The Green Bay Packers secured a decisive victory in Week Nine, triumphing over the Los Angeles Rams with a convincing score of 20-3. The defense played a crucial role in the win, preventing the Rams from advancing beyond the 35-yard line throughout the game. Notably, the offense exhibited notable improvement compared to previous weeks.
In the second quarter, Aaron Jones scored a touchdown, marking the Packers’ first first-half touchdown since Week Two. Jordan Love’s performance was commendable, completing 77% of his throws, throwing a touchdown, and avoiding turnovers. Despite a couple of fumbles, courtesy of Jones and Dontayvion Wicks, it was the Packers’ most efficient display since Week Three against the New Orleans Saints.
A significant factor contributing to the offensive success was the noteworthy performance of the offensive line, which had faced criticism in recent times. Even second-year guard Sean Rhyan, who stepped in when Jon Runyan Jr. briefly left the field due to injury, played exceptionally well.
“It felt good. It was kind of sudden but it was good to get out there. I got to go up against an easy opponent – Aaron Donald, obviously. It was good. It was semi-fulfilling. It’s one thing to practice but it’s another thing to go out there and play the game. I know I can go out there and go up against one of the best guys in the league on the defensive side of the ball.”
Rhyan, in his limited playing time of 15 snaps, faced off against Aaron Donald, a standout interior defensive lineman. Despite being on the field for only two passing plays, Rhyan successfully held his ground, not allowing any pressure. According to Sports Illustrated’s Bill Huber, Rhyan expressed pride in his performance, particularly in his contribution to the running plays that set up Love’s touchdown pass to Luke Musgrave.
During a media session, offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich acknowledged Rhyan’s impressive play, stating that he has made a case for himself to be considered among the best offensive linemen. Given the injuries to Runyan and center Josh Myers, both listed on the Packers’ injury report, Rhyan might see more opportunities in the near future.
Runyan is dealing with a neck injury that sidelined him from Wednesday’s practice but participated in a limited capacity on Thursday. Myers is managing a knee injury sustained in Wednesday’s practice and was also a limited participant on Thursday. Elgton Jenkins (knee) and Yosh Bijman (back) are also listed on the injury report, further emphasizing the team’s current challenges with injuries.