Image Source: JB Scott
Key Takeaways:
- The Los Angeles Rams may have solved their recent tackling issue, which was a major concern in their recent games.
- The team’s tackling improved significantly in their playoff win over the Carolina Panthers, with a stark difference from their recent performances.
- Several factors may have contributed to the improvement, including the return of Quentin Lake and the team’s increased focus in the postseason.
- The Rams still need to address the tackling issues of veteran linebacker Nate Landman, who has missed 17 tackles in his last 11 games.
- The team’s defense must continue to improve their tackling to succeed in the playoffs.
Introduction to the Issue
The Los Angeles Rams’ playoff win over the Carolina Panthers was a significant development for the team, and one of the most positive aspects of the game was the improvement in their tackling. As noted by a reporter, "The trend came to a screeching halt last week in Carolina. It’s a stark difference from their recent games." The Rams had been struggling with tackling in their recent games, missing over 13 tackles per game on average between Weeks 14 and 18. This was a significant concern for the team, as they had been one of the best tackling teams in the NFL for the first half of the season.
The Role of Nate Landman
One of the factors that may have contributed to the Rams’ tackling issues is the performance of veteran linebacker Nate Landman. As reported, "Landman missed only two tackle attempts in his first seven games as a Ram. Since Week 9 against the New Orleans Saints—an 11 game stretch—he’s missed 17 tackles and more than one per game." This is a significant decline in performance, and the Rams will need Landman to improve his tackling to succeed in the playoffs. Despite the team’s improved tackling performance against the Panthers, Landman still missed two tackles, which accounted for 40% of the team’s total missed tackles.
The Impact of Quentin Lake’s Return
Another factor that may have contributed to the Rams’ improved tackling is the return of Quentin Lake, a key player on the defense. Lake was absent from Weeks 11 through 18, and his return to the lineup may have had a significant impact on the team’s performance. As noted, "We know Quentin Lake is an important player on the defense, especially given his role as a captain. The Rams understand this too and recently rewarded the slot/safety with a contract extension, preventing him from hitting the open free agent market." The team’s improved tackling performance coincided with Lake’s return, and it is likely that his presence on the field had a positive impact on the team’s overall defense.
The Postseason Factor
The playoffs can have a significant impact on a team’s performance, and it is possible that the Rams’ improved tackling was due in part to the increased focus and intensity of the postseason. As reported, "Nothing can force turnarounds like the threat of being sent home from the postseason. Winning requires teams to bring their best performances, and it could be a matter of the Rams simply tightening their chin straps." The Rams will need to continue to bring their best performances if they hope to succeed in the playoffs, and their improved tackling will be a key factor in their success.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The Rams’ improved tackling performance against the Panthers is an encouraging sign for the team, but they will need to continue to address their tackling issues to succeed in the playoffs. As noted, "The bottom line is that this is an encouraging sign for the Rams defense moving forward. They must continue to right the trend or they could find themselves on the losing side of a playoff battle." The team will need to build on their improved performance and continue to work on their tackling to achieve success in the postseason. With the return of Quentin Lake and the increased focus of the postseason, the Rams may have finally turned the corner on their tackling issues, but they will need to continue to work hard to maintain their improved performance.
https://www.turfshowtimes.com/los-angeles-rams-nfl-playoffs/133436/rams-bears-panthers-playoffs-2025