The Rams travel to Philadelphia for a Week 3 playoff rematch against the Eagles on Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field (10 a.m. PT, FOX).
Ahead of the contest, here are 3 Keys to Winning for the Rams, presented by The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani (CallJacob.com).
1) Limit explosive runs
This was the biggest difference-maker in both the playoff game in January and last year's regular season meeting, starting with running back Saquon Barkley. The additions of inside linebacker Nate Landman and nose tackle Poona Ford were meant to help shore that up, but it will obviously take all 11 on the field to ensure those explosive runs are erased.
2) Stay disciplined within both pass rush lanes and gap integrity
Along the lines of the first key, it only takes one missed gap assignment for Barkley to break off a big run. Similarly, undisciplined pass rushes can be a recipe for quarterback Jalen Hurts to make out-of-structure plays as a passer and a runner. Staying sound in both phases will be important on Sunday.
3) Give Stafford a clean pocket to operate from, especially along the interior
6-foot-6, 336-pound Eagles defensive tackle Jordan Davis and 6-3, 314 defensive tackle Jalen Carter await the Rams' interior offensive line, which will have starting center Coleman Shelton and starting right guard Kevin Dotson, but has starting left guard Steve Avila listed as doubtful. Holding up at that part of the line of scrimmage will be especially critical if the Rams want to capitalize on a young Eagles secondary that, while talented, has still had some ups and downs through the first two weeks of the season.
