Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula came out of the bye week with a new approach to attacking offenses. Shula has been aggressive, on the money with defensive calls and has shown a hunter-like mentality in the second half, helping the Rams win two football games in five days.
His improvements have not gone unnoticed, especially by Sean McVay.
The Rams head coach spoke highly of Shula in a recent press conference, applauding Shula for adapting to a tough situation with the injuries and changes Los Angeles has dealt with.
“I think they’ve done a good job. Number one, we’ve earned the right to be able to (rush the passer). You get into some of the pass situations, I thought that was reflected really after we got through the first two drives of the game against the Vikings and that was on display really throughout the course of the game against the Raiders. What he and the coaches have done a great job of is saying, ‘OK, here are these guys that we have. Here are the skill sets that they have. Let’s figure out ways to mesh, mold, and to continue to figure out really what the identity of this defense is.’ I think we’re starting to find that but it is a week-to-week thing. I think he’s done a great job of being able to identify – I think it’s really been for the last three weeks – there were some things that we can learn from against the Packers but really, there have been some opportunities for things to be on display and shoot, we’ve scored each of the last three games defensively with two touchdowns, one against the Packers, one against the Raiders, and then getting the safety the other night.”
Shula has had to face an uphill battle since getting promoted to defensive coordinator. Not only has he dealt with the departure of Aaron Donald but the Rams are starting a number of players with fewer than two years of experience.
Despite that, the young defenders have shown up and shown out. Jared Verse continues to impress, Braden Fiske is slowly coming along and undrafted rookie Jaylen McCollough has been a welcomed addition with his three interceptions on the season.
Shula however will face a big test this week with the pass-happy Seattle Seahawks, as their offense is averaging close to 24 points per game.
