THOUSAND OAKS, CA — Dealing with COVID protocols for the last week and a half, the Los Angeles Rams have managed to be a team that is closer than a tick on a porch dog in these last three games, and kicker Matt Gay has been a big reason for their success.
Gay was recently named one of the Rams players to the 2021 Pro Bowl, and couldn’t believe it when he was informed of the news by Director of Communications Artis Tywman. Gay has had an incredible journey thus far, going from a sixth round pick, to being waived, to being named to the Pro Bowl a year and a half later.
“You go through the whole process going back to college and being lucky enough and fortunate enough to be drafted,” Gay said. “An up and down rookie year and you learn a lot on what to do and what not to do. It’s a big growing year and then coming back that next year…. then you get waived and go through workouts and not getting calls. Then finally signing to Indy’s [Colts] practice squad and being there for about 8-9 weeks. Knowing deep down in your heart that you’re a starter in this league and you deserve to be playing on Sundays. Really believing in yourself, and having a wife and and family supporting you the whole way.”
Having a lot of confidence goes a long way in this league and in life in general, and no one understands that better than Gay. His work ethic and the camaraderie that has been built between himself, punter Johnny Hekker and Matt Orzech has enabled a recipe for success this season. He has made 28 out of 29 field goals this season totaling a 96.6% success rate. He’s also made 20 consecutive field goals as well. As the team currently rides a three-game winning streak, Gay has been able to enjoy the journey and have some fun coming to work everyday.
“As a kicker, it’s a game of inches if one thing is off on a long field goal it can be a ways off on the end result,” Gay explained about his preparation. “Just being to be as consistent as you can throughout the week, making sure that week of routine, the day of the routine is consistent. Making sure you’re paying attention to the little details and making sure you riding the waves.“
There’s nothing like having a home crowd behind a player and believing in that player every time they set foot on the field, and Gay is experiencing that tremendous support at SoFi Stadium.
“I love working with Johnny and Matt, we have a great relationship and we probably have too much fun. I respect those guys because when it’s time to go to work… we work,” he said. “We hold each other accountable and it’s a real joy to come into the building and work and be with these guys. They’re not just teammates… they’re friends. I enjoy being around them and the whole team.”
“It’s such a good vibe and such a good culture and it starts from the top,” Gay continued. “Sean [McVay] instills it from his leadership and the way he goes about things and we enjoy ourselves.”
Often times the best production is when the environment is fun and a good culture is introduced and executed where everyone feels valuable. These players believe and act as though no player is above reproach, and they win or lose as a team, which is imperative to the success of any franchise.
“He’s been great,” Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford said of Gay. “He’s been absolutely great early in games, late in games, when you need him most. He’s done a heck of a job.“
A humble, yet confident player who understands the true meaning of team is an incredible balance for a player. There’s also nothing like having the support of a significant other in life. No matter how much individual success Gay is having, he never forget the team at home which includes his supportive wife Millie. She was the first Gay called when he heard the news of his Pro Bowl selection.
“She’s been through times that have been rough, have been tough, and the lowest of lows,” an emotional Gay said. “She sees me at the most vulnerable. She’s been there to support and love through those times. She’s also been the one to get me out of it and been a little hard on me when I need to be told to get going. She’s the real champ behind this. Thankful to have her in my life.“
Millie is the real MVP of Gay’s life, and he makes sure it is known. Gay was selected along with three other Rams teammates that include Aaron Donald, Jalen Ramsey, and Cooper Kupp.
