After extended time between games, the Rams are Atlanta-bound for a Week 17 road game against Falcons. Kickoff Monday night from Mercedes-Benz Stadium is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. pacific time on ESPN and ABC7.
Ahead of the contest, here are 3 Keys to Winning for the Rams, presented by The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani (CallJacob.com).
1) Minimize explosive plays from the Falcons' skill position players on offense, starting with running back Bijan Robinson
Whether it's a standard run concept or catching a pass, Robinson has been an explosive, do-it-all piece to Atlanta's 2025 offense with 2,026 yards from scrimmage so far. Of course, limiting that big play ability won't be exclusive to just Robinson – wide receiver Drake London and tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. have shown they are capable of generating explosive plays in the pass game as well.
2) Make Kirk Cousins uncomfortable
The Falcons quarterback still delivers an accurate ball and has proven he can operate their offense at a high level – it was just two weeks ago he threw for 373 yards and three touchdowns in Atlanta's road win over Tampa Bay – so it will be crucial for the Rams defense to disrupt that timing and rhythm.
3) Give Matthew Stafford a clean pocket to work with
The Rams have excelled at this all season, tied with the Broncos for the fewest sacks allowed with 19. Meanwhile, the Falcons have registered the third-highest sack rate (9.2%, per Next Gen Stats) and seventh-highest pressure rate (36.2%). Atlanta's investment in their pass rush – first-rounders Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. have accounted for 14 of the team's 50 sacks – so maintaining that pass protection will be important Monday night.
