Home / Sports / Rams' Special Teams Woes: A Super Bowl Choke Factor?
Rams' Special Teams Woes: A Super Bowl Choke Factor?
13 Oct
Summary
- A punt return TD sparked Seahawks' comeback win vs. Rams.
- Rams consistently underinvest resources in special teams.
- Seahawks' investment in special teams proved crucial for success.
A critical special teams play in Week 16 of the 2025 regular season significantly impacted the Los Angeles Rams' season. With the Rams leading the Seattle Seahawks 30-14, a 58-yard punt return touchdown by Seattle's Rashid Shaheed sparked a comeback victory for the Seahawks. This win was instrumental in Seattle securing the NFC West title and ultimately winning the Super Bowl.
The Rams' decision to underinvest in special teams, a strategy favored by coach Sean McVay and General Manager Les Snead, has been a recurring issue. While special teams coordinators have been changed, the player personnel choices reflect a consistent lack of priority for special teams players. This contrasts with the Seahawks, who demonstrably prioritize special teams through roster construction and player acquisition, exemplified by their trade for Shaheed.
An analysis by Mike Sando of TheAthletic.com revealed the Rams ranked near the bottom in prioritizing special teams across multiple factors. Despite efforts this offseason, such as signing Grant Stuard, the Rams' special teams performance has continued to be a point of concern, potentially costing them a Super Bowl they were favored to win.
