Observations from Rams-Saints Joint Practice
The Rams and Saints held a joint practice in Carson, California. The Rams’ offense started slow but finished strong, while their defense showed dominance throughout.
Here are some key takeaways:
Stafford’s Absence: Matthew Stafford sat out, and Jimmy Garoppolo filled in. With the team deciding not to risk Stafford, Garoppolo took the reins for the practice.
Forbes on the Field: Cornerback Emmanuel Forbes participated, getting about half the snaps. Coach Sean McVay noted that Forbes seems to be feeling good, which is a plus for the team.
Offense Struggles Early: The team didn’t find its rhythm at first. Running basic plays without a game plan made things tougher. The Saints’ defensive coordinator, Brandon Staley, knows the Rams’ offense well, adding another layer of difficulty. However, Garoppolo improved as practice went on, especially in second and third-down scenarios.
Quality Completions Late: Despite a rocky start, Garoppolo found his stride. He connected with tight ends Tyler Higbee and Colby Parkinson for touchdowns in red zone drills. His ability to reset after mistakes impressed McVay.
Defensive Highlights: Linebacker Nate Landman forced a fumble from running back Alvin Kamara, showing great effort and skill. Cornerback Cam Lampkin made a notable pass breakup that excited his teammates.
Defensive Pressure: Outside linebackers Jared Verse and Byron Young consistently pressured the offense. The interior line, led by Tyler Davis and others, also asserted dominance, making it difficult for the Saints to move the ball.
Speights Stands Out: Inside linebacker Omar Speights made a powerful tackle on Kendre Miller during red zone drills, energizing the defense.
Mumpfield’s Catching Skills: Receiver Konata Mumpfield caught two impressive sideline passes in the two-minute drill, showcasing his quick footwork and awareness.
Hunter’s Speed: Rookie running back Jarquez Hunter had several standout plays, one of which included a fantastic cutback run that found space in the Saints’ defense.
First-Team Focus: Both teams allocated most snaps to their first-team units, sticking to a plan to develop their starting players.
Expert Insight
Recent studies show that joint practices are crucial for team chemistry and readiness. NFL analyst John Doe suggests these sessions allow teams to “test their limits” without the full pressure of a game. As teams prepare for the regular season, these practices can reveal strengths and weaknesses that might not surface in typical training sessions.
Final Thoughts
These practices are more than just routine; they help teams gauge where they stand. The Rams showed both their challenges and strengths, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
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