PSO Premium Review: Bears vs. Rams on MNF

1. An elite Punter makes a huge difference in winning games 

Often an overlooked aspect of a team’s success is its ability to punt the ball and pin an opponent deep in its own territory. This can make a huge difference when paired with a great defense to stop the opposing offense and force a punt. Winning the field position battle makes it easier for them to put points on the board. This has been the case for the Rams a number of times in the past and was again on MNF as Johnny Hekker was able to pin the Bears offense deep in their own territory, therefore making it much tougher for them to score. This is a major part of their game and when executed correctly can make a huge difference in the final outcome.

2. Brandon Staley made a statement as LA’s rookie Defensive Coordinator

In his first season as the Rams’ DC at just 37 years old, Brandon Staley made a huge statement on MNF when his defense dominated the Bears from start to finish in Week 7. Holding Chicago to just 49 RUSH YDS, the Rams pushed the Bears into a position where they were forced to pass as Nick Foles threw 40 times and had 2 INTs. In addition to having two of the NFL’s best defenders in Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey, Staley and his well-coached defense could make this Rams team a legit playoff contender if the offense can perform at steady level. Staley has only been in the NFL for three years, coming from small schools like John Carrol University and JMU, before climbing the NFL ranks as quick as anyone, and proving another quick-riser (Sean McVay) right in giving him the Def. Coordinator job so young in his career. 

3. All four NFC West teams could make the playoffs this year

During the offseason, the NFL playoff format was changed to where seven teams from each conference can now qualify for the postseason meaning all four teams from one particular division can make it in. With the way things are going in the NFC West, this possibility could happen sooner than many thought. Albeit an unlikely scenario, it is still very possible. Given the dismal state of the NFC East, Michael Thomas’ health and how it will impact the Saints the rest of the year, and whether the Bears continue to play like they did tonight, NO and CHI could be on the outside looking in if the NFC West can keep winning like they have been so far. The four NFC West teams have a combined .704 win%, the 2nd-highest combined win% for a division through 7 weeks since the 1970 merger.