Do I think they're going to repeat? I get that question a lot and generally say no. Purely because statistically the odds are very low. No repeat champion since 2003/2004. A lot of good teams out there. The low margin for error.
Could they repeat? Sure. I agree with those that say, on paper, this team COULD be better. Stafford in year 2. Robinson with Kupp. The sizeable upgrade at ILB (which was clearly their weakest position group of 2021). All that.
But there are clear question marks too. Two new starters on the OL. Edge rusher by committee. How the secondary shakes out. If/when OBJ returns. Even punter. Etc.
Something in me says the defense might actually be a little better overall than last year (mainly at ILB and in the secondary) as well as on special teams while the offense might take a small step back. Not sure why. Just a feeling.
In the end my expectation is to see them in the divisional round of the playoffs. Unless they are ravaged by injuries at key spots there is no reason for them not to win the NFC West and secure one of the top 2-3 seeds in the NFC. Beyond that? Well, like we saw a year ago it's just always a bit of a crap shoot. The Rams played very well in each playoff game but also could have lost to the Bucs, 49ers and Bengals if not for late-game heroics by their stars. For them to repeat as champions I think they have to be
better than last year, not merely as good. And that's a tall (not impossible) order.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 08/19/2022 04:51AM by LMU93.
