As NFL playoffs loom, teams across the league are left trying to figure out what ingredients will make up a surefire winner. Of all the storylines, perhaps none is bigger than Sam Darnold. He does rank a mediocre 22nd among eligible starters RBSDM composite since—yes—Week 11. His performance will be closely watched as Robert Saleh’s defense prepares for a revenge match against his former 49ers team this weekend. Wherever it may be, the stakes are incredibly high, especially with the division rival Los Angeles Rams holding all the trappings of a championship contender.
The playoffs have been an important proving ground for teams to rectify their faults. The Rams and their high-flying offense and feisty defense have quickly become one of the more dangerous challengers to the throne. Head coach Sean McVay has the team on a mission. The Washington Commanders issued a powerful message earlier this season when they made headlines by firing a coach for serious, unforgivable transgressions. This decision just goes to show you how serious the Rams are taking their playoff hopes.
Darnold Under Pressure
Sam Darnold’s struggles over the past month have sent pundits and fans into panic mode. That puts him 22nd of all starters in the RBSDM composite since Week 11. His lack of consistency on the field may pose an issue for the Carolina Panthers moving forward. While Darnold’s ability to lead his team is undeniable, the mounting pressure he faces from opposing defenses will be a critical factor.
The good news is the rest of Seattle’s roster is promising enough to make up for a lack of playmaking from Darnold. Yet with postseason intensity a notch higher than ever before, the margin for throw’s an entire world away. Darnold will need to step up his game and utilize every opportunity to prove his worth on this big stage.
Beyond Darnold’s issues, Drake Maye will be under constant fire on the offensive line as well. Will Campbell’s return undoubtedly is the biggest boost of the team. Yet, Maye still has to face a myriad of defenses trying to change up looks to get him out of rhythm. The overlap of these three factors makes for a murky playoff path for both QBs.
Robert Saleh’s Defense
While chest-thumping might become more prevalent as the playoffs continue, Robert Saleh’s defense will be front-and-center this weekend. The team is notorious for their intimidation tactics. …piling the box to cheat against the Eagles’ run to make it more difficult right through their past commitment to top notch defensive greatness. Saleh’s unit will be in the spotlight, as they look to repeat their success containing high-powered offenses. They will create havoc by hurrying quarterbacks’ throws 9 times out of 10.
The Niners’ defense had a 22% pressure rate while operating under a four-man pass rush. That abysmal showing placed them 31st overall in the league. This number begs a lot of questions about their capacity to meaningfully pressure quarterbacks in the high-stakes, playoff-rematch shootouts. Saleh’s strategies will be put to the test as he seeks to improve his team’s performance in this high-stakes environment.
Milton Williams and Harold Landry, both accomplished one-on-one winners, will help create chaos and bolster Saleh’s defense-first defensive approach. Their ability to slip past O-lines can turn the tide of important games. With the playoffs on the horizon, all eyes will be on how effectively Saleh can orchestrate his defense against formidable opponents.
Championship Ingredients for the Rams
The Los Angeles Rams have made their imprint as one of the top contenders in this year’s playoffs. With that explosive cocktail of talent and experience, they have everything needed to catch fire and make a championship run. With offensive mastermind McVay at the helm, the Rams have built a versatile squad that can dominate on either side of the ball.
If anyone needed reminding, Matthew Stafford has been downright deadly facing a blitz this year. His pocket awareness, ability to dissect defenses & get the ball out quickly while under duress will be paramount moving forward through the playoffs. Stafford’s combination of experience and skill set makes him one of the toughest players for opposing defenses to try to shut down.
Undoubtedly, the Rams’ front seven has proven itself a dangerous unit capable of getting pressure on quarterbacks. Even more impressive, they rank seventh in the league at sacking them. This additional capacity makes them effective first-class defensive performers. It also puts more burden on opposing offenses, especially in key playoff situations when each down is precious.