Camryn Irwin sits down with J.B. Long and D'Marco Farr on the newest episode of Between The Horns to discuss the Rams’ keys to victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars, quarterback Matthew Stafford and wide receiver Davante Adams' connection, and the potential role tight end Terrance Ferguson could play this Sunday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:06):
From Baltimore to the Big Smoke.
Speaker 2 (00:08):
Welcome to Between the Horns, presented by your Southern California
Toro to dealers. It's JV Long DeMarco far I'm Cameron Irwin,
and we get set for week seven, a trip on
the road. Yeah, fellas, do you have your neck pillows ready?
Speaker 3 (00:20):
No? Can I borrow one?
Speaker 1 (00:21):
Please?
Speaker 4 (00:22):
Definitely packed mine in my passport this morning.
Speaker 3 (00:25):
Oh no way.
Speaker 1 (00:26):
So what does the trip look like when you guys?
Speaker 5 (00:28):
Head out tomorrow Friday? So I'm leaving from here, going
straight over to London, so I'll be out.
Speaker 4 (00:34):
Of this slight detour. I'll see you there.
Speaker 3 (00:35):
We'll look at you.
Speaker 1 (00:36):
See.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
I think JV's got a little bit of a longer
route to get to London.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
You ready to go? Man?
Speaker 4 (00:42):
I hope, so, I hope?
Speaker 3 (00:44):
So geeked let's go.
Speaker 2 (00:45):
Well, let's take a look back. Coming off the win
over Baltimore was seventeen to three. Rams now sit at
four and two and they're going to face off against
the Jags team also four and two. I'll tell you
one thing, five and two feels a lot different than
four and three as they are being for a matchup
at Wimbley Stadium. Guys, it was interesting. Sean McVay sat
(01:05):
down with you earlier this week and he said it
was a strange game the.
Speaker 1 (01:08):
Way it all unfolded.
Speaker 2 (01:10):
In your conversation with him, what was some of the
takeaways and what were your takeaways from Baltimore?
Speaker 5 (01:16):
Well, it was it was a weird game, but this
is the pay League, so all that matters is the result,
and you got the w. So, and you've heard me
say this before, you know, winning is great deodorant. It
covers up a ton of stink. So there were some
things that you wish you could have got corrected. But
with everything that went wrong or everything that you didn't
do right, you still came out of there with a win.
(01:38):
That's no easy thing to do. In Baltimore, I could
care less who was at quarterback. So anytime you get
a win versus Baltimore, you should be happy. And like
you said, I agree with you one hundred percent. Five
and two sounds better than four and three, but both
aren't bad when you consider it's better than being the opposite,
or three and four or worse than that. So you
want to come out of this with a win. You
want to be heading towards playing your best football. I
(02:00):
think you're just about there. At least your defense is
on the verge of becoming a top ten stop all
type defense. So all I care about leaving Baltimore is
getting that W.
Speaker 4 (02:12):
Yeah, defensively is a great showing, but it comes with
the caveat that you're playing Cooper Rush right and Joe noteboom.
So was it as good as it looked on paper?
I don't know. Conversely, I think McVeigh was actually killing
them on offense. I thought there was a lot of
good in that film, but it's the same old issues
bogging down the rams, slow starts, ball security, not finishing drives,
throws off frame, off target drops. Because efficiency wise, this
(02:36):
is a top six offense in the NFL. Scoring wise,
they're pedestrian their middle of the pack, and the longer
that that disconnect continues, and some of it is on
the kicking game, it's not all on the offense. But
until those good reps turn into big numbers on the scoreboard, yeah,
it's gonna feel a little wonky when you get a win,
but you don't do everything that you thought you could
have offensively.
Speaker 2 (02:57):
One of the other conversations that you had with him
he said. Being able to win in different types of
games and in different types of ways can be a
strength for this team moving forward. And I want to
look a little bit big picture here across the NFL.
Speaker 1 (03:09):
Are the days of.
Speaker 2 (03:10):
Dropping thirty plus points weekend and week out still a
reality in the league today or even in this team.
Speaker 4 (03:17):
I think that's part of why last week felt so unsatisfying.
It is because you saw Houston go put forty four
on that same team. Now, Baltimore got some good pieces
back Defensively, they were not the same defense week over week,
and the transitive property doesn't work in football, especially not
in the NFL. But yeah, I think those opportunities are
out there. I think there have been days whe the
Rams could have and should have put up forty points.
They haven't done it yet.
Speaker 3 (03:39):
Thirty points a week for everyone or just maybe not
a week this team, that would be fun. I mean,
it's entirely possible.
Speaker 4 (03:45):
I do.
Speaker 5 (03:46):
And I think, like you said, even with everything, how
wonky everything has been and how great Matthew Stafford has played,
I think there's another gear they can get to, and
it starts with DeVante. If you can somehow figure out
that connection between Stafford and Davante, because, like we keep saying,
the guy is absolutely open.
Speaker 3 (04:04):
You've just missed. He's had issues with drops.
Speaker 5 (04:06):
But if you can provide that part of the offense
and improve that by fifty percent, you're in the red zone.
Speaker 3 (04:14):
If you're in the red zone, you're in the end zone.
Speaker 5 (04:16):
If you're doing that, you're setting yourself up to be,
you know, rushed between Byron Young and Jared Verse. I
think that's what this team is set up to do.
So I think you're just about there. So besides the
kicking game, I think there's just a few more things
that if you can iron that out, I think maybe
thirty points is something that's easily attainable.
Speaker 4 (04:35):
Do you have any theories on that Davante thing.
Speaker 5 (04:37):
About that connection? You know, I would love to go
out and watch and watch them work on their route tree.
If you're Sean McVay, I might even ask them to
go out before the game and let's run the route tree,
just so we know where everyone's going to be on
certain things. But it seems like Davante he wants it
and needs it here, and it's just a beat off
or a beat slower than what he needs and it
(04:59):
just kind of sl down and then you can't find
the guy. But when they do connect, it's otherworldly. He
can put it anywhere and this guy can grab it
from out of the sun. So when that starts to connect,
there is no corner, there is no defense.
Speaker 1 (05:11):
You know.
Speaker 2 (05:11):
It's interesting going into this matchup too, because considering the
health of Puka and Nakua, I'm wondering if this will
be the game that you see that relationship and that
evolution between Stafford and Adams really take life.
Speaker 5 (05:23):
I loved it. That's the way I was parented. If
you know we couldn't get along with our brothers, would
just put us in a room and figure it out.
You don't come out into your you're hugging. So yeah,
I mean that's that's the downside to not having Cook Nakua.
You may have to lean on that connection and figure
out what's missing.
Speaker 4 (05:38):
Two things I appreciate about it, they're each taking ownership,
Like DeVante's like that there's more that I can do,
and Matthew is like, I'm not worried about it because
I know I can make these rows and I'm not
giving them the best chance to succeed. So I do
think there's a world where this is the Matthew to
DeVante game. I also think that it could be in
Jacksonville's best interest to try and take that away and
(05:59):
make McVeigh and staff for try and beat you left
handed because they don't have the top two, you know,
receiving duos potentially this Sunday, and so could could there
be additioned by subtraction? As far as DeVante's concerned without
pooka sure, could the Rams really struggle without the best
receiver in the National Football League and their secret weapon
not so secret weapon on third down? Yeah, I mean
(06:20):
this could bog down without him.
Speaker 3 (06:21):
I'm concerned, you know, Pook and sneaks up on you.
Now you're fired? Yeah?
Speaker 4 (06:27):
But am I right? But I think it transforms, Like
I think there's a potential for this to be a
one off game plan that is much different than the
first six have been offensively for the Rams. And so
if I'm Jacksonville's defensive coaches, I am losing a lot
of sleep this week. Now I'm in a better position
because I don't have to deal with the hammerhead Pook
and Akua. But in terms of what's coming down the pike,
(06:47):
I don't know, there's nothing on film.
Speaker 1 (06:48):
Yeah, what about twelve?
Speaker 2 (06:50):
Do you think twelve personnel could be added in a
little bit more? Is this the game we'll see Terrence
Ferguson m as much more?
Speaker 3 (06:56):
Does it have to be in twelve? Does to yes?
Yes to that? I hope So, I hope we see.
Speaker 5 (07:02):
A little bit more of him, especially with Puoka being out.
It's almost a one for one match when you think
about what they do. But I like him going down
the field in those matchups and letting Stafford develop a
new receiver, a big body, a guy that can post
up in the red zone or at least get you
closer to closer, closer to the end zone. So absolutely,
I think there's gonna be more reps for Ferguson this week.
Speaker 4 (07:24):
You know, on paper, on the depth chart, the replacement
is probably Jordan Whittington, right, But in terms of skill
set and attributes and measurables, I wonder if there's a
big slot role for t ferg If he's not yet
ready to crack your tight end rotation in depth chart,
why not now in a different role. But I think
that's the element of surprise that Sean McVay has at
(07:44):
his advantage as much under center drop back game as
Matthew's been playing this year. They could revert back to
the obj Rams and just spread them out and with
let's go with Jacksonville a little young at corner and
short handed at linebacker, you could really these Jags out
on defense with a not a completely different look, but
one that's not been in keeping with your first six games.
Speaker 2 (08:05):
All right, guys, well we've already been diving into Jacksonville,
but I think we need to go back just a
bit more and consider this defensive performance that we saw.
It's the second time the Rams have held a team
out of the end zone this season, the first being Houston,
of course in week number one. What impressed you the
most about that defensive performance against Baltimore?
Speaker 3 (08:23):
Oh?
Speaker 5 (08:23):
How they finished again that goal line stand, pops Q
Lake getting his hands on one. Finally, you know, there's
a lot of things. First thing that jumps off is
those edge guys in young and Verse and how they play,
and just the depth you have at tackle at defensive tackle,
that you could roll so many guys and throw so
many different combinations and just keep you guessing on the run.
(08:45):
They could cover every gap. They could go four down,
They can go three down and still be effective whatever
they throw. But I think the thing that stands out
the most, because we've seen great defensive line play right
possibly the best ever, the thing that stands out is
linebacker play and Nate Landman and what he does and
how he does it and how he goes about his business.
He has been a wonderful acquisition to this defense and
(09:08):
he is a phenomenal football player, not just the punchouts,
just where he places himself and how everything is. He's
such a calming influence when they switch or change, he's
got it. He's got the check. The way he communicates
with Chris Shula on the sideline, it's like another coach
out there that's going out there to hit people. So, uh,
this defense, it doesn't panic, it doesn't blink. And if
they can stay on sides on third down and they
(09:32):
have the ability to get to you, So I got it. Yeah,
you saw that.
Speaker 4 (09:36):
This competition they have with each other, who's going to
have the sac lead? It's it might be leading.
Speaker 3 (09:40):
To some just saying yes, everybody's a little bit eager
to get there.
Speaker 4 (09:44):
Can Brandon Fisk get in on the game, please? And
then let's not let the competition lead us to be
in the neutral zone right anymore.
Speaker 5 (09:51):
I mean, look, it's there's enough to go around. You
don't have to rush to get there. But when you
do have a chance to get off, and there's the
funny thing, let me. I'm glad you brought this up.
They played seventy five snaps last week. Okay, the defense did. Okay,
I don't want to hear any complaints about you being tired.
Then get off the field on third down. Then stop
messing up your your third nines and setting up third
(10:12):
and fourth jumping off.
Speaker 4 (10:13):
Of those plays had to come on the first drive
in the last.
Speaker 3 (10:15):
Right, go get him. That's what I'm saying.
Speaker 5 (10:17):
You have the ability to be a lockdown, go get
him type defense. Just don't hurt yourself with penalties and
make it easier for them. Dola's a dude. Huh Oh
my god, I like that little Dolac. It's so funny.
Is Omar Spate's gonna go this week?
Speaker 3 (10:32):
I bet he is.
Speaker 5 (10:33):
I bet he is, absolutely that little dude. If you
let him play, he's gonna make every tackle. He is
one of those guys. Yes, he has been a phenomenal
fine for the Rams.
Speaker 4 (10:42):
I mean, I'm glad Quinton Lake finally got his interception.
It's been a long time coming, it's been four years coming.
But he's playing at an all pro caliber level in
a contract year, and I think he's been a big
ingredient not just to his individual success, but the collective success.
The fact that your captains came through in that moment,
I think says Lot.
Speaker 2 (11:00):
You know, I'm glad that you guys brought up the
first drive for Baltimore because I was sitting at home
watching this game unfold, and I'm watching Jared Verse sitting
in the middle linebacker spot, sprinting to the line of
scrimmage as soon as it's going. I know he got
caught obviously on some of those hard counts, but I'm going,
if I were Cooper Rush I was, I would be terrified.
I would be shaking in my boots because I was
watching it and on the TV, and I'm going, someone
(11:22):
please provide a little extra protection for that man.
Speaker 3 (11:24):
It's the center. The center is probably scared to death.
Speaker 4 (11:27):
Don't do we even know?
Speaker 3 (11:28):
Like?
Speaker 4 (11:28):
Was that a hard counter? Did Cooper Rush? Just glitch?
Speaker 5 (11:30):
That was a hand because when they caught them all
five linemen were like, Aha, we got you.
Speaker 3 (11:35):
We've been playing this. There you go.
Speaker 2 (11:37):
But in reality too, I think you saw the effect
of Jared Verst, the fear effect late in that first
drive because you saw once they got into Rams territory
his presence really forced some of those penalties that back
them up to hold them to a field goal on
that first drive as well. So, I mean, the fear
factor's there, it's not you don't want the penalty has
been in the same thing.
Speaker 4 (11:56):
But I think this is the perfect game to just
play it clean. Yeah, Like you don't have to be
Godzilla this week, although we would love to see it.
But like with Trevor Lawrence's running ability, just play assignment
football and I think that will be enough against an
offensive line right now from Zack Jackson Will it's really struggling.
Speaker 3 (12:13):
Again.
Speaker 5 (12:13):
You've heard me say this production equal tolerance. I can
forgive a lot if you're making plays. Yeah, and they're
getting better. Like, this is the best duo in the
league as far as edge guys when Byron and Young
and vers are out there. So enjoy this while you
can while it's still even before you pay one guy
more than the other. They're actually working together and they're
they're wrecking shops. So, like I said, if you get
(12:34):
them into obvious passing situations, it's a guarantee he's going
to get you or he's going.
Speaker 3 (12:39):
To get you.
Speaker 2 (12:39):
JB.
Speaker 1 (12:40):
You think the nickname bash Bros. Is going to stick?
That was from Sean McVay regarding those two this week.
Speaker 4 (12:45):
It's too bary eccentric.
Speaker 3 (12:46):
I think that's maguire.
Speaker 4 (12:49):
It was a good baseball reference while they're practicing at
Camden Yard. So I appreciate this is the week to
do it, But no, I don't think it has a
geographic stainer. It is you know, yeah, baseball playoff time.
Speaker 5 (13:01):
How about the All Pros? Does that count there? That's universal?
Let's do that.
Speaker 2 (13:05):
Sure, I think we will workshop it all right, just
to put a bow on the defense. Nate Landman obviously
picking up the single game franchise record seventeen tackles. Interesting
note as well, for linebackers who have played over eighty
percent of the snaps. He currently sits in the top
five in the league today. That's pretty impressive, just behind
(13:25):
Bobby Wagner. He's in good company.
Speaker 4 (13:28):
Wow, not a bad find. No, Thank you, Atlanta, Thank.
Speaker 2 (13:31):
You absolutely, let's turn our attention to the offensive side
of the ball. Second half was much better than the first.
Another slow star JB. You mentioned at the top of
this show, just how concerned are you considering what we've
been able to do in the first half, especially in
the last two games.
Speaker 3 (13:48):
Yeah.
Speaker 4 (13:48):
I wouldn't say it's concern because there's so much success there.
I think it's more just aggravation and like patients wearing thin, right,
And I understand where our fan base is coming from,
where it's like, we know the latent potential there, just
put that thing in the box, like, let's tighten it down,
Let's make sure we hit our opportunities. Let's not bust
and protection, you know, leading to the Stafford fumble and
(14:12):
that fourth down sack. There was a lot of good.
There's so much good there that the disconnect between the
way they're achieving and moving the football and the way
that they're not scoring and putting teams away. You don't
want to get to the midway point and still feel
like you not put your best foot forward on offense.
Speaker 3 (14:27):
No doubt.
Speaker 5 (14:28):
I thought having Big Steve back at left guard was huge,
And yeah, there's competition. Like I said same thing about
Omar space, like there are people out behind you that
really can play, so you better get back right tackle too.
Warren's been great, absolutely, I would say one thing great.
This is not a knock on him. I thought he
played great as a right tackle. But just go ahead
(14:49):
and be mean, man. It's okay to be nasty. If
you're gonna do it, go ahead and do it. If
you're gonna, like you know, come down and chip on
a guy, you don't have to be nice about it.
Speaker 3 (14:55):
Don't let him know you're there. Drill him.
Speaker 5 (14:57):
You know what I'm saying. You are a right tackle
in the game. I thought he played great. But having
big Steve out there and just that big body, and
this will be a stiff test this week in London
because it's Armstead. It's another one of those long oak
trees that plays defensive line.
Speaker 4 (15:11):
Yeah, you do want to be big guardy guard this.
Speaker 3 (15:13):
Absolutely Steve's have you looked at his body?
Speaker 5 (15:15):
Steve's wade is up here, which is the perfect antidote
to Armstead.
Speaker 3 (15:19):
So it's good to have him back.
Speaker 5 (15:20):
And Dotson again, I thought they're playing a tough brand
of ball, so if you can eliminate some of the
mistakes and let these guys lean on you. I think
they could wear Jacksonville out by running the football too.
Speaker 4 (15:32):
I got two things on the running backs too. It
bums me out that Korum got dinged again because he
has been showing a ton of pop, like if you
want explosive runs, he seems to be the guy giving
it to you. And then how about Kiren Williams response.
I mean, I love this guy, easy to root for.
Ball security. Was there two hands on the football and
then his best catch I think as a ram oh yeah,
(15:54):
schedule creation. He basically creates that touchdown for himself by
making that one cheek down catch. And those are the
types of plays that, in addition to everything else I
said about the offense, like someone's got to just overachieve, right.
It can't just be on McVeigh and lafloor to get
you thirty points a game with their scheme. We know
they're more than capable. Someone go out there and you know, Tiefer,
(16:16):
you get that jet sweep, opportunity to take that thing
all the way around the right side, find that pylon,
don't over extend, don't make a mistake trying to do
too much. But let's take it up a notch.
Speaker 3 (16:25):
Guys.
Speaker 2 (16:26):
Yeah, I'm glad that you bring up the Williams catch
because not only was it a great call one but
cheek equals two feet.
Speaker 1 (16:32):
I love that that was a good call. You know,
you had to throw it in.
Speaker 4 (16:36):
There, but I think and they should have had pass
interference on the previous reply didn't been necessary.
Speaker 2 (16:41):
But also just considering the down and distance fourth and
three and he finds a shot that deep, it was
really impressive and considering almost like the rebuttal to the
game prior. I really like the response there from Williams.
We got to dig into special teams, folks.
Speaker 4 (16:54):
I don't. We don't have to.
Speaker 1 (16:56):
How about just one question. I'll give you one, all right,
all right?
Speaker 2 (17:00):
Do the Rams have a kicker issue or a special
teams issue?
Speaker 4 (17:06):
They have a field goal operation issue?
Speaker 3 (17:08):
Yeah, that's fair.
Speaker 4 (17:09):
Yes, I mean, don't take anything away from the work
they've done. I think on kickoff and punt, which has
been better. I mean a shame to have Dolac wandering
downfield because you get another takeaway on teams there. But yeah,
the the kicking operation when your coach decides not to
take a chip shot field goal to go up three
possessions on the road. That tells you everything you need
(17:30):
to now. Unfortunately, that's that's the state where the rams
are right now. So yeah, that's and here's the thing.
The clang off the right upright reverberated. But the one
they made was the one that spooked me. Am I wrong, No,
you're right, you're right.
Speaker 5 (17:44):
There's there's there's an issue there and it needs to
be corrected.
Speaker 3 (17:47):
And I'm with you.
Speaker 5 (17:49):
It's it comes off of Carty's foot, so he has
to wear it when it goes bad. But it's not
just him, it's the entire operation. So and the shocking
thing is it's lasted this long. You know, you go
from protection and now you have a kicker that's starting
to miss. So it seems like it's trending in the
wrong direction, and especially when you get that sort of call,
(18:09):
that was a big message. But like you said, you're
gonna need him, You're gonna need your special teams, You're
gonna need your placekicker. So let's line up and do
it again. You have a bye week coming up if
you have to make decisions and choices, but let's I
wouldn't go ahead and say let's adopt a gung ho
attitude because you were afraid to kick. I think it
was that moment. I would still trust by place kicking
(18:30):
unit and make them prove.
Speaker 4 (18:33):
Either way, at least the protection was better, right, correct, Yeah,
and so maybe you need to build the confidence back up. Yes,
from that standpoint, because it's the same guy you made
well like twenty six in a row at the end
of last season and of this year. He was NFC's
Special Teams Player of the Month. I think then the
last year, like Carti's got the goods. But whether it's
a breakdown of confidence, whether it's a breakdown in protection
that led to a breakdown, and fundamentals, it's got to
(18:56):
change because you can only go so far with what
we think is a championship caliber roster, right and not
have that element in play, Like you don't want to
have to make a change, but there comes a point
where you got to try something else.
Speaker 5 (19:08):
True, Yeah, But like I just I think it was
that moment and if you get caught in the same
situation in London, I think you kick.
Speaker 3 (19:15):
I would trust it. I would. I mean, I think
you have to you.
Speaker 4 (19:18):
Know what I mean it would depend to me how
much Matthew's slinging it.
Speaker 1 (19:23):
Yeah, this is true, right, you guys bring up London.
Speaker 2 (19:27):
Well, it's rams first international trip since twenty nineteen and
currently they are.
Speaker 1 (19:31):
Two and zero under Sean McVay.
Speaker 2 (19:32):
Internationally interesting matchup two facing off against Liam Cohen for
former OC here with the Los Angeles Rams.
Speaker 1 (19:40):
Is there some continuity there?
Speaker 2 (19:43):
There's some insider knowledges these two teams face off.
Speaker 5 (19:46):
You can tell, man when you watch their offense and
how they do things, It reminds me of seventeen eighteen McVeigh.
He's making the defense pay for the rules, and he
is a like you said, the masters of offense are
early masters of defense.
Speaker 3 (19:59):
They can what you're in.
Speaker 5 (20:00):
They can manipulate you to get you to get the
look they want and then make you pay for it.
So the one thing you have to do and the
one thing that you have in the RAMS advantage are
math changers and we already mentioned them with Byron Young.
They can destroy where it shows up on their offense
is through their O line, so versus hitting gaps. This week,
I would say you're hitting bodies. You're throwing guys into
(20:21):
the backfield and you're trying to force us onto Trevor
Lawrence and see if he can beat you with his arm.
I would bet that the Rams would be able to
get to Lawrence before he gets the ball off, especially
with their O line and the season the Rams D
line is having right now.
Speaker 4 (20:35):
I think center for Jacksonville and left tackle are the
positions to watch real issue and pass protection. I don't
know how much of that is Seattle's being elite defensively
or how much of that is regression from the Jacksonville offense,
but I think Liam got this job as much because
of what he did with the running game in Tampa
Bay as the Baker story and all that stuff. Like,
(20:55):
I know the Rams have been running the gauntlet against
opposing rushing games, but just because ETMA not have the
credentials or the accolades or the pedigree of McCaffrey and
Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley, you better bring it on
first down this week because I think a real easy
way to lose this game is to lose ETN and
not push the game back on Trevor Lawrence's shoulders in
this offensive line by falling behind and by giving up,
(21:17):
you know, four or five yards per carry, Like that's
a real recipe for disaster.
Speaker 5 (21:21):
This week, they probably think they can run it a
little bit when you what Derek Henry did in the
first nap.
Speaker 4 (21:25):
They've run it really well. It's fallen off just briefly,
but like their body of work and even Liam's record
going back to Tampa Bay says that they can absolutely
do that.
Speaker 5 (21:34):
You know, this is no god. Yeah, you're gonna have
to earn it. This is no gimme. They're going to
try to come at you and run the football. So
it's just you have you have depth of d line,
you have good edge, and you have a great linebacker.
Speaker 3 (21:44):
So if you play it correctly, you should be able
to stop it.
Speaker 4 (21:47):
And if you gave up thirty seven pressures the last
two weeks and you see the Rams defensive front coming,
what are you gonna run?
Speaker 2 (21:54):
Right, before we get any further, I just want to
give a little shout out to to Stu Jackson, and
he pulled a quote from Liam this week, and it
was a story about Sean McVay and Liam and what
Liam had.
Speaker 1 (22:05):
Learned from Sean.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
It was really interesting, saying that he had to drop
every pass play right, And I think it really speaks
to the coaching tree that Seawan Myfay has truly created.
And I imagine there's going to be some fun, some
familiarity as those two face off now this weekend.
Speaker 3 (22:19):
Can you imagine if you messed up one of those cars?
Speaker 4 (22:25):
I mean, and it wasn't the best year you'll remember.
So good on Liam for going back to college and
then battling his way back up through the ranks. Like
you know, his talent was undeniable, But it's not like
he used a you know, a rocket ship year here
in Los Angeles. Not a pult to bigger things.
Speaker 3 (22:40):
Good coach.
Speaker 5 (22:41):
Yes, love everything about him, except he's trying to fight
bigger coaches.
Speaker 4 (22:44):
And let's not do that before I forget. Don't let
Hunter Long beat you. Don't let Johnny Munt beat you.
Speaker 5 (22:48):
Please, Johnny Mount, here we go again. Can't get rid
of him like luggage stays around forever.
Speaker 2 (22:53):
Yes, let's talk a little bit about Devin Lloyd, the linebacker.
It's a big loss for this team for Jacksonville been
ruled out with a calf injury. How big of an
advantage does this become now for the Rams just considering
this guy has just been wicked for interceptions already this season.
Speaker 3 (23:12):
This one less guy to worry about. I mean, I
guess it kind of evens out.
Speaker 5 (23:15):
You're gonna be missing Poka maybe so they're missing one
of their best guys. But I'll say this, man on defense,
they have and I said this before a spread o'corps.
On defense, if the ball gets tipped or it's on
the ground, they think it's theirs. This is how they live.
I mean it's wild. When the ball is tipped, you'll
see four guys. Their eyes get big. They get it,
and they don't miss opportunities. If you give them an
(23:35):
opportunity to take the ball away, they will. So ball
security is super important.
Speaker 2 (23:40):
This week, let's talk about Trevor Lawrence. Do you feel
like he is plateauing or ascending at this point?
Speaker 1 (23:46):
Now? Under Liam?
Speaker 4 (23:47):
One second before I forget, because before we leave the
defense behind, do you still have Dennis Gardek recurring nightmares
like I do? I do he's on Jacksonville. Just say no,
I hope I didn't ruin your flight to line.
Speaker 3 (23:58):
Is that part of the McVeigh coaching tree.
Speaker 4 (24:00):
I mean it might be, Man, that guy's a Thorn
and oh, it's great to have him out of the division,
but now he's in Jacksonville.
Speaker 2 (24:05):
Yes, sorry, Camaron, back on, I just let's talk about
Trevor Lawrence.
Speaker 1 (24:09):
Guy's towing or sending now under Liam.
Speaker 4 (24:12):
I think Jacksonville can't answer that question. That's part of
the frustration, probably, right, is his inconsistency m hm, when
I worry about his ability to extend plays and drives.
And so that's where I got back to, like, you
better be you know, rush lane integrity's a big deal
this week because if his pocket is punctured and he
pulls his eyes down but he moves the chains on
(24:32):
third down, it's gonna be a long day at Wembley.
Speaker 5 (24:34):
Yeah, he can he can move, He's got some wiggle.
But you do notice this on tape. He can throw
it from different platforms. So he's got what you need
in the passing game, and he can run the offense.
But he's he's a super athlete, and it seems like
he's always out to prove that on every single rep
that he is the athlete that you think he is.
But when he does pull it down, this is not
a guy that's just running the space I'm gonna take
(24:55):
what the defense gives me and slide here.
Speaker 3 (24:57):
No, he can wiggle, he can make.
Speaker 5 (24:59):
You miss, he can take a when you have him
boxed in, he can all of a sudden outflank you
with his speed and get down the field. Like you said,
there is nothing worse than the quarterback that jumps out
the window and picks up first downs. That's almost as
bad as jumping off side on third down anyway. So
here's another running quarterback that you have.
Speaker 1 (25:16):
To deal with before we get any further.
Speaker 2 (25:19):
I also feel like we have to talk about somebody
who hasn't seen as much action, and I'm a little
concerned going into this one. Could this be the game
that he takes off? I hope not. And that is
none other than Travis Hunter. He has been held in
his six games, four of them for less than thirty
five total yards. Are we gonna be able to keep
keep those numbers consistent?
Speaker 1 (25:39):
And going?
Speaker 3 (25:40):
Here?
Speaker 4 (25:40):
If I force you to pick a lane for one
game in one game only, would you play him on
offense or defense?
Speaker 3 (25:44):
The defense?
Speaker 5 (25:45):
I would play him on defense? Would I would play
him like Dion Sanders in Prime? He's got He's a
great corner. If he steps in front of one and
he picks off anybody, If he picks off Matthew Stafford,
that's going back for six.
Speaker 3 (25:58):
So that's devastating.
Speaker 4 (25:59):
He joined DeVante coming off the bus and he doesn't
leave him until he.
Speaker 3 (26:04):
You got him.
Speaker 5 (26:05):
I would say this is the marquee matchup you've been
waiting for. Travel with Devant.
Speaker 4 (26:09):
Essentially because he is playing more on offense. He's been
I think he's been better on defense statistically, but he
is playing more on offense.
Speaker 1 (26:15):
So yeah, they're giving him a couple more looks at least. Uh,
this is the m j D Bowl. Yeah, we gotta
give him the man a little love.
Speaker 2 (26:22):
And I knew going into this as he played eight
season with the Jags. I was going, who in the
world is he gonna pick? Would you like to guess
who he picked?
Speaker 3 (26:29):
You better pick the Rams. Come on, now, he's gonna
be in the booth with us.
Speaker 4 (26:32):
His ring says Rams. Yes, last I heard, he was
upset that they gave Cody Schrader his numbers.
Speaker 3 (26:38):
They can love him all they want. He's looting for
us there, Yes.
Speaker 1 (26:42):
Twenty seven. He's got the rems, so fair enough.
Speaker 2 (26:46):
The keys to victory. You guys, let's let's finish this off.
What are you starting with?
Speaker 1 (26:51):
JB long Uh?
Speaker 4 (26:55):
I mean, first of all, where we started. This is
a massive game, like this is an even bigger game.
I think I realized on Monday, and you said it,
the difference between five and two and four and three,
not only because of what that means for your potential fortunes,
but I think because of what it gives your front
offense license to do. If you're flying home at five
and two with a bye and the Saints at home
coming up on the trade deadline, I think you'll have
(27:17):
a very good opportunity to maybe four toify your roster
or at least make some calls attacking areas that I
think can transform you from a contender to a championship favorite.
I think making sure that Lawrence doesn't do damage with
his feet, is there, winning that early down, pushing the
game back on his shoulder so that ETN can't turn
chains on you and shorten the game the way that
(27:38):
some teams like San Francisco and Baltimore have done lately.
And then how about a turnover free performance for once
Rams are too deep in the season to have not
played a clean game. Yet I think that opportunity is
in front of them.
Speaker 1 (27:50):
I said, key to victory, he gave me keys.
Speaker 3 (27:52):
Yeah, what else?
Speaker 5 (27:53):
What they say, don't jump off size on third down?
Start there? How about at least six points from your
kicking game. At least six points from your kicking game.
Now that could be X getting loose and breaking one
and then you get the extra point. That's obviously seven,
but six points. I'd love to see Cardi go out
there and kick a field goal and just have a
(28:15):
clean operation one two, boom, it's through. I mean he
absolutely cuts the goalposts in half. And everything else that
JB said is ultra important. But yeah, I think for
confidence for everything, for where you are on the verge
with it's on the lips of everyone, and your coach
just put it on front street with that call on
fourth down. Everybody's worried about your kicking game. The only
(28:35):
way to get through that is to go out there
and be clean, absolutely be clean on teams at least
six points out of your teams, and be penalty for
you there.
Speaker 4 (28:43):
You already had to suffer through a loss on your
mini by like, get a victory and feel good about
your fortunes at the midway point. Enjoy the flight home,
rest and recover and get ready for a big, big
second half of the season.
Speaker 2 (28:56):
My key to victory is going to be getting after
Trevor Lawrence. Like you mentioned, trying to keep him contained
last week against Seattle, sacks seven times and get this,
seventeen QB hits seventeen.
Speaker 1 (29:07):
Seventeen in one game. That's a lot.
Speaker 4 (29:10):
That's there's a big test for him, right, Like if
you've been peppered like that for a couple of weeks
now and you know the Rams are next, you know
how willing are you to live life in the pocket
this week? He's capable of.
Speaker 3 (29:21):
Just coming out fast. Yeah, this could be an op.
Speaker 2 (29:24):
And not to forget here Robert Hainsey, their center is
not making or he is making the trip to London,
and he missed last week with the hamstrings, so that's
a big one to watch in terms of the matchup.
Any final thoughts before he head off to London.
Speaker 5 (29:39):
Yeah, I just I'm going to count Maurice Jones drew
Jerseys over there and how many past twelve before we
get out of Heathrow.
Speaker 4 (29:47):
Yes, Happy birthday to Joey Hirsh.
Speaker 3 (29:50):
Happy birthday.
Speaker 1 (29:51):
Yes, there you go. He's in the room now. You
gotta love it. Happy birthday, Joey.
Speaker 4 (29:57):
No one's still watching that.
Speaker 1 (30:01):
I don't know.
Speaker 2 (30:01):
I kept it under I think like thirty five minutes,
so hopefully people are still hanging on. I hope you
all are able to wake up bright and early. Grab
your cup of coffee, because this one's kicking off at
six thirty am Pacific standards Earl Gray and join our
fellows of course on ESPNLA RAMS Radio for JB Long,
DeMarco Farr, I'm caer render one, thanks so much for
(30:23):
joining us on Between the Horns, presented by your Southern
California Toyota Dealer,
From Baltimore to the Big Smoke.
Speaker 2 (00:08):
Welcome to Between the Horns, presented by your Southern California
Toro to dealers. It's JV Long DeMarco far I'm Cameron Irwin,
and we get set for week seven, a trip on
the road. Yeah, fellas, do you have your neck pillows ready?
Speaker 3 (00:20):
No? Can I borrow one?
Speaker 1 (00:21):
Please?
Speaker 4 (00:22):
Definitely packed mine in my passport this morning.
Speaker 3 (00:25):
Oh no way.
Speaker 1 (00:26):
So what does the trip look like when you guys?
Speaker 5 (00:28):
Head out tomorrow Friday? So I'm leaving from here, going
straight over to London, so I'll be out.
Speaker 4 (00:34):
Of this slight detour. I'll see you there.
Speaker 3 (00:35):
We'll look at you.
Speaker 1 (00:36):
See.
Speaker 2 (00:37):
I think JV's got a little bit of a longer
route to get to London.
Speaker 1 (00:41):
You ready to go? Man?
Speaker 4 (00:42):
I hope, so, I hope?
Speaker 3 (00:44):
So geeked let's go.
Speaker 2 (00:45):
Well, let's take a look back. Coming off the win
over Baltimore was seventeen to three. Rams now sit at
four and two and they're going to face off against
the Jags team also four and two. I'll tell you
one thing, five and two feels a lot different than
four and three as they are being for a matchup
at Wimbley Stadium. Guys, it was interesting. Sean McVay sat
(01:05):
down with you earlier this week and he said it
was a strange game the.
Speaker 1 (01:08):
Way it all unfolded.
Speaker 2 (01:10):
In your conversation with him, what was some of the
takeaways and what were your takeaways from Baltimore?
Speaker 5 (01:16):
Well, it was it was a weird game, but this
is the pay League, so all that matters is the result,
and you got the w. So, and you've heard me
say this before, you know, winning is great deodorant. It
covers up a ton of stink. So there were some
things that you wish you could have got corrected. But
with everything that went wrong or everything that you didn't
do right, you still came out of there with a win.
(01:38):
That's no easy thing to do. In Baltimore, I could
care less who was at quarterback. So anytime you get
a win versus Baltimore, you should be happy. And like
you said, I agree with you one hundred percent. Five
and two sounds better than four and three, but both
aren't bad when you consider it's better than being the opposite,
or three and four or worse than that. So you
want to come out of this with a win. You
want to be heading towards playing your best football. I
(02:00):
think you're just about there. At least your defense is
on the verge of becoming a top ten stop all
type defense. So all I care about leaving Baltimore is
getting that W.
Speaker 4 (02:12):
Yeah, defensively is a great showing, but it comes with
the caveat that you're playing Cooper Rush right and Joe noteboom.
So was it as good as it looked on paper?
I don't know. Conversely, I think McVeigh was actually killing
them on offense. I thought there was a lot of
good in that film, but it's the same old issues
bogging down the rams, slow starts, ball security, not finishing drives,
throws off frame, off target drops. Because efficiency wise, this
(02:36):
is a top six offense in the NFL. Scoring wise,
they're pedestrian their middle of the pack, and the longer
that that disconnect continues, and some of it is on
the kicking game, it's not all on the offense. But
until those good reps turn into big numbers on the scoreboard, yeah,
it's gonna feel a little wonky when you get a win,
but you don't do everything that you thought you could
have offensively.
Speaker 2 (02:57):
One of the other conversations that you had with him
he said. Being able to win in different types of
games and in different types of ways can be a
strength for this team moving forward. And I want to
look a little bit big picture here across the NFL.
Speaker 1 (03:09):
Are the days of.
Speaker 2 (03:10):
Dropping thirty plus points weekend and week out still a
reality in the league today or even in this team.
Speaker 4 (03:17):
I think that's part of why last week felt so unsatisfying.
It is because you saw Houston go put forty four
on that same team. Now, Baltimore got some good pieces
back Defensively, they were not the same defense week over week,
and the transitive property doesn't work in football, especially not
in the NFL. But yeah, I think those opportunities are
out there. I think there have been days whe the
Rams could have and should have put up forty points.
They haven't done it yet.
Speaker 3 (03:39):
Thirty points a week for everyone or just maybe not
a week this team, that would be fun. I mean,
it's entirely possible.
Speaker 4 (03:45):
I do.
Speaker 5 (03:46):
And I think, like you said, even with everything, how
wonky everything has been and how great Matthew Stafford has played,
I think there's another gear they can get to, and
it starts with DeVante. If you can somehow figure out
that connection between Stafford and Davante, because, like we keep saying,
the guy is absolutely open.
Speaker 3 (04:04):
You've just missed. He's had issues with drops.
Speaker 5 (04:06):
But if you can provide that part of the offense
and improve that by fifty percent, you're in the red zone.
Speaker 3 (04:14):
If you're in the red zone, you're in the end zone.
Speaker 5 (04:16):
If you're doing that, you're setting yourself up to be,
you know, rushed between Byron Young and Jared Verse. I
think that's what this team is set up to do.
So I think you're just about there. So besides the
kicking game, I think there's just a few more things
that if you can iron that out, I think maybe
thirty points is something that's easily attainable.
Speaker 4 (04:35):
Do you have any theories on that Davante thing.
Speaker 5 (04:37):
About that connection? You know, I would love to go
out and watch and watch them work on their route tree.
If you're Sean McVay, I might even ask them to
go out before the game and let's run the route tree,
just so we know where everyone's going to be on
certain things. But it seems like Davante he wants it
and needs it here, and it's just a beat off
or a beat slower than what he needs and it
(04:59):
just kind of sl down and then you can't find
the guy. But when they do connect, it's otherworldly. He
can put it anywhere and this guy can grab it
from out of the sun. So when that starts to connect,
there is no corner, there is no defense.
Speaker 1 (05:11):
You know.
Speaker 2 (05:11):
It's interesting going into this matchup too, because considering the
health of Puka and Nakua, I'm wondering if this will
be the game that you see that relationship and that
evolution between Stafford and Adams really take life.
Speaker 5 (05:23):
I loved it. That's the way I was parented. If
you know we couldn't get along with our brothers, would
just put us in a room and figure it out.
You don't come out into your you're hugging. So yeah,
I mean that's that's the downside to not having Cook Nakua.
You may have to lean on that connection and figure
out what's missing.
Speaker 4 (05:38):
Two things I appreciate about it, they're each taking ownership,
Like DeVante's like that there's more that I can do,
and Matthew is like, I'm not worried about it because
I know I can make these rows and I'm not
giving them the best chance to succeed. So I do
think there's a world where this is the Matthew to
DeVante game. I also think that it could be in
Jacksonville's best interest to try and take that away and
(05:59):
make McVeigh and staff for try and beat you left
handed because they don't have the top two, you know,
receiving duos potentially this Sunday, and so could could there
be additioned by subtraction? As far as DeVante's concerned without
pooka sure, could the Rams really struggle without the best
receiver in the National Football League and their secret weapon
not so secret weapon on third down? Yeah, I mean
(06:20):
this could bog down without him.
Speaker 3 (06:21):
I'm concerned, you know, Pook and sneaks up on you.
Now you're fired? Yeah?
Speaker 4 (06:27):
But am I right? But I think it transforms, Like
I think there's a potential for this to be a
one off game plan that is much different than the
first six have been offensively for the Rams. And so
if I'm Jacksonville's defensive coaches, I am losing a lot
of sleep this week. Now I'm in a better position
because I don't have to deal with the hammerhead Pook
and Akua. But in terms of what's coming down the pike,
(06:47):
I don't know, there's nothing on film.
Speaker 1 (06:48):
Yeah, what about twelve?
Speaker 2 (06:50):
Do you think twelve personnel could be added in a
little bit more? Is this the game we'll see Terrence
Ferguson m as much more?
Speaker 3 (06:56):
Does it have to be in twelve? Does to yes?
Yes to that? I hope So, I hope we see.
Speaker 5 (07:02):
A little bit more of him, especially with Puoka being out.
It's almost a one for one match when you think
about what they do. But I like him going down
the field in those matchups and letting Stafford develop a
new receiver, a big body, a guy that can post
up in the red zone or at least get you
closer to closer, closer to the end zone. So absolutely,
I think there's gonna be more reps for Ferguson this week.
Speaker 4 (07:24):
You know, on paper, on the depth chart, the replacement
is probably Jordan Whittington, right, But in terms of skill
set and attributes and measurables, I wonder if there's a
big slot role for t ferg If he's not yet
ready to crack your tight end rotation in depth chart,
why not now in a different role. But I think
that's the element of surprise that Sean McVay has at
(07:44):
his advantage as much under center drop back game as
Matthew's been playing this year. They could revert back to
the obj Rams and just spread them out and with
let's go with Jacksonville a little young at corner and
short handed at linebacker, you could really these Jags out
on defense with a not a completely different look, but
one that's not been in keeping with your first six games.
Speaker 2 (08:05):
All right, guys, well we've already been diving into Jacksonville,
but I think we need to go back just a
bit more and consider this defensive performance that we saw.
It's the second time the Rams have held a team
out of the end zone this season, the first being Houston,
of course in week number one. What impressed you the
most about that defensive performance against Baltimore?
Speaker 3 (08:23):
Oh?
Speaker 5 (08:23):
How they finished again that goal line stand, pops Q
Lake getting his hands on one. Finally, you know, there's
a lot of things. First thing that jumps off is
those edge guys in young and Verse and how they play,
and just the depth you have at tackle at defensive tackle,
that you could roll so many guys and throw so
many different combinations and just keep you guessing on the run.
(08:45):
They could cover every gap. They could go four down,
They can go three down and still be effective whatever
they throw. But I think the thing that stands out
the most, because we've seen great defensive line play right
possibly the best ever, the thing that stands out is
linebacker play and Nate Landman and what he does and
how he does it and how he goes about his business.
He has been a wonderful acquisition to this defense and
(09:08):
he is a phenomenal football player, not just the punchouts,
just where he places himself and how everything is. He's
such a calming influence when they switch or change, he's
got it. He's got the check. The way he communicates
with Chris Shula on the sideline, it's like another coach
out there that's going out there to hit people. So, uh,
this defense, it doesn't panic, it doesn't blink. And if
they can stay on sides on third down and they
(09:32):
have the ability to get to you, So I got it. Yeah,
you saw that.
Speaker 4 (09:36):
This competition they have with each other, who's going to
have the sac lead? It's it might be leading.
Speaker 3 (09:40):
To some just saying yes, everybody's a little bit eager
to get there.
Speaker 4 (09:44):
Can Brandon Fisk get in on the game, please? And
then let's not let the competition lead us to be
in the neutral zone right anymore.
Speaker 5 (09:51):
I mean, look, it's there's enough to go around. You
don't have to rush to get there. But when you
do have a chance to get off, and there's the
funny thing, let me. I'm glad you brought this up.
They played seventy five snaps last week. Okay, the defense did. Okay,
I don't want to hear any complaints about you being tired.
Then get off the field on third down. Then stop
messing up your your third nines and setting up third
(10:12):
and fourth jumping off.
Speaker 4 (10:13):
Of those plays had to come on the first drive
in the last.
Speaker 3 (10:15):
Right, go get him. That's what I'm saying.
Speaker 5 (10:17):
You have the ability to be a lockdown, go get
him type defense. Just don't hurt yourself with penalties and
make it easier for them. Dola's a dude. Huh Oh
my god, I like that little Dolac. It's so funny.
Is Omar Spate's gonna go this week?
Speaker 3 (10:32):
I bet he is.
Speaker 5 (10:33):
I bet he is, absolutely that little dude. If you
let him play, he's gonna make every tackle. He is
one of those guys. Yes, he has been a phenomenal
fine for the Rams.
Speaker 4 (10:42):
I mean, I'm glad Quinton Lake finally got his interception.
It's been a long time coming, it's been four years coming.
But he's playing at an all pro caliber level in
a contract year, and I think he's been a big
ingredient not just to his individual success, but the collective success.
The fact that your captains came through in that moment,
I think says Lot.
Speaker 2 (11:00):
You know, I'm glad that you guys brought up the
first drive for Baltimore because I was sitting at home
watching this game unfold, and I'm watching Jared Verse sitting
in the middle linebacker spot, sprinting to the line of
scrimmage as soon as it's going. I know he got
caught obviously on some of those hard counts, but I'm going,
if I were Cooper Rush I was, I would be terrified.
I would be shaking in my boots because I was
watching it and on the TV, and I'm going, someone
(11:22):
please provide a little extra protection for that man.
Speaker 3 (11:24):
It's the center. The center is probably scared to death.
Speaker 4 (11:27):
Don't do we even know?
Speaker 3 (11:28):
Like?
Speaker 4 (11:28):
Was that a hard counter? Did Cooper Rush? Just glitch?
Speaker 5 (11:30):
That was a hand because when they caught them all
five linemen were like, Aha, we got you.
Speaker 3 (11:35):
We've been playing this. There you go.
Speaker 2 (11:37):
But in reality too, I think you saw the effect
of Jared Verst, the fear effect late in that first
drive because you saw once they got into Rams territory
his presence really forced some of those penalties that back
them up to hold them to a field goal on
that first drive as well. So, I mean, the fear
factor's there, it's not you don't want the penalty has
been in the same thing.
Speaker 4 (11:56):
But I think this is the perfect game to just
play it clean. Yeah, Like you don't have to be
Godzilla this week, although we would love to see it.
But like with Trevor Lawrence's running ability, just play assignment
football and I think that will be enough against an
offensive line right now from Zack Jackson Will it's really struggling.
Speaker 3 (12:13):
Again.
Speaker 5 (12:13):
You've heard me say this production equal tolerance. I can
forgive a lot if you're making plays. Yeah, and they're
getting better. Like, this is the best duo in the
league as far as edge guys when Byron and Young
and vers are out there. So enjoy this while you
can while it's still even before you pay one guy
more than the other. They're actually working together and they're
they're wrecking shops. So, like I said, if you get
(12:34):
them into obvious passing situations, it's a guarantee he's going
to get you or he's going.
Speaker 3 (12:39):
To get you.
Speaker 2 (12:39):
JB.
Speaker 1 (12:40):
You think the nickname bash Bros. Is going to stick?
That was from Sean McVay regarding those two this week.
Speaker 4 (12:45):
It's too bary eccentric.
Speaker 3 (12:46):
I think that's maguire.
Speaker 4 (12:49):
It was a good baseball reference while they're practicing at
Camden Yard. So I appreciate this is the week to
do it, But no, I don't think it has a
geographic stainer. It is you know, yeah, baseball playoff time.
Speaker 5 (13:01):
How about the All Pros? Does that count there? That's universal?
Let's do that.
Speaker 2 (13:05):
Sure, I think we will workshop it all right, just
to put a bow on the defense. Nate Landman obviously
picking up the single game franchise record seventeen tackles. Interesting
note as well, for linebackers who have played over eighty
percent of the snaps. He currently sits in the top
five in the league today. That's pretty impressive, just behind
(13:25):
Bobby Wagner. He's in good company.
Speaker 4 (13:28):
Wow, not a bad find. No, Thank you, Atlanta, Thank.
Speaker 2 (13:31):
You absolutely, let's turn our attention to the offensive side
of the ball. Second half was much better than the first.
Another slow star JB. You mentioned at the top of
this show, just how concerned are you considering what we've
been able to do in the first half, especially in
the last two games.
Speaker 3 (13:48):
Yeah.
Speaker 4 (13:48):
I wouldn't say it's concern because there's so much success there.
I think it's more just aggravation and like patients wearing thin, right,
And I understand where our fan base is coming from,
where it's like, we know the latent potential there, just
put that thing in the box, like, let's tighten it down,
Let's make sure we hit our opportunities. Let's not bust
and protection, you know, leading to the Stafford fumble and
(14:12):
that fourth down sack. There was a lot of good.
There's so much good there that the disconnect between the
way they're achieving and moving the football and the way
that they're not scoring and putting teams away. You don't
want to get to the midway point and still feel
like you not put your best foot forward on offense.
Speaker 3 (14:27):
No doubt.
Speaker 5 (14:28):
I thought having Big Steve back at left guard was huge,
And yeah, there's competition. Like I said same thing about
Omar space, like there are people out behind you that
really can play, so you better get back right tackle too.
Warren's been great, absolutely, I would say one thing great.
This is not a knock on him. I thought he
played great as a right tackle. But just go ahead
(14:49):
and be mean, man. It's okay to be nasty. If
you're gonna do it, go ahead and do it. If
you're gonna, like you know, come down and chip on
a guy, you don't have to be nice about it.
Speaker 3 (14:55):
Don't let him know you're there. Drill him.
Speaker 5 (14:57):
You know what I'm saying. You are a right tackle
in the game. I thought he played great. But having
big Steve out there and just that big body, and
this will be a stiff test this week in London
because it's Armstead. It's another one of those long oak
trees that plays defensive line.
Speaker 4 (15:11):
Yeah, you do want to be big guardy guard this.
Speaker 3 (15:13):
Absolutely Steve's have you looked at his body?
Speaker 5 (15:15):
Steve's wade is up here, which is the perfect antidote
to Armstead.
Speaker 3 (15:19):
So it's good to have him back.
Speaker 5 (15:20):
And Dotson again, I thought they're playing a tough brand
of ball, so if you can eliminate some of the
mistakes and let these guys lean on you. I think
they could wear Jacksonville out by running the football too.
Speaker 4 (15:32):
I got two things on the running backs too. It
bums me out that Korum got dinged again because he
has been showing a ton of pop, like if you
want explosive runs, he seems to be the guy giving
it to you. And then how about Kiren Williams response.
I mean, I love this guy, easy to root for.
Ball security. Was there two hands on the football and
then his best catch I think as a ram oh yeah,
(15:54):
schedule creation. He basically creates that touchdown for himself by
making that one cheek down catch. And those are the
types of plays that, in addition to everything else I
said about the offense, like someone's got to just overachieve, right.
It can't just be on McVeigh and lafloor to get
you thirty points a game with their scheme. We know
they're more than capable. Someone go out there and you know, Tiefer,
(16:16):
you get that jet sweep, opportunity to take that thing
all the way around the right side, find that pylon,
don't over extend, don't make a mistake trying to do
too much. But let's take it up a notch.
Speaker 3 (16:25):
Guys.
Speaker 2 (16:26):
Yeah, I'm glad that you bring up the Williams catch
because not only was it a great call one but
cheek equals two feet.
Speaker 1 (16:32):
I love that that was a good call. You know,
you had to throw it in.
Speaker 4 (16:36):
There, but I think and they should have had pass
interference on the previous reply didn't been necessary.
Speaker 2 (16:41):
But also just considering the down and distance fourth and
three and he finds a shot that deep, it was
really impressive and considering almost like the rebuttal to the
game prior. I really like the response there from Williams.
We got to dig into special teams, folks.
Speaker 4 (16:54):
I don't. We don't have to.
Speaker 1 (16:56):
How about just one question. I'll give you one, all right,
all right?
Speaker 2 (17:00):
Do the Rams have a kicker issue or a special
teams issue?
Speaker 4 (17:06):
They have a field goal operation issue?
Speaker 3 (17:08):
Yeah, that's fair.
Speaker 4 (17:09):
Yes, I mean, don't take anything away from the work
they've done. I think on kickoff and punt, which has
been better. I mean a shame to have Dolac wandering
downfield because you get another takeaway on teams there. But yeah,
the the kicking operation when your coach decides not to
take a chip shot field goal to go up three
possessions on the road. That tells you everything you need
(17:30):
to now. Unfortunately, that's that's the state where the rams
are right now. So yeah, that's and here's the thing.
The clang off the right upright reverberated. But the one
they made was the one that spooked me. Am I wrong, No,
you're right, you're right.
Speaker 5 (17:44):
There's there's there's an issue there and it needs to
be corrected.
Speaker 3 (17:47):
And I'm with you.
Speaker 5 (17:49):
It's it comes off of Carty's foot, so he has
to wear it when it goes bad. But it's not
just him, it's the entire operation. So and the shocking
thing is it's lasted this long. You know, you go
from protection and now you have a kicker that's starting
to miss. So it seems like it's trending in the
wrong direction, and especially when you get that sort of call,
(18:09):
that was a big message. But like you said, you're
gonna need him, You're gonna need your special teams, You're
gonna need your placekicker. So let's line up and do
it again. You have a bye week coming up if
you have to make decisions and choices, but let's I
wouldn't go ahead and say let's adopt a gung ho
attitude because you were afraid to kick. I think it
was that moment. I would still trust by place kicking
(18:30):
unit and make them prove.
Speaker 4 (18:33):
Either way, at least the protection was better, right, correct, Yeah,
and so maybe you need to build the confidence back up. Yes,
from that standpoint, because it's the same guy you made
well like twenty six in a row at the end
of last season and of this year. He was NFC's
Special Teams Player of the Month. I think then the
last year, like Carti's got the goods. But whether it's
a breakdown of confidence, whether it's a breakdown in protection
that led to a breakdown, and fundamentals, it's got to
(18:56):
change because you can only go so far with what
we think is a championship caliber roster, right and not
have that element in play, Like you don't want to
have to make a change, but there comes a point
where you got to try something else.
Speaker 5 (19:08):
True, Yeah, But like I just I think it was
that moment and if you get caught in the same
situation in London, I think you kick.
Speaker 3 (19:15):
I would trust it. I would. I mean, I think
you have to you.
Speaker 4 (19:18):
Know what I mean it would depend to me how
much Matthew's slinging it.
Speaker 1 (19:23):
Yeah, this is true, right, you guys bring up London.
Speaker 2 (19:27):
Well, it's rams first international trip since twenty nineteen and
currently they are.
Speaker 1 (19:31):
Two and zero under Sean McVay.
Speaker 2 (19:32):
Internationally interesting matchup two facing off against Liam Cohen for
former OC here with the Los Angeles Rams.
Speaker 1 (19:40):
Is there some continuity there?
Speaker 2 (19:43):
There's some insider knowledges these two teams face off.
Speaker 5 (19:46):
You can tell, man when you watch their offense and
how they do things, It reminds me of seventeen eighteen McVeigh.
He's making the defense pay for the rules, and he
is a like you said, the masters of offense are
early masters of defense.
Speaker 3 (19:59):
They can what you're in.
Speaker 5 (20:00):
They can manipulate you to get you to get the
look they want and then make you pay for it.
So the one thing you have to do and the
one thing that you have in the RAMS advantage are
math changers and we already mentioned them with Byron Young.
They can destroy where it shows up on their offense
is through their O line, so versus hitting gaps. This week,
I would say you're hitting bodies. You're throwing guys into
(20:21):
the backfield and you're trying to force us onto Trevor
Lawrence and see if he can beat you with his arm.
I would bet that the Rams would be able to
get to Lawrence before he gets the ball off, especially
with their O line and the season the Rams D
line is having right now.
Speaker 4 (20:35):
I think center for Jacksonville and left tackle are the
positions to watch real issue and pass protection. I don't
know how much of that is Seattle's being elite defensively
or how much of that is regression from the Jacksonville offense,
but I think Liam got this job as much because
of what he did with the running game in Tampa
Bay as the Baker story and all that stuff. Like,
(20:55):
I know the Rams have been running the gauntlet against
opposing rushing games, but just because ETMA not have the
credentials or the accolades or the pedigree of McCaffrey and
Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley, you better bring it on
first down this week because I think a real easy
way to lose this game is to lose ETN and
not push the game back on Trevor Lawrence's shoulders in
this offensive line by falling behind and by giving up,
(21:17):
you know, four or five yards per carry, Like that's
a real recipe for disaster.
Speaker 5 (21:21):
This week, they probably think they can run it a
little bit when you what Derek Henry did in the
first nap.
Speaker 4 (21:25):
They've run it really well. It's fallen off just briefly,
but like their body of work and even Liam's record
going back to Tampa Bay says that they can absolutely
do that.
Speaker 5 (21:34):
You know, this is no god. Yeah, you're gonna have
to earn it. This is no gimme. They're going to
try to come at you and run the football. So
it's just you have you have depth of d line,
you have good edge, and you have a great linebacker.
Speaker 3 (21:44):
So if you play it correctly, you should be able
to stop it.
Speaker 4 (21:47):
And if you gave up thirty seven pressures the last
two weeks and you see the Rams defensive front coming,
what are you gonna run?
Speaker 2 (21:54):
Right, before we get any further, I just want to
give a little shout out to to Stu Jackson, and
he pulled a quote from Liam this week, and it
was a story about Sean McVay and Liam and what
Liam had.
Speaker 1 (22:05):
Learned from Sean.
Speaker 2 (22:06):
It was really interesting, saying that he had to drop
every pass play right, And I think it really speaks
to the coaching tree that Seawan Myfay has truly created.
And I imagine there's going to be some fun, some
familiarity as those two face off now this weekend.
Speaker 3 (22:19):
Can you imagine if you messed up one of those cars?
Speaker 4 (22:25):
I mean, and it wasn't the best year you'll remember.
So good on Liam for going back to college and
then battling his way back up through the ranks. Like
you know, his talent was undeniable, But it's not like
he used a you know, a rocket ship year here
in Los Angeles. Not a pult to bigger things.
Speaker 3 (22:40):
Good coach.
Speaker 5 (22:41):
Yes, love everything about him, except he's trying to fight
bigger coaches.
Speaker 4 (22:44):
And let's not do that before I forget. Don't let
Hunter Long beat you. Don't let Johnny Munt beat you.
Speaker 5 (22:48):
Please, Johnny Mount, here we go again. Can't get rid
of him like luggage stays around forever.
Speaker 2 (22:53):
Yes, let's talk a little bit about Devin Lloyd, the linebacker.
It's a big loss for this team for Jacksonville been
ruled out with a calf injury. How big of an
advantage does this become now for the Rams just considering
this guy has just been wicked for interceptions already this season.
Speaker 3 (23:12):
This one less guy to worry about. I mean, I
guess it kind of evens out.
Speaker 5 (23:15):
You're gonna be missing Poka maybe so they're missing one
of their best guys. But I'll say this, man on defense,
they have and I said this before a spread o'corps.
On defense, if the ball gets tipped or it's on
the ground, they think it's theirs. This is how they live.
I mean it's wild. When the ball is tipped, you'll
see four guys. Their eyes get big. They get it,
and they don't miss opportunities. If you give them an
(23:35):
opportunity to take the ball away, they will. So ball
security is super important.
Speaker 2 (23:40):
This week, let's talk about Trevor Lawrence. Do you feel
like he is plateauing or ascending at this point?
Speaker 1 (23:46):
Now? Under Liam?
Speaker 4 (23:47):
One second before I forget, because before we leave the
defense behind, do you still have Dennis Gardek recurring nightmares
like I do? I do he's on Jacksonville. Just say no,
I hope I didn't ruin your flight to line.
Speaker 3 (23:58):
Is that part of the McVeigh coaching tree.
Speaker 4 (24:00):
I mean it might be, Man, that guy's a Thorn
and oh, it's great to have him out of the division,
but now he's in Jacksonville.
Speaker 2 (24:05):
Yes, sorry, Camaron, back on, I just let's talk about
Trevor Lawrence.
Speaker 1 (24:09):
Guy's towing or sending now under Liam.
Speaker 4 (24:12):
I think Jacksonville can't answer that question. That's part of
the frustration, probably, right, is his inconsistency m hm, when
I worry about his ability to extend plays and drives.
And so that's where I got back to, like, you
better be you know, rush lane integrity's a big deal
this week because if his pocket is punctured and he
pulls his eyes down but he moves the chains on
(24:32):
third down, it's gonna be a long day at Wembley.
Speaker 5 (24:34):
Yeah, he can he can move, He's got some wiggle.
But you do notice this on tape. He can throw
it from different platforms. So he's got what you need
in the passing game, and he can run the offense.
But he's he's a super athlete, and it seems like
he's always out to prove that on every single rep
that he is the athlete that you think he is.
But when he does pull it down, this is not
a guy that's just running the space I'm gonna take
(24:55):
what the defense gives me and slide here.
Speaker 3 (24:57):
No, he can wiggle, he can make.
Speaker 5 (24:59):
You miss, he can take a when you have him
boxed in, he can all of a sudden outflank you
with his speed and get down the field. Like you said,
there is nothing worse than the quarterback that jumps out
the window and picks up first downs. That's almost as
bad as jumping off side on third down anyway. So
here's another running quarterback that you have.
Speaker 1 (25:16):
To deal with before we get any further.
Speaker 2 (25:19):
I also feel like we have to talk about somebody
who hasn't seen as much action, and I'm a little
concerned going into this one. Could this be the game
that he takes off? I hope not. And that is
none other than Travis Hunter. He has been held in
his six games, four of them for less than thirty
five total yards. Are we gonna be able to keep
keep those numbers consistent?
Speaker 1 (25:39):
And going?
Speaker 3 (25:40):
Here?
Speaker 4 (25:40):
If I force you to pick a lane for one
game in one game only, would you play him on
offense or defense?
Speaker 3 (25:44):
The defense?
Speaker 5 (25:45):
I would play him on defense? Would I would play
him like Dion Sanders in Prime? He's got He's a
great corner. If he steps in front of one and
he picks off anybody, If he picks off Matthew Stafford,
that's going back for six.
Speaker 3 (25:58):
So that's devastating.
Speaker 4 (25:59):
He joined DeVante coming off the bus and he doesn't
leave him until he.
Speaker 3 (26:04):
You got him.
Speaker 5 (26:05):
I would say this is the marquee matchup you've been
waiting for. Travel with Devant.
Speaker 4 (26:09):
Essentially because he is playing more on offense. He's been
I think he's been better on defense statistically, but he
is playing more on offense.
Speaker 1 (26:15):
So yeah, they're giving him a couple more looks at least. Uh,
this is the m j D Bowl. Yeah, we gotta
give him the man a little love.
Speaker 2 (26:22):
And I knew going into this as he played eight
season with the Jags. I was going, who in the
world is he gonna pick? Would you like to guess
who he picked?
Speaker 3 (26:29):
You better pick the Rams. Come on, now, he's gonna
be in the booth with us.
Speaker 4 (26:32):
His ring says Rams. Yes, last I heard, he was
upset that they gave Cody Schrader his numbers.
Speaker 3 (26:38):
They can love him all they want. He's looting for
us there, Yes.
Speaker 1 (26:42):
Twenty seven. He's got the rems, so fair enough.
Speaker 2 (26:46):
The keys to victory. You guys, let's let's finish this off.
What are you starting with?
Speaker 1 (26:51):
JB long Uh?
Speaker 4 (26:55):
I mean, first of all, where we started. This is
a massive game, like this is an even bigger game.
I think I realized on Monday, and you said it,
the difference between five and two and four and three,
not only because of what that means for your potential fortunes,
but I think because of what it gives your front
offense license to do. If you're flying home at five
and two with a bye and the Saints at home
coming up on the trade deadline, I think you'll have
(27:17):
a very good opportunity to maybe four toify your roster
or at least make some calls attacking areas that I
think can transform you from a contender to a championship favorite.
I think making sure that Lawrence doesn't do damage with
his feet, is there, winning that early down, pushing the
game back on his shoulder so that ETN can't turn
chains on you and shorten the game the way that
(27:38):
some teams like San Francisco and Baltimore have done lately.
And then how about a turnover free performance for once
Rams are too deep in the season to have not
played a clean game. Yet I think that opportunity is
in front of them.
Speaker 1 (27:50):
I said, key to victory, he gave me keys.
Speaker 3 (27:52):
Yeah, what else?
Speaker 5 (27:53):
What they say, don't jump off size on third down?
Start there? How about at least six points from your
kicking game. At least six points from your kicking game.
Now that could be X getting loose and breaking one
and then you get the extra point. That's obviously seven,
but six points. I'd love to see Cardi go out
there and kick a field goal and just have a
(28:15):
clean operation one two, boom, it's through. I mean he
absolutely cuts the goalposts in half. And everything else that
JB said is ultra important. But yeah, I think for
confidence for everything, for where you are on the verge
with it's on the lips of everyone, and your coach
just put it on front street with that call on
fourth down. Everybody's worried about your kicking game. The only
(28:35):
way to get through that is to go out there
and be clean, absolutely be clean on teams at least
six points out of your teams, and be penalty for
you there.
Speaker 4 (28:43):
You already had to suffer through a loss on your
mini by like, get a victory and feel good about
your fortunes at the midway point. Enjoy the flight home,
rest and recover and get ready for a big, big
second half of the season.
Speaker 2 (28:56):
My key to victory is going to be getting after
Trevor Lawrence. Like you mentioned, trying to keep him contained
last week against Seattle, sacks seven times and get this,
seventeen QB hits seventeen.
Speaker 1 (29:07):
Seventeen in one game. That's a lot.
Speaker 4 (29:10):
That's there's a big test for him, right, Like if
you've been peppered like that for a couple of weeks
now and you know the Rams are next, you know
how willing are you to live life in the pocket
this week? He's capable of.
Speaker 3 (29:21):
Just coming out fast. Yeah, this could be an op.
Speaker 2 (29:24):
And not to forget here Robert Hainsey, their center is
not making or he is making the trip to London,
and he missed last week with the hamstrings, so that's
a big one to watch in terms of the matchup.
Any final thoughts before he head off to London.
Speaker 5 (29:39):
Yeah, I just I'm going to count Maurice Jones drew
Jerseys over there and how many past twelve before we
get out of Heathrow.
Speaker 4 (29:47):
Yes, Happy birthday to Joey Hirsh.
Speaker 3 (29:50):
Happy birthday.
Speaker 1 (29:51):
Yes, there you go. He's in the room now. You
gotta love it. Happy birthday, Joey.
Speaker 4 (29:57):
No one's still watching that.
Speaker 1 (30:01):
I don't know.
Speaker 2 (30:01):
I kept it under I think like thirty five minutes,
so hopefully people are still hanging on. I hope you
all are able to wake up bright and early. Grab
your cup of coffee, because this one's kicking off at
six thirty am Pacific standards Earl Gray and join our
fellows of course on ESPNLA RAMS Radio for JB Long,
DeMarco Farr, I'm caer render one, thanks so much for
(30:23):
joining us on Between the Horns, presented by your Southern
California Toyota Dealer,
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Paper Ghosts: The Texas Teen Murders
Paper Ghosts: The Texas Teen Murders takes you back to 1983, when two teenagers were found murdered, execution-style, on a quiet Texas hill. What followed was decades of rumors, false leads, and a case that law enforcement could never seem to close. Now, veteran investigative journalist M. William Phelps reopens the file — uncovering new witnesses, hidden evidence, and a shocking web of deaths that may all be connected. Over nine gripping episodes, Paper Ghosts: The Texas Teen Murders unravels a story 42 years in the making… and asks the question: who’s really been hiding the truth?
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com