Behind Enemy Lines: 5 Questions with Rams Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson
Week six is expected to be a vicious battle between divisional opponents San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams. It is the first divisional game of the season for the 49ers and it is one that they must have to keep their grasp as leaders of the NFC west.
The Rams appear vulnerable right now after losing two games straight, but they have had four extra days to rest and prepare for the 49ers who are missing key players all over.
To get a better grasp of the Los Angeles Rams, I stepped behind enemy lines where hall of fame running back Eric Dickerson was ever so kind to answer five questions regarding this matchup. This would not have been possible without the amazing Chloe Chrysikopoulos and Gustavo Miguel of Rams Maven Sports Illustrated.
Below you will find the questions I drew up, that was delivered by Chloe Chrysikopoulo for Eric Dickerson to answer.
1.) Sunday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Rams is going to be a very contested game. It’s a divisional game and the hype has never been higher between the two teams in a long time. Considering the fact that the Rams have been on a two game skid and the 49ers sit atop the division at 4-0, is this a must win game for for the Rams?
2.) One of the issues that has lead to the Rams offensive struggles has been Jared Goff against pressure. His QB rating is a 77.3 when he faces it, which doesn’t bode well for him since the 49ers’ pass rush has been dominating. What do you think Sean McVay will do to get Goff some time to deliver throws and feel comfortable?
3.) Todd Gurley seems like a shell of himself compared to last season. He’s still a talented player and can explode at any given moment, but he’s just been inconsistent. Part of it is due to his knee issues, but what do you think is the reason for his slump? And how do the Rams get him going against the 49ers, if he is active, who haven’t allowed a rushing touchdown this season?
4.) Switching to the defensive side of the ball, the Rams defense has allowed 85 points during this losing streak. Do you think the cause of the defensive woes is a schematic issue with Wade Phillips? Or is it lack of execution?
5.) The 49ers are without both of their starting offensive tackles and Kyle Juszczyk. It’s going to be a difficult adjustment for Kyle Shanahan to overcome without his key players. What do you think the Rams defense can do or will do to take advantage?
Once again, special thanks to Chloe Chrysikopoulos and Gustavo Miguel of Rams Maven Sports Illustrated for making this possible.
