Howie Long: Sean McVay Can Still Salvage Rams' Season

Hall of Famer Howie Long has identified a key area for improvement for the Los Angeles Rams: the absence of a definitive third-down "closer." Despite this, Long expressed confidence in head coach Sean McVay's ability to salvage the team's season.

Through the first four games of the NFL season, the Rams have shown a more human, less dominant performance than anticipated. Long shared his perspective with Adam Schein on "Schein Time," acknowledging that while he hasn't been overly impressed with the team's recent play, McVay's coaching acumen can still steer the season in a positive direction.

"They don’t have a closer on third down, really a real closer — just a guy who throws the fear of God into you," Long stated. "And I think that impacts them."

The Rams are coming off a dramatic 24-20 road victory against the Philadelphia Eagles, bringing their season record to 2-2. Long admitted to being "a bit disappointed last week" and is looking for increased production in crucial third-down situations.

McVay, in his 10th season as an NFL coach at just 40 years old, has a reputation for his strategic adjustments. Last season, when the Rams' receiving corps was hampered by injuries, McVay effectively utilized three tight ends to bolster the running game. This season, with tight ends facing injuries, McVay has shifted focus, employing pre-snap motions with his wide receivers.

Despite throwing two interceptions in the recent game, quarterback Matthew Stafford managed 317 passing yards. Wide receiver Puka Nacua, returning from a groin injury that kept him out for two previous games, was heavily involved, with nine receptions on 12 targets for 125 yards, much of it gained through pre-snap motion.

"I think Sean McVay is brilliant," Long remarked.

Looking ahead, the Rams have a bye week before facing the Buffalo Bills on Monday Night Football. Meanwhile, their NFC West rivals, the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers, are set to compete in a pivotal matchup for first place in the division.

Long anticipates that McVay and the Rams will be closely watching the Seahawks-49ers game. "He’s so invested in everything. He wants to win so badly," Long said of McVay. "He understands — he comes from a family that’s been around football for a long time, so he understands what it’s all about."