Actual Results: LOSS 20-13, 3rd in NFC West (7-8-1)
The Rams ended their season in disappointing fashion, but not quite as disappointing as one might imagine. Sure, the Rams lost to the Seahawks, but these Seahawks just dropped several bombs on previous teams, and have played relentlessly at home all season. To see the Rams play and inspired and tough football game (that was winnable, no less) is good to see and no doubt casts a bright light on the future of this football team.
Offensively, the Rams were inconsistent. They started off with strong drives but could not keep it going into the second half. Steven Jackson was efficient as ever, and Sam Bradford continued his shaky but improving play. The O-line was again magnificent, providing Bradford ample time to make several reads downfield. Also, kudos to Bradford for getting the ball off quickly this season as well as improvising on several plays with his legs.
Defensively the Rams were dominant, collecting 6 sacks in the game against a supposedly stable Seattle front five. Chris Long was an animal, and the pressure from the defense really rattled Seattle early. I still think the corners aren't giving the receivers enough press coverage, but as long as they do their job downfield, they can back off whenever they want. Once again the Rams were exposed on some big pass plays, but overall their coverage was sound.
Overall, the defense was rock-solid, but the offense was once again stagnant. Particularly disappointing was a three and out in which there were three very catchable balls. Either the receivers need to work on their catching or Bradford needs to work on his accuracy. Bradford frequently uses a lot of check down passes, so he will need to stretch the field more next season. With more points on the board, the Rams will finally be able to separate themselves in tight games.
LOOKING AHEAD: The Rams enter an offseason of optimism but also many questions. Guys like Jackson, Danny Amendola, and other key players will need their contracts renewed. Fortunately, the core of the defense is set with guys like Long, James Laurinaitis, and Janoris Jenkins ready to stick around for a few years. Now the work will focus on the offense. If the Rams can bring in some key free agents and draft picks while keeping some of the key players they have, this group may be able to finally get over the hump next year. Coaching stability is also a plus moving forward. Now they just need to develop into a team that can challenge some of the better teams in the league.
