Inside linebacker Nate Landman's Rams debut got the attention of the rest of the league.
Landman on Wednesday was announced as the NFC Defensive Player of the Week for Week 1.
The fourth-year pro's late-fourth quarter forced fumble – knocked out of Texans running back Dare Ogunbawale's grasp peanut-punch style – helped clinched Los Angeles' 14-9 victory over Houston last Sunday at SoFi Stadium. He also tied with safety Kam Curl for the team lead in tackles with 10 total, including six solo.
Moreover, per Sumer Sports, he was one of the Top 10 Defensive EPA (Expected Points Added; from solo/assist tackles, INTs, forced fumbles, recoveries, and sacks) contributors of Week 1. His six solo tackles, four assists and game-changing forced fumble equated to a Total EPA of -5.71 – a negative EPA is good for a defense, it means the opponent less likely to score. His -5.71 Total EPA was ninth-best among all defensive players in Week 1.
