It’s finally here: the Los Angeles Rams home opener! The Rams will take on the Houston Texans to kick off the 2025 season. Both teams have made the playoffs in the last two seasons, so expect a close game to begin what should be another exciting year in Hollywood. C.J. Stroud versus Matthew Stafford? Sign me up!
Before the Texans’ first-ever trip to SoFi Stadium, I spoke with Scott Barzilla from Battle Red Blog to gain additional insight on what former Rams coach Nick Caley brings to his new team, Houston’s stellar defense and more.
Q – Houston seemingly regressed on offense last season, as C.J. Stroud’s numbers fell off compared to his stellar rookie campaign. Following the Texans’ playoff loss, offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik was fired and replaced with Nick Caley, a name Rams fans should definitely recognize. What contributed to the offensive decline in 2024, and where do you see this unit improving most under Caley’s leadership?
A – It’s a combination of things, but most of it goes back to the offensive line. Bobby Slowik had too many slowly developing plays that got Stroud killed. He was kind of like a kid on Madden dreaming up perfect plays without considering whether his players could actually execute. Caley has given Stroud the power to change plays and protections at the line and he’s asking the line to do less and think less. Hopefully it works.
Q – The Texans have sky-high expectations for their defense, with pass rushing duo Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter entering their second year together. L.A.‘s offense could have a difficult time moving the ball, so could you talk more about the strengths of this unit, and what about some potential weaknesses the Rams could exploit?
A – This is a top-five NFL defense. The strength is probably the secondary when everyone is healthy. Derek Stingley is the best cover corner in football and I’ll fight anyone on that. Kamarie Lassiter is not far behind. I’d say the Rams will win if they are able to run on this defense. The defensive tackles are solid, but they are likely the weakest part of the defense.
Q – With Stroud and DeMeco Ryans at the helm, Houston has won two straight AFC South titles and has advanced to the Divisional Round in back-to-back years. What is the ceiling for this team, especially compared to the rest of the conference?
A – I think the Texans are better overall but their position hasn’t changed. The Chiefs, Ravens and Bills are still the class of the conference. I’m expecting a very similar result where we get to the divisional round and go up against one of those three teams yet again.
Q – Who have been some standout players from training camp and preseason that Rams fans must keep an eye on Sunday?
A – The Texans played things close to the vest offensively but I’m intrigued by our running back room without Joe Mixon. I’m not sure what we will get when the lights shine bright and everything counts. On defense, I’m excited to see Will Anderson in year three. I think he’s ready to be in that conversation at edge rusher with the other big names in the sport. E.J. Speed was a nice pickup at linebacker as well.
Q – The Rams are a 3-point favorite at FanDuel Sportsbook. What is your prediction for this game, and what must the Texans do to pull off a season-opening upset?
A – This line surprised me. It is a road game but I feel the Texans are the better football team. I probably would have made it a pick em game so neither result would surprise me. I think the Texans win because Stafford might not be as mobile as usual and I think everyone is underestimating this defense. Stroud needs to get it out quick and avoid turnovers. If he does that, the Texans win.
