The Las Vegas Raiders will try to end a three-game skid Sunday when they host the Los Angeles Rams, a team that ranks among the NFL's top three in both total offense and total defense despite entering the matchup at 2-4. Los Angeles has averaged 401.3 yards per game through six weeks, led by a passing attack that averages 288.7 yards, the second-highest mark in the league.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford leads the NFL with 1,794 passing yards and 11 touchdowns. He has relied heavily on wide receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, who have combined for five touchdowns, but both are uncertain for Sunday. Adams is expected to miss at least six games with a ruptured hamstring, and Nacua left Thursday's practice early with a calf injury.
With their top receivers potentially sidelined, the Rams may lean on tight end Tyler Higbee and rookie Konata Mumpfield, who have 32 combined receptions, and a running game averaging 112 yards per game behind Kyren Williams and Blake Corum. Williams has 393 rushing yards and four touchdowns to go with 217 receiving yards.
Los Angeles also ranks third in total defense at 294 yards allowed per game and second against the pass at 167 yards per game. That presents a stiff test for Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins, who has thrown for 1,582 yards and a league-leading 14 touchdowns. Las Vegas' defense has allowed 371.7 yards per game, ranking among the bottom five in the NFL.
Rams coach Sean McVay praised the Raiders despite their record. "They're a really good team," McVay said. "They've done a heck of a job. Klint Kubiak has done a great job. They're really well-coached in all three phases, and they've been productive in all three phases." Defensive coordinator Chris Shula called Kubiak "one of the best in the league at what he does."
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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