Why Jared Verse Could Be the X-Factor the Rams Need Against the Seahawks in Week 16
The Los Angeles Rams are 11-3 and rolling into Week 16 with momentum-but not without questions. They’ve already surpassed their win total from each of the last two seasons, and the offense has been a pleasant surprise, producing consistently and at times explosively. But if there’s a concern heading into the final stretch, it’s the defense.
Over the past three games, the Rams have surrendered 82 points-an average of 27.3 per outing. That’s not what you want to see with the postseason looming, especially with an opponent like the Seattle Seahawks on deck.
Seattle, also sitting at 11-3, boasts an offense that’s averaging 28.9 points per game. That’s not just efficient-that’s lethal.
So, how do the Rams slow down one of the league’s top-scoring teams? Enter Jared Verse.
The Rams’ Defensive Spark Plug
Jared Verse might not be a household name just yet, but he’s starting to play like one. The second-year outside linebacker has quietly become a key cog in the Rams’ defensive machine.
He’s typically tasked with setting the edge, stuffing the run, and applying steady pressure on the quarterback. But make no mistake-when the lights are brightest, Verse has another gear.
He’s not the kind of player who shrinks from the moment. In fact, he seems to feed off it.
Whether it’s the roar of the home crowd or the boos raining down in enemy territory, Verse thrives in the chaos. He’s not just a pass-rusher-he’s a tone-setter, a player who brings edge and energy to a defense that needs both right now.
And if history is any indication, he’s about to turn it up.
Spotlight Player, Spotlight Game
This isn’t the first time Verse has leaned into the noise. Remember that playoff clash with the Eagles?
Verse didn’t just talk the talk-he stirred up Philly fans before kickoff, then went out and delivered one of his best performances of the year. He didn’t shy away from the moment; he owned it.
Now, he’s setting his sights on Seattle. He’s already started chirping, and that’s usually a sign that something big is coming.
Verse doesn’t run from the spotlight-he photosynthesizes it. And this week, the Rams might need him to do just that.
Seattle’s starting left tackle, Charles Cross, is nursing a hamstring injury. Whether he plays or not, that matchup tilts in Verse’s favor.
A fully healthy Cross would already have his hands full trying to contain the Rams’ edge rusher. An injured one?
That could be trouble.
Built for the Big Moments
What makes Verse so dangerous isn’t just his physical tools-it’s his mindset. He’s not out there trying to fool anyone or play dirty.
He lines up, looks his opponent in the eye, and brings it. Power vs. power.
Strength vs. strength. More often than not, that battle ends with Verse in the backfield and the quarterback picking himself off the turf.
Yes, he’s been a bit more measured this season, playing within the structure of the defense and handling the full responsibilities of an NFL edge rusher. But don’t let that fool you-he’s still got that switch. And when he flips it, he can take over a game.
Week 16 feels like one of those moments. The Rams need a defensive spark, a disruptor, someone who can tilt the field and rattle a high-powered offense.
Jared Verse has been that guy before. There’s every reason to believe he can be that guy again.
So if you’re watching Sunday’s matchup and wondering who’s going to step up for the Rams defense, keep your eyes on No. 41. Because when the Rams need him most, Jared Verse tends to deliver.