If Los Angeles Rams fans feel like their team is starting every game at a disadvantage this season, that’s because they are.
The Rams (1-4) have not scored a touchdown in the first quarter of any of their five games, often falling behind early. Matthew Stafford and his offense have had to play from behind each week, and they’ve only managed to come back to win once.
This is surprising for a team coached by Sean McVay, known for having some of the best opening game plans in the NFL during his eight years. The only points Los Angeles has scored in the first quarter this season are two field goals.
Due to these early struggles, the Rams find themselves tied with Carolina for the worst record in the NFC as they head into their bye week.
“This doesn’t feel good right now, being in this situation,” McVay said. The problems with slow starts were clear in the Rams’ 24-19 loss to Green Bay on Sunday.
Stafford drove the Rams 66 yards to the Packers’ 4-yard line, but they lost the ball on downs with two incomplete passes aimed at Colby Parkinson.
The Rams did score an offensive touchdown in the second quarter and even took their first halftime lead of the season after Jaylen McCollough returned a terrible interception from Jordan Love for a touchdown. However, Los Angeles’ offense struggled, failing to score on six of its first seven drives while Green Bay pulled ahead.
McVay and Stafford have had many successful drives together over the past four years, but without Stafford’s top two receivers, it has been nearly impossible in the last month.
McVay is still hopeful that Super Bowl 56 MVP Cooper Kupp can return from his sprained ankle after the bye, but it’s not guaranteed. Meanwhile, fellow receiver Puka Nacua doesn’t seem close to returning from his knee injury.
