Key Storylines to Watch in Sunday’s Rams vs. Jaguars London Game

The Los Angeles Rams will face off against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London this Sunday. This game presents compelling storylines as both teams seek to establish dominance. Key factors include roster changes, individual performances, and defensive struggles.

Rams Look to Adapt Without Puka Nacua

Puka Nacua has emerged as a standout player for the Rams in his third year. He leads the NFL with 54 receptions and ranks second with 616 receiving yards. However, he will not participate in this matchup due to an ankle injury, significantly impacting the Rams’ offensive strategy.

Impact on Rams’ Passing Game

• Nacua accounts for 36.6% of the Rams’ passing offense.
• Matthew Stafford must find effective alternatives.
• Davante Adams has the potential to become the primary target.

Adams, who joined the Rams in March under a two-year contract, recently experienced a dip in performance. He recorded only 39 yards last week, but he could rebound against Jacksonville’s struggling pass defense, ranked 30th in the NFL.

Stafford and Adams: A Critical Duo

Despite being a key offensive player, Adams has faced challenges connecting with Stafford. Their completion rate stands at only 47.3% on targeted passes. Notably, Stafford has the highest number of incompletions, totaling 29, when throwing to Adams this season.

Jaguars Seek Defensive Improvement

Jacksonville has made recent changes to fortify its secondary. The team traded cornerback Tyson Campbell to Cleveland, bringing in Greg Newsome II. This shift aims to enhance their pass defense; however, the initial results have not been encouraging.

Recent Defensive Struggles

• In a recent game, Jacksonville allowed Sam Darnold to throw for 295 yards.
• Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba gained 162 yards and scored a touchdown against them.

Compounding their defensive challenges, standout linebacker Devin Lloyd will miss the London trip due to a calf injury. His absence may further weaken the Jaguars’ defense, allowing the Rams to exploit this situation.

Conclusion

The matchup between the Rams and Jaguars is expected to showcase pivotal storylines. Both teams will rely on their respective strategies to outmaneuver the other. For Los Angeles, adapting to Nacua’s absence will be crucial. For Jacksonville, strengthening their defense will be essential in containing the Rams’ offense. Football fans in London can expect an exciting clash this Sunday.