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With overwhelming authority, the panelists believe the Rams will rectify one of the most shocking losses of the entire NFL season.
The Panthers beat the Rams, 31-28, in Carolina in Week 13, sending the Rams to a 3-3 finish that cost them the NFC West title. And because the scriptwriters love a good story, the Rams must return to the same field as their penance.
“I can’t imagine the Panthers beating them again,” said an executive, who was granted anonymity so he could speak openly.
Four of the voters didn’t think it’d be particularly close.
But who exactly are these Rams? They raced out to a 9-2 record, including a 4-2 mark against teams that are currently in the playoff field. But they staggered down the stretch and are 0-2 against playoff teams since Thanksgiving.
There’s been a theme in the recent losses, as the Rams have given up an average of 184.7 rushing yards in their last three losses compared to 66.7 in their last three wins. The Panthers, who ranked 19th in rushing yards, had 164 yards on the ground in their win against the Rams.
That’s got to be the formula, first to slow the Rams’ tenacious pass rush. And second, Stafford’s an MVP candidate who paced the league’s top-ranked offense in points, total yards and passing yards. The 37-year-old led the league with 4,707 yards and a career-high 46 touchdowns. The Panthers’ run game must be an asset while trying to keep Stafford on the sideline.
“It’s easier said than done,” an executive said. “Way easier said than done.”
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