So after that first half "performance" by our Rams I am detecting some angst and anger from my fellow Rams bros. I will admit to being less than satisfied by what has transpired as Rams football so far but........I am in a good place.
You see I have a song going thru my head and it's keeping me calm and somewhat peaceful.

It's called "You didn't have to be so nice." by the Lovin' Spoonful.

Check it out on You Tube and then come back to the game and see if it doesn't smooth out some of the rough edges from what's going on in Baltimore.


~ArkyRamsFan~

I'm driving home from work now, and the gas light just came on. I can make it home easy, that's not an issue. My dilemma is, should I be a dick to Future Me, and make him get the gas, or should I just be be the bigger man and get it now so he doesn't have to worry about it?

I'm pretty tired, and the gas station is a little bit out of the way, so I'm kind of thinking, "fuck that guy. Let him worry about it."

https://www.yahoo.com/amphtml/sports/nfls-best-qb-situations-2018-164500203--spt.html

Yup 21, as in 20 teams have a better qb situation than the rams

I'm not sure why I keep letting this get to me but the criticism wont stop. How is jared worse than
Winston ?
Mariota?
Dalton ?
Garapolo ?
Should I go on ? This is honestly ridiculous

Just read another article and the guy says the rams made the playoffs because of thier defense and Gurley .

Jared please throw 50tds so this can stop !

Not the PS, since we will see little of them, anyway. But the regular season? Wow!

Goff to Cooks/Woods/Kupp? How much has Goff improved? How much better for this O is Cooks over Watkins? Camp reports have said that all 3 WR’s have been almost uncoverable.

Or AD/Suh/Brockers? OMG! This could be all-time devastating. Wade has already said that our opponents “aren’t ready” for the AD/Suh tandem. And Wade isn’t known for hyperbole.

Or Peters/Talib? An elite tandem that will force difficult throws into tight windows when QB’s are under extreme pressure? What’s the Ram record for ints, ‘cause Joyner and JJ are known as ballhawks, too. Almost seems unfair.

What can Gurley do for an encore? Running behind that left side of Sully, Saffold, and Big Whit would be a great place to start.

Set your DVR’s y’all!

Can’t wait for the regular season.

What are your thoughts? Talk to me.

Hot Damn!

It’s... Game Day!

———

http://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/la-sp-rams-ravens-20180808-story.html

Key Rams starters may sit out preseason opener at Ravens, but plenty of roster competition to observe

As a rookie NFL head coach in 2017, it was important for Sean McVay to evaluate all of his new players in preseason games.

So quarterback Jared Goff, running back Todd Gurley, left tackle Andrew Whitworth, defensive lineman Michael Brockers and many other starters played in the preseason opener.

McVay, the reigning NFL coach of the year, appears to have evolved in his thinking.

After two productive days of joint practices with the Baltimore Ravens, McVay indicated that Goff and others might sit out Thursday night’s game against the Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium.

McVay said he was having “a tough time” figuring how to balance the value of snaps versus the potential for injury to key players.

“You can’t be scared,” he said, “But you also want to be smart and mindful of those couple snaps.”

Goff, who has looked sharp throughout training camp, said he would be ready if called upon. He acknowledged that the offense’s continuity after a season in McVay’s system could factor into a decision to hold him out.

“There’s definitely part of that, where we’re a little bit more comfortable and not so much unknown,” he said. “But, whatever he wants to do, we’re on board with it.”

In 2016, under former coach Jeff Fisher, Gurley played in only one preseason game and carried the ball four times. Last year, he played in the first two preseason games and carried 12 times.

Gurley said Tuesday that he “definitely” would not want to play in the preseason. But then he reconsidered after thinking about pregame wind sprints for nonparticipants.

“I’d probably rather do the preseason, honestly, because they try to make you do like 12 100s instead, which is crazy,” he said. “So, sometimes it’s better to just play in the game.”

While the starters might be held out or limited, Thursday night’s game — and all of the preseason — is another opportunity for backup quarterback Sean Mannion.

“He’s really taken a lot of steps in the right direction,” McVay said.

Mannion completed 49 of 76 passes for 490 yards and two touchdowns during the 2017 preseason.

Mannion is in the final year of his rookie contract.

“I’m not letting that change my approach or demeanor in any way,” he said, “because the way I look at it, you’ve got to play well regardless.”

Quarterbacks Brandon Allen and Luis Perez also are expected to get snaps.

The Rams defense probably will play the majority of the game against Ravens backup quarterbacks Robert Griffin III and Lamar Jackson.

Griffin completed seven of 11 passes for 58 yards and a touchdown, with an interception, in last week’s Hall of Fame game against the Chicago Bears. Jackson completed four of 10 passes for 33 yards and a touchdown, with an interception. He also rushed eight times for 25 yards.

Thursday night’s game will be an opportunity for Rams coaches to evaluate rookies in game situations for the first time. Running back John Kelly, offensive linemen Joseph Noteboom, Brian Allen and Jamil Demby, defensive linemen John Franklin-Myers and Sebastian Joseph and linebackers Micah Kiser, Trevon Young and Travin Howard are 2018 draft picks expected to play.

Rookie linebacker Obo Okoronkwo and end Justin Lawler have been held out or slowed by injuries during training camp.

The preseason also will be important for players such as second-year running back Justin Davis.

The Rams will offer free streaming coverage of their preseason games on their website to internet users in Los Angeles, Mexico and the United Kingdom, the team announced. The stream will be available in all markets receiving CBS or UniMás’ broadcast across California, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada and Utah.

———

https://www.therams.com/news/tune-in-rams-vs-ravens-in-preseason-week-1

Tune In: Rams vs. Ravens in Preseason Week 1

The Rams will take on the Ravens this Thursday in Week 1 of the preseason. The Rams and Ravens meet after a series of joint practices and a walk-thru this week in Baltimore. The game will be broadcast live on CBS 2 with a kickoff time set for 4:30 p.m.

Here's everything you need to know to watch or listen to Thursday’s game:

TELEVISION: Thursday’s game and all Rams preseason games will be broadcast locally on CBS 2 and Univision’s UniMás 46/KFTR station. Play-by-play commentator Andrew Siciliano will be joined for the first time by hosts of NFL Network’s Good Morning Football, Nate Burleson and Peter Schrager, serving as color commentators.

RADIO: Thursday’s contest will be broadcast on ESPNLA 710 AM and ESPN Deportes/KWKW 1330 AM. Both stations will once again bring Rams fans the full season (preseason and regular season) of games. The English broadcast will feature Voice of the Rams J.B. Long on play-by-play, with Maurice Jones-Drew and D’Marco Farr as color analysts. Plus, tune into 1330 AM for ESPN Deportes' live Spanish broadcast of the game with Troy Santiago and Ricardo Lopez on the call.

SOCIAL MEDIA: Follow the Rams on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat for live updates and behind-the-scenes content before, during, and after the game.

ONLINE: For the first time, the Los Angeles Rams will offer a free stream of their preseason games on therams.com in Los Angeles, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. In addition, the stream will be available in all markets receiving CBS or UniMás’ broadcast across California, Alaska, Hawaii, Nevada, and Utah. Fans in Los Angeles, any secondary US markets, and the United Kingdom will receive CBS’ feed, while fans in Mexico will receive UniMás’ broadcast. Live streams can be accessed via desktop, mobile web, and the Rams Mobile app.

Out-of-market fans can watch preseason games live with NFL Game Pass*. Click here to sign up for your FREE 7-day trial and start getting unprecedented access to every game, all year long.

*For domestic subscribers NFL Game Pass does not include live regular season, playoff, or Super Bowl game broadcasts, as well as some preseason games broadcasts. Access to these games is available within NFL Game Pass on an on-demand basis in the NFL Game Pass archives. International subscribers are able to watch both preseason and regular season games as they happen with certain restrictions. Audio feeds may be subject to availability. 2009-2011 games are temporarily unavailable. For a full description of features, requirement, limitations, and other information, visit our FAQ atNFL.com/help/GamePass.

Straight Yes or No poll. Your prediction of what will happen.

I think there’s a good chance AD will repeat what he did last year, and hold out again through Week One. But I think the key question is, will he be in Horns by Week Two? If not, it could get ugly...

I vote yes, but it’s close. The Joey Bosa holdout, the Mack situation, stubborn ego...

Thought I'd try a different tack than recent threads. What are your thoughts on the 9ers this year? I'm not a hundred percent sold on Jimmy G but if he can keep up his play from last year without a dip, I certainly would have some worry about them this year.

Is there defense any good??

Is Shanahan alone worth at least one win against us?? Is that overestimating his coaching ability?

It seems pretty damn hard to win twice against any team in the league, can we take them once there and at home??

Anyone by chance have anyone with this in their life or any experience with it? Just kinda curious. Been doing some research for someone and it seems like it’s shitty, but manageable for some time.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/polycythemia-vera/symptoms-causes/syc-20355850

I don't know if any of you have seen this series but it is beast asf! Honestly it takes 3 episodes to get into it but when that happens you are hooked! ( multiple people has givenme that 3 episode mark as well) My mother tried for over a few years to get me to watch this show and I'd watch the first episode and a half a few times half watching it and it was rough. If your looking for something new, have spare time, or want to try something different I heavily recommend it! Has some damn good character development throughout it!

Here is the trailer etc:

Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xoh-aBr1mw

Season 1
Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdm7Z3TQhDg


The new season trailer coming out this fall
Login to view embedded media View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dGCvJkzQSE



Anybody else follow or watch Vikings?

For you history buffs it's not 100% accurate but it does a great job of bringing great leaders and kings and their ways from back in the Vikings time.

I'm watching NFLN right now, with Kurt slumming with the Cardinals. He's smoozing with Larry Fitzgerald and Peterson....It's like watching your ex-wife/girlfriend on television, hanging all over some schmuck who's got his hands all over her....

less invested in the off-season now that we have a legit team? I’ve discovered that I read camp reports less, pay less attention to mocks, and really only check in to see if Donald has signed yet. Quite frankly, I’m no longer worried about this team and don’t feel the need to come in and bitch about every little move they do. It’s great.

Bring on a f***ing Super Bowl.

We have joined up with 'Rams Talk' and are stoked about this season like all of you guys are. Check out our newest episode. Lets get it!

Login to view embedded media View: https://soundcloud.com/user-470415690/rampage-radio-ep-10-la-rams-training-camp-and-week-1-preseason-in-baltimore

https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/2019_first_round_nfl_mock_draft/s1__26789063

All conjecture, but still nice to see.

https://www.therams.com/news/10-observations-from-rams-second-joint-practice-with-ravens

10 Observations from Rams Second Joint Practice with Ravens

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Rams went through their second joint practice with the Ravens on Tuesday afternoon. Here are 10 observations from the session.

1) The Rams began practice in much the same way they did on Monday, going through stretches and individual drills as a team before joining the Ravens for more team work. The offense once again worked on plays against air in the red zone, while the defense went through their regular positional work.

2) Once the teams came together, defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh stood out in one-on-one drills with the Ravens offensive line. Rushing from left end against the right tackle, Suh dominated his first rep by getting around the Baltimore O-lineman. Then Suh easily shed rookie Orlando Brown Jr.’s hands trying to extend to him on the second rep to get to the quarterback. The second rep was particularly impressive, because it was one motion and Brown’s hands were gone.

3) The younger players had some strong reps against Baltimore’s offensive line as well, with sixth-round pick Trevon Young making his way around the edge to get to the QB. Newcomer Marcus Martin — the NCAA all-time leader in sacks — also used a spin move to get around one of Baltimore’s reserve left tackles and get to the quarterback.

4) The Ravens turned up the music on the field with their offense and the Rams defense, creating communication challenges for both units. With The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” blaring, linebacker Cory Littleton blew up a screen playto a running back in the backfield.

5) Later on defense in 11-on-11, safety Lamarcus Joyner run blitzed and would’ve had a clear tackle for loss in the backfield. Joyner timed the blitz perfectly. If the play was live, Joyner maybe could have tackled Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco before he could’ve handed the ball off to his running back.

6) Cornerback Ramon Richards — an undrafted rookie out of Oklahoma State — flashed a bit both on defense and special teams. During an 11-on-11 period with the reserves, Richards broke up a deep pass on the right sideline. He was close to an interception, but it was a difficult play to make considering where he was in relation to the wide receiver. Then during special teams drills working as a gunner on punt team, Richards beat a Ravens double team to the delight of the Los Angeles sideline.

He’s had a solid training camp so far, and should be someone to keep an eye on during the preseason matchups.

7) Los Angeles recorded two interceptions during one 11-on-11 period. Cornerback Marcus Peters picked one off in the end zone, using his closing speed to make a nice play on the ball during a red-zone period. Then Littleton picked off a running back pass — tipping the ball up in the air and catching it to foil the trick play.

In general, the defense had a strong day with cornerback Aqib Talib and safety John Johnson also making interceptions on the first unit. (Full disclosure: I didn’t quite "observe" either of those interceptions because at that point I was watching the field with the Rams offense and Ravens defense.)

8) Kicker Greg Zuerlein was perfect on his five field-goal attempts on Tuesday. His longest kick came from 50-yards out.

9) Late in practice, running back — and Baltimore native — Todd Gurley made a couple impact plays on receptions out of the backfield. The first was a screen pass that would have gone for long yardage. Left guard Rodger Saffold was lead blocking for Gurley on the play, as he did for so many of Gurley’s screen plays in 2017. The Georgia product also caught a swing pass that would have gone for significant yardage on the right side.

10) Quarterback Jared Goff also connected with wide receiver Mike Thomas on a deep crossing route to the right side. Goff hit Thomas in stride, putting a nice end to one of the offense’s 11-on-11 segments.

If the AD thing goes sideways and it becomes clear that a) he'll only play for 6 games or b) he won't play at all, the Rams have a decision to make.

One thought just came to mind.

Would you be willing to trade AD for Jadaveon Clowney straight up (this would likely necessitate seeing if we could extend Suh...who as someone who admires guys like Kroenke and Warren Buffet KNOWS the value LA extends as opposed to other cities and how that opens up opportunities outside of football both during and after his career)

Of course, all of this is predicated upon AD essentially going nuclear and doing the absolute minimum until he can get to that QB money contract.

By Elliot Harrison Published: Aug. 7, 2018

NFL Preseason Power Rankings: Jaguars rise; Seahawks plunge


RANK 1 EAGLES
Previous rank: No. 1

Still reigning supreme. Sure, there have been a few departures. Leggie Blount is gone. Patrick Robinson, he of the biggest interception of the Eagles' postseason, is back with the Saints in New Orleans. The most notable departure was offensive coordinator Frank Reich's move to become the head coach in Indy, leaving big shoes to fill for Mike Groh. Yet, Philadelphia is strong enough to repeat. The Eagles own a better chance to get back on top than any team outside of the Patriots over the last 17 years. The players still seem hungry. Doug Pederson doesn't have one foot out the door -- in fact, at this point, both feet are decidedly on the right side of the threshold. And unlike most organizations, this franchise has two quarterbacks who can play.

RANK 2 JAGUARS
Previous rank: No. 4

Shocked? Don't be. Sure, this is a nod to what the Jaguars accomplished last season and how strong they are heading into the preseason. Going beyond those factors, the absences of Julian Edelman (and others) in New England and Aaron Donald in Los Angeles weaken the Patriots and Rams enough to allow Jacksonville to move up another notch. Of course, so much depends on Blake Bortles' play at quarterback. If he fares like he did in the 2017 postseason, Jacksonville will beat New England come Week 2.

RANK 3 PATRIOTS
Previous rank: No. 3

We know Julian Edelman (suspended) will be back in Week 5. Dion Lewis, Brandin Cooks, Nate Solder and Malcolm Butler will not. (Insert Super Bowl joke here ...) Can Tom Brady and Bill Belichick manage those losses enough to be the top team in the AFC again? Perhaps. Maybe Eric Decker will recapture some of the magic he had while with the Broncos? Peyton Manning had a little something to do with Decker's productivity there, but remember that Decker scored 12 times with Fitzmagic and the Jets one year, too. My best guess: Decker performs, but the Patriots start 2-2. Again.

RANK 4 RAMS
Previous rank: No. 2

Slight drop for the Rams since the last time we performed this exercise. Mainly because Aaron Donald isn't getting exercise ... at least, not at camp. No Donald means L.A. is devoid of the premier player on the roster and arguably the top defensive player in pro football. That doesn't mean Donald won't eventually find his way back to Candy Land. It just means he plans on landing on the double-pink first ... Never mind. Even without Donald, the Rams are as loaded as any team in football. Unless we're putting too much faith in Wonder Twins Jared Goff and Sean McVay, whose power activated last year. Can't wait to see Week 1 versus the Raiders. Fun game.

RANK 5 VIKINGS
Previous rank: No. 5

The Vikings are staying put from their ranking after the draft. All looks well for running back Dalvin Cook in his return from a torn ACL. The talk still centers around new QB1 Kirk Cousins. Don't expect massive passing numbers like the line he put up with Washington in 2016, his Pro Bowl season (4,917 yards, 25 touchdowns, 97.2 passer rating). Cousins could reach the latter figures, but if all goes right in Mike Zimmer's world, he should barely even need to eclipse 4,000 yards. With a healthy Cook, this Minnesota team is destined to run the football and rely on a top-tier defense, not chuck it all over the park, Stefon Diggs' new gold-plated deal notwithstanding.

RANK 6 SAINTS
Previous rank: No. 6

I worked with former Saints running back Reggie Bush for the first time last week on "Inside Training Camp Primetime," a fancy title for another show where we talk about football things. He and I agreed that the Saints are as balanced, top to bottom, as any team in the NFL. Granted, Reggie might have been playing his homer card, but when you consider he also played for, like, 17 other teams in his career, we'll take it.

The absence of suspended RB Mark Ingram for the first four games will hurt, however. Bush looks like he could step in and play for New Orleans right now. There is no sign of the typical cookie belly you see from a 34-year-old running back. The guy is also so friendly that he offered to get me a coffee while he ordered for himself. The look of disgust when I said grande mocha Frappuccino with whipped cream, please strangely resembled Drew Brees' look when he was told Jimmy Graham just got traded.

Side note: Love the return of former Saints TE Benjamin Watson, who caught 61 balls last season for the Ravens. How much does he have left at age 37?

RANK 7 FALCONS
Previous rank: No. 7

If the Saints are one of the most balanced teams, call this team one of the most talented. The sky is the limit for the Falcons. Get it? Falcons ... sky ... Ugh. No, seriously, they are ready to soar. I'll stop. Now that Julio Jones is monetarily happy, the next order of business is to work out the kinks from last year. Namely, getting No. 11 the ball in the end zone, which seemed far more difficult to do than it should have, the most notorious example coming in the Divisional Round loss to the Eagles. No need to be worried defensively in Atlanta. Dan Quinn has plenty of pieces in place to be viable in the postseason once again. These Falcons might spread their wings a bit farther come January. OK, I'll stop now, for real.

RANK 8 PACKERS
Previous rank: No. 9

Aaron Rodgers is back running around, gaily chucking the ball, after a 2017 interrupted by a broken collarbone. New tight end Jimmy Graham is impossible to miss on the practice field. And free agent Muhammad Wilkerson should further bolster a defensive line that was already improved, thanks to Kenny Clark's development. Losing Jake Ryan to a torn ACL hurt, to some degree. Many sets of eyes have been squarely set on third-round pick Oren Burks, whom team brass is no doubt hoping can be a versatile addition to the LB corps -- particularly in coverage. Speaking of coverage ... young talent abounds in the secondary.

RANK 9 STEELERS
Previous rank: No. 8

The question surrounding the Steelers is not What about Le'Veon Bell's contract situation? It's How much can we trust the defense? Whence we last saw that unit, Blake Bortles -- BLAKE BORTLES! -- was relaxed in the pocket, tossing first-down throws like Doug Marrone was piping Yanni into his helmet receiver. You might be surprised to discover that coordinator Keith Butler's Pittsburgh defense actually ranked better in points allowed than the much-heralded offense did in points scored. But after a couple of injuries and that playoff loss to Jacksonville, the questions remain.

Offensively, no one knows when Bell will get back on the field, but the guess is, a week before Opening Day -- you know, just in time to miss all of camp. Less-discussed issue: Martavis Bryant might have been an enigma, but he was still a deep-play enigma. All of which leaves this perennial Super Bowl contender at

RANK 10 PANTHERS
Previous rank: No. 10

Keeping the Panthers in the 10th spot, but that doesn't mean they're a playoff team. The NFC South is going to be a dogfight again. Whether the NFC's toughest division can carry three playoff participants, as it did in 2017, is a valid question. Because it is hard to imagine either the Saints or the Falcons missing this year.

That's the macro issue. Micro issue? The Norval effect. Norv Turner, in case you haven't heard, is running the offense with Cam Newton in it this year. Yep, the same Norv Turner who coached guys like Troy Aikman, Heath Shuler, Kerry Collins and Philip Rivers -- exactly none of whom own a skill set similar to Newton's. Traditionally, Turner's offense has required accuracy more than it has relied on designed runs from the quarterback. That's an understatement. You know what? It's also a good thing. With veteran RB Jonathan Stewart gone, the temptation could be to use Newton as a thumper inside the 10-yard line, as Carolina has done in years past. Let running back C.J. Anderson grind on those downs instead.

RANK 11 TEXANS
Previous rank: No. 12

Sounds like QB Deshaun Watson and defensive star J.J. Watt look just fine down at Texans camp coming off seasons lost to injury. Throw in a Honey Badger -- the baddest ass on the planet -- and this season has the makings of a playoff campaign in Houston. Maybe all of the media is putting too much stock in Watson's performance as a rookie last year in what amounted to less than half a season. In theory, opponents will have had all offseason to properly prepare for Watson and take away his strengths, as is true of 49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo. Uh, can you really take away Watson's tool belt? Dem's some funky tools he has at his disposal. Here, watch this Chiefs-Texans vignette and tell me how Kansas City could stop that. Not impressed? Try these.

RANK 12 CHARGERS
Previous rank: No. 11

I'm not down on the Chargers, but I sure hated to see the team lose TE Hunter Henry (ACL) and CB Jason Verrett (Achilles) for the season, which happened since the last Power Rankings were completed. Someone should lobby the league now and request that Injured Reserve be called Chargered Reserve. This organization has lost so many key components over the last few years. Look at 2017, when top picks Forrest Lamp and Mike Williams missed the majority of the season. Thankfully, those guys should be back and ready to contribute. Perhaps Williams can mitigate the absence of Henry in the red zone.

RANK 13 TITANS
Previous rank: No. 13

Showing respect for what the Titans accomplished last year while acknowledging what was widely thought to be a solid draft for this group. Lots of changes in Tennessee, in case you've gotten sucked into the political-news-cycle whirlpool and are late to the sports page. Mike Vrabel, who you'll remember catching Super Bowl touchdowns despite being a linebacker, is the head coach. Formerly retired Dean Pees is now the defensive coordinator in place of the now-retired Dick LeBeau. That's like trying to replace Gandalf. Derrick Henry is THE MAN at tailback now, with DeMarco Murray calling it a career. Dion Lewis is in the mix. Malcolm Butler is in the mix. And Kenny Vaccaro has joined the AFC South fray, too.

RANK 14 49ERS
Previous rank: No. 15

No other team has received as much spring and summer hype. Jimmy Garoppolo became a real-life Willie Beamen during the 2017 season, bringing much hope to both the team and the region. Of course, Joe Montana did the same in 1981, especially after leading the largest comeback in regular-season history in 1980 against the Saints. Yet, much of that wouldn't have been possible -- including, of course, the historically significant win over the Cowboys in the '81 NFC Championship Game -- without his top wide receiver ...

The late Dwight Clark brought more than merely hope to the Bay Area. He secured the franchise's first Super Bowl berth. He wasn't a one-act play, either. Clark caught 82 passes in 1980, 85 in 1981 and a whopping 60 in only nine games during the strike-shortened 1982 season. That total led the NFL that year. Clark's three-year tally was easily the highest among wide receivers in the league in that span, with or without "The Catch." Clark's memorial last month didn't get nearly as much attention as his legendary grab did, but we would be remiss to not use this space to honor someone who altered the course of history.

RANK 15 RAVENS
Previous rank: No. 14

The early word out of Ravens camp was that the passing offense felt a bit more 2018-ish and not so 1968-ish. Wide receiver had persisted in being a black hole for this team since Anquan Boldin left town, a spacey void that only Matthew McConaughey could find his way out of ... so enter Michael Crabtree (with chain) and John Brown. One has been known to make plays around the end zone, while the other has been the deep dish in Bruce Arians' attack in Arizona. Both must contribute. Though confidence in rookie tight end Hayden Hurst is high, that position might not be as much of a productive crutch as it was last season, with Ben Watson now in New Orleans.

RANK 16 LIONS
Previous rank: No. 16

If rookie RB Kerryon Johnson looks like Billy Sims (or even James Jones-esque) in the preseason, the Lions will leapfrog the Ravens and start climbing. Spent time with a Detroit fan last weekend (from the town of Climax, Michigan) who feels they are a 9-7 ballclub with a healthy offensive line. Thinking 8-8, mostly because the schedule isn't too forgiving. Johnson is so important to the cause because fans (or Lions coaches, while we're at it) can't be subjected to watching Ameer Abdullah run into his linemen's backs any more. So ... which old-timer reading this here article remembers James Jones? @HarrisonNFL. (And I'm not talking about the one with the hoodie who was in Green Bay.)

RANK 17 CHIEFS
Previous rank: No. 17

With all the offseason chatter around Patrick Mahomes, who's watching the store? In theory, the Chiefs' defense should be better with Eric Berry back and playing a nifty center field. Here's hoping he is the same player post-Achilles injury. That guy has been through enough, no? Most of the talent -- and money -- resides on offense. If Mahomes falters, it won't be for a lack of Legos. He has the pieces in Kareem Hunt, Tyreek Hill, Travis Kelce and -- if you missed a few offseason items -- Sammy Watkins, too. My best guess is that Kansas City gets off to a really rough start (at Chargers, at Steelers, 49ers, at Broncos, Jaguars, at Patriots) but finishes a respectable .500 when the kid with the rubber arm turns it loose.

RANK 18 COWBOYS
Previous rank: No. 22

The season could go any which way. Given the schedule the Cowboys face, finishing with a mediocre record might not be indicative of the quality of the squad, just like with the Chiefs. Since the last Power Rankings, Jason Witten confirmed his retirement, and the intensity of the Dez Bryant-Team Brass soap opera ... well ... intensified. So why the move up? The Seahawks lost one All-Pro safety to retirement and seem to be retiring another All-Pro safety (at least, from their roster) with their contractual tactics. The Bucs lost their quarterback for multiple games. The Bills have their own drama, and are unsure at their quarterback spot. The big boon for Dallas is the potential emergence in the young secondary. That and a solid pass rush can mitigate many things, namely the Cowboys' offense being forced to score 30 points to win.

RANK 19 GIANTS
Previous rank: No. 25

For all the reasons mentioned in the above blurb, the Giants take a (giant) leap in the rankings. Not all of it is due to the fleeting prospects of other teams. Odell Beckham Jr. is healthy and seemingly happy after losing most of last season to an ankle injury. Rookie RB Saquon Barkley is ready to get his Zeke Elliott from 2016 impact on. Eli Manning will be ready. Hopefully, his arm is, too, lest you believe in the declining skills narrative. Which is possible, given that Manning is 37 years old. The key here -- for Beckham, Barkley and even Manning -- is the retooled left side of the offensive line. Nate Solder, late of the Patriots, and second-round pick Will Hernandez might be the difference when it comes to making the playoffs.

RANK 20 RAIDERS
Previous rank: No. 19

No Khalil Mack in camp means no high ranking. Cool. Let's not discuss that tired storyline anymore. The offense has a new play caller, a healthier quarterback and Jordy Nelson in the mix. While Nelson's age and speed arouse the speculation of naysayers, that doesn't mean the former Packers great can't be impactful. Former Raiders great Tim Brown told me that, as he and Jerry Rice got older, they were more focused on their hand-eye coordination than their proverbial 40-yard-dash times. So they numbered the footballs, like No. 1, No. 2, No. 3 and No. 4, then called the number out when they caught the ball in practice. Pretty interesting stuff. In 2001, their first year together in Oakland, they each tallied over 1,100 yards receiving with nine touchdowns apiece. Rice was 39, Brown 35. Nelson is 33. For what's it worth, they all will have had the same head coach, too.

RANK 21 REDSKINS
Previous rank: No. 23

Maybe the least-talked-about team in the league, otherwise known as the NFC's version of the Bengals. Perhaps it's because Washington had such a nondescript season in 2017, a campaign marred by multiple injuries up front and constant Kirk Cousins speculation. The truth is that Alex Smith might not be a step down at all. Although he is getting on in years (34), the 2005 No. 1 overall draft pick has not shown much reluctance to use his feet. That element of Smith's game is stronger than Cousins'. Oh, and didn't Smith lead the NFL in passer rating, too? Wondering about those Redskins wideouts, though.

RANK 22 BRONCOS
Previous rank: No. 26

Healthy move up for the Broncos, who feature a new quarterback and a retooled, if not rebuilt, defense. Denver's first-round pick (Bradley Chubb), one in the third (Isaac Yiadom) and a fourth-rounder (Josey Jewell) all went toward Von Miller's group. What would help Miller more than anything, even if Chubb turns out to be a stud, is a robust running game. That's where the other third-rounder, RB Royce Freeman, factors significantly in the Broncos' outlook. Word on Case Keenum in camp thus far: impressive, accurate and nearly no turnovers.

RANK 23 BILLS
Previous rank: No. 20

While wanting to respect that this was a playoff outfit in 2017, I have to acknowledge the Bills have a few clouds looming over their 2018 prospects. The obvious is the LeSean McCoy situation. No one knows how that will play out. Then there's the quarterback position, where the hope and expectation (?) is that AJ McCarron can step in and play right away. While the former Bengal showed flashes, throwing the football in Foxborough in Week 16, possibly down 20, will be a different matter. The first six games will be very tough sledding for these hard-charging Bills ... at Baltimore, vs. Chargers, at Minnesota, at Green Bay, vs. Tennessee, at Houston.

RANK 24 BEARS
Previous rank: No. 24

This ranking might not be indicative of the positive vibes your hack writer (and many others) feel toward this Bears team. Still, signs point upward. Mitch Trubisky effuses enthusiasm over the new offense. New talent outside, like Allen Robinson and Anthony Miller, provide him with toys. The challenge for Chicago is QB-related, however -- namely, Rodgers, Stafford and Cousins. Trubisky can't be merely solid. He must produce in Year 2, because the defense isn't quite stout enough to win 20-17 week in and week out.
Side note: Love the approach the team is taking with Zach Miller. Had dinner with him and my colleague @MJD once, and couldn't help but notice what great energy Miller had. The guy gave his body for the team -- nice to the see the organization stick this process out with him.

RANK 25 SEAHAWKS
Previous rank: No. 18

Too harsh? Not according to every Seahawks fan I have spoken to, even the diehards. Earl Thomas' absence from camp only makes it worse. The loss of Kam Chancellor is huge -- he was "The Enforcer" on a defense that earned respect from players old and new. Seattle could fall to 5-11 or, with a few Russell Wilson miracles, hang around in the wild-card chase for a while. Which brings up another point: Every analyst I've heard has talked about Wilson being able to win three games by himself. If a guy is capable of doing that, why isn't he mentioned in the same breath as Brady, Rodgers and Brees? Just wonderin'. All that said, even after writing this blurb, I can't quite believe this team is this low. But the Doug Baldwin injury puts Seattle squarely in the bottom half of the league for now.

RANK 26 CARDINALS
Previous rank: No. 27

The Sam Bradford/ Josh Rosen discussion will persist through the preseason and probably into October. Meanwhile, RB David Johnson is the V8 engine in this offense. Although he's returning from injury, remember that it didn't affect his legs. It was a broken wrist, meaning that he should be as quick as ever. With LB Markus Golden back, S Budda Baker entering Year 2 and Brandon Williams (hopefully) seizing the starting CB job opposite Patrick Peterson, the Cardinals' defense has upside in a post- Tyrann Mathieu world. How much, though?

RANK 27 BENGALS
Previous rank: No. 28

So no one is excited about the Bengals. Speculation about Marvin Lewis' future lingers on, and on and on. Can Cincy surprise and return to the postseason? Methinks it starts on the offensive line, with young guys on the right side and veteran newcomer Cordy Glenn on the left. Second question: Can this team get anything out of sophomore speedster John Ross and oft-injured tight end Tyler Eifert? Third: Who is the disruptive factor on the Bengals' defense? They ranked 16th in points allowed. Nobody there scares OCs, though.

RANK 28 BUCCANEERS
Previous rank: No. 21

Tampa plummets in the rankings with the loss of its franchise quarterback for the first three weeks of the regular season. Confidence is not at an all-time high regarding these Bucs, not with negative speculation surrounding the outlook of Jameis Winston. The coaching staff is considered to be on the hot seat. And Robert Ayers didn't do them any favors with his Twitter shorthand breakdown of the Bucs' coverage "schemes." All is not lost, however. Ronald Jones II has the opportunity and ability to fill the running back void on offense, which clearly held this team back in 2017. Ryan Fitzpatrick has enough talent surrounding him to keep Tampa Bay afloat, and the defense is strong enough to plug the leaks if he doesn't play at a Pro Bowl level. In this division, what they can't afford is faulty Fitzmagic and a 0-3 start.

RANK 29 DOLPHINS
Previous rank: No. 30

Like the Bengals and Bucs, the Dolphins could climb rather quickly. Much depends on where Ryan Tannehill resides on his long road back to playing meaningful football. As with half the teams in the league, Miami's fortunes are contingent on their quarterback. With so many rules favoring the offense, winning big with mediocre QB play is almost impossible. (The Jags' ridiculously loaded defense makes for an exception. And don't count the Eagles, either; even though Philly won with its backup, that backup played his ass off.) As Tannehill goes, so go the Dolphins.

Hall of Fame note: I know fans in Miami were pumped up about Jason Taylor getting enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame last year. Others were startled that he was a first-ballot guy. Meanwhile, Zach Thomas receives no such love, whether you're talking the first ballot or the 71st. Thomas is barely mentioned. You tell me, Dolphins fans ( @HarrisonNFL) ... was Taylor really better than Thomas? Yeah, I get it. Sacks get chicks ... well, er, something like that. You can't tell me Thomas wasn't the leader on those Johnson/Wannstedt defenses. Heckuva football player.

RANK 30 JETS
Previous rank: No. 29

Sure, the Jets will be better. Josh McCown is back healthy. Quincy Enunwa is back healthy. Isaiah Crowell is a decent back. Then again, we are talking McCown-Crowell-Enunwa as QB1-RB1-WR1, still one of the weaker triumvirates in the league ... even if Robby Anderson is the top receiver again. The defense is trending upward and could morph into a top-10 unit eventually. But the Jets aren't there yet. McCown is 39. That's where Teddy Bridgewater, as much as Sam Darnold, makes this team's season arc compelling.

RANK 31 BROWNS
Previous rank: No. 31

The Browns are going to be better, there's no doubt about that. Whether that means winning five to seven games or something even more modest, the AFC North stacks up in such a way that Cleveland can be reasonably expected to split in its division. The Steelers didn't improve in the offseason and will be facing the Browns in Week 1 with a presumably rusty post-holdout Le'Veon Bell. The Ravens fortified the wide receiver corps but still appear mired in mediocrity on offense. The Bengals are no great shakes, either. What's disturbing is the trade of Corey Coleman, completing the circle of Browns first-round picks no longer with the organization. If you're scoring at home: Trent Richardson (2012) was traded, Brandon Weeden (2012) was released, Barkevious Mingo (2013) was traded, Johnny Manziel (2014) was released, Justin Gilbert (2014) was traded, Cameron Erving (2015) was traded, Danny Shelton (2015) was traded and Coleman (2016) was traded. Yucky.

RANK 32 COLTS
Previous rank: No. 32

It's impossible to write about the Colts without mentioning Andrew Luck. But let's try! (Even though we already failed.) Marlon Mack and rookie Nyheim Hines should develop into a fine tandem. Ryan Grant flashed in Washington, though Donte Moncrief he's not. (Of course, the latter couldn't stay on the field.) Signing former Lions first-round pick Eric Ebron was a worthwhile free agency swing if the tight end seizes his second at-bat. The interior offensive line is relying on kids but suffered a loss when Jack Mewhort retired. Indy's defense is, well, it leaves a bit to be desired. On paper. That's why they play the games, though. There's your dime-store Colts breakdown.
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap30...n-power-rankings-jaguars-rise-seahawks-plunge

https://www.therams.com/news/10-observations-from-rams-first-joint-practice-with-ravens

10 Observations from Rams First Joint Practice with Ravens

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Rams arrived on the East Coast Sunday evening and were well rested for their first practice with the Ravens on Monday afternoon. Here are 10 observations from the first joint session of the week.

1) The teams began practice on separate fields for stretching and some individual work. With the weather hot and humid — temperatures were at 90 degrees, with a head index of just over 100 degrees — Los Angeles’ players said afterwards they needed a little time to acclimate to the more sticky climate. The crowd was raucous as well, especially considering it was a sweltering Monday afternoon.

2) During that separate period, the Rams’ defense worked on regular individual drills while Los Angeles’ offense ran through some plays against air. Those were likely plays they would end up running during the 11-on-11 sessions with Baltimore later on.

3) The teams began work with red zone 7-on-7 drills — Los Angeles’ offense vs. Baltimore’s defense on one field, and the Ravens offense vs. the Rams defense on another. On the first play for the L.A. defense, Flacco bailed out of the pocket to his left after his initial reads were covered. He eventually threw a pass for a touchdown, eliciting cheers from the crowd. Defensive coordinator Wade Phillips disagreed with the way the crowd interpreted the play, however, turning around to yell, “Sack!” With the strong coverage on that first rep, he was probably right.

4) Linebacker Bryce Hager flashed a bit in the early goings of practice as well. The fourth-year linebacker out of Baylor recorded a pass deflection on a swing route during 7-on-7. Then he had a nice thump on a run play during 11-on-11. Both plays came against Baltimore’s second offense with Hager playing with the Rams’ second defense.

5) Linebacker Ramik Wilson also made an impact during the first 11-on-11 drills. Playing next to signal-caller Cory Littleton, Wilson first made a run stuff on a play, coming up to hit the running back right at the line of scrimmage. Two plays later, he nearly had an interception after tipping a ball up at the line of scrimmage. Throughout camp, Wilson has shown a proclivity for getting his hands on the football.

6) The Rams defense generally performed well in that segment of 11-on-11, with Aqib Talib breaking up a pass over the middle to wide receiver Michael Crabtree. Then cornerback Nickell Robey-Coleman broke up a pass over the middle as well.

7) The Rams worked on their punt return against the Ravens between 11-on-11 periods. L.A. had returner Pharoh Cooper back, but only ran through a full punt return a few times. There was more work on fielding directional punts, two Rams players attempting to block a Ravens gunner, and going after a punt for a potential block. Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh was on the field to watch the drills, which makes sense as he was a longtime special teams coordinator for the Eagles.

8) Los Angeles’ offense did well during a third-down period. Going 11-on-11 with the Ravens’ defense, quarterback Jared Goff connected with wide receiver Cooper Kupp on 3rd-and-short with a quick out route to the right. Goff then hit wide receiver Robert Woods on a pass over the middle for a first down on 3rd-and-long. Woods was wide open on the play.

9) Kicker Greg Zuerlein hit four of his five attempted field goals against the Ravens, the longest coming from 51-yards out. Reserve kicker Sam Ficken continued what’s been a strong camp, nailing all three of his attempted field goals. Ficken’s kicks were from 43, 46, and 48-yards out.

10) Finally, the offense ended practice with a two-minute drill. In the scenario, Los Angeles started at its own 20 with 1:11 on the clock needing a field goal. Goff engineered a successful drive, finding wideouts Brandin Cooks, Woods, and Kupp to move the ball down the field effectively. Zuerlein nailed a long field goal to cap the drive, giving the offense a win.

The second-team offense fared just as well, with quarterback Sean Mannion connecting with wide receiver Josh Reynolds and Ficken hitting his field goal for a successful drive.

I know this has possibly been posted somewhere, but I can't find it. Is there a streaming site other than GP that will show the preseason game Vs. Baltimore?

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/ravens/bs-sp-ravens-rail-training-camp-20180806-story.html

Anyone who saw Goff's interview on NFL live today, he was in a hurry to get back to the hotel. Hmmm, women weaken legs, just sayin.

Next week. I'm pretty excited about it. :icare::icare::icare:

IDK how Rams training camp works, but here you gotta register to "win" tickets, if you're lucky. Plus, since the Texans have only 4 open practices here (most of it's in West Virginia) it's really hit or miss.

But....it's free, so I thought what the hell. And well, I got my ticket! And yes, I'm def. gonna try and get some pics with the cheer squad.

I guess the moral here is you're in an NFL city and able to get to a camp without much hassle, go for it! Don't let these opportunities go by. I'll never take for granted again how easy it was to get into Rams camp in St. Louis. You literally just had to show up at the gate. Here you just gotta sign up and hope that you get chosen.

Ohhhh ANNNNNDDDDDDD. It's also a joint practice.

With.

The 40 shitters. uke:uke:uke:

Ugggghhhhhhh.

I wonder if I should troll Dick Sherman...

:mrburnsevil::mrburnsevil::mrburnsevil:

I just wasted 10:10 minutes of my life watching a simulation from the new Madden between the 49ers and the Rams. Yeah, simulated Jimmy G. drives down to the Red Zone, and then they are forced to kick a FG. Rams first drive, the simulated Rams can't even get a 1st down vs the simulated 49ers defense.

That was as much as I wanted to see.

I don't play Madden, and this game simulation probably has the Rams pulling out the Ram in the end (don't know)...But are the teams that close? I see the Rams shutting them down hard and blowing them out in reality. If the real Rams don't, I'm gonna lose my mind, which made me understand how high my expectations are...lol