Rams News: Sean McVay Shifts Tactics, Makes Changes at Key Position

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According to Ryan Anderson of LAFB Network, the Los Angeles Rams are ushering in a new era for their ground attack, overhauling their running back room with fresh talent. Gone are Cam Akers and Darrell Henderson, making way for the likes of Kyren Williams, rookie Blake Corum, and newly acquired free agent Boston Scott.

This personnel shake-up appears to be more than just roster tinkering; it’s indicative of a strategic pivot in the Rams’ offensive approach. The team is shifting from a zone-blocking scheme, which they’ve leaned on in the past, to a gap-blocking scheme.

This adjustment isn’t trivial—it requires different demands on the offensive line and signifies a team’s commitment to a particular style of run play. To put this into perspective, the Rams’ play-calling in 2021 favored zone runs over gap schemes by a margin of 258 to 116. Fast forward to last season, and the script has been flipped, with 240 gap plays called to just 149 zone runs.

This strategic shift aligns with the trajectory of quarterback Matthew Stafford, who at 36 is advancing in his career and carries a significant contract. It seems head coach Sean McVay is recalibrating the offense, placing a renewed emphasis on the running game.

This could be a move to balance the offensive playbook, potentially easing the burden on Stafford’s arm and setting the stage for a more formidable, multi-dimensional attack as the Rams aim to recapture their Super Bowl-winning form.