NFL playoffs 2018: Biggest difference-maker for each contender
By Ian Wharton
Los Angeles Rams – John Johnson
Not every difference-maker will be an offensive player. For the Los Angeles Rams, watch out for safety John Johnson. A secondary playmaker in name after Marcus Peters, Aqib Talib, and Lamarcus Joyner, Johnson’s putting up impressive statistics as he flies around the field.
While Johnson’s coverage ability hasn’t been spectacular (notably as a help defender), he’s a finisher who can slide into man assignments on tight ends for stretches of the game. He’s second on the team in tackles and first with four interceptions.
His range and athleticism is going to be a factor against any team they’ll potentially face. The Seahawks have a bevy of running backs that could be assigned to Johnson as backfield receivers; the Vikings have Kyle Rudolph and Dalvin Cook; the Bears have Trey Burton; the Cowboys boast Ezekiel Elliott; and the Saints’ Alvin Kamara is the ultimate test.
If he can effectively limit any of those playmakers to a quiet day, the Rams could continue their winning ways and potentially win the Super Bowl.