Concerns Over Rams Defense as Performance Slumps Continue

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On Thursday night in Australia, the anticipation was high for the revamped Los Angeles Rams defense. The team featured star players like two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett and All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie. The stage seemed set for a strong defensive showcase against the San Francisco 49ers. However, the reality was different, with the Rams allowing 379 total yards and failing to record a single sack in a 27-7 defeat.

Much of the blame fell on the defensive line, including Garrett, Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske, and Byron Young. Yet, ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky on ‘First Take’ shifted focus to defensive coordinator Chris Shula. “I’m concerned about their defensive coordinator,” Orlovsky remarked. He pointed out that in their last four games, the Rams defense has struggled against quarterbacks like Bryce Young, Caleb Williams, Sam Darnold, and Brock Purdy, despite having talented players on the field.

“Myles Garrett was completely ghosted by Kyle Shanahan, and there was nothing done by Chris Shula, the defensive coordinator, to change things up,” Orlovsky commented.

Orlovsky highlighted the Rams defense’s worrying third-down performance, giving up a QBR of 98.3, close to perfect. Over the last four games spanning into last season, they have managed only one sack on third down.

The Rams, who finished 12-5 last season and came close to making the Super Bowl, have seen their defensive weaknesses exposed again. Their offense, led by MVP Matthew Stafford and All-Pro receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, led the league in yards and points per game. However, the defense was average, allowing 327.5 total yards and 20.4 points per game.

In the offseason, hopes were high for an improved defense, but in the playoffs, they conceded 31 points to the Panthers, 17 to the Bears, and 31 again to the Seahawks. The defensive struggles continued against the 49ers on Thursday, highlighting ongoing issues despite offseason changes.

Chris Shula, with the Rams since 2017 and defensive coordinator starting in 2024, was initially well-respected. Yet, the current challenges he faces with the defense indicate real problems if improvements aren’t made soon.