The Rams have decimated teams off play-action this year, which is a big reason they’re set to square off against the Patriots in Super Bowl LIII.
Los Angeles has favored the inside zone run — with Todd Gurley carrying the football — throughout the majority of the season, setting up play action for big plays downfield. And it’s often worked well, as the Rams’ speedy receivers are lethal when given enough time to get separation from opposing defensive backs. They’re also great route runners, so quarterback Jared Goff often hits them in stride for yards after the catch.
Speaking of Goff, his mobility and ability to throw on the run are what make the play-action bootleg so effective for the Rams as well, which we saw on one particular 39-yard completion to tight end Gerald Everett in the NFC title game — his longest of the contest. Head coach Sean McVay spoke to us at Super Bowl Opening Night — explaining why play-action has been key for them this year, and what it means for Sunday’s game against the Patriots.
#Rams head coach Sean McVay addresses the team's success mixing in play action this year. Tried to sneak in a fake punt question at the end — no dice. pic.twitter.com/WXKOvgUwE0
— The Sports Daily (@SportsDailyBlog) January 29, 2019
…If only we had to managed to sneak that fake punt question in there as well. Alas, watch out for the Rams running play-action, and for another potential trick play on special teams in Super Bowl LIII.
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