Posted on Nov 03

Rams kicker Karty struggles with missed kicks, as McVay seeks special teams improvement

Posted Nov 3, 2025

The Los Angeles Rams are grappling with significant special teams issues, particularly concerning kicker Joshua Karty, following a recent win against the New Orleans Saints.

Why it matters: Despite their 34-10 victory over the Saints, the Rams' ongoing struggles in special teams could jeopardize their momentum as they move deeper into the season.
Karty's missed kicks represent a critical area of concern for a team that hopes to contend.

By the numbers: The Rams have now missed five field goal attempts this season, which ties them for the second most in the NFL.

Their field goal percentage stands at a league-worst 67%.
Notably, Karty missed one extra point and a 39-yard field goal during the first half of the Saints game, marking the first occurrence of two misses in the first half since Week 7 of the current season.

What’s new: Head coach Sean McVay acknowledged the pressing need for improvement within the special teams unit.

"It's got to get better... Ultimately it's my responsibility," McVay stated, emphasizing his accountability for the team's performance.

Yes, but: While Karty's past performance was notably strong, with a 29-of-34 success rate last season, current inconsistencies raise concerns about his reliability moving forward.

Last season, none of Karty's unsuccessful attempts were blocked, highlighting a more favorable context than his current challenges.

What to watch: The Rams’ special teams inadequacies could become a focal point as they prepare for upcoming games.

The team has also missed three extra points this season—tied for the second most in the league—with two of those being blocked, raising alarms about the effectiveness of their snap and hold operations.

Zoom In: McVay's support for Karty remains resolute, stating, "Karty is a guy that I'm ready to stick with."

This confidence suggests the coaching staff may prioritize continuity while addressing underlying issues in practice.

The bottom line: As the Rams aim to build on their recent win, rectifying the special teams' inefficiencies will be crucial for maintaining competitive advantage in tight games ahead.

Karty's development and performance in the next few weeks will be indicative of whether he can regain his earlier form or if the Rams will need to explore alternative options.

Rams kicker Karty struggles with missed kicks, as McVay seeks special teams improvement

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 3, 2025

The Los Angeles Rams are grappling with significant special teams issues, particularly concerning kicker Joshua Karty, following a recent win against the New Orleans Saints.

By the numbers: The Rams have now missed five field goal attempts this season, which ties them for the second most in the NFL.

Their field goal percentage stands at a league-worst 67%.

Notably, Karty missed one extra point and a 39-yard field goal during the first half of the Saints game, marking the first occurrence of two misses in the first half since Week 7 of the current season.

What’s new: Head coach Sean McVay acknowledged the pressing need for improvement within the special teams unit.

"It's got to get better... Ultimately it's my responsibility," McVay stated, emphasizing his accountability for the team's performance.

Yes, but: While Karty's past performance was notably strong, with a 29-of-34 success rate last season, current inconsistencies raise concerns about his reliability moving forward.

Last season, none of Karty's unsuccessful attempts were blocked, highlighting a more favorable context than his current challenges.

What to watch: The Rams’ special teams inadequacies could become a focal point as they prepare for upcoming games.

The team has also missed three extra points this season—tied for the second most in the league—with two of those being blocked, raising alarms about the effectiveness of their snap and hold operations.

Zoom In: McVay's support for Karty remains resolute, stating, "Karty is a guy that I'm ready to stick with."

This confidence suggests the coaching staff may prioritize continuity while addressing underlying issues in practice.

The bottom line: As the Rams aim to build on their recent win, rectifying the special teams' inefficiencies will be crucial for maintaining competitive advantage in tight games ahead.

Karty's development and performance in the next few weeks will be indicative of whether he can regain his earlier form or if the Rams will need to explore alternative options.