​As expected, the Los Angeles Rams have officially designated veteran cornerback Aqib Talib from the injury reserve list. Talib sustained an injury to his ankle after being rolled up on by San Diego Chargers wide receiver Tyrell Williams while being tackled by Rams linebacker Ramik Wilson. 

Talib's initial diagnosis was thought to be a strain, as the Rams medical staff were optimistic that it was not anything further serious. Talib sought for a second opinion with his injured ankle, and that second opinion required he undergo surgery to repair his ankle.

Talib returns to the Rams after their bye week, and begin to practice. The coaches thus far have been impressed with his work already. Getting Talib back now provides the Rams for once their full starting defense from week one. The Rams pass defense has been torched since week four and is in desperate need for their pro-bowl corner.

Talib is optimistic that he has done enough in practice thus far to declared active next Sunday against the Detroit Lions at Ford Stadium. The Lions star receiver Marvin Jones placed on the IR today, can ease the Rams defense a bit, but Kenny Golladay can cause an issue by himself.

The Rams getting Talib back is a blessing in disguise as a victory against the Lions and the Rams will clinch the NFC West title for the second consecutive season. Talib has missed the last eight games and could be no prouder in a victory in his return to clinch the division. 

​The Los Angeles Rams will have to wait until next Sunday to try and clinch the NFC West for the second consecutive season under their young head coach Sean McVay. Last week, they pinned their hopes on the Green Bay Packers of defeating the Seattle Seahawks. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers seemed to have picked the wrong evening to play one of his worst games of the season. The Seahawks escaped the game with the fourth down stance to secure a 27-24 victory.

Today, the deck was stacked again for the Rams as they pinned those hopes on the Carolina Panthers to defeat the Seahawks. A Panther victory at home wouldn't come easy as they scrapped to remain perfect at home on the season. The Panthers fought a hard battle too but loses to the Seahawks by a score of 30-27. 

With about a 1:46 left in the game, kicker Graham Cano misses a 48-yard field goal that would have given the Panthers the game. The Seahawks took over on downs after two near sacks, Wilson does it again by eluding the pressure and launching a deep pass down the field to a wide-open Tyler Lockett. Veteran kicker Sebastian Janikowski would nail the 31-yard field goal to beat the Panthers at Bank of America Stadium.

​​​Last week, the Rams pinned their hopes on the Green Bay Packers to defeat the Seattle Seahawks. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers seemed to have picked the wrong evening to play one of his worst games of the season. The Seahawks escaped the game with the fourth down stance to secure a 27-24 victory.

The Rams will travel on the road next Sunday to play the Detroit Lions at Ford Field a place that has not been too friendly for the team last few outings. However, this is a different Rams team than those last few and will go in there playing hard. They will remain optimistic somehow that the San Francisco 49ers can find a way to upset the Seahawks. That will not be an easy task, however, "Any Given Sunday" can strike at any time.

​Before the 2017 NFL Draft, no one heard of Gerald Everett or even better yet of South Alabama. However, as the draft analyst continued to show Everett's highlight film, the more enlightened you were of his skill level.
 
He played for a Division I-FBS program, that where his speed and athleticism was primal for his position that would translate well to the NFL. The 6'3" 245lbs Everett climbed up the draft board after his excellent performance at the 2017 NFL Combine. Without having a first-round draft selection, the Los Angeles Rams used their first selection of the second round on Everett. 

Everett's transition into the NFL had slightly been slowed down with injuries, a thigh injury his rookie season, and a shoulder he suffered during this pre-season this season. With only three reception in his first three games, many wondered if he was playing hurt, or being counterproductive. As it turned out, the tight ends were almost inexistence in the Rams offense. They were targeted the least by the quarterback during that first quad-season schedule. 

Everett became much more involved in the Rams offense against the Seattle Seahawks, that produced his first touchdown of the season. The young Everett now started to look like that weapon he once was expected to become. While playing at South Alabama, he was shredding up the competition for the Jaguars offense.

Last Monday night at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Everett's talent carried right over into the epic battle that the Rams had facing the Kansas City Chiefs. On this night, Everett was electric while having his first multi-touchdown catches in his young playing career. 

​Everett caught to fourth-quarter touchdowns from Jared Goff of seven and 40 yards. However, none were far better than the second of his touchdowns a spectacular 40-yard catch that he tiptoed up the sideline to stay in bounds (see photos below).

Everett's second touchdown would turn out to become the game-winner for the Rams as they defeated the Chiefs 54-51 before a crowd over 77,000 loud fans. Everett was the hero on this night, as he sprinted right past Chief's safety Daniel Sorenson, to haul in the pass from Goff. 

Everett has peaked at the right point of the season, as defensive coordinators try to develop schemes designed to stop Todd Gurley, Robert Woods, and Brandin Cooks. With an injury to receiver Cooper Kupp and the productivity of Josh Reynolds, they now need to remain honest with coverages as Everett can now factor into their problems.

Have to say, the remaining five games favor the Rams with an easy schedule. However, they have to go to Ford Field and Soldier field to beat the Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears. They'll come home to play a Philadelphia Eagles who's been disappointing this season but can't take them lightly. On to Arizona to face the Cardinals and to meet the season finally against the San Franciso 49ers.

Both the Lions and Bears defenses have defenses that can create pressure and have impact pass rushers. These two critical games can be great for Everett as he'll be able to expose the aggressiveness of these defenses with his flexibility, athleticism and the ability to stretch the field. 

We like to see Everett's final statistics as he already has a career high in receptions and touchdowns. He needs 34 yards to surpass his total from his rookie season, as that will an available number to reach. Congratulations once again to the young Gerald Everett as he will become a star in this league for years to come.

​Next Sunday, when the Los Angeles Rams steps on the field with the Detroit Lions at Ford Field, they will have two receivers attempting to accomplish a mark that hasn't happened since the 2006 season. The mark is something that lasts achieved by Torry Holt 93 receptions for 1,198 yards and Isaac Bruce 74 reception for 1,098 yards.

In just 11 games into the 2018 NFL season, Brandin Cooks lacks 36 yards, and Robert Woods needs 96 yards to achieve the accomplishment. Cooks with 59 receptions for 964 yards and Woods with 59 reception for 904 yards are providing Jared Goff with targets. Despite losing receiver Cooper Kupp to two games for a bad knee and a season-ending injury, Kupp was on a pace to surpass the 1,000 mark as well.

Strangely enough, as it may sound with three receivers accomplishing 1,000 yards, it took tens years for a Rams receiver to surpass 1,000 yards. Kenny Britt accomplished it in 2016 with 1,002 receiving yards, and Brandon Lloyd in 2011 came close with 966 yards receiving.

Head Coach Sean McVay has this Rams offense looking very intimidating and don't be surprised with four players at one point accomplishing the mark. That is correct four, when adding the play catching ability of Todd Gurley and Cooks, Kupp, and Woods remain healthy, it may just happen.

The Rams will see a Lions defense that is very aggressive in the defensive backfield and a pass rush led by Ziggy Ansah.  The Lions are coming off a lost to the Chicago Bears at Ford Field on Thanksgiving Day will look to knock off the Rams. The last time these two teams played, quarterback Matthew Stafford engineered a comeback late in the fourth quarter to beat the Rams 31-28.

To be clear, this is not a Jeff Fisher coached team nor 2016; the Rams will come to play to beat the Lions hopefully clinch the NFC West Division if Seattle Seahawks should win on Sunday. ​

​The Los Angeles Rams defeated the Kansas City Chiefs by a score of 54-51 this past Monday night at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Playing before a crowd over 77,000 fans, they would witness two explosive offenses combined to score 105 points, over 1000 yards of offense; nearly 900 combined passing yards and 14 touchdowns. 

However, despite all those statistics, one statistic seemed to be missing from it all, zero touchdowns from Todd Gurley. Gurley had entered the game with a 13 game scoring streak at least one touchdown. A Rams record he would set last week; however, that streak ended on Monday night. 

Early in the first quarter, Gurley injured his ankle against the Chiefs. While there was no report of the injury, the Rams managed to keep the injury undisclosed. As it appeared they would use Gurley as a decoy, the offense did not lose a beat, as they were still able to put up 42 points on the scoreboard. Gurley did have one long run of 27 yards and eclipsed the 1,000 mark of rushing for the second consecutive season.

Going into a well-deserved bye week, the Rams have players who are in desire need for the rest. The team plagued with injuries, early in the season lost Aqib Talib and Pharoh Cooper to ankle injuries. The two players injury required surgery and placed on the IR. Cooper was designated from the IR this week and played against the Chiefs. 

However, Talib more than likely will be designated from the IR next week, as he will be eligible to return. Talib's return becomes an impact for the Rams defense as their defensive backfield has struggled in his absence. Talib is set to return when the Rams play against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. 

The team also lost wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Mike Thomas to season-ending injuries. Thomas injured his groin in week one, and Kupp tore his ACL against the Seattle Seahawks in week nine. Kupp's injury was a devastating blow to the offense as he killed defenses. However, Josh Reynolds has stepped up in his absence and is filling some big shoes.

Quarterback Jared Goff is having another career years with over 3,500 passing yards and 26 touchdowns and six interceptions. He threw for a little more than 36 touchdowns, 28 touchdowns, and seven interceptions last season. He is on a pace to throw over 5,000 yards 35 touchdowns and has one less interception he had all of last season. 

Goff has thrown four of his six interceptions in the red zone, a problem he has used poo*r decision making. Forcing passes into double coverage or rolling out and throwing passes that are at a disadvantage for receivers to catch. As spectators, have to love the aggressiveness from Goff but also he needs to learn to protect the ball.

Goff trails perhaps the MVP of the league right now Patrick Mahomes by only 84 passing yards, but Mahomes has 11 more passing touchdowns. Goff led the Rams down the field with a game-winning touchdown to hold off the Chiefs to better the team record to a 10-1 record.

The improvement of the team's offense is the latest addition of throwing the ball to the tight ends. Tyler Higbee and Gerald Everett have elevated their games the last couple of games. The first time since 2013, the Rams tight ends both caught touchdown passes against the Seattle Seahawks. The tandem now makes defensive coordinators have to game plan for them now this late in the season.

However, the emergence of Everett, he hauled in two down against the Chiefs, none was far better than the 40-yard touchdown reception from Goff with 1:47 left in the game. After gathering in the past, he had enough presence in mind to tightrope the sideline to get in the end zone. Everett is starting to become that threat down the field as he was drafted to become selected in the second round last season.

After the Rams play the Lions, they will travel back to play the Chicago Bears the next following week at Soldier Field. The Bears defense will provide some problems for the Rams offense as they have to be concerned with the 2016 NFL Defensive Player of the Year. 

Yes, the once Oakland Raider Khalil Mack who was traded to the Bears this pre-season and signed a record contract. The Raiders chose to trade Mack instead of paying him for draft picks. The league has flexed that game to Sunday evening where America will see the two teams best defensive players in Mack and Aaron Donald. It will be one of the evening's no one wants to miss watching.

The Los Angeles Rams 2017 NFC Offensive Player of the Year starting running back Todd Gurley, becomes the first running back to rush over 1,000 yards this 2018 NFL season. The NFL leading rusher finished the game with 12 carries for 55 yards giving him 1,043 rushing yards for the season. He leads Dallas Cowboys Ezekiel Elliot by 90 yards as Elliot plays Thursday against the Washington Redskins. Gurley started the game needing only 12 yards to eclipse the mark, would accomplish that on his fourth carry early in the second quarter.

For the first time all season, Gurley failed to get in the end zone Monday night, as information surfaced after the game that he tweaked his ankle early in the first quarter. Gurley ended a touchdown streak of 14-straight games spanning back to last season. Gurley would comment that he was more concerned with the team getting the win over the Kansas City Chiefs. 

In a game that featured two explosive offenses that combined to score 105 points,1000 yards of offense; nearly 900 combined passing yards and 14 touchdowns, it is still unbelievable that Gurley did not score in that game. Head Coach Sean McVay made a statement that Gurley tweaked his ankle, and it could not have come at a better time while going into a bye week. 

The Rams play next against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field, as Gurley will be just fine by the time they meet. The last time these two teams met, the Rams had their way with the Lions early in the first quarter, and then the wheels fell off the bus. 

The Lions rallied late to defeat the Rams 31-28, as the Rams offense seemed to fold in the second half. The Lions held Gurley to only 54 rushing yards and 39 receiving yards, and no touchdowns. However, this is a Rams team that has a more prolific play caller in Head Coach Sean McVay, who will know how to use Gurley efficiently.

​​For the sixth time this season, a Los Angeles Rams player received an award of the NFC Player of the Week. Last month, Aaron Donald a previous Ram player named as the NFC Defensive Player of the Week.

However, it mostly looked as if he was well on his way to be selected again after sacking twice the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes Jr. on Monday night. In addition to the Donald sacks, he also caused two forced fumbles of those sacks that lead to Rams points. As it turned out, Donald became overshadowed by an unheralded player on the defensive side.
 
​​Second-year linebacker Samson Ebukam named NFC Defensive Player of the Week with his great play against the Chiefs. Just before the first half ended, Ebukam scooped up a fumble caused by the sack of Donald and ran it for a touchdown. In the second half, Mahomes attempted to throw a screen pass to running back Kareem Hunt, but Ebukam read the play, raised his right arm, deflected the pass and caught and rumbled into the end zone for his second touchdown of the night.

The second-year player from Eastern Washington University took over the starting role after the Rams shipped out Robert Quinn and Alec Ogletree. Samson finished the night with three tackles (two solos), one sack; one deflected a pass, one interception, two quarterback hits, and two touchdowns. Chiefs player Allen Bailey also named as NFC Player of the week a few weeks ago by scoring twice by way of interception and fumble recovery.

The Rams went on to beat the Chiefs, as Ebukam came close to sacking Mahomes in the last two plays of the game. Rams won the game 54-51 in the highest scoring game on Monday Football that produced two offensive explosions. The teams combined to pass over 900 yards, scored 105 points, and 14 total touchdowns. The Rams will be idled this week as they rest on their most needed bye week.

​The Los Angeles Rams have activated the 2017 NFC Special Team Player of the Year Pharoh Cooper to the roster. Cooper who suffered a ankle injury in the Los Angeles Rams week one game against the Oakland Raiders at the Oakland Coliseum. Cooper's injury was so significant that it required surgery because of some structural damage.

Cooper timing of being designated back to the roster couldn't come at a far better time as the Rams lost starting receiver Cooper Kupp to a season-ending knee injury. Kupp would tear his ACL on the same knee he injured a few weeks back on a non-contact play. Cooper will come up, and more than likely fulfill Josh Reynolds spot as he slated to start in Kupp's absence.

In a corresponding move, the Rams officially placed Kupp on the IR, after having successful surgery to his knee. Cooper will return to his kick return duties. However, Coach Sean McVay stated that JoJo Natson would remain returning punts. 

The Rams will look to have a significant impact in their special teams tonight as they host the (9-1) Kansas City Chiefs at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The game will feature to explosive offenses on the field, where if you possibly blink, you’ll miss an exciting play. Rams will enjoy a win tonight after going into their bye week after the game.to edit.

​​Aaron Donald, 2017 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, and who signed a six-year $136M extension, will have to fork out a bit of pocket change to the league. 
    
The league fined the fifth-year defensive tackle of the Los Angeles Rams $23,395 for player conduct penalties he received against the Seattle Seahawks last week. 
    
Donald recovered a potential sack fumble by Dante Fowler on Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson and ran up the sideline with the return. Donald ended up out of bounds where at once, Seahawks starting center Justin Britt, blatantly hit Donald from behind knocking him to the ground. Donald then quickly ran to Britt as a scuffle ensued between the two players as head coach Sean McVay dashed over his player to help calm him down.  
    
At the conclusion of the game as the players were shaking hands, Donald could be seen removing his shoulder pads and jersey, then replacing his helmet on his head, and running back out toward the middle of the field. Donald then spotted Britt and approached him with a few choice words, and Donald then would be seen locking up with Britt. Tempers flared once again as the players were separated and Donald escorted toward the visitor's locker room.
    
The actions by Britt wasn’t the first time he’s hit a Rams player late after a whistle. In the Rams week five matchup against the Seahawks, video replay showed Britt hitting Nikel Robey-Coleman late after a play in Seattle. Besides the point, Donald had to inform the 6’6” 315lb. The lineman that bullying madness didn’t work with him at all.
    
The fines imposed against Donald were his first scuffle with Britt was for $10,026, and his post-game antics fined an additional amount of $13,369. The league also imposed a fine against Britt for $20,034 and recently acquired Rams linebacker Dante Fowler was fined $10,054 for the facemask penalty on Wilson. Ndamukong Suh reportedly was fined $20,054 for a late hit on he delivered on Wilson.

Overview:

This game could well be the best matchup of the 2018 NFL regular, besides being a potential Super Bowl preview. It also features two teams with explosive offenses and what have been mediocre defenses. While it isn't a "must win" for either side, it isn't a meaningless game either. Kansas City has the 7-2 Chargers breathing down their necks in the AFC West, and the Chargers are likely to beat the Broncos on Sunday, so a Chiefs loss could leave them with only a half-game lead, and tied in the loss column. The Rams, meanwhile, for all intents and purposes have a lock on the NFC West, win or lose. However, the New Orleans Saints currently hold the tiebreaker for the top seed and home-field advantage in the NFC playoffs. The Rams would like to win out and hope New Orleans loses at least one game to avoid a possible trip to New Orleans in the post-season. Aside from all of that, if you like high-scoring exciting games--you should enjoy this one.

Rams Defense vs. Chiefs Offense
Despite all of the wailing and gnashing of teeth among many Rams fans about the play of the team's defense this season, statistically, they haven't been all THAT bad. They are 13th in yards per game and 12th in points allowed per game (I discount the total yards/points stats for the season because some teams have only played nine games, and the Rams have played ten). That's not great, but it's not as bad as some people would have you believe, either.

The problem is that they are facing an absolute juggernaut of an offense. The Chiefs lead the NFL in scoring with an eye-popping 35.3 points per game. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes has already thrown for a team-record 30 touchdowns this season, and at times has looked super-human. The receiving corps boasts probably the fastest player in the NFL in wide-receiver Tyreek Hill, and arguably the games best tight end in Travis Kelce. 2017 NFL rushing champion Kareem Hunt is no slouch at running back either, and if the Rams give up anything remotely close to the 273 yards rushing they surrendered to the Seahawks last week, they are virtually guaranteed to lose this game.

The Chiefs do have a couple of injury concerns though. Wide receiver and ex-Ram Sammy Watkins has been battling a foot injury that kept him out of last week's game and out of practice on Friday. I guess that he will play, but that's just a guess, and whether he is at full speed could be another question. Chiefs center Mitch Morse also missed practice on Friday with a concussion. You always hate to lose your center, especially when you are facing a defensive front as talented as that of the Rams. The Chief's injury report also had Mahomes listed with a foot injury, although he did practice Friday. Nobody expects him to miss this game, but if the injured foot affects his mechanics or limits his mobility, it could be a big deal. I don't think that will happen.

The lowly Cardinals did limit the Chiefs to a season-low 26 points last week, sacking Mahomes five time in a 26-14 Chiefs win. Mahomes said earlier this week that he needs to get the ball out more quickly against the Rams. He'd better do that because Rams defensive lineman Aaron Donald leads the NFL with 12.5 sacks and has been on an absolute tear. Rams linebacker Dante Fowler forced a key Russel Wilson fumble last week, making up for a boneheaded personal foul earlier in the game. The Rams had an uncharacteristic five such penalties last week. They can't do that against the Chiefs, or this game could get very ugly. The Rams secondary, sadly, is still without cornerback Aquib Talib against the high-flying Chiefs passing attack. Fellow corner (and ex-Chief) Marcus Peters has had a frustrating season, although he was better last week against Seattle. He needs to step up in this game, as does the rest of the Rams secondary.

Edge: Chiefs

Rams Offense vs. Chiefs Defense
The Rams lost wide receiver Cooper Kupp for the season last week with a torn ACL, and that could be a significant loss, especially in a game like this one. With the injury, Robert Woods will likely move to the slot, and Josh Reynolds will step in as the third wide receiver (the Rams use three wideouts about 93 percent of the time). Reynolds is not all that fast by NFL standards (4.52 40 at the NFL combine a couple of years ago), but he is 6'3 and adds a size dimension to the Rams offense that they don't otherwise have. He caught a couple of touchdowns while filling in for Kupp earlier this season, and he will be counted on to take up some of the slack with Kupp out. The Rams also have been using tight ends Gerald Everett and Tyler Higbee more the last couple of weeks, with each catching a touchdown pass against Seattle. McVay used his tight ends a lot when he was the Redskins offensive coordinator, something he mostly hasn't done with the Rams. The Chiefs defense has had issues covering tight ends this season so that we could see more of Everett and Higbee on Monday. Wide receiver Pharoh Cooper was activated by the Rams this week, and could also see some snaps, especially in the slot.

Of course, you can't talk about the Rams offense without mentioning MVP candidate Todd Gurley, who is pretty clearly the best running back in the NFL right now. When Kupp missed a couple of games earlier this season, Gurley's average touches went from 23 per game to 30, and he is a massive part of the Rams offense, both running and receiving. One thing the Chiefs do well on defense is pressure the quarterback, especially with linebacker Dee Ford and defensive tackle Chris Jones. The Rams need Gurley to run effectively to force the Chiefs to play the run and to set up the play-action pass. The Chiefs defense is ranked 29th in yards allowed, although they are somewhat better in points allowed at 16th. If the Rams can run the ball and protect Jared Goff, they should be able to score points in this game. 
​
Edge: Rams

Special Teams
The Rams activated pro-bowl kick returner Pharoh Cooper this week, although it's not known yet how much action he will see on Monday night. Punt returner JoJo Natson and kick returner Blake Countess have filled in admirably in his absence. The Chiefs special teams are very good, with punter Dustin Colquitt, placekicker Harrison Butker (nicknamed "Butt Kicker") and return man Tyreek Hill all top performers. The Rams, of course, are always among the top special team's units as well. Two things they do well that could factor into this game include the fake punt with former high school quarterback Johnny Hekker throwing the ball, and blocking punts, which is a Corey Littleton specialty. For all of the talk about the great offenses in this game, it also matches excellent special teams units.

Edge: even

Prediction

Oddsmakers are favoring the Rams by about 3 points, which is roughly home field advantage. Most people are predicting a shootout, and I would have to agree. If either defense can log just a few big plays--sacks, turnovers, or forcing the opposing offense to go three and out--it could swing the game. Special teams could also be critical, and the Rams, in particular, can't afford the kind of stupid penalties we saw last week against Seattle.

Rams 41
Chiefs 38
​

​In the 2017 NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Rams entered that draft without a first-round pick. Just before the 2016 NFL Draft, they traded away that draft pick to the Tennessee Titans as they selected quarterback Jared Goff number one overall. New head coach Sean McVay started his first NFL draft with a third-round pick. The Rams were on the clock and out comes the selection, "With the 44th pick of the 2017 NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Rams selects, Gerald Everett, tight-end, South Alabama." 

After the announcement of the selection, everyone were practically saying, “who!” However, the new young McVay and General Manager Les Snead were excited about the choice. Many of the Ram fans never heard of Everett or better yet of South Alabama. However, as the draft analyst continued to show his highlight film, some seemed to quiet the doubts. Despite playing for a Division I-FBS program, his speed for his position would translate well to the NFL.

Everett's NFL day-view, he caught his first reception from Jared Goff for 39 yards against the Indianapolis Colts at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The next game against the Washington Redskins, he caught three passes for 95 yards but sustained an injury to his thigh. Everett would be slowed down by his injury but scored his first NFL touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Everett finished his rookie season with 16 receptions for 244 yards and two touchdowns.

In his second season, Everett had been slowed down with a shoulder injury that he suffered during the pre-season. Only with three reception in his first three games, many wondered was he playing hurt, or was he not being productive. As it turned out, the tight ends were almost inexistence in the Rams offense. They were targeted the least by the quarterback during that first quad-season schedule. 

In week five against the Seattle Seahawks, Everett caught three passes for 24-yards as his targets were increased to his direction. In a game against the Green Bay Packers, he only had one reception for 22 yards. Everett caught a pass on a third down and long, broke a couple of tackles to sprint down the sideline for a first down. However, nullified by a holding penalty, the play was brought. However, you definitely could see the elusiveness and speed of Everett, is why McVay drafted him so high.

In the week to follow, the Rams faced off against the New Orleans Saints, as Everett's target increased while catching three passes for 48 yards. No pass was far spectacular than the two-point conversion he hauled in to tie up the game. Everett caught the quick pass from Goff and dove across the goal line. The Rams resiliency allowed them to battle back from a 21 point deficit in the second half. The Rams would go on to lose the game late to the Saints 45-35.

​Last week game against the Seahawks, Everett caught his first touchdown of the season. However, his fellowed tightend Tyler Higbee would also grab a score in that same game. That marked the first time since the 2013 season as Lance Kendricks and Corey Harkey both accomplished the fate. 

McVay game plan as of late seemed to have the tight ends active the last couple of weeks. Both Everett and Higbee have been looked at by Goff and has made the defenses to start paying attention. Everett currently have one less reception this season with 15 than he had last season. He also only has 161 yards receiving with one touchdown. 

However, look for those numbers to increase these last several games. Rams will look to finish these last six games on a surge and will keep the defenses honest. The young Everett is looking like that weapon he once was when he was shredding up the competition while playing at South Alabama. The Jordan Reed comparison talks will once again start to surface if he finishes with strong numbers.

​The Los Angeles Rams have designated their 2017 NFC Special Team Player of the year and receiver Pharoh Cooper for the injured reserve. Cooper who suffered a knee injury in the Los Angeles Rams week one game against the Oakland Raiders at the Oakland Coliseum. Cooper's injury was so significant that it required surgery because of some structural damage.

Cooper timing of being designated back to the roster couldn't come at a far better time as the Rams lost starting receiver Cooper Kupp to a season-ending knee injury. Kupp would tear his ACL on the same knee he injured a few weeks back on a non-contact play. Cooper will come up, and more than likely fulfill Josh Reynolds spot as he slated to start in Kupp's absence.

In Thursday media session, head coach Sean McVay spoke on how hard Cooper been working to get back. They are very optimistic from his recovery and hope that he will be subtle enough to be active on Monday night as the Rams are set to host the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday Night Football. This game will feature a game with two teams that share similar features, a 9-1 record, two league-leading quarterbacks, two dual talented running backs, and two explosives offenses.

Cooper's return generally means that the Rams have a decision to make on JoJo Natson who was very electric in Cooper's absent and recently signed receiver Nick Williams who's familiar with the Rams offense. Natson who was so electric for the Rams in the beginning until a broken hand sidelined him for one game. Williams managed to make a couple of receptions while active, but he's been inactive the last two games. Nonetheless, the Rams will have to make a tough decision on which of the two players are worth keeping.

The Rams remain with one player left to designate from the I.R. list, as receiver Mike Thomas was placed on the I.R. week one as well. Besides the Rams have cornerback Aqib Talib, who suffered an ankle injury in week three. Talib is on track to return after the Rams bye next week, making eligible to play against the Detroit Lions. Consider the lack of pass coverage lately; the Rams will designate Talib over Thomas who will be the loss for the season.

The Rams playing on Monday Night Football at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will be the first time since the 1979 season. The game was initially set to play in Mexico City, at the Estadio Azteca. Before the games, the stadium promoters risked a gamble by scheduling a soccer match and a concert before the Monday matchup. The cleanup left the field in terrible shape as ground crews tried their best to repair the damaged playing field. 

In the photos above, you can see the field prior to the soccer and concert, and the aftermath of the conclusion. However, they couldn't get the field to meet the NFL standards, as players from both teams decided to boycott if the game if not relocated. It turned out to be a devastating blow to Mexico City as many vendors, and employment lost. However, the player's safety meant more than the potential monetary gain as the league ruled to relocate the game back to Los Angeles.  ​

​The Los Angeles Rams received information today that receiver Cooper Kupp will be out for the remainder of the season. The team wasn't optimistic about the news as they feared the worst with Kupp's injured knee. An MRI performed on Kupp this morning have confirmed that Kupp has a tear to his ACL.

Early in the fourth quarter, Kupp went down while running a route sustaining a the non-contact injury as he was planting his feet. Kupp immediately clutched his left knee, the very same knee that he injured against the Denver Broncos. Kupp received a horse collard style tackle by Bronco's safety Darian Stewart which caused him to miss two games. Kupp was able to get up and limp off the field but did require some help to ease the pressure while walking.

Kupp missed the games against the San Francisco 49ers and Green Bay Packers but returned against the New Orleans Saints scored a 41-yard  touchdown midway in the fourth quarter to bring the Rams within two points. Kupp's loss becomes devastation to the Rams offense as he became Jared Goff's favorite target. Kupp season ends with 40 receptions for 566 yards and six touchdowns. 

The Rams will now rally behind Kupp's injury with second-year receiver Josh Reynolds becoming the next man up. In Kupp's absence, Reynolds has played well in games against the Seattle Seahawks week five, and non far better than catching two touchdowns against the Packers. Rams added Nick Williams a few weeks ago when Kupp was first injured and many are waiting to watch rookie KhaDarel Hodge see some action.

Coach Sean McVay announced at the Rams press conference that Kupp would undergo surgery sometime this week to repair his damaged knee. They like to get a head start and try and get him going by the OTA's next spring.

​Overview:

First of all, the Rams should win this game. They are the better team, they are playing at home, and they are relatively injury free. There is also an old betting adage (presented here for entertainment purposes only, of course) that you should never go against a good team coming off a bad game. There are reasons to be concerned about this game. First and foremost is the fact that division games are always tough. Throw in the fact that Seattle almost won the first meeting between these two teams and the fact that the Rams practice schedule was disrupted on Friday by nearby forest fires, and you can't take this game for granted if you are a Rams fan.

The oddsmakers are picking the Rams to win by 10 in this game. Not everyone agrees with that, of course. NFL Hall of Fame running back Terrell Davis (for one) on Friday on ''NFL Game Day Pick Em" tabbed this game as a potential upset

Rams Defense vs. Seattle Offense

The Seahawks in recent weeks have returned to their ''ground and pound" offensive identity and can be expected feature a heavy dose of the running game again on Sunday. In the first meeting between these two teams in Seattle, the Seahawks racked up 190 rushing in a near-upset of the Rams, and their chances of winning Sunday probably hinge on their ability to run the ball and control the clock. The bad news for Seattle is that running back Chris Carson, who rushed for over 100 yards against the Rams in Seattle earlier this season, missed practice this week and whether he will play is being called a game-time decision at this point. Guard D.J. Fluker is also injured and may not play on Sunday.

Then again, Fluker might be safer on the sidelines after implying the Rams defensive line seemed overrated in an interview after the first game and adding he and the rest of the Seattle O-line ''weren't scared" of the Rams. Rams all-world defensive lineman Aaron Donald responded by saying he would let his play do the talking. The last thing Seattle quarterback Russell Wilson needs to see is the NFL's best defensive player even more fired up than usual. However, he may have gotten exactly that, courtesy of D.J. Fluker.

That's called ''poking the bear," and it isn't brilliant on Fluker's part.

While I think the success or lack thereof of the Seattle running game may determine this game, I would expect the Seahawks to take a few shots  in the direction of Rams corner Marcus Peters, who has been suffering through a tough season and was frankly embarrassed last week by Saints wideout Micheal Thomas in a 45-35 loss to New Orleans. It looks like the Seahawks will have both starting receivers, Doug Baldwin and Tyler Lockett on the field Sunday, and there probably isn't a better quarterback than Russell Wilson when it comes to extending plays with his feet. Peters and fellow Rams corner Troy Hill have to play better than they did last week. The good news for the Rams is that they aren't facing the high octane Saints passing offense this week. The bad news is that the Rams defense is being described in the sports media with adjectives like "wobbly" and ''overrated," and they need to step up if the Rams are serious about a 2018 Super Bowl run. I think they will take this week.

Edge: Rams

Rams Offense vs. Seahawks Defense

Lost in all of the criticism of the Los Angeles defense concerning the Saints game was the fact the Rams offense played very well and did so with somewhat less production from MVP candidate Todd Gurley than we have usually seen. Not that Gurley was terrible--he still totaled 79 yards from scrimmage--but it wasn't a typical 2018 Todd Gurley performance. Quarterback Jared Goff and the Rams receivers, meanwhile, racked up almost 400 yards, coming back from a three-touchdown deficit to tie things up at 35-35 before eventually losing. While Goff did throw a critical interception just before halftime, he was otherwise brilliant, throwing for three touchdowns and having one of his better games statistically. He did a great job of spreading the ball around, with Brandin Cooks, Cooper Kupp, Robert Woods and even tight ends Gerald Everett and Tyler Higbee contributing with critical receptions.

Having said all of that, I expect to see a more typical Todd Gurley game this week. Seattle rushing defense is 21st in the league, and while anything is possible, I don't think the Rams offense will be forced to go into passing mode because of a three-touchdown deficit. One of the marquee matchups of this game will be Gurley against Seattle linebackers Bobby Wagner and K.J. Wright. As good as Wagner and Wright are, I expect a big game from Todd Gurley. 

Edge: Rams

Special Teams

The Seattle special teams are pretty good, and while I think the Rams still have the edge here, the difference is not as enormous in favor of Los Angeles as we see most weeks. Placekicker Sebastian Janikowski still has a big leg, and while I think the Rams Johnny Hekker is the best punter on the planet, the Seahawks Micheal Dickson is not far behind. Thrown in Seattle return man Tyler Lockett, and what you have in this game is a matchup of elite special teams units. Will Rams linebacker and special teams ace Corey Littleton block another punt? He has two already this season.

You don't hear enough about special teams, but they decide many games. They could determine this one if the game is close.

Edge: Rams (but not by a lot)
 
Prediction:

The Rams are the better team even if both were healthy, and Seattle comes into this game with injury concerns. These division games are never easy, and I expect a tight, physical contest. If the Rams come out flat or play a sloppy game, they could certainly lose. I don't think they will.

Rams 31
Seahawks 24

​​The Los Angeles Rams have released EDGE Rusher Ja'Von Rolland-Jones from their practice squad to add the rookie linebacker, Trevon Young.  The Rams added Rolland-Jones earlier last month after releasing DE Marcus Martin and LB Carlos Thompson from the IR list opening up an additional roster spot.

Rolland-Jones went undrafted from the 2018 NFL Draft but signed with the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent. He would not survive the cuts and been waiting for a call to resume his career.

The former 2016 and 2017 Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year, was a four-year starter at Arkansas State. His senior season along, he recorded 56 tackles (19 tackles for loss), 13 sacks, and three forced fumbles. His junior season his numbers were just about identical with adding two extra tackles for losses and added one more tackle than his senior year.

The six foot two and 253-pound Rolland-Jones have been considered undersized but is a very disruptive pass rusher. He has excellent strength and is built to play in a 3-4 scheme as a standup or down in a stance effectively. 

Rams also activated rookie EDGE rusher Ogbonnia Okoronkwo from the PUP list on Monday, and indeed, the Rams are happy to see him active to play finally. 

​The Los Angeles Rams have released OT Rick Leonard from their practice squad. Leonard, drafted in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints, didn't make the final cuts of the 53-man roster. He would be released and signed to the Saints practice squad who released him last month. 

Leonard is a 6-foot-7, 311-pound lineman that played collegiately at Florida State University. Originally recruited as a defensive end, later converted to offensive tackle at Florida State. An athletic lineman that's very strong, but a project to play at a higher level.  

Leonard release comes as the Rams needed room to add OL J.J. Dielman to the practice squad.

​The Los Angeles Rams have resigned Trevon Young their sixth-round selection of the 2018 NFL Draft to their practice squad. Young who was active against the San Francisco 49ers, recovered his first NFL fumble by quarterback C.J. Beathard. 

The rookie linebacker from Louisville originally was of the finalist of the Rams 53-man roster. However, he was only active in two games this season after being inactive against the New Orleans Saints. Rams added Donte' Fowler last week and Young became a victim of the numbers game. The Rams activated rookie linebacker Ogbonnia Okoronkwo from the PUP list, and released Young to open a roster spot.

Don't expect to see Young on the practice squad too long, after some game film potentially can be signed by another team from the Rams practice squad. 

In corresponding moves, the Rams terminated contracts of OT Rick Leonard and DE Ja'Von Rolland-Jones from the practice squad.

​The Los Angeles Rams have resigned J.J. Dielman, the cousin of the four-time Pro-Bowl guard of the San Diego Chargers to their practice squad. Rams are optimistic that Dielman genes have been passed down to the younger cousin. Believe it or not, but when Dielman signed his letter of intent with the University of Utah, he only weighed 236 lbs during recruiting. Shocking enough, he needed to gain more weight, something that was very difficult to achieve living in Phoenix, AZ. However, he managed to put on the necessary weight gain with muscle growth of some 65lbs, increasing his weight to 300lbs, standing 6-feet-5-inches tall.

Dielman was selected in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, by the Cincinnati Bengals. He initially was predicted as a late first round or an early second-round selection. However, his season was cut short due to a leg injury he sustained his senior year. He will injure himself against the University of Cal and MRI’s later determined his injury be season-ending.

Rams claimed Dielman last season after being released by the Bengals and added this season with the recently released of former starting guard Jamon Brown. Dielman will join C Aaron Neary and OT Darrell Williams on the practice squad.

​Dielman was released from the Seattle Seahawks practice squad two weeks ago, and signing him now the same week the Rams are set to host the Seahawks this Sunday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Rams released OT Rick Leonard from the practice squad to make room for Dielman.

​​​The Los Angeles Rams have activated rookie edge rusher Ogbonnia Okoronkwo from the PUP list. Okoronkwo who suffered a broken foot during OTA's (organized team activities) required surgery. Rams were optimistic that he would be a go after the pre-season; however, his foot wasn't responding accurately. The team had 21 days to activate him to the active roster from the PUP list and made certain he was good to go.

The Rams selected Okoronkwo in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft from the University of Oklahoma. He's an undersized pass rusher, with extremely explosive speed from the edge. He terrorized quarterback in the Big-12 with 20 career sacks and 33 tackles for losses.

The Rams couldn't find a better time with activating Okoronkwo as their defense still hasn't applied much pressure on the offense. He's almost the epitome of in stature of Von Miller of the Denver Broncos and can have the same effect as Miller as well.

The Rams added EDGE rusher Dante Fowler Jr. via trade to help bolster up their defense. Combining Fowler provides the Rams with a dominant pass rush from both outsides position with Samson Ebukam. Rookie Okoronkwo also provides additional depth at the linebacker, and the Rams become more hair-raising on defense. 

In a corresponding move, the Rams released their sixth round draft selection Trevon Young from the University of Louisville to make room for Okoronkwo on the active roster.

Updated: 11/4/2018 1:05 PM PST
The Los Angeles Rams will put their undefeated season on the line today when they play against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints are putting their sixth consecutive wins on the line as well in what can be a potential winner take all for home field advantage throughout the playoffs. 

As previously reported Rams wide-receiver Cooper Kupp is active for today's game; however, the following players are inactive:

WR Nick Williams, DB Darious Williams, RB John Kelly, LB Trevon Young, DT Sebastian Joseph-Day, TE Johnny Mundt and DT Tanzel Smart.

​It appears the Rams will go with only two tight-ends today, three running backs, and six wide receivers. On the defensive side of the ball the Rams will suit up all their linebackers but one, and its the day view of their recent acquisition Dante Fowler Jr.

Rams traded for Fowler earlier in the week at the trade deadline to acquire an effective EDGE rusher. Fowler has the tangibles to create problems for the outside, and the Rams will need it today against Saints quarterback Drew Brees. Brees was asked earlier regarding Fowler, and he merely had this response:

​The Rams are favorite today as the home team Saints is a two-point underdog in their stadium. The definitely will be playing with a chip on the shoulder; however, the Rams intend to come in and punch them in the mouth.

This game can be a high scoring affair, as both quarterbacks look to move the ball up the field frequently and often. In Jared Goff's rookie season and his first NFL start against these Saints, Goff went 20/32 214 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Goff was sharp early, but the poor offensive Rams line could not withhold the Saints pressure throughout the game.

Aaron Kromer, the Rams offensive line coach, has assembled a well-coached offensive line that has started every game this season together. The offensive line have given the Ram quarterback plenty of time to shred up the opposing defenses. Goff will be tested today in a hostile environment with the crowd noise, but the Rams prepared with their silent snap count.

Cornerback Sam Shields with a viral infection that limited his practice this week. Shields didn't travel with the team as a precautionary measure of preventing any exposure to other teammates. However, yesterday Shields flew on a separate flight and met up with the group. 

The team was very optimistic about Shields playing as it just announced that he's active and will play. Rams will need the veteran defensive back to help kill the Saint's air-raid they put in the air.

Overview:
Many people think this game will be a preview of the NFC title game, and they may be right. The Rams, of course, are the league's last unbeaten team, and a road win against the mighty Saints would silence the credibility of those who say the Rams are ''lucky" or ''haven't beaten anyone" (which is lame regardless of how this one turns out). It also has implications for home-field advantage during the playoffs, as whoever wins this game will hold the tiebreaker for that advantage. A Ram win could be especially decisive in that regard, as it would leave them essentially three games in front of the Saints for the first seed in the playoffs. The oddsmakers don't seem to be able to get a handle on this game either, with some favoring the Saints by about 1.5 points, others picking the Rams by a narrow margin. Most of the so-called ''experts" on the NFL network and ESPN seem to lean towards New Orleans. If you are a Rams fan that's not all bad. Being "disrespected" is an old and useful motivational tool for NFL teams that dates at least back to Vince Lombardi.

Rams Defense vs. Saints Offense:

The Rams faced Aaron Rodgers last week, and squared off against another future Hall of Fame quarterback in Drew Brees on Sunday. While Brees may lack Rodgers' athletic play-making ability, he is the ultimate pocket passer who seldom makes a mistake. He also benefits from a far-superior supporting cast. The one-two punch of running backs Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara is as good as any running back tandem in the NFL, and those guys present a major challenge to the Rams defense. The Saints also boast one of the league's truly elite receivers in Mike Thomas, a solid offensive line and an overall offense that ranks fourth in scoring and averages 342 yards per game. The Rams linebacking corps HAS to step up its game this week, both to shut down the Saints running game and the equally dangerous threat posed by Kamara in particular in the short passing game. The other unit of the Rams defense that needs to play better is the secondary, and cornerback Marcus Peters in particular. If Peters and fellow corner Troy Hill can't play better than they have in recent weeks, Mike Thomas could have a monster day. While Brees threw for only 120 yards in a win last week against the Vikings, Thomas could top that all by himself this week against the Rams if our corners don't play up their game. The other key for the Rams, of course, is generating pressure on Brees up front. Aaron Donald is the NFL sack leader with 10, Ndamukong Suh is a quarterback's nightmare, and Micheal Brockers is no slouch either. Newly acquired edge-rusher Dante Fowler could be a factor as well, although it's not clear how many snaps he will take. All things considered though, I have to give the Saints offense the edge here. I don't think the Rams can entirely shut down this offense, and holding them under 30 points is probably the best we can expect.

Edge: Saints

Rams Offense vs. Saints Defense:

There is real potential for the Rams to light up the Saints secondary, which has not been very good. New Orleans is first in the league in rushing defense, but 22nd in pass defense. They recently traded for former Giants corner Eli Apple to try to fix that. Apple was rated the 55th best corner in the league by Pro Football Focus at the time of the trade. We aren't talking about Patrick Peterson here. Making things worse for New Orleans is the fact that defensive end Marcus Davenport, who had two sacks against the Vikings last week is expected to miss Sunday's game with a significant toe injury. That's worse then it sounds since that is the toe linemen use to push up-field when rushing the passer. The Rams, meanwhile, are expected to have slot receiver Cooper Kupp back. Reuniting Kupp with fellow wideouts Robert Woods and Brandin Cooks gives the Rams probably the best trio of wide receivers in the league.
​
On top of that, Josh Reynolds had a good game against Green Bay last week, and Todd Gurley is probably the best pass-catching running back in the league. Of course, just because the Saints excel at stopping the run doesn't mean the Rams won't try to run it with Gurley as well, especially since the Rams have the number one ranked rushing offense. The Rams use a lot of play action in their passing game, and even if the running game is only semi-effective, the Saints can't just forget about Gurley running the ball. I think the Rams can score on these guys. What they can't afford is another slow start like we saw last week against Green Bay.

Edge: Rams

Special Teams:

If you think special teams don't matter, look at the Green Bay game. Without the Hekker punt that was downed at the one-yard line, setting up a safety, and the Ramik Wilson hit on Ty Montgomery that caused a fumble, Green Bay probably wins that game. While the Saints special teams are not bad, I think the Rams have the best in the league, especially with almost everybody (minus Pharoh Cooper) healthy. 

On top of everything else, Corey Littleton has two blocked punts and the season is only half-over. Penalties on punt returns, especially of the ''Illegal block in the back" variety are a concern, but I still give the Rams a big edge here.

Edge: Rams

Prediction:

I honestly think this game is a toss-up. The Saints are 11-1 at home over the past 12 games, and the Rams offense better be ready to deal with some deafening crowd noise on offense. However, I'm a Rams fan, and this has the potential to be a shoot-out.

Rams 41
Saints 38





​

​The Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp has been cleared and will start as the Rams will face off against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Kupp is returning after missing the last two games after a strain to his MCL, after an egregious tackle by Denver Broncos safety Darian Stewart. Kupp tried to come in the second half of that game after being carted off the field. However, after a few plays, Rams trainer Reggie Scott pulled the plug on Kupp's play.

Starting Rams quarterback Jared Goff will welcome his favorite target Kupp on tomorrow against the Saints. Something will have to give in that game as the Saints are riding a five-game win streak and as the Rams quest to remain perfect on the season. Kupp will start back in his primary slot position where he's so dangerous at receiver. Already in his second NFL season, has veteran defensive backs concerned when having to cover him all over the field.

During Kupp's absence in the lineup, followed receiver Robert Woods switched to the slot, and second-year receiver Josh Reynolds stepped up huge during his playing time. Woods has been Woods as creating matchup problems against the defender. However, the bright spot was Reynolds going back to the game against the Seattle Seahawks, when Kupp went down for an apparent concussion along with Brandin Cooks. 

Reynolds was even more impressive in his start against the Green Bay Packers, as he caught not only his first touchdown pass but also hauled in his first multi-touchdown game for his career. Reynolds now has three receiving touchdowns for his career.

Tomorrow will also serve as an essential game for Kupp, as Jake Kupp the grandfather is honored before the game. The senior Kupp played as an offensive guard for the Saints from 1968-1975, named to the Pro Bowl, and also inducted to the Saints Hall of Fame. Cooper is a third-generation player of the NFL as his father Craig Kupp was an NFL quarterback briefly while being drafted in the fifth round of the 1990 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals.

​As a momentous occasion, Rams head coach Sean McVay has named Cooper Kupp as an honorary captain for the event, and present for the game opening game toss. When asked about the moment Kupp has this say in regards to his grandfather (see video):

​​The Rams are a 2.5 point favorite by the odd-makers and will have their hand full with the Saints. They play a Saints team that will be home in a hostile environment. In Jared Goff first NFL start, it was against this same Saints team in the same venue. Goff would throw three touchdown passes in his first start but was clobbered by the Saints defense throughout the game. 

For the record, Goff has improved into a far better quarterback than he was his rookie season as well as more significant coaching than under the Jeff Fisher regime. Expect Goff to be playing catch with Kupp throughout tomorrows contest against the Saints.

​The 2017 NFL Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year of the Los Angeles Rams running back Todd Gurley and defensive tackle Aaron Donald both were named NFC Offensive and Defensive Players of the Month of October.

Both players, who signed massive extensions this off-season, both have been giving the Rams their monies worth. Gurley signed a four-year $60M deal and as Donald signed a six-year $135M extension with $87M guaranteed.

On the offensive side of the ball, Gurley has torn the league up this season in rushing the ball, receiving, and scoring touchdowns. Gurley leads the NFL with 800 rushing yards, and with 15 total touchdowns  (11 rushing and four receiving).  

Gurley has tied a record with scoring touchdowns in 11 straight games, and also have his career best with 208 yards rushing against the Denver Broncos. Gurley also was named NFC Offensive Player of the Week in that same game against the Broncos. 

Gurley arguably is having MVP type season this season as he was snubbed by New England Patriots Tom Brady last year. During the month of October, Gurley has 462 rushing yards (5.13 average), seven rushing touchdowns, 16 receptions for 157 yards and three touchdowns.

As for Donald, after a slow start, Donald has been playing at an incredible level creating amazing stats. In his last five games, he's recorded a league-leading 10 sacks, after not having one in the first three games. Donald recording his personal best against the San Francisco 49ers in an NFC 
West battle as he sacked C.J. Beathard four times that week. 

As an interior defensive lineman, it's impressive to have double digits in sacks, and only to accomplish that at the midpoint of the season. Donald is taken on double-team blockers 73% of the game. He's still has been unstoppable as he continues to give offenses problem. During the month of October, Donald has recorded 17 tackles (11 for loss), eight sacks, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. 

The Rams are currently 8-0 this season as they put that record on the line against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday at the Mercedes Superdome. It will be fascinating to watch what game plan the Saints will have for both Gurley and Donald. Drew Brees is a quarterback that has played below his standard par against the Rams but is dangerous. 

The Saints defense have had some problems stopping the run and on the offensive side with pass blocking. Both players will seek to play well and continue their fantastic run toward MVP type of a game. However, the Saints will try to disrupt those runs at home with a hostile Saints crowd.