Did Goff play poorly? Yes.
Did the middle of the O-line get pushed around? Yep.
But I suspect that these issues would've occurred in other games too had McVay decided not to ride the horse that brought him to the Super Bowl. McVay's inability to involve Todd Gurley into the game essentially left the Ram offense playing with one hand behind its back against a Bellichick defense.
And please spare me the "Gurley wasn't 100%" line. At that point in the season, I'm betting that several players were out there battling "irritation" in several areas of their respective bodies. Gurley was no different and (IMO) was ready to battle like everyone else. If you don't believe me, just ask Patrick Chung. Do yourself a favor and check out the 2nd play from scrimmage after halftime. Gurley takes the ball over the left side for about 6 yards and, in the process, literally BLOWS UP two Patriots (one of whom was Chung who broke his arm). Gurley? He pops back up with NO SIGN of limitations.
Why did McVay simply not ride him for the rest of the way (both rushing AND receiving) to take the pressure off his rattled QB and overmatched center and guard)?
Why? Well, it wasn't because he was outcoached.
McVay simply outsmarted himself. Not so sure Bellichick had anything to do with that.
