As the Pac-12 approaches its final contest of the season, a conference championship matchup between the 12-0 Washington Huskies and the 11-1 Oregon Ducks, I sat down with Trojans Wire contributor Donovan James (@DonJamesSports) to talk about the connection between the Rams and the conference, and how players from the Pac-12 could become playmakers for the Rams in 2024.
Q: Would it be realistic for the Rams to consider trading up for Caleb Williams?
James: Yes, it would be realistic. With a paring of McVay and Williams, they could be a playoff team and Super Bowl contender for a decade. I love Stafford but he’s past his prime as a top-tier quarterback
Q: Are there any USC prospects that the Rams should consider acquiring?
James: I think Brendan Rice (WR), Brett Neilon (OL), and Calen Bullock (S) would all be great fits for the Rams.
Q: Current Rams assistant head coach Jimmy Lake used to be the head coach of the Washington Huskies before he was fired due to allegations of getting physical with one of his players. Should Rams fans fear that a coach with such a past might be harming the team?
James: No, I think he is looking to move back up the coaching ranks so you shouldn’t have to worry about it that with Jimmy Lake again, at least you hope so because that can’t happen again.
Q: As the Pac-12 reaches its final conclusion with Washington playing Oregon in the championship game, what players do you think the Rams should consider drafting this coming offseason?
James: Players galore from the Oregon vs Washington game you could draft. Bo Nix (QB), Troy Franklin (WR), Tez Johnson (WR), and Mase Funa (LB) from Oregon and Washington’s Rome Odzune (WR), Michael Penix Jr (QB), Dillion Johnson (RB) and Dominque Hampton (CB).
Q: Washington’s Michael Penix Jr versus Oregon’s Bo Nix. Which quarterback is the better fit for the Sean McVay offense?
James: I think Nix is a great fit for McVay and the Rams offense. I think he could sit behind Matthew for another season and learn from him and play significant snaps if needed in Year 1.
I would like to thank Donovan for his time and efforts. His work, including his interview with me, are available at Trojans Wire. Both he and I, along with the Rams scouting department, will have all eyes on Allegiant Stadium on Friday as Vegas hosts the Pac-12 title game.