Rams' Preseason Finale: Keys to Beating Chargers

As the Los Angeles Rams prepare to conclude their preseason against the Los Angeles Chargers, significant roster decisions loom before the upcoming deadline. The team's focus will shift towards trimming the squad and gearing up for their season opener against the San Francisco 49ers.

For Thursday night's finale, the Rams' strategy involves specific quarterback assignments. Stetson Bennett is expected to be the QB2, while Matthew Caldwell deserves a start to showcase his efforts. Rookie quarterback Stetson Simpson should experience a close game scenario to assess his readiness for the regular season, avoiding coaching malpractice by delaying this exposure.

Playmakers like Brennan Presley, who has starred throughout the preseason, are highlighted. The Rams may use this game to test offensive concepts involving smaller, speedy pass-catchers, considering the limited targets they've received. Additionally, the consistent targeting of tight ends, including Max Klare, is a strategy to maintain depth due to injury histories of key players like Tyler Higbee and Davis Allen.

Defensively, the Rams plan to counter the Chargers' offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel's system by loading the box and trusting their secondary. They aim to exploit the Chargers' lack of a strong backup quarterback and bait their quarterbacks with disguised coverages, nullifying quick-hitting timing routes.

The article also suggests benching Wesley Bailey to prevent injury to an exciting prospect, framing it as a long-term victory key rather than immediate game strategy.