Los Angeles Rams

Giants vs. Rams in London: A View from the Ramblin' Fan

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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The New York Giants (3-3) found out that the view from the winner’s circle is much better than the alternative. This week, Big Blue take on the Los Angeles Rams (3-3) in the first-ever game in Twickenham Stadium in southwest London on Sunday.

The Giants broke a three-game losing streak with a come-from-behind 27-23 victory last Sunday over the Baltimore Ravens. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams feel to the Detroit Lions 31-28 at Ford Field. GMEN HQ caught up with our sister site, Ramblin Fan, for a bird’s eye view from co-expert Dan Parzych from the left coast.

NEW YORK GIANTS vs. LOS ANGELES RAMS – 9:30 a.m. (EDT)

BROADCAST on CBS & NFL Network

GMEN HQ: Rams’ head coach Jeff Fisher is viewed in many circles as an NFL bully. The recent kneel down controversy against the Detroit Lions is further evidence of his reputation. How is he viewed by the Rams’ fans and media?

Dan Parzych (DP): From a fan perspective, there’s more worry about some of the plays called by Jeff Fisher than any controversy of the head coach being a bully. Between the decision to go for a fake punt late in the fourth quarter against the Bills, to deciding to pass on the field goal before halftime against the Lions, I would say fans are feeling more frustrated towards some of his decision making instead of the kneel down controversy.

Mar 13, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams head coach Jeff Fisher (left) introduces newly acquired defensive tackle Nick Fairley to the media at Rams Park. Mandatory Credit: Billy Hurst-USA TODAY Sports

GMEN HQ: Running back Todd Gurley was seen as the foundation of the Rams’ offense. Why is he not as productive as expected?

DP: It’s a tough situation with Todd Gurley, mainly because opposing defenses realize he’s the top weapon on the Rams’ offense. They’re a completely different team when he’s producing. With a weak receiving corps, defenses have been stocking the box more against Los Angeles, and it’s certainly been hurting Gurley from a production level. The fact that Gurley’s played six games without breaking the 100-yard mark is simply amazing at this point.

Dec 17, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams running back Todd Gurley (30) runs the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

GMEN HQ: Give us one player who could be the X-Factor in the games against the Giants?

DP: When looking at the amount of money the team invested in him during the offseason, Los Angeles could use a big game from Tavon Austin. Kenny Britt has turned into a nice surprise so far this season after jumping to the top 10 in receiving yards, but Austin has shown just how dangerous he can be with his blazing speed. The best thing about Austin is he can be dangerous with the football in his hands while playing multiple positions. If Austin can find a way to make an impact on offense, the Rams will have a much better shot against the Giants.

GMEN HQ: Will there be an on-field view of [quarterback] Jared Goff this season? Or has Case Keenum solidified his position as starter?

DP: The situation with Jared Goff seems to change each week, but Case Keenum still has a lot to prove, despite last weekend’s impressive game against the Lions. Last weekend was only the second time in Keenum’s career he threw for more than 300 yards. When considering he’s gone three games without a touchdown pass in 2016, it’s clear why Los Angeles still has doubts. Hopefully, last weekend’s performance will boost Keenum’s confidence to continue producing at that high level. With that said, starting Goff can never be ruled out.

Oct 16, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Case Keenum (17) runs the ball against Detroit Lions outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy (53) and middle linebacker Tahir Whitehead (59) during the second quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

GMEN HQ: Earlier this season there was talk of a Fisher extension. That talk has dissipated. Is Fisher coaching for his job?

DP: As crazy as it sounds, I don’t see Fisher going anywhere soon. The team certainly has the talent to compete in the NFC. The offense is still a work in progress, especially when the time comes for Goff to take over at quarterback. I think the organization prefers to have Fisher stick around for a little longer to work with these group of players, and hopefully reach the next level.

GMEN HQ: Give us your view and prediction.

DP: Sunday’s game in London has the potential to be a high-scoring game. I think it’s going to be tough for the Rams’ defense to stop the Giants when looking at all of the injuries they’ve been dealing with. As much as I want to pick Los Angeles, I think New York is going to come away with the win in this one.