Cooper Kupp had an unusually quiet performance during the Los Angeles Rams’ narrow 12-6 victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday night. Despite being targeted three times, Kupp failed to record a single catch, marking the first time since Week 10 of the 2019 season that he ended a game without any receptions.
The rainy conditions seemed to hinder Los Angeles’ passing game, but notably, six other Rams players managed to make at least one catch during the match. In contrast, Puka Nacua emerged as quarterback Matthew Stafford’s top target, leading the team with seven receptions for 97 yards, while no other player exceeded 25 receiving yards.
Kupp’s lack of production came as a surprise, particularly given his impressive season prior to Thursday’s game. He had performed consistently, amassing 63 receptions for 657 yards and six touchdowns over nine matches, even after missing four games earlier due to an ankle injury. His presence has significantly contributed to the Rams’ resurgence, as the team improved to a 6-2 record since Kupp returned to action in Week 8.
Following a shaky start to the season, where they won just one out of their first five games, the Rams have turned things around and now stand at 8-6, giving them a 50 percent chance of making the playoffs, according to Next Gen Stats. Looking ahead to Week 16, however, Kupp might face challenges as the Rams prepare to take on the New York Jets, whose formidable pass defense ranks as the fourth best in the league, despite their recent four-game losing streak.
In summary, while Kupp’s performance was disappointing for fantasy football managers, the Rams player has shown resilience this season. With their playoff aspirations still alive, Kupp and the team will look to regroup and harness their collective strength in the upcoming contests.