Mark Schlereth: The Rams Are a Power Run Team Disguised as a Spread Offense

Erin Coscarelli and Rob Havenstein welcome former Washington and Denver guard Mark Schlereth, who is calling Sunday’s Rams-Commanders game for Fox. They talk about the offensive line “fraternity” and why linemen fight each other to take the blame for a bad grade. Schlereth calls the Rams “a power run team disguised as a spread team.” He breaks down how McVay dresses up the same duo and mid zone runs to look like a dozen different plays, and says Puka Nacua is playing like a tight end when he motions into the formation as an insert blocker. Rob adds that Puka has “the hands of a receiver, the body of a tight end and the head of a fullback.” The group also tackles the Rams’ special teams problems and the importance of depth and true special teams leaders. Schlereth closes with a scouting report on a 2-4-1 Washington team that brings Brian Flores-style pressure and relies on Jayden Daniels climbing the pocket, plus a memorable rant about the Cowboys being “too dumb to win the division.”
(01:48 - 04:36): The Offensive Line Fraternity – A discussion on the unique bond and mentality among offensive linemen, including the pride in taking accountability for mistakes.
(06:08 - 12:35): Rams Offense & Puka Nacua – How the Rams operate as a power-run team in disguise, and specifically how Puka Nacua is utilized as a versatile, tight-end-like blocker.
(13:38 - 16:55): Team Depth & Injuries – The critical importance of roster depth and veteran leadership when dealing with significant injuries, referencing the Rams' 2022 season.
(19:59 - 26:07): Special Teams Challenges – Addressing the Rams' recent struggles in special teams and the need for dedicated leadership and experienced players in that unit.
(28:30 - 32:48): Washington Scouting Report – Analysis of the Commanders defense, the threat of quarterback Jayden Daniels in the pocket, and their potential to contend in the division.
(33:55 - 36:45): Cowboys Critique – Mark Schlereth offers a candid rant about the Dallas Cowboys' lack of situational awareness and poor decision-making regarding pass protection.

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