This has been as much a roller coaster season as I've ever experienced with this team and I go back to the Foursome. Last year was difficult but seemed to be a slow regression to the bitter recognition that the season was lost. That we have seen many times. The closest I can remember was '79.
I bring this up because there's a very real chance the Rams lose to New England and are still likely to make the playoffs. Before we beat the Bucs, I predicted we would drop one of the next two games if we won that one. To me, this game will go a long way toward defining the type of team we have this year. The following are the questions I look to have answered.
1. Can this team sustain focus when it matters most? If this team is to reach its potential, it must improve its consistency. Face it, every game has quarters that make you scratch your head. Even more important than the win, I want to see sustained performance across all three phases.
2. Can Sean outplan Bill? Doing so would indicate a growth track that needs to occur. With the 9'ers in the tank, McVay's kryptonite will not see the postseason. The entire operation would feel more confident if the playcalls demonstrate our coaching staff can outprepare one of the best. We could actually win by talent or luck and I'd feel less confident if Belichick has a better plan. Think the fallout from the Lions game in '18.
3. Will the running game become more varied? This isn't the Cardinal defense come Thursday night. Running zone only won't produce 100 yards on the ground. I don't believe OLine execution of powers, pulls, and traps is something you can just pull out in the playoffs and expect the necessary execution.
4. Are deep shots ever going to be a weapon our opponents fear this year? So far, our deep attempts have resulted in more negative plays than positive ones. Should it be abandoned altogether? I truly am on the fence about it.
5. Now that teams have tape on Staley's defense, will McDaniel's show the weaknesses that can be exploited later in the season? I hope not, but I will be watching intently.
6. Can Goff be aggressive without turnovers? Again, he did so against the Cards but can he sustain it or will doubt limit the offense going forward?
7.Does fourth and four mean a 48 yard field goal, go for it, or a punt with 5 minutes to go and you're down two points? Just how much does Sean really trust Gay?
8. Will refs EVER start calling offensive holding this year? I want to see if McVay's weekly reviews start to show up in games so we can release the Donald Kraken.
9. Will our DB's continue to be willing to give up short gains to limit the explosives or will they start feeling themselves and start jumping routes more frequently?
10. Will ball security be a point of emphasis for Webster and Everett or will we suffer the curse of Az Hakim all over again?
Just some talking points as we enter a critical point in the season.
