Bucky Brooks' Scouting Report: Week 7 at Rams

Oct 19, 2024 at 01:00 PM

Bucky Brooks

NFL.com Analyst

Who's the Guy?

Matthew Stafford continues to age like a fine wine. The 16-year pro is a "dime dropper" with outstanding arm talent and pocket passing skills. Stafford will attack every area of the field and test the discipline of the linebackers and defensive backs in coverage. Given the Rams' desperation heading into Week 7, the Raiders can expect the Rams to put the balls in the hands of the gunslinger to see if he can single-handedly get them back on track.

Know His Name…

Cooper Kupp might return against the Raiders as the Rams' No. 1 receiver. The veteran pass catcher is Stafford's favorite target and a challenging matchup for defenders in one-on-one situations. If the former Offensive Player of the Year steps onto the field in Week 7, the Raiders need to know his whereabouts as a dangerous pass catcher and blocker on the perimeter.

Don't Sleep On…

Since moving from nickel to free safety, Quintin Lake has helped the Rams improve their communication and overall play. Lake organizes the defensive backfield and ensures the Rams are in best call for crucial situations. Against a Raiders offense that features a dynamic playmaker at tight end (Brock Bowers), Lake's communication and coverage skills could be a factor in this matchup.

Under Pressure

Kyren Williams is a key component of the Rams offense as a touchdown machine on the ground. The third-year pro has scored a rushing touchdown in eight straight games, and his ability to punch it in on short-yardage/goal-line situations is critical to the Rams' success. Given how points are valued at a premium in this league, the Rams running back could determine his squad's success with his production and performance as the RB1.

Matchup to Watch

Rams defensive line vs. Aidan O'Connell

The Rams' energetic front will create chaos at the point of attack for the Raiders' offense. Braden Fiske and Jared Verse are young, but their relentless energy and hustle could keep the quarterback on the run. With the Rams willing to utilize stunts and games to create and exploit favorable matchups, the Raiders must account for a movement-based pass rush approach that could disrupt O'Connell's rhythm in the pocket.

Offensive Strategy

Since Sean McVay took over the Rams, Los Angeles has become "must-see" TV regarding offensive innovation. The clever play designer will test the eye discipline of defenders with stacked alignments and unique motions. In addition, he will complement the constant movement and shifting with a downhill running game that punches opponents in the mouth. Throw in the Rams' creative dropback and play-action passing game, and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and his defenders must be on point to slow down their opponent this week.

Defensive Strategy

New defensive coordinator Chris Shula is attempting to put his spin on a defense created by Brandon Staley and upgraded by Raheem Morris. Though injuries have hindered the unit's progress, the Rams play hard and challenge opponents with their toughness. If the Raiders are unprepared for a sixty-minute war, the Rams will knock them around with their cleverly constructed scheme and hard-nosed playing style.

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The Las Vegas Raiders special teams unit and coaches during practice at Intermountain Health Performance Center.