Jacob Sisneros
2 min read • November 18, 2022
Posted in
Both teams enter this game with a mess on the offensive line due to injuries. The Rams (3-6) are looking to rally their season despite the loss of Cooper Kupp. The Saints (3-7) are surprisingly still in the hunt for the NFC South despite sub-standard quarterback play and losing Michael Thomas for the season.
The situation on the Rams’ offensive line has gone from bad to worse. Although Matthew Stafford will return this week after missing the previous game with a concussion, they currently have five offensive linemen on IR. That includes recent additions Alaric Jackson, who was filling in at left tackle for Joe Noteboom, and depth guard Chandler Brewer.
In Los Angeles’ first game without Cooper Kupp since Jan. 3, 2021, the offense will likely struggle to replace his production. Ben Skowronek figures to get the same routes Kupp ran, but there will also be more opportunities for Allen Robinson and Van Jefferson.
Tight end Tyler Higbee could be the main beneficiary as the safety blanket for Stafford as he contends with the Saints’ pass rush, which ranks seventh in the league with 28 sacks.
The offensive line situation in New Orleans is no better, with three starters likely out and two backups fighting through ailments.
With Andy Dalton at the helm for the past seven games, New Orleans currently ranks 19th in passing yards and 15th in total offensive yards.
The team did get Jarvis Landry back last week after a five-week absence, but he’s likely not 100% back from his ankle injury. He had 3 catches on 6 targets last week for 37 yards.
On defense, No. 1 cornerback Marshon Lattimore will miss another contest after suffering a lacerated kidney and two broken ribs in Week 5.
Without Lattimore, the Saints have ranked 14th in passing yards allowed, but have allowed the 9th least passing touchdowns this season.
Both veteran ends have been ruled out for the game. Marcus Davenport has been ruled out with a calf injury while Cameron Jordan has been ruled out with an eye injury.
Los Angeles is a 3-point underdog on the road this week and the over/under is 38.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
For injury-based picks throughout the season, sign up for SIC picks here.
Through Week 10, our staff is 55% on player props and 59% on live bets.
U39.5 Total Points
With both teams lacking necessary pieces on the offensive line, both will struggle to put up points.
Look for both defenses to dominate the game.
Written by Jacob Sisneros
