Week 2 test could reveal exactly how far this Rams team is from elite status

The Los Angeles Rams opened the season with a victory in Week 1, but this team is far from out of the woods. Los Angeles now faces the first of four two-game road trips, starting with a clash against the Tennessee Titans in Week 2, followed by a Divisional Round rematch in Philadelphia against the Eagles.

But before the Eagles come into focus, the Rams have to get past the Titans. That means the offense must find ways to score, the defense has to pressure the quarterback, and special teams need to hold steady.

The Between the Horns podcast crew — J.B. Long, D’Marco Farr, and Maurice Jones-Drew — had a full docket on the latest episode as the Rams pivot to Week 2. The trio broke down the highs of the Houston win and shifted quickly into a grounded, realistic discussion of what’s next. So what should fans expect heading into Tennessee?

Rams will likely be hitched to Puka Nacua's wagon once more

Wide receiver Puka Nacua had a sensational debut in the 2025 NFL season and is projected to shine again in Week 2. He lined up primarily in the slot and turned 12 targets into 11 receptions for 130 yards. But now, the Rams receiving corps will get the full attention of opposing secondaries.

Meanwhile, Los Angeles found out quickly that Houston’s NT Poona Ford and DE Tyler Davis were immovable forces in the run game. In response, the Rams flexed rookie DL Braden Fiske to defensive end, a notable wrinkle worth watching. And with Fiske more involved, it’s a safe bet that OLB Jared Verse will be flying around as well.

Will the Rams’ running game rebound in Week 2? The Denver Broncos ran all over Tennessee in their opener, piling up 133 yards and a touchdown on 22 carries. That effort was powered by the backfield tandem of rookie RJ Harvey and veteran JK Dobson. Could the Rams replicate that formula by handing the ball to rookie Jarquez Hunter more often? The evidence says it’s worth a shot, and could provide a much-needed spark.

There’s a healthy respect for the Titans defense heading into this game. DL Jeffrey Simmons is elite and logged Tennessee’s only sack in Week 1. He now matches up against LT Alaric Jackson and LG Beaux Limmer, both of whom struggled in pass protection against Houston.

This will be a major test for the entire offense and a key challenge for a defense that must stay focused with the high-profile Eagles rematch looming in Week 3. But if the Rams can handle their business in Nashville, they’ll be 2-0 for the first time since 2021, the year they lifted the Lombardi Trophy.

The stage is set. The Titans are tough. The fans are ready. Time to go earn it. As always, thanks for reading.

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