ESPN analyst sounds alarm on Rams defensive coordinator: They have stunk

A small sample can still contain a large warning.Dan Orlovsky found one in Melbourne, where the Rams’ celebrated defense looked considerably less imposing than the collection of names Los Angeles assembled during the offseason.After initially criticizing Matthew Stafford’s performance in the Rams’ 27-7 loss to the 49ers, Orlovsky redirected the spotlight toward defensive coordinator Chris Shula.“This ain’t the flaw, and this is not the concern,” Orlovsky said on ESPN’s “Get Up!” “I am very concerned about that defense, and I’m very concerned about their defensive coordinator.”Orlovsky extended his argument beyond Week 1.“The last four games that we have watched this defense on the field with all kinds of talent, they have stunk,” he said.“Bryce Young lit them up.

Caleb Williams lit them up.Sam Darnold lit them up.

Brock Purdy lit them up.”The early schematic numbers make Orlovsky’s criticism more interesting.During the 2025 regular season, the Rams ran defensive-line stunts on approximately 41.7% of opposing dropbacks.That rate fell to 19.4% against San Francisco.

Their use of schemed pressures — a broader category incorporating blitzes, simulated pressures and other nontraditional rushes — dropped from 39.1% to 25%.Traditional blitz frequency also declined from approximately 18% to 14%.It is only 36 dropbacks against one opponent, making any conclusion provisional.San Francisco’s quick passing game also reduced the time available for pressures to reach Purdy.Still, it is fair to wonder whether the Rams ended up oversimplifying their rush plan while integrating Myles Garrett, believing the reigning Defensive Player of the Year could consistently win without schematic assistance.

Perhaps fewer stunts and simulated pressures were installed because Shula expected his four-man rush to create disruption without them.There is no evidence establishing that as Shula’s thinking.If it was the bet, however, it failed spectacularly...