooper Kupp returned to health, Atwell's role withered from starter to seldom-used player.

Since LA has found the speedy receiver to be dependable in the recent past, it has every reason to depend on Atwell this season. So far, the promises and commitments to get him involved have been empty words.

Week 7 feels differently. Much like previous seasons, head coach Sean McVay has little time to reinvent his offense.

He will likely go with whatever works. Look for Atwell to step up. After all, he's done it in the past.

As always, thanks for reading.