Jacob Sisneros
2 min read • November 04, 2022
Posted in
This matchup between these two middling teams features plenty of injuries on both sides of the ball. The main issue for both teams has been the health of the offensive line, meaning the matchup may come down to which defensive line can exploit the weakness the most.
The Rams (3-4) have had issues on the offensive line nearly all season and those aren’t likely to end anytime soon. Center Brian Allen has returned, but is still not 100% from his preseason knee scope.
Injuries at both guard spots aren’t new, but the loss of left tackle Joe Noteboom will likely have the biggest impact this week. Noteboom is on IR with an ankle injury and Bobby Evans will take his place.
Los Angeles’ extensive O-line issues will make it difficult for them to run the ball and could have Matt Stafford under pressure throughout the game.
Star wideout Cooper Kupp suffered a minor right ankle sprain late in the Week 8 loss to the 49ers, but will play this week against the Bucs.
Kupp should not have many limitations despite his injury, as his right foot was not planted when he was rolled up on.
On defense, the only absence is strong safety Jordan Fuller. The Rams have allowed the sixth least passing yards this season and fifth least rushing yards.
The Rams are dead last in quarterback knockdown percentage and are 22nd in sacks with 15 on the season. Aaron Donald leads the team with 4 sacks in 7 games.
Tampa Bay (3-5) lost outside linebacker Shaq Barrett to a torn Achilles in the Week 8 loss to the Ravens. Veteran free safety Logan Ryan is also on IR with a foot issue and will miss the contest.
Their defense is otherwise healthy, but the team’s struggle this season has been putting up points.
Injuries have shuffled the offensive line and not one starting wide receiver is fully healthy heading into this Week 9 game.
Russell Gage has been ruled out with a nagging hamstring, while Julio Jones returned from his PCL strain last week with limited effectiveness.
Mike Evans is nursing a minor ankle injury, but will play through and likely be effective. Chris Godwin is continuing his ACL recovery and has yet to break 100 yards in a game this season.
Despite the extensive wide receiver injuries throughout the season, Tom Brady ranks second in passing yards this season with 2,267 but has just 9 touchdowns.
Cooper Kupp O88.5 receiving yards
Kupp should have no limitations on his injured right ankle and this number is slightly lower than his usual total.
With the Rams run offense unlikely to be effective, the team will feed Kupp.
The Buccaneers are favored by three points at home and the over/under is 42.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
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Written by Jacob Sisneros
