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Prediction we missed: The special teams would improve.

After a poor showing on special teams in 2020, the Rams demoted coordinator John Bonamego and hired Joe DeCamillis, who arrived with a great reputation coaching special teams and 33 years of NFL coaching experience. However, through seven weeks the unit has fared no better. The Rams have struggled to determine a consistent kick and punt returner. In a Week 7 win over the Lions, Detroit recovered an early onside kick and later faked two punts that went for first-down conversions. Rams coach Sean McVay said they weren't surprised by the Lions' moves but did not execute. Either way -- whether it was the element of surprise or an execution problem -- it is a massive concern for a Super Bowl hopeful. -- Lindsey Thiry

Sean McVay was staring down a nightmare postgame press conference -- until his biggest defensive stars rode in to save the day. With the Lions driving for the lead late in the fourth quarter, Aaron Donald crashed through the offensive line and forced an early throw from old friend Jared Goff, who was picked off by Jalen Ramsey to seal a 28-19 win at Hollywood Park. Before that play, McVay had watched his Rams struggle to put away a winless Lions team that was completely fearless in its game strategy. Detroit successfully executed a surprise onside kick and two fake punts, but Los Angeles still found a way, thanks to Donald and Ramsey. Having a team of plucky fighters is good ... being in possession of superstars is better.

It wasn't pretty against the Lions, but they found a way. That's the sign of a good team, winning games when things don't go your way.

Update, they're now 40-0 under Sean McVay when leading at halftime. That will tick up to 41-0 given the Rams' next stop is Houston.

Trick or treat: If Jared Goff is a fun-size Snickers, Matthew Stafford is a full-size Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. Sean McVay certainly has no seller's remorse when it comes to Goff. With that weird Lions reunion now over, the Rams close out October with the Texans, a definite treat for L.A.