Sean McVay reflects on Vic Fangio’s Bears loss in 2018

In a reflective moment, Sean McVay spoke about his humiliating 2018 loss to Vic Fangio’s Chicago Bears, highlighting the key lessons he’s learned since that remarkable defeat. The Rams, then a top NFC team, fell 16-5 as Fangio’s defense stifled their offense, which was limited to fewer than 250 yards. As McVay prepares to face Fangio’s Philadelphia Eagles defense in 2024, he acknowledges how that game influenced his coaching philosophy and approach. He emphasized the importance of adaptability and praised Fangio for his strategic prowess. McVay’s reflections demonstrate growth and a commitment to learning from past challenges.

By the numbers

• The Rams gained fewer than 250 total offensive yards in the 2018 loss.
• Against the Eagles in 2024, Fangio’s defense ranks first in yards allowed per game.

Yes, but

While McVay acknowledges that he learned from the Bears’ defeat, he also points to the continued evolution of his team’s strategies and the unpredictability of game outcomes, which can be influenced by several factors beyond coaching decisions.

State of affairs

• The Eagles’ current defense is known for its efficiency and ranks high on defensive metrics.
• McVay’s Rams continue to adapt their strategies in response to the league’s changing defensive trends.

What’s next

Looking ahead, McVay will apply the insights from the 2018 game to his strategy against Fangio’s formidable Eagles defense. The outcome will likely depend on whether McVay’s adjustments can effectively counter Fangio’s plans.

In short

McVay’s reflections remind us that even top coaches can learn from defeats, making it crucial for leaders to embrace past failures to inspire future success on the field.