Rams DC Chris Shula Comes Under Fire After Ugly Loss to 49ers
The Rams' defense was gutted in a 27-7 loss to the 49ers, and one analyst says defensive coordinator Chris Shula is the problem.
The Los Angeles Rams defense took heavy criticism after a 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in a game that showcased their new roster. Two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett and All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie were absent, leaving the defense to face the 49ers. ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky voiced concern during a First Take episode, questioning defensive coordinator Chris Shula's performance.
Orlovsky argued that the defense has been struggling against top-tier quarterbacks in the past four games, including Bryce Young, Caleb Williams, Sam Darnold, and Brock Purdy. He noted that the Rams defense has given up a Quality Adjusted Rushing (QBR) of 98.3 in third downs over the past four games since 2022, with only one sack in this period.
Orlovsky suggested that Shula failed to devise any strategy to gain an advantage against the quarterbacks. Last season, the Rams finished 12-5 and narrowly missed the Super Bowl, with an offense that led the league in total yards and points. However, the defense was average at best, allowing 327.5 total yards and 20.4 points per game.
The team's playoff performances further highlighted the defensive issues, conceding 31, 17, and 31 points to the Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, and Seattle Seahawks, respectively. Shula, a long-time Rams coach, took over as defensive coordinator in 2024, but the team's defense appears to be a significant concern for fans who had high expectations following the offseason roster changes.
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