The Los Angeles Rams will look to get back on track in Week 4 when they take on the Philadelphia Eagles in a matchup between two teams with legitimate postseason aspirations. After a disappointing loss to the Denver Broncos, the Rams enter Sunday’s game at 1-2 and need to find a way to turn things around before an early-season setback becomes a larger problem.
Philadelphia presents a difficult challenge on both sides of the football. The Eagles possess physicality and size to expose mistakes, making
execution particularly important for Los Angeles. The Rams will need to play with greater consistency for four quarters while limiting the costly errors that have contributed to their uneven start.
There are several areas that could ultimately determine whether Los Angeles leaves Philadelphia with a much-needed victory. If the Rams can execute in those critical moments, they should have an opportunity to make a statement against a preseason NFC playoff caliber team.
Offensive Key: Stay Committed to the Run Game
I was tempted to say that Sean McVay needs to run the ball 30+ times and that might be the right key when its all said and done. Either way, the best way for Sean McVay to solve Vic Fangio’s defense is by staying committed to the run game for all four quarters. All five of the Rams offensive linemen are better suited when the offensive line is able to work downhill against opposing defensive fronts. Kevin Dotson in particular has been significantly better with his run blocking (67.9 PFF grade) compared to his pass blocking (29.7).
Defensive Key: Slow Saquon Barkley
With the Philadelphia Eagles being without DeVonta Smith and Dallas Goedert, the Eagles offense will feature three skill players: Saquon Barkley, Dontayvion Wicks, and Makai Lemon. Barkley is clearly the more talented of the three. Expect the Eagles to feed Barkley as many touches as possible to limit Hurts from having to drop back all game long. While Jalen Hurts is a threat to run with his legs; slowing Barkley is the first key in the defense being able to get off the grass.
