Ex TCU Star Identifies Rams’ Biggest Problem After Bills Loss

Former TCU offensive lineman Steve Avila believes the Los Angeles Rams have a straightforward solution to their early-season struggles, but executing it will be easier said than done.

Following the Rams’ heartbreaking 37-34 overtime loss to the Buffalo Bills on Monday night, Avila emphasized the importance of eliminating self-inflicted mistakes. The defeat dropped Los Angeles to 2-3 on the season, leaving the team searching for consistency despite several impressive offensive performances.

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For Avila, the biggest issue is putting the offense in unfavorable situations before it has an opportunity to find its rhythm.

"It really just comes down to stop shooting ourselves in the foot," Avila told reporters. "We got to stop putting ourselves behind the chains, you know. We saw what happened when we didn't do that. I'd like to think that you know things would have gone the other way if that didn't happen."

The fourth-year offensive lineman acknowledged that the Rams showed what they could accomplish when they avoided those mistakes. However, he also recognized that the team ultimately came up short against a Buffalo squad that capitalized on its opportunities.

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The Rams committed 11 penalties for 84 yards, making it difficult to sustain drives against the Bills. Those mistakes proved costly in a game that remained competitive until the final moments of overtime.

Despite the loss, Los Angeles had plenty of offensive production to build upon. Quarterback Matthew Stafford completed 40 of 54 passes for 383 yards and three touchdowns, while wide receiver Puka Nacua recorded a career-high 17 receptions for 138 yards and a score.

The Rams also rallied late in regulation, with Kyren Williams scoring a one-yard touchdown with five seconds remaining to force overtime. Ultimately, however, a blocked field goal and a subsequent Buffalo scoring drive prevented Los Angeles from completing the comeback.

Avila has become an important piece of Los Angeles' offensive line since the Rams selected him in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. At TCU, he developed into one of the Big 12's top offensive linemen, earning consensus All-American honors during the Horned Frogs' memorable 2022 campaign.

Now, the former TCU standout faces the challenge of helping stabilize an offense capable of producing big numbers but struggling to put everything together.

For the Rams, cleaning up penalties and avoiding unfavorable down-and-distance situations could be the difference between another frustrating defeat and a much-needed turnaround. Avila and the offensive line will have a significant role in making that happen.