The Rams managed to win their last game on “Monday Night Football” at SoFi Stadium, even without Puka Nacua. However, facing the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High will be a much tougher challenge, especially considering their solid defense.
Nacua is doubtful for the upcoming “Sunday Night Football” match against the Broncos, as he is still dealing with a hip injury that he aggravated during practice last Thursday.
Coach Sean McVay didn’t sound very hopeful about Nacua’s chances, stating it seems “more unlikely than likely” that he will play this weekend.
Since the injury, Nacua hasn’t practiced and missed the game against the New York Giants, which the Rams won 28-6. The positive side is that the team doesn’t expect this to turn into a long-term issue. McVay mentioned that there’s no plan to place Nacua on injured reserve, and if all goes well, he could be back in action for Week 4 against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Davante Adams stepped up in Nacua’s absence, impressively catching eight passes for 195 yards and scoring two touchdowns. But replicating that kind of performance against a Broncos defense, which showcases All-Pro cornerback Patrick Surtain II, will be a tall order, as Surtain could effectively neutralize Adams.
Adding to the Rams’ challenges, their receiving depth is still in a bit of a bind. Jordan Whittington, who is supposed to back up Nacua, is nursing a quadriceps injury and was limited in practice lately after missing the game against the Giants.
This places added pressure on Konata Mumpfield and the tight end group, including Tyler Higbee, Colby Parkinson, and Terrance Ferguson, to provide quarterback Matthew Stafford with viable options.
Initially, the Rams were favorites by 2.5 points, but you have to wonder if that will shift given the latest developments regarding Nacua.
The Rams and Broncos are set to kick off at 5:20 p.m. on Sunday, airing on NBC.
