Los Angeles Rams

Picks

In most universes, Seattle beats the Rams in Week 11 and L.A.’s Week 12 spread looks a little different – likely coming out below the key number of six. Los Angeles’ defense was on the field for almost 38 minutes last Sunday and we’ve seen this stop unit soften a bit in recent games, especially against the pass. The Rams have given up more than 600 yards through the air on 75% completions the past two outings. Now they take on a Tampa Bay team that can score with the best of them – even when it’s not at full strength. The Bucs may have some big guns back with RB Bucky Irving and WR Chris Godwin picking up more practice reps in hopes of avoiding a three-game slide. As for the Tampa defense, it continues to shut the door on opposing rushing attacks. It checked the Bills’ No. 1 run game to only 97 yards and 40 of those gains came from QB Josh Allen, which should throw a wrench in Sean McVay’s play-action plans.

Tampa Bay was down WR Chris Godwin and RB Bucky Irving but both players put in limited practice work last week, which trends toward a positive status versus the Rams on Sunday Night Football. Los Angeles is coming of a grueling divisional battle with the Seahawks’ stingy defense in Week 11. The Rams only had the ball for 22:11 and totaled just 249 yards, yet somehow won 21-19 – thanks in part of turnovers and a missed game-winning field goal from Seattle. The Bucs defense doesn’t pose as much of a threat. Tampa Bay allowed 317 passing yards and three touchdowns to Josh Allen, so things are looking rosy for Matt Stafford and this L.A. attack. The total opened as low as 49 points, but most books are up to 49.5 with juice on the Over rising, significantly a move to 50 points. Given the next key number is 51, bookies won’t wait to move to 50.5 if Over money keeps coming.