Rams vs. Carolina Panthers: How they match up
Rams pass offense vs. Panthers pass defense: It’s been two weeks since Case Keenum had a career-high four passes intercepted in a loss to the New York Giants. Keenum has passed for eight touchdowns, with 10 interceptions, including three that were returned for touchdowns. Tavon Austin had 10 receptions against the Giants. Kenny Britt and Brian Quick are other starters for a receiving corps that has yet to get significant pass-catching contributions from rookies Pharoh Cooper or Mike Thomas. The Panthers rank 29th in the NFL against the pass, giving up 286.9 yards per game.
EDGE: Rams.
Rams run offense vs. Panthers run defense: Rams running back Todd Gurley is averaging 57.6 yards per game and only three yards per carry. His longest run was 16 yards. Several offensive linemen have said the Rams were on the verge of springing Gurley, but it has not happened. Coach Jeff Fisher said there would be no personnel changes along the offensive line. The Panthers are giving up 80.1 yards rushing per game, which ranks third in the NFL. Linebackers Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis are the leading tacklers for a unit that will be without injured strong-side linebacker Shaq Thompson.
EDGE: Panthers.
Panthers pass offense vs. Rams pass defense: Quarterback Cam Newton is perhaps the ultimate dual-threat quarterback. The reigning NFL MVP is completing 57% of his passes, eight for touchdowns, with six interceptions. Tight end Greg Olsen has 40 catches, two for touchdowns. Receiver Kelvin Benjamin has four touchdown receptions. Rams cornerback Trumaine Johnson is listed as questionable but he probably will play after recovering from an ankle injury that sidelined him for two-plus games. The Rams rank 12th in pass defense, giving up 239 yards per game.
EDGE: Panthers.
Panthers run offense vs. Rams run defense: Jonathan Stewart is averaging 63.2 yards rushing per game and has run for four touchdowns. Newton has rushed for 191 yards and three touchdowns. Left tackle Michael Oher is out because of a concussion. Center Ryan Kalil did not practice all week and is questionable because of a shoulder injury. The Rams are giving up 104.3 rushing yards per game, which ranks 15th in the NFL. Linebackers Alec Ogletree and Mark Barron are the leading tacklers for a beat up defense that benefited from an off week. Tackle Michael Brockers is trying to overcome a groin injury. Cam Thomas and Dominque Easley could play in his spot.
EDGE: Rams.
Special teams: Rams punter Johnny Hekker has consistently put opponents in tough spots and given the defense and offense opportunities to capitalize. Hekker is averaging 45.4 yards per kick, and has put 22 of 38 inside the 20-yard line. Greg Zuerlein has made all 10 of his field-goal attempts. Benny Cunningham averages 25.6 yards per kickoff return, Tavon Austin nine yards per punt return. Carolina kicker Graham Gano has made 12 of 15 field-goal attempts. Punter Andy Lee has averaged 49.8 yards per kick, and placed 15 of 29 inside the 20. Ted Ginn Jr. averages 20.9 yards per kickoff return, 5.9 yards per punt return.
EDGE: Rams.
Gary Klein’s pick: The Rams had a week to rest and regroup after a 10-day trip that included losses at Detroit and to the New York Giants in London. The open date gave key players, including several defensive linemen and cornerback Johnson, a chance to heal. The Panthers ended a four-game losing streak by defeating Arizona. Whether that is enough to turn around the season remains to be seen. After Newton complained last week about sustaining alleged illegal hits in the pocket — and got an audience with the NFL commissioner — officials will no doubt keep an eye on the Rams.
Rams 27, Panthers 24
Follow Gary Klein on Twitter @latimesklein
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