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L.A.Rams
Goff has demonstrated top-five ability. From watching games on TV, it is impossible to know all the facts, but I suspect that any regression Goff has shown this season can be attributed to shaky play by the OL and bad play calling by McVay.
I don't think that theory holds up when you consider that the o-line and play calling weren't considered an issue last year and Goff's production still regressed. I think it's far more likely that the league has got enough tape on him to have adjusted to what he was doing.
While I agree that the o-line has taken a step back from last year, Goff has exhibited problems all of his own. Primarily, I think he's going through the growing pains of how to read and recognize defenses. And, I'm not too sure how willing he is to take what is there. Even yesterday, he started forcing the ball to Kupp. That's fine to keep feeding a guy when he's wide open or the best option but there were 3 passes the Bengals should have picked off.
Which leads me back to the play calling. Some are questioning McVay at this point and I don't think he is the one who is having issues. I've seen more than a few examples of there being successful plays to be had and open receivers/outlet passes and Goff instead forces something.
I do agree that the Rams o-line has been out of sync and overpowered at times so that does play a part. But I also have to consider that if Goff is struggling or being stubborn post snap that he may also be struggling with reads and pre snap calls too which would be adding to the line's problems.
I pretty much figured that Goff's development was retarded as much as it was aided by McVay's use of the pre snap headset communication the last couple of years and nothing this year has made me think differently. Getting Goff on the field and productive right away was great while it lasted but I have a hard time believing that he was developing the skills that would help carry him through the league making adjustments and exploiting his weaknesses. That year and a half of elite production was a nice jump start but I think we're now seeing the more realistic and normal progression from his rookie year.
This is right where he'd be if hadn't been put in a very unique situation.
