The Los Angeles Rams’ defense faced challenges on Thursday night in Australia, confronting the San Francisco 49ers without Aaron Donald. The anticipated performance featuring Myles Garrett, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, and All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie did not materialize. Instead, the Rams allowed the 49ers to dominate with 379 total yards, managing only one turnover and failing to achieve a single sack. The Rams ended with a disappointing 27-7 loss.
Criticism has been directed at the defensive line, including Garrett, Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske, and Byron Young. Yet, ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky shifted the focus to defensive coordinator Chris Shula on Friday’s episode of “First Take.” Orlovsky expressed his concern, stating, “I’m concerned about their defensive coordinator. In the last four games that this Rams defense has been on the field, they’ve been gutted by Bryce Young, Caleb Williams, Sam Darnold, and Brock Purdy, with all kinds of different talent on the field now.”
Orlovsky highlighted the alarming performance on third downs in recent games. The Rams defense has conceded a QBR of 98.3 on third downs across the last four games, extending back to last season. They recorded only one sack in such situations, pointing to a persistent issue over two years.
Last season, the Rams completed with a 12-5 record but narrowly missed the Super Bowl, falling 31-27 against the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game. Notably, their defensive performance wasn’t their strength despite the roster’s talent. The Rams ranked mid-pack in defense, allowing 327.5 total yards and 20.4 points per game. Meanwhile, their offense, led by league MVP Matthew Stafford and All-Pro receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, topped the league in total yards and points.
During the playoffs, the Rams conceded 31 points to the Carolina Panthers, 17 to the Chicago Bears, and another 31 to the Seahawks. Sean McVay, typically outplayed by Kyle Shanahan, saw his defense struggle once more against the 49ers, emphasizing the team’s defensive shortcomings. This outcome was not anticipated by fans considering the offseason moves.
Chris Shula, with the Rams since 2017 and promoted to defensive coordinator in 2024, faced considerable expectations as a respected coach. However, his ability to capitalize on the defensive talent remains under scrutiny.
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