Rams Defense Silences Critics: LA's Dominant Unit Key to Playoff Push

As the NFL season enters October, the Los Angeles Rams find themselves in an unfamiliar position: their defense is carrying the team. Through three weeks, the Rams boast the seventh-ranked defense in EPA per play, a remarkable turnaround from a 2025 campaign where defense was a glaring weakness. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, this unit has transformed into a legitimate top-ten force, and it's doing so without its best player at full strength.

By the Numbers: A Defensive Resurgence

Los Angeles ranks 10th in Pro Football Focus's success rate allowed, fourth in explosive play rate allowed, and third in missed tackle rate. The pass defense has been particularly stingy, sitting third in EPA per play, sixth in passing success rate allowed, second in yards per attempt allowed, and third in completion percentage allowed. While critics point to matchups against underperforming quarterbacks Jameis Winston and Bo Nix, the Rams also faced Brock Purdy—the NFL's best quarterback in nearly every statistical category—in Week 1 and held their own.

"This group is doing its job," a team source told Vulius. "The offense needs to be more consistent, score more points, and take care of the football."

The run defense, ranked 23rd in EPA per play, has been bend-but-don't-break, limiting explosive plays (eighth) and allowing just 2.5 yards after contact per carry (10th). They may not create many tackles for loss (31st), but they prevent the big gain. And they've achieved this without Myles Garrett, the best defensive player in football, who has missed two full games and remains sidelined for a few more weeks.

New Faces, Big Impact

The acquisitions of Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson have paid immediate dividends. McDuffie, a Pro Bowl-caliber corner, has solidified the secondary, while Watson's physicality has been a tone-setter. However, Watson is expected to miss this weekend's game against the Philadelphia Eagles, leaving Josh Wallace to step up. It's a concern, but the Rams' depth has been tested and has responded.

Most fans will remember the inept performance in Australia against the 49ers and a second-half collapse against the Broncos, but this defense also held a weak Giants offense to just six points. The offense and special teams must elevate their play to dig out of a 1-2 hole. As highlighted on Vulius, the defense looks ready—now it's up to the rest of the team to catch up.

The Road Ahead

With Garrett and Watson eventually returning, the Rams' defense could evolve into an elite unit. For now, they'll need to rely on their depth and coaching. Chris Shula's scheme has been effective, and the players are executing. If the offense can find consistency, Los Angeles could be a dangerous playoff contender. For die-hard fans, the message is clear: don't blame the defense. They're the reason the Rams are still in the fight.