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Chris Shula resolved to be himself as Rams defensive coordinator, and it has worked
Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula assumed the reins this year of a unit whose two prior bosses parlayed the stint into head-coaching jobs. But Shula knew not to try to be Raheem Morris or Brendan Staley.
Asked Friday by reporters for the best advice he’s gotten in the past year, it was simple — be yourself.
“I think it was in OTAs because we were back at the [California Lutheran University] building,” Shula said. “Jason Garrett was just there watching and hanging out and he stopped me in the hallway and just said, ‘Hey, Sean [McVay] hired you to be you. Don’t try to be anybody else and be the best version of yourself.’ That’s what I keep trying to tell myself. Just be the best version of me. Sean entrusted me with the job, do the best job you can, and don’t try to be anybody else.”
It has worked, culminating in Monday night’s masterful game plan that throttled the Vikings’ offense from the get-go and tied a postseason record with nine total sacks.
The challenge intensifies on Sunday, as the Rams get another crack at an offense that tore up the L.A. defense in Week 12, punctuated by Saquon Barkley’s 255 rushing yards.
“It was tough,” Shula said regarding the 37-20 loss. “The NFL is a humbling league. You’re only a week away from being humbled and that was a humbling night. The game got away from us a little bit in the end. We’ve had some games like that unfortunately this year and I always say, ‘Just stick your face in the fan, make the corrections that we need to do moving forward and let’s do it as coaches and players.’ We’ll try and put them in better positions and players need to make the plays that they’re supposed to make. That’s all you do. Just correct it, move forward and hopefully you play better next week.”
If they do, they’ll potentially earn a spot in the NFC Championship. And it could get an interview or two for Shula in the slowly-moving coaching carousel.
The 38-year-old Shula arrived in L.A. with McVay in 2017, working his way up to the position he now holds. He spent two years before that as a defensive quality control coach with the Chargers and, prior to that, five years at the college level.
Chris Shula, the newly appointed defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, has made a conscious decision to be true to himself and his coaching style. Known for his innovative and aggressive approach to defense, Shula has not shied away from implementing his own strategies and tactics with the Rams.
Since taking over as defensive coordinator, Shula has brought a fresh perspective to the team, pushing players to take more risks and play with a sense of urgency. His no-nonsense attitude and commitment to being authentic have resonated with the players, leading to improved performance on the field.
Under Shula’s guidance, the Rams defense has flourished, ranking among the top in the league in key statistical categories. His emphasis on communication, discipline, and teamwork has fostered a strong sense of camaraderie among the players, resulting in a cohesive unit that works together seamlessly.
By staying true to himself and his coaching philosophy, Chris Shula has proven that being authentic and genuine can lead to success on the football field. His approach has not only elevated the performance of the Rams defense but has also earned him the respect and admiration of his players and coaching staff. As the season progresses, it is clear that Shula’s commitment to being himself is paying off, and the Rams defense is poised to continue their dominance under his leadership.
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Chris Shula, Rams defensive coordinator, authenticity in coaching, NFL coaching style, success in coaching, defensive coordinator strategy, Rams defense, NFL coaching tactics, coaching career success, Chris Shula coaching style, NFL defensive coordinator.
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