The story of Week 14 for the Los Angeles Rams was the play of their defense. They held the Patriots to just three points, shutting them out in the second half en route to one of the best defensive performances ever against Bill Belichick.
Two players were at the forefront of that effort, with Kenny Young and Aaron Donald dominating defensively for L.A. Young had a pick-six and a sack on Cam Newton, while Donald recorded 1.5 sacks and two QB hits.
Both players were recognized by Pro Football Focus on the site’s Team of the Week, earning spots on the squad for Week 14. Donald was selected as the top interior defender, with Young being named to the team next to Deion Jones at linebacker.
Young led the team with eight tackles, which were also a season-high. He had been lacking big plays for the Rams all year, but he broke out in a big way against New England – which boasts a run-heavy defense that puts a lot of strain on linebackers.
Donald continues to play at a remarkably high level, recording another seven pressures, his fourth game with at least seven pressures this season. The Patriots had no answer for Donald, despite having Joe Thuney at guard.
The Rams defense should be able to keep up its stellar play in Week 15 with the 0-13 Jets coming to town.
