The Super Bowl hangover hit the Rams hard, resulting in a point differential of -77 and a subpar 5-12 record. A significant number of injuries further exacerbated the Rams’ struggles.
In 2022, key players like Matthew Stafford, Cooper Kupp, and Aaron Donald missed several games due to injuries. The absences of these players, among other injuries, significantly impacted the Rams’ performance. As they make their respective returns, they will undoubtedly help to improve the Rams’ game.
However, is that enough for this team to climb above 6.5 wins? We’ll break down our Rams win total prediction for 2023 below.
Rams Win Total Prediction 2023: Under 6.5 Wins
The Rams are 15th in our NFL strength of schedule rankings, but it’s hard to see a path to seven or more victories. Moreover, divisional rivals San Francisco and Seattle are both potential playoff teams, adding two (four?) more hurdles in both home and away contests for the Rams.
Let’s face it, the Rams could be entering a rebuilding or transition year with their roster. The trading of superstar cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Miami Dolphins for a third-rounder and a relatively unknown tight end signals a potential shift in strategy. Rumors have also circulated about dealing Stafford, although it’s more probable the Rams will keep him this season while waiting for cap relief and a better draft position in 2024.
The losses across the roster, particularly on the defensive side, will be difficult to compensate for. The team has also said goodbye to linebacker Bobby Wagner, another key defensive player. While the Rams still have Aaron Donald, he’ll face the daunting task of carrying the pass rush mostly on his own after the Rams’ tight cap situation forced them to part ways with many of their key defensive players.
If not the Rams, then who? Check out our NFC West Predictions to view our best bet to take the division.
Where To Bet: DraftKings Sportsbook
Given these considerations, betting under 6.5 wins for the Rams seems to be a wise choice at DraftKings Sportsbook, where the under is listed with -115 odds.
Despite the return of Stafford and Kupp, the losses across the roster and a thin defense make it hard to envision the Rams winning more than six games in the 2023 season. The potential for a rebuilding year only adds to the likelihood of the Rams falling short of the 6.5-win threshold.
Although the Rams have the talent and leadership to be competitive, the challenges they face — particularly those related to the roster depth, age, and cap space — may be too great to overcome in the 2023 season. The safe bet, therefore, would be under 6.5 wins.
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