Seahawks Warning? Rams 'Just as Dangerous' Without Cooper Kupp, Says Coach
Seattle Seahawks fans may have taken a collective sigh of relief when Los Angeles Rams receiver Cooper Kupp was ruled out for Sunday’s season opener at Lumen Field due to a hamstring injury. His absence, though, may not be as detrimental as it seems.
Seahawks defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt spoke to the media on Thursday, in part about Kupp’s injury and what it means for Week 1.
“I know they’re really, really well coached,” Hurtt said. “I know there’s great discipline to their offense and how they run things. If anything, it could make them just as dangerous because now, as opposed to worrying about who the primary target is, the ball can go anywhere.”
Obviously, a significant portion of Seattle’s game plan pertained to mitigating Kupp’s impact. He posted a 31 percent target share in his nine games last season, totaling 75 receptions, 812 yards, and six scores. The year prior, he led the league in all three categories.
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Now, Los Angeles is tasked with distributing to a significantly less inspiring group of pass catchers. It’s possible more targets get funneled to tight end Tyler Higbee and running back Cam Akers if receivers like Van Jefferson and Tutu Atwell struggle to separate.
There’s a level of uncertainty that comes with replacing Kupp. He’s the first read for quarterback Matthew Stafford on what seems like every dropback and helps the run game with his ability to block. Less designed touches means the Seattle secondary has more ambiguity to deal with, too.
“So you just make sure you do your job within coverage and you don’t have that one guy that your eyes maybe need to go to,” Hurtt said. “So guys got to make sure they’re on top of their details and their route concepts.”
Sunday’s contest should put those fundamentals to the test. Despite what most consider a large discrepancy in talent, the Seahawks are only 4.5-point favorites at SI Sportsbook. Kupp’s absence certainly eases some Seattle concerns, but adjusting to the Rams’ backup plans is a challenge in itself.
