NFL4 hours ago2 minute read

Rams Question Kicking Unit After Overtime Loss to Bills

Sean McVay plans to evaluate the kicking unit after the Rams lost 37-34 in overtime to the Buffalo Bills.

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Kicking Troubles Doom Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Rams fell to 2-3 on the season after a 37-34 overtime loss to the Buffalo Bills on Monday night in Inglewood. Kicking errors proved costly for Los Angeles throughout the contest. Kicker Harrison Mevis missed a 50 yard field goal wide left in the first quarter. Later, with an opportunity to win in overtime, Mevis had a 48 yard field goal attempt blocked.

The block was the third blocked field goal for the Rams since the start of last season, tying them for the most in the NFL. Across Sean McVay's tenure since 2017, including playoffs, the Rams have suffered 81 missed or blocked kicks, which is the third highest total in the league.

McVay Evaluates Mistakes

Head coach Sean McVay made it clear after the game that changes could be coming. McVay said the Rams will evaluate everything regarding the kicking unit. "In the kicking game, especially with our PAT field goal, not even close to good enough," McVay said. "It cost us the game tonight." He also added, "it's been a while since I've been this pissed after a game."

Mevis defended his overtime swing, saying he felt like he hit the ball well and gave it a chance. However, McVay also expressed regret with his own play calling right before the blocked kick. On third and 5 from the Buffalo 30, running back Kyren Williams was stopped for no gain. McVay said he regretted not having a better third down call to potentially go for it on fourth down, adding, "And that's on me."

Wide receiver Puka Nacua noted that the offense needs to execute better and convert on key downs rather than leaving outcomes to special teams. The defeat leaves Los Angeles sitting in third place in the NFC West, trailing the 5-0 San Francisco 49ers and the 3-2 Seattle Seahawks.

What it means for the next game

Arizona Cardinals at Los Angeles Rams (NFL, Sun, 18 Oct): Los Angeles Rams win 83%, Arizona Cardinals win 17%; projected score Los Angeles Rams 32, Arizona Cardinals 20. Our safest pick: Cardinals +20.5.

Buffalo Bills at Las Vegas Raiders (NFL, Sun, 18 Oct): Las Vegas Raiders win 28%, Buffalo Bills win 72%; projected score Las Vegas Raiders 23, Buffalo Bills 29. Our safest pick: Bills to win.