The Green Bay Packers finally won a game in convincing fashion, defeating the Los Angeles Rams 20-3 in Week Nine. The defense, of course, was a big reason why Green Bay won, not allowing the Rams inside the 35-yard line even once. However, the offense look much better than it had in weeks as well.
Aaron Jones ran for a touchdown in the second quarter, marking the Packers’ first touchdown in the first half of a game since Week Two. Jordan Love completed 77% of his throws, threw a touchdown, and did not turn the ball over. While two fumbles (one by Jones and one by Dontayvion Wicks) marred their performance, it was easily the most efficient the Packers have looked since the fourth quarter of the New Orleans Saints game in Week Three.
Part of the reason the offense was so successful was because the offensive line, which has come under much well-deserved scrutiny, played an excellent game (overall). Even second-year guard Sean Rhyan got some playing time when Jon Runyan Jr. left for a while with an injury, and played well.
During his media availability on Thursday, Rhyan had some fun with reporters talking about the first real playing time of his career,
Green Bay Packers Guard Sean Rhyan Sarcastically Calls Rams’ Star Aaron Donald an “Easy Opponent”
Rhyan did not get much playing time (15 snaps) as Runyan was not held out long. However, 15 snaps was all he needed to face Aaron Donald, one of the best interior defensive linemen in the NFL. He held his own, not allowing a single pressure (though he was only on the field for two passing plays).
According to Sports Illustrated‘s Bill Huber, Rhyan was very proud of the way that he played, telling reporters:
“It felt good. It was kind of sudden but it was good to get out there. I got to go up against an easy opponent – Aaron Donald, obviously. It was good. It was semi-fulfilling. It’s one thing to practice but it’s another thing to go out there and play the game. I know I can go out there and go up against one of the best guys in the league on the defensive side of the ball.”
Rhyan certainly got a big dose of blocking Donald. Of the 15 plays that he was on the field for, 13 of them were running plays. Rhyan helped the offense run down the field, setting up Love’s touchdown pass to Luke Musgrave.
During his media session today, offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich said of Rhyan, “He’s made a case for himself to be in that discussion,” when talking about putting the best five offensive linemen on the field.
With the Packers’ recent run of poor third round picks, it sure would be thrilling to see Rhyan turn out to be an above-average NFL starter. Given how banged up both Runyan and center Josh Myers are, Rhyan may be getting more opportunities sooner rather than later.
Both Runyan and Myers are currently listed on the Packers’ injury report. Runyan is dealing with a neck injury that kept him out of practice on Wednesday. He did practice in a limited capacity on Thursday.
Myers is dealing with a knee injury that he suffered in practice on Wednesday. He was a limited participant in practice on Thursday.
Elgton Jenkins (knee) and Yosh Bijman (back) are also on the injury report.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many years does Aaron Donald have left on his contract?
Aaron Donald's contract with the Rams extends through the 2024 season, which means he has two more years remaining on his current contract.
How much is Aaron Donald's new contract?
Aaron Donald's new contract with the Los Angeles Rams is valued at 135 million over 6 years. This deal includes a significant 40 million signing bonus and guarantees 86.89 million, with an impressive average yearly salary of 22.5 million.