Los Angeles Rams Fire Special Teams Coach After Costly Seahawks Loss

The Los Angeles Rams have fired their special teams coordinator following a devastating defeat. Chase Blackburn was let go on Saturday, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move comes just days after a dramatic overtime loss to the Seattle Seahawks.

The Thursday night collapse has major playoff implications. It was a game where special teams mistakes proved particularly costly for the Rams.

Special Teams Blunders Seal Coordinator’s Fate

The Rams held a commanding lead against their division rival. Then, a pivotal play shifted all momentum. Seattle’s Rashid Shaheed returned a punt 58 yards for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter.

That play sparked an improbable Seahawks comeback. According to ESPN’s reporting, special teams issues contributed to three of the Rams’ four losses this season. A missed 48-yard field goal in the same game added to the unit’s woes.

The decision to fire Blackburn points to internal frustration. Head coach Sean McVay is also challenging an NFL ruling from the game. The organization appears to be searching for solutions as the postseason nears.

Playoff Picture Shifts After NFC West Showdown

The loss dramatically alters the NFC playoff landscape. The Rams no longer control their path to a first-round bye. Securing home-field advantage throughout the playoffs is now out of their direct hands.

Conversely, the Seattle Seahawks seized control of their destiny. They now lead the NFC West division. Winning their final two games would secure the NFC’s top overall seed.

For Los Angeles, this season represented a prime Super Bowl opportunity. The late-season stumble and internal changes introduce new uncertainty. The team must regroup quickly with the playoffs on the horizon.

The firing of the special teams coach underscores the high stakes of the Rams’ season. This move signals a team urgently addressing weaknesses before the postseason begins.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Who did the Los Angeles Rams fire?

The Rams fired Special Teams Coordinator Chase Blackburn. The news was reported by ESPN insider Adam Schefter following the team’s loss to Seattle.

Why was the coach fired?

Special teams mistakes were a key factor in the loss to Seattle. A punt return touchdown and a missed field goal were critical errors in the game.

What was the score of the Rams vs. Seahawks game?

The Seattle Seahawks won 38-37 in overtime. The Rams blew a large second-half lead in the crucial divisional matchup.

How does this affect the NFC playoff race?

The Seahawks now lead the NFC West. The Rams lost control of securing the NFC’s number one seed and a first-round playoff bye.

Have the Rams struggled with leads this season?

Yes. They also lost a big lead to Philadelphia in Week 3 and a late lead to Carolina in Week 13. Protecting advantages has been a consistent issue.