The Bronco's weren't always in a Nickel or Dime.....but they held the LB's back to protect their zone. The Bronco's were begging the Rams to run. They held the Rams to 23 points (although honestly probably would have been more if the Rams weren't up by 10 points in the 4th quarter...where they were trying to eat clock). So I fully expected every team to do the same thing. The 49ers didn't....and the Rams torched them (although Rams defense was more the story in that game).
So I was not at all surprised to see the Packers start and stay in Dime all day long. The Rams countered by trying to run the ball.....but the Packers D-line was winning the battle most of the first half (which was surprising). Gurley kept getting stuffed at the LOS.
The Rams did insert a few jet sweeps....but not a lot. I think McVay just thought going straight up the gut would get 5 - 7 yards before one of the six DB's could run up and make contact. But....Gurley could rarely get past the D-lineman.
Then when the Rams would try to pass.....they were trying to connect on deeper routes....but Goff didn't have the time. Once they started trying shorter-timing routes....they started to move the chains.
I think the Saints are a bit thin at DB (hence the trade for Eli Apple). I don't think they have enough quality DB's to go six deep. But if I'm coachign the Saints....I give it a try.....it's the only thing that has really stymied the Rams offense. The Saints Defense is #1 in the league vs the Run and 28th vs the pass. So I would be absolutely shocked if Sean Payton doesn't try the same Dime Defense strategy. With their offense playing at home, they probably figure they can hold the Rams to 25 points...and that will be enough.
I don't think McVay can wait until late in the 2nd quarter to make adjustments. I think he should just go right at them with short quick 5 yard passes. Only run to occasionally catch them off guard.
