The last preseason game of 2019 is finally here, meaning regular-season football is that much closer. This game is more about the backups and bubble players trying to move up the depth chart, not the starters who will play a major role this season.
The Los Angeles Rams will once again play it safe with their key players on both sides of the ball, giving coaches a longer look at guys further down the roster.
Here are five things to watch for when the Rams take on the Texans at 8 p.m. ET.
How backup offensive line performs
One of the focal points of the preseason for the Rams has been the play of their backup offensive line. None of the starters have played even a single snap, so it’s been all on the second unit. Bobby Evans and Jamil Demby have struggled each week, while David Edwards has improved over time. Vitas Hrynkiewicz is the only backup center right now with Aaron Neary injured and if he plays well, he could sneak onto the 53-man roster. The same goes for Chandler Brewer.
No matter what, the Rams need to see their second-string offensive line show some ability because it’s been a mess thus far. Hopefully all of the starters stay healthy this season.
Pecking order on punt returns
Thursday night’s game could determine who the Rams go with as their primary return specialist this season. JoJo Natson and Nsimba Webster are the top contenders, but neither has shined in the return game this preseason. Webster has looked like the better receiver, but Natson has more experience and was the Rams’ punt returner last season.
Keep an eye on who gets the first opportunities on punt returns Thursday night. If it’s Natson and he doesn’t have any blunders, he could get the nod on the 53-man roster.
Playing time at CB and WR
The Rams’ toughest decisions will come at cornerback and wide receiver. It’s a good problem to have, but they’re rich with talent at both positions. Kevin Peterson, Dont’e Deayon, Darious Williams and Dominique Hatfield are all competing for potentially one roster spot as the sixth corner.
At wideout, Webster, Natson and KhaDarel Hodge are duking it out for one or two spots on the 53-man squad. If Hodge makes the team, either Natson or Webster will have to make it as a return specialist. But if Hodge is cut, it’ll likely be one or the other between Natson and Webster – not both.
John Wolford vs. Brandon Allen
Wolford is competing for a spot on the practice squad, given the slim chance he has of making the regular-season roster. Allen doesn’t have a great shot to make either squad, considering how long he’s been with the Rams and still hasn’t progressed. Wolford at least has a promising skill set with good mobility and a live arm.
Bortles won’t be playing in this one, so it’ll once again be the Allen and Wolford Show. Perhaps the Rams will keep Wolford on the sideline more than you’d expect in an attempt to keep him from other teams claiming him on waivers.
Which players sit this one out
The players who don’t suit up in the final preseason game (for non-injury reasons) will be assured roster spots. The Rams are going to play it safe with players they expect to contribute in a big way this year, so don’t expect to see everyone in pads. Marqui Christian probably won’t play, which means he’s making the team. Morgan Fox and Tanzel Smart, however, haven’t yet locked up a roster spot.
The same goes for Justin Davis, John Kelly and Michael Thomas. Kelly and Davis are near-locks to make the team, but Davis has a lot of work to do.
