David Chao, MD
2 min read • October 14, 2022
Posted in
The Rams (2-3) have numerous injury issues ahead of a Week 6 matchup against the Matt Rhule-less Carolina Panthers (1-4).
Cooper Kupp, Tyler Higbee and Aaron Donald are all questionable with injuries they presumably picked up in last week’s loss to the Cowboys.
All three are expected to play, according to head coach Sean McVay. Kupp and Donald are dealing with unspecified foot injuries, while Higbee is battling an ankle sprain.
The Pro Football Docs have cautious optimism that all three can play effectively through their various ailments.
Los Angeles has a bye in Week 7. If any of these three were dealing with a serious injury, they would likely be shut down this week and given two weeks to rest.
That does not appear to be the case and the Rams need a win to keep pace in the NFC West.
Running back Cam Akers is out this week due to personal reasons and McVay told reporters the team is “working through some things” with Akers.
Kupp, who leads the NFL in yards through five games, has averaged 12.8 targets per game this season and shouldn’t see that number dip much. Higbee is tied with Travis Kelce for first place in league in receptions among tight ends (33).
Higbee is not known for his agility and the ankle injury shouldn’t affect him much in game.
The pair get a matchup against a Carolina secondary facing a shortage at cornerback. Jaycee Horn (ribs) and Donte Jackson (ankle) are both questionable along with C.J. Henderson (knee).
The biggest issue for the Rams may be the offensive line, with three starters out due to injury.
The Rams are favored by 10 points and the over/under is 41.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
For injury-based picks throughout the season sign up for SIC picks here. Our staff went 8-2 on player props in Week 5.
Written by David Chao, MD
