4 takeaways from Rams week 2 loss to Washington...

4 takeaways from Rams' Week 2 loss to Washington

Cameron DaSilva

[theramswire.usatoday.com]

Here are four takeaways from the Rams' 27-20 loss to the Redskins Los Angeles has a short week as they travel to San Francisco to take on the 49ers (0-2) in Week 3 on Thursday Night Football with kickoff slated for 5:25 p.m. PT

The Los Angeles Rams came into Week 2 looking to start the season 2-0 for the first time since 2001. Unfortunately, the defense failed them, and Jared Goff’s critical interception in the final minutes sealed the Rams’ fate.

While it was a disappointing loss, there were a few encouraging signs for Los Angeles moving forward. There were also a handful of areas that need improving.

Here are the four biggest takeaways from the Rams’ loss:

Run defense has to improve


A week after allowing just 75 yards on the ground, the Rams were gashed by the Redskins running game, which was a bit of a surprise — especially with Rob Kelley missing most of the game. It’s clear the Rams have to do a better job of clogging up running lanes and be more disciplined outside when runs bounce to the edge.

When you allow 229 yards on 39 attempts, it’s hard to take control of the game — and it’s a huge reason Washington held the ball for 36:19 compared to the Rams’ 23:41. The Redskins were able to do whatever they wanted offensively after establishing the run early in the game.

Todd Gurley is a multidimensional weapon


Gurley isn’t just a good running back, he’s become an integral part of the offense this season. He already has eight receptions for 104 yards in 2017, putting him on pace for about 800 yards receiving. Obviously, this pace probably won’t keep up, but it’s clear Goff has leaned on Gurley in the passing game through two weeks.

He’s made the most of his receptions, too, turning many of them into first downs, or even touchdowns, as he did on Sunday. Although he’s run into his linemen a few times and missed holes, as all running backs do, he’s looked far better than he did in 2016.

Jared Goff was sharp . . . except when it mattered most


Despite the fact that he only completed 15-of-25 passes, Goff looked solid for the second straight week. He put up 224 yards through the air with one touchdown, and was sacked only two times on the day.

The best part of his game was his pocket presence. He showed good poise when the Redskins put pressure on him. He slid in the pocket, stepped up when necessary and made good decisions with the football . . . aside from his game-sealing interception on the Rams’ final possession, of course.

Sammy Watkins needs to play a larger role


After catching five passes for 58 yards in Week 1, Watkins was almost non-existent against the Redskins. He caught just two passes for 30 yards, one of which went for 28 yards. The most disappointing part of his second game was his lack of targets.

Goff looked his way only twice all day, and while it’s encouraging he caught both, it’s inexcusable for a team’s No. 1 receiver to only see two passes come his way — especially when that team is behind for most of the day.

He’s a big-play threat whether he lines up outside or in the slot, and the Rams have to utilize him as one. Sure, Cooper Kupp is a reliable pass-catcher, but Watkins is the guy who can win you games with big plays and contested catches.