Random Ramsdom 12/21: Redemption in the desert

Sean McVay explains reason behind Pharoh Cooper’s release | 247 Sports

Clearly, Cooper was released because JoJo Natson fumbled last Sunday. For reals, though, the one thing that cannot happen is Pharoh busting a big return against us on Sunday.

Rams QB Jared Goff responds to criticism that’s come with two-game skid | Press-Enterprise

As he has done all year, Rams QB Jared Goff is owning his mistakes. It’s just that most of them have come in the last three weeks. Are you starting him in your fantasy championship game on Sunday?

Arizona Cardinals still banged up getting ready for Rams | Raising Zona

With the Rams in need of a bounce-back performance, the lengthy Cardinals injury report should help grease the wheels.

4 reasons Los Angeles Rams should consider resting Todd Gurley final two weeks | FanSided

It’s not the worst idea I’ve ever heard. If newly acquired RB CJ Anderson can pick up enough of the playbook to do the job, the Rams should at least consider giving JTG a limited workload. Some would argue that’s what we’ve been doing the last three weeks.

Jared Goff: “I Think We’re Learning from the Mistakes in the Last Game and Moving Forward.” | Rams Official

Ever calm, cool and collected, JG is taking his lumps with lessons. Let’s just hope he’s a quick study, or the Rams could have a playoff game in two weeks instead of three.

Cooper Kupp’s absence looms large as Rams offense falters | Press-Enterprise

One of the more glaring stats from last week’s effort against the Eagles? WR Josh Reynolds’ 12 targets. Get well soon, Coop.

C.J. Anderson: “I know I’m going to do everything that I possibly can this week to be ready to play.” | Rams Official

Whether or not he’s a back with a declining skill set or not, CJ Anderson has a lot of confidence in himself and a great attitude. Let’s hope he can give this team a boost this Sunday.

Rams among league leaders in pass-block, pass-rush win rate | RamsWire

If you’re into newish metrics, here’s a new one. If it’s any indication, this stat has much beleaguered Rams C John Sullivan is playing at a very high level (he’s not).

Rams QB Jared Goff has a message for Cardinals QB Josh Rosen | CardsWire

SMD, Josh. S. M. D.

I’m glad Goff is supportive of another Pac-12 QB who’s having a rough go of it his first year. Or am I? If he wasn’t in-division, I’d be pretty ambivalent.

Rams vs. Cardinals: 5 key matchups to watch in Week 16 | RamsWire

Cam DaSilva’s key clashes as the Rams attempt to raise hell in Arizona.

Rams’ Gurley expects to play, with Anderson ready to step in | WEEI

As reported on TST, Gurley’s going to give it a go. I’d love to see him get about 6 touches, for CJ to carry the load, and for Goff to get back on track. Knock on wood. The Rams cannot expose this guy to too much heading down the stretch.