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Rams-Broncos INSTANT REACTION: Merry Christmas, Baker Mayfield!

Cam Akers had a career day. Defense came up with four interceptions.

By JB Scott
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NFL: Denver Broncos at Los Angeles Rams Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Rams ran wild over the Denver Broncos on Christmas day, coming out on top 51-14 and moving to 5-10 on the season.

Baker Mayfield was stellar as he continues to audition for a starting role in 2023 - completing 24 of 28 passes for 230 yards and 2 TD’s. The Rams weren’t running their full offense for the last quarter and a half with the score out of hand, which probably dampened his production through the air. While Mayfield is set to have plenty of suitors for a starting role next year, his best option is to remain in Los Angeles as a backup to Matthew Stafford and under the tutelage of Sean McVay.

Cam Akers and Tyler Higbee were also standouts on offense. Akers had his first ever game with three touchdowns as he accumulated 118 yards on 23 carries. He also added 29 yards on two receptions. Higbee was the focal point of the passing game on Sunday evening, coverting 9 of his 11 targets for 94 yards and two scores.

Brycen Hopkins, LA’s reserve TE, also contributed three receptions for 57 yards as the Rams ran the most 12 personnel that they have all season.

But perhaps the biggest story of this game was the stifling effort on defense - and forcing four interceptions (three by Russell Wilson, another by Brett Rypien) helped the score get out of hand quickly. Between Cobie Durant, Bobby Wagner, Jalen Ramsey, Larrell Murchison, Michael Hoecht, and others, there were plenty of promising individual performances on the defensive side of the ball.

Kenneth Arthur & JB Scott discuss these standout performers and more on this episode of Turf Show Times: The Podcast as we give our INSTANT REACTION to the Rams’ big victory over the Broncos:

  • Baker Mayfield will have suitors for starting role in 2023, but the best fit for him is in LA with McVay.
  • Can Matthew Stafford be expected to play 17 games (21 with playoffs)?
  • Cam Akers could return as lead back next season, but also auditioning for another team if differences with McVay aren’t reconcilable
  • Higbee’s big day shows Rams need another TE
  • Bobby Wagner and defense has been stellar over last month
  • Does Rams offensive breakout bode well for outlook against Chargers, Brandon Staley?

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