SB LVI: Los Angeles Rams Offense Breakdown
Led by Matthew Stafford, the Rams’ offense has been a dominant force in the NFL this season. This offense is largely made up of players that were not drafted by the Rams like Odell Beckham Jr. and Stafford. Many of these players became a part of the team thanks in part to some offseason trades and signings.
Stafford was traded to the Rams in the offseason in exchange for former Rams quarterback Jared Goff, two first round picks, and a third round pick. This was a revolutionary trade for the Rams’ offense that has completely changed how this offense has functioned and with the addition of Odell Beckham Jr. as an extra weapon, Stafford has been able to produce the results that most of the NFL always knew he was capable of producing.
Of course, you can’t mention the Rams’ offense without mentioning Cooper Kupp. Kupp has been having a breakout season this year which, combined with the additions of Stafford and Beckham, has transformed this Rams’ offense that, just three years ago, scored only three points in Super Bowl LIII against the Patriots.
Kupp has led the league in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns during the season. In addition to leading the league in multiple categories, Kupp has set several NFL records that no one would have thought would be attainable before the season, becoming the first player in NFL history to go over 2,000 yards receiving in a season and he has the most catches in a season with 159.
Another, lesser known stat is that Kupp set a record in was catches that went for over 25 yards with 23. With stats like that, it’s no wonder that Kupp has consistently been in consideration, albeit the favorite, to win Offensive Player of the Year.
One aspect of this offense that the Rams have seen less success with over the course of the season has been the rushing game.
During a private workout in preseason training, Cam Akers, who was poised to be one of the Rams main offensive weapons during the season, ruptured his achilles. Amazingly, Akers was able to recover in time to make an appearance in the final regular season game against San Francisco. In the postseason, Akers has started two of the three games with Sony Michel starting the Wild Card game. Akers is expected to start for the Rams on Sunday, but don’t expect the rushing attack to be relied on too much.
When it comes to the Super Bowl, look for the connection between Stafford, Beckham and Kupp to be the key reason why the Rams either succeed or fail at offense.
One sleeper to look out for on the Rams’ offense is Tyler Higbee. Higbee has been having a decent season which has carried over into the postseason. Look for Higbee to be a target for Stafford if Beckham and Kupp can’t get open. Higbee could very well have a large impact on this game if Stafford is forced to place an increased reliance on him.
Will Cooper Kupp continue his dominance this season? Or will Matthew Stafford be forced to turn to a new wide receiver or offensive weapon? This will all be determined when the Super Bowl kicks off at 6:30 pm. on Sunday, Feb. 13.
Ethan Ellis is a freshman majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email him at ece5133@psu.edu.
