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Rams43
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dzrams
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Rams43
Why not let this sort itself out the old fashioned way?
Namely, allow somebody to impress the coaches during meetings, drills, and practices.
The cream will rise to the top. If nobody steps up sufficiently this year then devote resources to edge next offseason.
Personally, I feel that Wade can tinker around with his players until he’s identified the best combo. Fowler is almost certain to be on one side. So let’s see a free-for-all on the other side, okay?
Littleton
Obo
Ebu
Surely one of these can step up and provide adequate edge pressure while keeping run/scramble contain?
If Littleton is best edge among these 3, and that wouldn’t surprise me in the least, then insert one of Wilson, Kiser, or Hager in his place at ILB.
Best case scenario? Obo or Ebu thrive at edge opposite Fowler. But if it’s clearly gonna be Littleton? So be it. A playmaker is a playmaker.
Fowler is pretty bad against the run so I'm not so sure he will handle one side full time. I think he's a Designated Pass Rusher.
I get your reasoning on Littleton but he's thriving where he is. I'd be hesitant to move him full time.
What I suspect will emerge is a rotation where Ebukam handles his side, Longacre and Fowler split time on the other side with Fowler taking all of the pass rushing situations.
Fowler will help immensely as a DPR if all he did was provide edge pressure on 3rd downs. One of the subtle stats that stands out to me where this defense is falling short is Opponent Third Down Conversion Percentage. We are ranked 20th there; all of the strong defenses are much better than us in this category.
This stat confirms what I've seen in that the D really struggles on 3rd downs - even 3rd and longs which is maddening - in getting the other team off the field. I think Fowler can completely turn this one area around even if he's only a DPR.
You may be right about Fowler being a mere DPR, dz. Obviously, I hope that you’re wrong.
If Fowler is only a DPR, then I fear that he’s too limited in value and likely won’t be extended.
For one thing, opponents can limit sideline substitutions which could actually keep him on the danged sideline.
Longacre has sadly been a major disappointment, probably due to his health. Don’t think he’s on the ‘19 roster, one way or another.
As to 3rd down conversions allowed? A healthy Talib and Peters will really help. “Fixing” the other edge would help immensely. I don’t care if it’s Littleton, Ebu, or Obo, frankly. If SOMEONE can man up to at least league average there, we’re set.
I’m cautiously optimistic about the home stretch for the Rams.
Good point on the sideline substitutions being able to limit how much he plays. I don't know how Wade will do it but my main point was I think he will be in a rotation of some type.
Probably play around 50% of the snaps. If he rushes the passer really well, I don't think that's limited in value at all. Pass rushing is the second highest premium skill set after QB'ing.
He may still command a good chunk of money on the free agent market if he shows well in these next 8 games. I don't think him being extended ever was in the works but I don't see why he couldn't be resigned.
