Rams Set to Capitalize on Falcons’ Vulnerabilities Following Cousins’ Struggles Against Cardinals
In Woodland Hills, California, the Los Angeles Rams used their Sunday off to analyze the Atlanta Falcons, who faced off against the Arizona Cardinals in a pivotal Week 17 matchup. The Falcons emerged victorious, but the Rams are poised to exploit specific weaknesses revealed during that game as they prepare for their upcoming clash.
The Three Second Rule
One of the most significant observations from the Falcons’ performance is their offensive line’s struggle to protect quarterback Kirk Cousins. The Rams’ defensive strategy will hinge on the realization that Cousins tends to release the ball within three seconds of the snap. Given that the Falcons’ pocket often collapses in about 3.2 seconds, the Rams’ defensive backs must be vigilant. They will need to anticipate early movements from the Falcons’ receivers, ready to react quickly as Cousins looks to get the ball out to avoid pressure.
Creating Pressure on Cousins
In conjunction with the rapid release rule, the Rams must focus on making Cousins uncomfortable right from the pre-snap phase. By stacking the line of scrimmage, the Rams can test Cousins’ resolve. By applying early pressure and knocking him down, they can force the quarterback into a state of uncertainty. This tactic could lead to mistakes, allowing the Rams’ defense to bait Cousins into poor throws and potentially capitalize on interception opportunities.
As the Rams gear up for this important matchup, these lessons learned from the Falcons’ recent game could prove crucial in dictating the outcome of their encounter. The potential to exploit Atlanta’s weaknesses may not only dictate the flow of the game but also set the tone for the Rams’ playoff aspirations.
