Tampa Bay’s defensive front is built to punish the Rams protection issues

The Rams offense thrives when quarterback Matthew Stafford has time — and unravels when he doesn’t. That is not a secret. It is a pattern, and defensive coordinators across the league have put it on tape repeatedly.

Now comes Tampa Bay, one of the few teams capable of weaponizing that flaw at will.

The Buccaneers offense is finding rhythm at the perfect time

The psychological edge belongs to Tampa Bay as pressure mounts on Los Angeles

Sometimes the difference between two NFL teams is not talent, injuries, or playbooks. Sometimes it’s pressure — and who handles it better.

In this matchup, Tampa Bay carries the mentality of a team with something to gain. The Rams, however, carry the burden of expectation.