Los Angeles Rams vs. Indianapolis Colts Preview: Can Run Game Rebound?

Will the Los Angeles Rams be able to get the ground game going against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 4?

There has been a lot of talk about the Los Angeles Rams’ improved offense, putting up surprising numbers during receiver Cooper Kupp’s absence. Quarterback Matthew Stafford is playing good football, and it seems receivers Puka Nacua and Tutu Atwell are breaking out in a big way.

However, it hasn’t consistently resulted in points. In Week 3, the Rams lost on Monday Night Football, 19-16. Miscues in the red zone wasted an otherwise competitive outing. It was a winnable game against hobbled Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, and Los Angeles let it get away, falling to 1-2.

They’ll look to get back on track in Indianapolis against the Colts on Sunday.

Part of the offense’s failures came on the ground. Running back Kyren Williams, fresh off ousting Cam Akers as the team’s lead back, rushed for 38 yards on 10 attempts. Los Angeles would abandon the run due to the looks they were given but ultimately rendered themselves one-dimensional.

Williams rushes against the Kansas City Chiefs. 

This run game lacks an explosive element that isn’t a changeup to Atwell. Still, the Rams will likely look to lean on it more against the Colts. Ensuring Indianapolis’ pass rushers cannot pin their ears back and take advantage of a suspect offensive line will be important in avoiding disasters like their Monday Night Football showing.

Stafford was sacked six times in the loss.

Unfortunately for Los Angeles, the Colts’ duo of defensive tackles can be overwhelming. The combo of DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart is one of the league’s best pairings, and Stewart especially is a game-wrecker against zone runs.

Finding ways to stay balanced on offense is the best way to protect a passing attack that the Rams so dearly rely on. Winning the battle in the trenches couldn’t be more important for this Week 4 matchup.

WHAT: Los Angeles Rams (1-2) vs Indianapolis Colts (2-1)

WHERE: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, IN (70,000)

WHEN: Sunday, Oct. 1, 2023, 10 a.m. (PT)

TELEVISION: FOX

RADIO: ESPNLA 710 AM, Tu Liga Radio 1330 AM

ODDS: Rams +0.5 (-110), -110 Moneyline, Total: 45.5 (o -110/u -118)