Sean McVay Reveals How Los Angeles Rams' Puka Nacua Made Impact Without Stats

Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua had his first unproductive game of the season, but head coach Sean McVay still considered him vital to the team's Week 6 win.

There’s a first time for everything. In the Los Angeles Rams’ 26-9 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, the offense took off in the second half, largely subsequent to the team’s best rushing performance of the season.

However, fans expecting gaudy passing numbers against a questionable secondary may have been disappointed. Quarterback Matthew Stafford only threw for 226 yards and a score in the win.

For the first time, rookie receiver Puka Nacua let fantasy managers down in a big way. Never before had he been held to fewer than 70 yards or five receptions. His four-catch, 26-yard performance was easily the worst statistical output of his young career.

Nacua making a big play against the Philadelphia Eagles / USA TODAY Sports

The first time he wasn’t key to Los Angeles’ success, though? That time is yet to come.

Head coach Sean McVay spoke about the production Nacua provides that doesn’t show up in the box score.

“That toughness, that selflessness,” McVay said. “I’m glad you brought up Puka, too, because some of the things that we were doing with him based on their personnel groupings and their matches, you can’t do that unless you have a player like Puka Nacua.”

Some of those aforementioned things, if you will, helped running back Kyren Williams put up the best game (half?) of his young career. The Notre Dame product finished with 20 attempts for 158 yards and a score, and for the first time was able to rip off consistent splash plays.

That doesn’t happen without quality blocking from those who aren’t paid to do so.

“So he was a huge factor basically in extension of the line and the tight ends,” McVay continued. “The run game, we talk about it taking all 11 … But it was truly the epitome of it takes all 11 to be able to run the football efficiently and that was on display.”

Sunday’s action was easily the most complete Los Angeles’ offense had looked, and it showed. They were in control all game, especially in the second half, where Williams saw the vast majority of his rushes.

Speaking of Nacua and fellow receiver Ben Skowronek (who literally didn’t appear in the box score), McVay ultimately made one final point.

“I love those guys.”