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chunkmeister
I think the phrase I used recently is that the Rams get constipated in the Red Zone. I cited the lack of a tall, athletic big/strong WR or TE as one of the key factors. Between Kupp and Cooks they have the reliable pass catchers, but neither have the combined height and leaping ability for the "jump ball". I am hoping that Speed is correct that the Rams intentionally didn't target any TE's to hopefully catch the Cardinals off guard (but I won't hold my breath).
Lastly, the difference between this year vs last year is the growth, talent, and depth of the O-line. The Raider game (certainly the first half) was an extension of the preseason. I expect to see much Red Zone improvement from the running game this year. This O-line should be able to take over games in the second half and allow Gurley (and hopefully the backup RB's too) to break the back of the opposing defenses. We saw a little bit of this in the second half vs the Raiders....however they need to figure out how to punch it in. So, maybe a big/tall TE/WR won't be as important this year.
To be fair, the solution to redzone issues does not just come down to having or not having a "redzone matchup guy." The GSOT Rams never had a guy like that. It's play design, play calling, and execution.
And Washington in 2016, when McV was the coordinator, DID have guys (Reed, Davis, Garcon) and they didn't get it done (ranked 30th).
