By : Mike Rifkin
The New Orleans Saints host the defending Super Bowl Champion Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. When the schedule came out most people would think that this is a game between two contenders in the NFC, instead this is a game between two teams who are barely hanging on to playoff contention.
The defending Super Bowl champs are 3-6 and coming off a 27-17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. A game in which Quarterback Matthew Stafford missed with a concussion In his place John Wolford was 24-36 for 212 yards with a touchdown and an interception. Last season the Rams offense averaged 27.1 points per game, this season they are averaging 16.4 points per game. The Rams offense is last in the league in rushing averaging 68.1 yards per game. The Rams offense took a major blow on Sunday when star receiver Cooper Kupp injured his ankle, earlier this week the Rams put him on IR meaning he will miss a minimum of four games. Now the question who will step up in Kupp’s absence? Last season the Rams defense was third in the NFL in sacks, then their pass rush helped them win the Super Bowl. This year they are 25th in sacks so far.
The Saints are 3-7 and coming off a 20-10 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Andy Dalton was 17-27 for 174 yards a touchdown and two interceptions. Alvin Kamara has three touchdowns on the season ( 1 rushing, 2 receiving) and only has ONE 100 yard rushing game on the season. Rookie receiver Chris Olave has been a bright spot for the offense with 46 catches for 658 yards and two touchdowns. Last year the Saints defense had a +7 turnover differential, this year they are -12 which is last in the NFL, the Rams are 30th with a -7 differential.
Two teams that were playoff hopefuls to start the season, are now searching to find their game. Both teams are looking to right the ship, but it might be too late.
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