Rams' Pass Rush Has Been A Steady Force

**AvengerRam** · -12-10-2012

Right now, the Rams are tied for 2nd in the NFL with 39 sacks. They have matched their total from 2011 with 3 games remaining.

What's more, the Rams have achieved this number without relying too heavily on LB or DB blitzes. 29 of the 39 sacks have come from the DL, including Robert Quinn with 9.5, Chris Long with 7.5, and Michael Brockers and William Hayes with 4 each.

That said, I suspect that Jeff Fisher would like to blitz more. He is likely reluctant to do so because the back line of the defense (FS in particular) is suspect. However, if the Rams can add a ball hawk to the back line, and the young CBs develop, I think the Rams will be able to be even more creative in their blitz packages.

We all know that this has become a passing league. However, as the Giants in particular have demonstrated, the best way to deal with an elite passing attack is with consistent pressure, primarily from the front four.

The Rams appear to be making significant strides in this area, which bodes well for their future.

***AtlantaRamFan*** · -12-10-2012

I didn't realize they were 2nd, that's good news. I think adding Brockers and Langford up the middle has really helped this season.

Just out of curiosity, any guess on why Long's sack total dropped from last year? Going from 8 to 13, I was expecting something more in the 14-16 range. He's in his prime and other teams are forced to throw more than they did last year since they game isn't over at half time. I have to say I don't usually pay too much attention to the DE's unless they're replaying a sack so I thought you might have an idea.

Congrats on 15,000th post too.

**AvengerRam** · -12-10-2012

Wow, didn't even notice I had hit 15K. Yay me!

I think Long's sack total dropped, in part, to the attention he gets now that he is established. He is constantly around the QB, though, and probably is among the league leaders in "hurries."

***tomahawk247*** · -12-10-2012

I think Langford is one of the most underrated signings this season. The guy just does his job all the time, which is what we werent getting at the 2nd DT spot.

***sosa39rams*** · -12-10-2012

Originally Posted by tomahawk247

I think Langford is one of the most underrated signings this season. The guy just does his job all the time, which is what we werent getting at the 2nd DT spot.

Clearly shows with our ability to rush the passer, fill in running lanes up the middle, and collapse the pocket. With the emergence of Brockers I'd expect to see more double teams for him so Langford has even more of an opportunity to make plays now!

***mde8352gorams*** · -12-10-2012

What I like most about our pass rush is that its not focused on 1 player, but is across the line making it difficult for any team to key on 1 lineman. Kinda like the 2nd coming of the Fearsome Foursome. As a fan for 45 years, I'm allowed to remember that far back.

Go Rams!