Los Angeles Rams Rookie Puka Nacua Biggest Story In NFL?
For a team that expected to have a retooling season, the Los Angeles Rams have been surprisingly successful through the first month of NFL action. The Rams are fresh off an overtime victory, defeating the Indianapolis Colts 29-23 on the road.
After the impressive win in Week 4, Los Angeles rose from No. 12 to 10 in Pro Football Network's power rankings and zeroed in on rookie star receiver Puka Nacua.
"Puka Nacua might be the biggest story in the NFL," writes PFN. "The rookie WR broke the record for receptions in the first four games of a career. The player he supplanted, Anquan Boldin, might be his best stylistic comp. He’s a technical possession receiver who has quickly turned into Matthew Stafford’s best friend as Cooper Kupp misses time."
Puka Nucua and Cooper Kupp
Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Nacua hauled in his first-career touchdown pass in overtime to beat the Colts. In Kupp's absence, Nucua has been incredible, leading the NFL in targets (52) and receptions (39) and ranks second in receiving yards (501), trailing only Minnesota Vikings All-Pro Justin Jefferson.
This week, a familiar face could enter the lineup. The Rams have elevated Kupp, who suffered a hamstring injury before the season, into the 21-day practice window. All eyes are on if Kupp enters the lineup this Sunday.
Next up, the Los Angeles Rams welcome the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles for a Week 5 matchup in SoFi Stadium. The Rams have a chance to give the defending NFC Champion Eagles their first loss of the season.
Upsetting the Eagles would help Los Angeles' playoff aspirations in Sean McVay's seventh season coaching the Rams.
RECORDS: Los Angeles Rams (2-2) vs. Philadelphia Eagles (4-0)
ODDS: L.A. is a 4.5-point underdog vs. the Eagles
GAME TIME: Sunday, Oct. 8th, 2023 at 1:05 p.m. PT
LOCATION: Sofi Stadium - Inglewood, CA
TV/RADIO: FOX, BIG 100.3 FM
