The Rams' Offense Can't Be Ignored—Stephen A. Smith Is Right

The Rams Are a Two-Way Machine

When you think about the Los Angeles Rams heading into the 2026 NFL season, it's easy to get caught up in the defensive additions. Myles Garrett is making his move to the NFC West, and Aaron Donald is expected to be a cornerstone for years to come. But as much as we're captivated by this defensive makeover, let's not forget what really makes the Rams dangerous: their offense.

Stephen A. Smith's Insight

On Wednesday morning's episode of First Take, Stephen A. Smith dropped a truth bomb that deserves to be heard above all else. "As much as we are fascinated by the Rams' defense because Myles Garrett has arrived and Aaron Donald eventually will be there, how can we ignore the fact that even before any of that happened, they were considered Super Bowl favorites this year? Their offense is that elite," Smith said with conviction.

"Even before all these defensive upgrades, the Rams were Super Bowl favorites. Their offense is that elite." — Stephen A. Smith

Smith's point is a crucial one. We're so caught up in the narrative of defense that we risk underestimating one of the most potent offenses in the league.

The Rams' Offense: A Powerhouse by Any Measure

Last season, Los Angeles led the NFL in both total yards (394.6 per game) and points scored (30.5 per game). That's not just a statistic—it's a testament to how dominant this team was when the ball was in their hands.

Quarterback Matthew Stafford, the reigning NFL MVP, continued to play at an elite level. He threw for 4,707 yards and 46 touchdowns, which shows that he's not just a veteran quarterback but one who thrives under pressure and can lead his team to victories in high-stakes moments.

And let's not overlook the playmakers on the other side of the ball. Wide receiver Puka Nacua has emerged as one of the most explosive talents in the league, giving Stafford a reliable target that can stretch defenses and create explosive plays. Together, they form an offensive duo that's simply unstoppable when everything clicks.

Why This Matters

As the NFL season begins, it's critical to recognize that no team succeeds solely on defense. The Rams are built to win on all fronts. When you combine a high-powered offense with a rising defense, you have one of the most dangerous combinations in the league.

Don't get me wrong—Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald are huge additions. But the Rams' offense doesn't need to be overshadowed by their defensive upgrades. In fact, it's precisely because of that balance that fans should pay attention to what they're doing on offense.

The Big Picture

With their game against the San Francisco 49ers kicking off Thursday night in Australia, the Rams are ready to show the world just how strong this team really is. The spotlight will be on the new defensive stars, but if you're watching closely, it's clear that the offense is already setting the tone.

So yes, Stephen A. Smith was absolutely right—this isn't just about defense anymore. The Rams' offense deserves equal billing, and it's going to play a huge role in how far they go this season. We're talking about a team that was considered a Super Bowl contender before the offseason even began.

Final Thoughts

As fans, we love dissecting defenses and celebrating stars like Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald, but we also need to appreciate the artistry of a well-oiled offense. The Rams' attack is built for longevity and success, and that's something every team—and fan—should respect.

In the end, this is why I believe the Rams are going to be one of the most exciting teams in the league this year. They're not just a defense-first team—they're a complete package, and they're going to make it difficult for anyone else to keep up with them.

• The Rams led the NFL in both yards and points per game last season
• Matthew Stafford threw for over 4,700 yards and 46 touchdowns
• Stephen A. Smith reminded us that their offense remains elite
• Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald add major defensive firepower
• The Rams are a two-way machine built for the long haul