Rams gear up for Week 2 in Nashville after a 1-0 start, leaning on a rising passing attack led by Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. Adams spoke after practice while McVay preached drive continuity and finishing drives with trust in the players. The Titans, led by Cam Ward, seek a rebound after a Denver setback. Expect Rams targets to shift as Los Angeles looks to sustain efficiency, while Ward’s arm could pry open fantasy upside in a shootable matchup.

Week 2 fantasy angles hinge on Rams’ pass-catching corps, Stafford’s efficiency, and whether Nashville can bottle the Rams’ balance. Nacua’s expanded role, Adams’ high floor, and protections from Alaric Jackson against Hunter are key. The Titans will test Stafford with pressure and Ward’s early throws could shape the game plan and fantasy ceilings on both sides.

The Rams and Texans open Week 1 with a heavy emphasis on the trench battles and a small handful of high-stakes matchups that could shape fantasy outputs. Adams against Stingley Jr. tests the Rams’ route artistry versus Houston’s sticky coverage. Jackson’s return from illness will face a stern test from Anderson Jr., potentially shaping the Rams’ protection and Stafford’s early rhythm. Durant against Collins could crystallize Houston’s aerial plan, while Verse versus Ersery signals a rookie edge duel to watch. Ford against Andrews will probe interior disruption, and Stafford’s back remains the quiet X-factor affecting Rams-heavy passing volume.

In fantasy terms, Adams’ utilization and the Rams’ offensive structure will be the fulcrum. Expect Adams to be moved around and peppered early, with Nacua potentially thriving when Adams draws extra attention. Houston may lean on Collins for a vertical element if Kirk is unavailable, elevating the Texans’ ceiling in certain formats. Stafford’s health and the pass rush dynamics will ultimately decide how aggressively Rams' targets are deployed in this opener.

Stafford will start at quarterback for the Rams, with Alaric Jackson entrenched at left tackle in the opener against the Texans at SoFi Stadium. Jackson’s return comes after blood-clot issues, while Stafford, 37, aims to shake off a back ailment that sidelined him in portions of camp.

Los Angeles added D.J. Humphries to bolster the line, and depth options like Warren McClendon Jr. and David Quessenberry could swing opposite Rob Havenstein if needed. McVay remains optimistic Jackson will play, framing Sunday as a true test for the Rams’ blocking unit.

In short, the battle lines are set: protect Stafford, unleash the aerial attack, and monitor Jackson’s condition as LAR searches for stability up front in a pivotal Week 1.

Matthew Stafford is slated to start the Rams season opener versus the Texans after returning from a back disk issue that sidelined him for much of training camp. He has been a full participant since Aug. 18 and will practice fully through Week 1. Alaric Jackson, battling lower-leg blood clots, is expected to play, with the plan to manage the condition but keep him out there. Jackson previously dealt with clots in 2022 and sat out the final nine games. The Rams lean on Stafford’s veteran presence as they navigate health and roster depth early in the season.

Stafford, 37, is entering his 17th NFL season. While the back injury remains vaguely described, his ramp-up points to a cautious yet confident return. McVay emphasized that backs can be unpredictable but stressed the importance of a healthy plan for Week 1, especially with Houston as the opener. The update also highlights Rams’ reliance on stability up front with Jackson’s status potentially influencing the pass protection and running game.