Mandatory Credit: C. Morgan Engel-USA TODAY Sports
You could make quite a compelling argument that, aside from the reigning Super Bowl champion Buccaneers, the Los Angeles Rams will bring the most complete roster to the regular season this year. Finishing the 2020 season at 10-6 and advancing to the divisional round of the postseason, the Rams relied heavily on the run game and stifling defense to control games and wear away on their opponents. The biggest question mark on an otherwise complete roster was clearly at the quarterback position, and the LA front office went above and beyond in addressing that problem by trading for veteran QB Matthew Stafford.
Despite playing on a perennially terrible Detroit Lions team for his entire career, Stafford has solidified himself over his 12-year tenure as one of the most consistent, durable and reliable quarterbacks in the NFL. He has finished top 10 in passing yards in seven of these seasons, all of these with a supporting staff that leaves much to be desired.
With a strong group of pass-catchers and a sturdy, veteran offensive line, the 33-year-old will finally have a legitimate opportunity to lead his team to a championship. If you are searching for a weakness in the Rams’ defense, stop looking. Aaron Donald, whom many regard as the best overall player in the NFL, leads a seasoned group that has virtually zero weaknesses. With Jalen Ramsey locking things down defending the pass and a vicious pass rush to complete the league’s best defender, it is no surprise LA surrendered both the fewest points and total yards to opposing offenses. Add that to a revamped offense, and you have a Super Bowl contender.
Even with losing former rookie and breakout running back Cam Akers to an achilles injury, the Rams are the team to beat in the NFC West and will pose a legitimate challenge to Tom Brady and the reigning champion Buccaneers. While it is tough to see the Bucs not representing the NFC in Super Bowl 56 in February, the Rams are the clear-cut number two team in the conference and will pose a serious threat to dethroning Tampa Bay.
2021 Record Prediction: 13-4