For the Rams, figuring out what they have in Jared Goff outweighs everything in 2017

After struggling as a rookie last year, Rams quarterback Jared Goff hopes to prove this season that he can be the franchise player the team thought it was getting when it traded up to draft him with the top pick in 2016. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/SCNG)

By VINCENT BONSIGNORE | vbonsignore@scng.com | Daily News

At some point Sunday night, after a full day of NFL games conclude and the leftover wings and brats are wrapped up tightly and tucked away in the refrigerator and the barbecue grills are scrubbed clean and neatly covered, a whole bunch of tired heads will hit a whole bunch of pillows across Los Angeles.

What happens next — whether sleep arrives rapidly and happily and satisfied for Rams fans, or it is prolonged, anxious and concerned — will rely heavily on how a certain second-year quarterback plays Sunday afternoon against the Indianapolis Colts.

It’s not like all the angst and optimism and worry and confidence and doubt and conviction about Jared Goff will be validated or invalidated.

It will take much more than the opening game of a new season to fairly arbitrate the varying degrees of credence or apprehension about Goff, the polarizing first overall pick in the 2016 draft whose disastrous rookie season was either the fault of the impossible situation the Rams put him in or damning evidence he was miscast as the future face of the franchise.

We likely won’t won’t be anointing him the next big thing or kicking him entirely to the curb based on one game, either.

A season opener at that.

But deep down in our football souls, a place where the lasting snapshots of the greats, the average and the busts among the hundreds of NFL quarterbacks that preceded Goff impartially reside, we’ll have a much better idea where all this is headed.

The direction of which will define the Rams’ second year back in Los Angeles and the immediate future that follows.

Goff, to his credit, seems eager to embrace the challenge. And it would be disingenuous to claim he hasn’t provided snippets of evidence he is much further along now than at any point last year.

Aside from an All-Pro caliber play by Chargers pass-rush demon Joey Bosa to strip sack Goff and force a 76-yard touchdown fumble recovery and one very lousy overthrow by Goff for an interception, the former Cal star was mostly effective during the preseason while completing 24 of 32 passes for 250 yards and a touchdown. Of the first six drives he presided over, he directed the Rams to scores on four of them, connecting on 75 percent of his passes.

Throughout OTAs and training camp, he looked much further along this year compared to last.

This isn’t the overwhelmed Goff we saw last preseason, the one who didn’t make the active roster for the season opener and then sat nine weeks before finally getting his chance to play. He looks, acts and, at least through most of the preseason, has played the part of a productive NFL quarterback.

“I feel confident compared to last year,” Goff said. “I think that obviously getting all the reps through the offseason has been huge and understanding what we’re trying to do and like I just kind of said, understanding so much more about the game and about what everyone’s intent is on the field. Ultimately, just comfortability and just being where I want to be mentally, physically, emotionally, everything.”

He needs to be.

There is an incredible amount riding on his performance.

Forget the Aaron Donald holdout.

Or the beginning of the new era of Rams football under first-year coach Sean McVay.

Set aside the Fight for L.A. slogan pinning the Rams against the Chargers, their new Los Angeles neighbors by way of San Diego. It’ll be years before the winner of that battle is truly calculated.

It’s not about wins and losses, per se, or attendance figures and television ratings.

The 2017 season is all about Jared Goff and whether he proves he’s the quarterback the Rams can confidently march into the future with or a miscalculation they need to move on from.

If that sounds hasty and harsh, well, that’s how it goes when it comes to the NFL and quarterbacks.

You’re in business when you’ve got a real one.

You’re lost with a pretender.

You are relevant with a very good to great one.

You’re just a faceless team in the crowd with just an OK one.

The Rams have been lost for years, sorting through one would-be permanent quarterback after another, and their relevancy as a bona fide NFL franchise, a team opponents fear and fans flock to, has steadily dwindled.

It was glaring problem in St. Louis, where they stumbled through 13 straight non-winning seasons before packing up and moving back to Los Angeles.

But it was regionally confined, given the market they played in.

The stage in Los Angeles offers no shade, no place to hide or retreat. You spin your wheels here, you might as well be pedaling backward off the side of a mountain. That’s no way to rekindle a romance in a new city, especially with the Chargers moving into town and vying for the attention and hearts and wallets from many of the same fans the Rams are wooing.

But until they get their long-term quarterback situation solved, that’s exactly what they’ll be doing.

Beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday, we’ll start getting a better idea if those wheels finally found some traction.

“I think anytime that you get guys in the games, that’s where you get a chance to really evaluate them,” McVay said. “I think we’ve been really pleased with what we’ve seen in practice – the pocket movement, the ability to work through progressions. The best test is when you can truly get tackled and I think in spurts, he’s showed some really good positive signs of going in the right direction with what he did in the preseason. ”

Everything the Rams did since last season was to ensure this year provides a fair representation of what they actually have in Goff. Not the finished product, necessarily, but frank, valid proof he’s their guy.

They fired defensive-minded coach Jeff Fisher and replaced him with McVay, a 31-year-old offensive prodigy who has surrounded himself with assistants heavy on offensive design and quarterback development experience.

They replaced Greg Robinson, the worst left tackle in the NFL, with Andrew Whitworth, one of the best.

Robert Woods, Sammy Watkins and Cooper Kupp were added at wide receiver, transforming one of the least dangerous groups in all of football into one opposing defenses now have to respect.

From coaching to personnel, you can make the case almost everything around Goff has been improved.

The bad coaching and even worse talent around Goff last year rendered judgment on him unfair. As bad as the numbers were – an 0-7 record, 112 of 205 passing with seven interceptions and five touchdowns and an incredible 26 sacks – it was much more the by-product of poor coaching and insufficient talent. In many ways, Goff was just a victim of circumstance.

But the Rams have removed that crutch, making this season a much more reasonable microscope from which to dissect Goff. Even he notices a major difference.

“I think as a whole we’ve really improved everywhere – not only offensively, but defensively, special teams, everywhere we’ve improved. I think I speak for a lot of people when I say we feel really good where we’re at.”

The question is, will a bunch of anxious Rams fans feel just as good when their heads hit the pillows Sunday night?

[www.ocregister.com]

Hurricanes, Floods, Earthquakes and Wildfires oh my!


Your soul better belong to Jesus 'cause your ass belongs to Mother Nature and she is ragging big time.

Got to hand it to Smith, he's looking very sharp! Brady not so much!
Brady: 11/24 156 & 67.4 rating
Smith: 20/23 222 & 146.5

Of course game isn't over yet and the cheater's will probably find a way!

Head Coach Sean McVay – Post-Practice – September 7, 2017

(Opening Remarks)
“No injuries to report. We came out on the good side of that from yesterday’s practice and it was the same thing today, so we’re in good shape right now.”

(On the captains voting)
“Yeah, we let the players vote on the captains and what we did was we had the top-six vote getters, so we had three guys on defense, two on offense, one on special teams. It was (P) Johnny Hekker on special teams. Offensively, it was (T) Andrew Whitworth and (RB) Todd Gurley. Defensively, it was (CB Trumaine Johnson was one of them, (OLB) Connor Barwin and then (LB) Alec Ogletree. So, a great representation of guys that have done things the right way. I think there’s a lot of candidates that – we’ve got a lot of guys that I guess we should say that we consider leaders on this team and I think it’s a bunch of great guys in that locker room. Fortunately for those guys, that was who the team picked and I think that’s the way to do it and that’s who those guys voted on.”

(On if he liked the picks)
Oh yeah, I like the picks. Absolutely. I think there’s a handful of guys that are deserving of being captains as well and I don’t necessarily think that you have to have a ‘C’ on your chest to be a leader and to do things the right way every single day. We’ve got a handful of guys that have done that. I think you look at guys like (DT) Michael Brockers, (QB) Jared Goff is continuing to lead the right way, (C) John Sullivan, so there’s a handful of guys that I could go on and on about. But to those guys’ credit, those are the six that the team voted on and I’m very pleased with those picks and happy for those guys. I think it’s a great honor.”

(On if there is any update on DT Aaron Donald)
“No update on Aaron. Kind of right where we were yesterday.”

(On if he would rule him out of the game at this point)
“No. I wouldn’t rule him out of this game. I think we’re right in the same spot that we’ve been. We had a great practice today working on some third downs, different situations, short yardage, two-minute, so I’m pleased with the guys that are here working hard, doing a great job and I thought it was another good day where we’re putting ourselves in a position to hopefully have a good performance on Sunday.”

(On if there are any injury risks with Donald playing if he shows up tomorrow)
“Yeah, I think you certainly have to have a plan in place. But, kind of like we’ve talked about, our message remains the same – we’re very happy with the guys that we do have here. We’re continuing to work on trying to find that solution if we’re able to get it figured out before Sunday – how we exactly go about that will be determined.”

(On what he’s seen from QB Brandon Allen)
“I think he’s done a nice job. I think really when you get into some of the preparation work where Jared’s taking most of the reps offensively and then (QB) Sean (Mannion) gets the majority of the reps with the look team and things like that. He’s gotten a couple of throws, but you can see he’s a natural thrower of the football, the ball comes out quickly. But, other than that, really haven’t had too much of a chance to evaluate him and I think you look at those two guys that we’ve had here with Jared and Sean, pleased with what they’ve done.”

(On if he is totally comfortable with WR Sammy Watkins at this point or if he still has to learn some things)
“I think in terms of the position that he’s playing, he feels really comfortable. Like I’ve said with Sammy from day one – very smart player, understands football, so I think in terms of the way that we set up some of our concepts and the spacing, he understands that and I think he’s getting more and more comfortable with some of the little nuances with how we want to run certain routes and things like that. He’s a guy that’s played at a high level in this league and you can see that he’s ready to go. He’s had a good first couple days and I’m expecting a good performance from Sammy. But, to answer your question, we feel good about where he’s at and I think he’s done a good job of learning the system in a short amount of time and now it’s going to allow him to go play fast and do what he does.”

(On how he feels about the defensive line rotation if Donald is not available)
“I feel really good. I think what we’ve talked about when you look at the guys like (DT) Tanzel Smart, I think he’s really stepped up and made the most of his opportunities. You bring back a (DT) Tyrunn Walker, (DE) Morgan Fox has gotten reps. We already know what type of player that Michael Brockers is, so just looking at the interior of our defensive line, I think we’ve had a chance to develop some good depth. You get a guy like (OLB) Robert Quinn back, where we know what kind of threat he is coming off the edge and what Connor Barwin has done over the course of his career. So, I think just as a whole, looking at those guys, I feel good. (OLB) Samson (Ebukam) is going to add some depth on the outside as a rusher and then playing SAM linebacker in base, so that’s a good group of guys that we’re listing right there and that’s something that we do feel good about.”

(On what he thinks it says about Connor Barwin and Andrew Whitworth in being voted captains their first year with the team)
“I think when you look at targeting those types of players in free agency, what you really like is clearly the production as a player, but also the human being and the way they go about their business – they are pro’s pros. We talk about that all the time and they both have a nice, natural way about it. It comes off authentic and genuine and they do it whatever is true to their personality. I think their teammates sense that and that’s why the way that they lead, both in different ways has been received so well from guys that have been here. Like I mentioned earlier, I think to be voted on by your peers as a captain is an extremely humbling thing. It’s a great honor for those guys and from what I’ve seen from them and the impact that they’ve made both in the locker room and on the practice field, it’s kind of exactly what we had hoped and envisioned and we’re fortunate to have two players like that.”

(On what it says about CB Trumaine Johnson being voted a captain after expressing disappointment in not getting a long term contract in the offseason)
“I think it shows you what a great job he’s done on focusing on the things that he can control – being about all the right stuff. Since he’s gotten back from training camp, you see a motivated player. He’s doing everything that we ask. Clearly, we know what type of talent he is, but now I think he’s starting to bring people with him, where he’s setting a good example for that room day-in and day-out and when your peers vote on you as a captain, that says a lot. So, credit to Trumaine for not letting some of the things be a distraction and all he’s done is the right things and I think it’s a great example of when you come in here, you just do the little things the right way every single day, you get rewarded for that and now we expect big things from him. I’m really proud of Trumaine and I think it’s a great honor for him.”

(On if he has a pregame ritual that he normally adheres to)
“I think you’re figuring out that rhythm. I think you have a couple things that you do as far as getting ready for some of the plays that you want to run and how you want to be able to call a game and the way you want to try to set it up and get guys involved, so we’ll do that. Normally, that takes place on Friday night, so kind of trying to get a little bit ahead on that, but I think I’ll stay pretty consistent with some of those routines and it will be fun. Keep it the same as what we’ve done.”

(On if he has a special breakfast on Sunday morning)
“No special breakfast. Nothing like that. I’ll probably just wake up every hour, tossing and turning, excited about the game. But that’s been pretty consistent since I’ve been coaching.”


Defensive Coordinator Wade Phillips – Post-Practice – September 7, 2017

(Opening Remarks)
“We’re excited about this game. I think it seems like a long time since we stared with OTAs and a new group and trying to put them together. And actually, we haven’t played – our first group really hasn’t played together very much in the preseason. Now we’ve started to practice together more, so I’m looking forward to see how we do. The Colts have a really good offense, they’ve got a premiere receiver in the league and (offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski) ‘Chud’ does a great job. I worked with Rob in San Diego. He does a great job as offensive coordinator. I know Chuck Pagano is a really good head coach. They’ve got good coaches and they’ve got good players, so we’ve got to get ourselves ready.”

(On how concerned he is that the starting defense hasn’t gotten much in-game work yet)
“I don’t know that concerned – I’m just waiting to kind of see how we do. I think there’s going to be good things. We’re practicing together well this week. I’ve been impressed with our practices this week and we have all our guys healthy and all of them are practicing now, so you’ve got to carry that to the game, but I thought we’ve practiced really well.”

(On DT Aaron Donald)
“As far as Aaron Donald, we know what the situation is and I know what the situation is. I’ve been through it before. It’s disappointing. It’s disappointing that he’s not here for whatever the reasons are, but I’ve been through it before, too. You’ve got to play with the guys you have. We believe that we can play well and that’s what we’re going to try to do. So, wishing and hoping one hand and all that stuff.”

(On what he feels his scheme can do for Donald)
“Well, I don’t know if I can do anything. I mean, I don’t know that I did anything for (Pro Football Hall of Fame DE) Reggie White, or (Pro Football Hall of Fame DE) Bruce Smith, or (Pro Football Hall of Fame DE) Elvin Bethea, or (Pro Football Hall of Fame DT) Curley Culp, or (Pro Football Hall of Fame LB) Rickey Jackson or some of these guys that are in the Hall of Fame. I think you give them the opportunity to do what they do well. I think those kind of players, (Texans DE) J.J. Watt, I can go on and on really. They’re talented. They do what they do really well. You’ve got to let them do it and you’ve got to put them in a position to be able to utilize their talent, is all you have to do. That’s not real hard.”

(On if he presumed that Donald wouldn’t be here when he started game planning for the Colts)
“No. We have adjustments in our defense for whoever we have. Guys have certain responsibilities, let’s say a gap responsibility, but how you do it is different on who the guy is. If you’ve got a big, heavyset guy that doesn’t move real quick, well then he kind of powers the guy. If you’ve got a guy like Aaron Donald, you tell him, ‘Take off and beat the guy real quick.’ So, we just adjust with our personnel and let them do what they do well.”

(On what has impressed him about DT Tanzel Smart)
“Tanzel Smart has come in and done a really good job as a rookie, a lower-round draft choice. We thought, he had some ability and he’s shown that ability. So, he’s going to have to play in a rotation. We think he’ll play all right. He played well in the preseason. He’s still got to get better, but I think he will.”

(On what he has seen from CB Trumaine Johnson)
“I’m really impressed with Trumaine Johnson. I think he’s come in here and done everything we’ve asked and a little bit more, really. And that’s what I’ve been impressed with. He works at what he does, he’s a smart player, he’s athletic, he listens to what we’re trying to teach, he knows how to fit in, in the defense. I’ve been really impressed with him. I’ve had some really good corners, but he can be right up there. Throw in (Broncos OLB) Von Miller and (Former OLB) DeMarcus Ware, you can throw him in there too. If we’re just naming names, (former DT) Jerome Brown and (former DE) Clyde Simmons were pretty good too, so.”

(On his approach to coaching talented defensive players like Watt and Miller early in their careers)
“Just like I’ve said, they’re really good players. I think you’d have to mess it up as a coach for those guys not to play well. I said it before, if a great player like that can play in your scheme then you’ve got the wrong scheme. So, I don’t worry about those kind of players. Now, I still think you have to coach them. I still think they have to work to be better whoever it is. And those guys that you mentioned did that. They kept working at what they did even though they were really talented, they kept working at what they did. (Hall of Fame DE) Bruce Smith, at the end of his career was still the same way. He kept getting sacks because he kept working at what he did and tried to get better all the time. And, I think the great one have that too. They have heart too. You can’t – the intangibles that people talk about – one of them is that they have a tremendous will to be the best and you get around guys like that, they’re going to do well unless you mess them up, really.”

(On what he has seen from LB Alec Ogletree)
“I’ve been really impressed with Alec Ogletree. He’s a smart guy, but he’s really athletic. He gives you everything you want in a linebacker. He’s strong, he’s powerful, he’s fast and he’s smart. He can make all the calls and the adjustments. It’s a new defense and he’s the leader of that defense and done a great job with it.”

(On if he will monitor OLB Robert Quinn’s snaps)
“Yeah. I think anybody that hasn’t practiced the whole time or whatever, we’ve got to be aware of Robert Quinn or even (LB) Mark Barron. Some of those guys that haven’t been in live action during the preseason at all. We’ll have to be aware and monitor how many snaps they have. They’ll be on the snap count or pitch count or whatever. Whether it’s baseball or football, whatever it is.

(On what it is about the Colts offense that allows WR T.Y. Hilton to be so dangerous)
“He led the NFL in receiving so, just like any – I said ‘Chud’ is a really good coordinator and he’s got a great player there and he utilizes him. That’s what you do, you put him in situations where you can get him one-on-one and you can get him running option routes where he can go any way he sees, which he’s great at. So, you have to double him every play, so we will.”

(On if it is a little bit of a sign of relief that he will not have to face Colts QB Andrew Luck on Sunday)
“I just think you have to play as good as you can play whoever you play against. We hadn’t had any luck, we hadn’t had any luck this game anyway. They don’t either, so. No, I don’t worry about that. I worry about who they have and what they’re doing and try to stop them. That’s what our job is.”

(On if it’s tough to get a read on a different quarterback)
No. I think their offense is going to be similar. Obviously he’s played some, he played last year against Pittsburgh, so we have some background on him as far as playing and he’s a veteran guy that we know can read defenses and things like that. So, it’s just preparation. It’s just getting prepared for what you feel like they can do. Then you get in the game and they’re doing something else and you have to adjust and we have a capability of doing that I think.”

(On Coach McVay’s first regular season game as a head coach)
“Sean McVay is – I thought – that’s why I came here, but I thought when I came here he’s going to be an outstanding head coach. The more I’m around him the more I have that feeling. I think if you talk to any of the players, the culture here, he’s doing all of the right things. That doesn’t make you win all your games, certainly, but I think, I was around (Hall of Fame Coach) Marv Levy who’s in the Hall of Fame and, obviously I was impressed with Marv. Dan Reeves who won 200 games and Marty Schottenheimer who won 200 games and this guy is potentially that kind of coach because he’s got a clear message, the players know what to expect and that was the thing that those other guys I talked about had.”


RB Todd Gurley – Post-Practice – September 7, 2017

(On being voted a captain by his teammates and what that means to him)
“It means a lot. The team voted for me to be a captain. For that to be my second year in a row to be a captain it means a lot. It just means a lot for what the guys think of me. So, I appreciate that – just trying to work hard and try to be the best leader, the best teammate I can be.”

(On if being a captain brings on any extra responsibility)
“Obviously just being yourself. When you have that ‘C’ that gives you just a little bit more edge to do a little bit more, say a little bit more, because they voted for you for a reason. And it’s a good thing, just to have ‘Whit’ (T Andrew Whitworth) with me. It doesn’t matter if you have a ‘C’ on your chest or not. Anybody can lead, anybody can…doesn’t matter if practice squad or whatever, you know. So, just take information from everybody else and we just all work together as one.”

(On how he thinks the offense looks going into Week 1)
“I’m excited. I’m very, very excited. I can’t wait…football, well it starts back tonight. I’m pretty sure everybody’s anxious to see how we’re going to do just like we are. So, we just can’t wait to play Sunday.”

(On if feels any different going into this season, because he got a lot more work in this year’s preseason as opposed to last year’s preseason)
“Not really. You know it’s just a new offense. It felt like things have been clicking. We’ve just got that confidence about us – just try to build it every day. We feel a lot more comfortable with the offensive schemes that we’ve been running the last four, five months. We just can’t wait to get out there.”

(On what specifically gives him and the offense confidence)
“Just practice reps, you know practice reps, game reps – just seeing what other teams (did) in the past against those types of defenses. And just going out there and practicing, executing – not looking sloppy, catching the ball, running the ball, not turning the ball over. Just the more things you do…,just like you all, the more articles you get, the more comfortable you get. The more practices you get, just the more comfortable you get. So that’s just kind of how we feel right now.”

(On what WR Sammy Watkin’s addition to the team can do for the offense)
“A lot. He’s a great play-maker. Obviously, we know what he can do with the ball in his hands and when he’s healthy. Just having him, having (WR) ‘Rob’ (Robert Woods) you know those two guys being on the same team last year and having their connection – just adding ( WR Cooper) Kupp, (WR) Tavon (Austin), (TE) Gerald (Everett), (TE Tyler) Higbee. It’s a lot of guys I feel like can step up and we all can be that go to guy. A lot of people are depending on a lot of people. I feel confident that we can all come together as one and make it happen.”

(On if he heard complaints last year from fans who drafted him to their fantasy football team)
“Yeah, that’s the only thing you hear these days is fantasy football. (Nobody cares) about nothing else (anymore).”

(On if the fantasy football comments get annoying)
“Yeah, it’s always annoying. I mean, I don’t really care about it. But that’s just how it is now, you know, it is what it is.”

I haven't finished watching it yet. I just started it and had to immediately come here to post. (9-17-2017).

I've noticed for a while that Gurley has been spinning his dreads together. In the press conference today he actually has two that look like Ram Horns.

I thought that looked so awesome. Made me picture Gurley Rammin heads!

JB Long, Maurice Jones Drew, and D'Marco Farr preview the start of the Rams season against the Andrew Luck-less Colts in the Coliseum this weekend. Will Aaron Donald rejoin the team in time to play week 1? How will Jared Goff fair under new head coach Sean McVay?

[av]http://serve.castfire.com/s:5L8r1/audio/3396057/ramsallaccess_2017-09-07-154157.64k.mp3[/av]

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Anyone surprised to not see Goff on the list ?

The LA Rams prepare for the Colts with a healthy roster amid the Aaron Donald contract distraction that won’t go away.
by joeyaucoin Sep 7, 2017, 6:55am CDT TWEET


Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports


Rams Have a Clean Injury Report; Ready For Week One | Rams Official Site

Coach McVay reported that the team had a good practice on Wednesday and there was a lot of energy and enthusiasm. With a healthy roster, the team is ready to open the season at home with a win.

Jared Goff and Aaron Donald Remain The Focus For Week One | LA Times

Most of the attention surrounding the first game of the season for the Rams seems to be going to QB Jared Goff and DT Aaron Goff. It’s as if the sports journalists don’t want to wax poetic about the route running skills of WR Robert Woods.

Press Conference With Jared Goff and Coach Sean McVay | Rams Official Site

Read every word about how the coach and QB are approaching the new season and week one against the Indianpolis Colts.

Jared Goff Ready To Show Off New Offense | Rams Official Site

QB Jared Goff and Coach McVay gush over each other, excited to start the season with new weapons and a brand new scheme for the Rams.

No One Is Talking About Aaron Donald Sitting Out | Denver Post

The Denver Post declares that no one is talking about the fact that the best defensive player in the NFL may sit out indefinitely. Apparantly they don’t read the Random Ramsdom. We’ll be sure to send them out a link.

Aaron Donald Is Not Ruled Out, But Still A No-show At Practice | ESPN

Days away from the season opener, the same question is asked to Coach McVay and he clearly has nothing new to say about the contract talks. So, the broken record continues...


With Aaron Donald AWOL, Rookie Tanzel Prepares To Start | OC Register

For every player that fails to make it into the starting lineup, another player gains the opportunity to show their worth. In this case, rookie Tanzel Smart gets his chance sooner than expected.

Aaron Donald Is Back East As Rams Prepare for Colts | NFL.com

The Rams’ star defensive tackle isn’t showing any signs of coming back to Los Angeles, even though Coach McVay remains optimistic.

7 Bold Predictions for the Los Angeles Rams in 2017 | Ramswire

USA Today’s Ramswire takes a stab at what could go right for the Rams this season. It’s optimistic and yet not that crazy to imagine these predictions coming true.

How The Rams Use Player Tracking To Optimize Availability | ESPN

An interesting look at how teams like the Rams use a sports science coordinator to track how much of a workload each player is exerting in order to make sure their body doesn’t wear down too early in the season.

Rams Linebacker Mark Barron Is Ready For Opener | LA TImes

Mark Barron talks about about how missing all four preseason games isn’t a concern for a defensive player like himself and OLB Robert Quinn.

Betting Odds Favor The Rams In Week One | International Business Times

A closer look into the risks of putting money on your beloved Rams. If you’re going to pick any game this season, this might be the one.

Aaron Donald’s Absence Hasn’t Been All Bad For Some Rams | LA Times]

Young defensive linemen like Ethan Westbrooks and Tanzel Smart have been given some valuable experience this preseason with DT Aaron Donald sitting out. So, the contract holdout hasn’t been a complete loss for the Rams.

In An Age of Hybrid Defenses, Rams Navigate New Schemes | OC Register

DC Wade Phillips discusses how players can ease into a new defensive scheme with ease. 3-4? 4-3? Making the switch is not as difficult as it used to be.

Rams Tight End Johnny Mundt Overcomes Broken Ankle | LA Times

Suffering a broken ankle on the first day of Rams rookie minicamp, Mundt overcame the odds to impress his new coach and eventually made the practice squad.

More From Turf Show Times

• Will Los Angeles Rams Fans Accept (Or Even Enjoy) QB Jared Goff Improving To Just Being Bad?
• TRANSCRIPT: LA Rams HC Sean McVay, QB Jared Goff On First Practice Preparing To Face Indianapolis Colts In Week 1
• Los Angeles Rams-Indianapolis Colts: Initial Injury Report PERFECT For Rams
• Los Angeles Rams Week 1 2017 Broadcast Map
• LA Rams-Indianapolis Colts: What The Rams Need To Do To Win
• Turf Show Radio S9E8: Preseason Recap, Week 1 Preview

Is Being Bad Good Enough For Jared Goff?

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  TRANSCRIPT: McVay, Goff On First Colts Practice

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  Rams-Colts: Initial Injury Reports

• 
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• SUNSEP 17
  Washington Redskins @ Los Angeles Rams
  3:25 PM - Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum - Los Angeles, CA
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https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2017/...ready-to-make-statement-aaron-donald-contract

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| Warner's story on his path to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

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So Vegas has us as 4 pt. favorites Sunday, let's hear how you'd all bet.

I have already given the points.

If you’ve made it this far – with just three days left until the regular-season opener for most teams – you generally have to do something really dumb to lose your spot on the 53-man roster.

Like, maybe, perhaps, fight with a teammate. That could do it.

Calvin Pryor, a former first-round draft pick, was released by the Cleveland Browns on Thursday, reportedly after a pre-practice fight with receiver Ricardo Louis.


The Browns released S Calvin Pryor on Thursday, reportedly after fighting with a teammate. (AP)

Browns coach Hue Jackson confirmed Pryor’s release to reporters, but said it was due to an “internal matter,” and would not confirm whether there was a fight. Jackson also said there were no plans to release Louis, whom Cleveland drafted in the fourth round last year.

It was already not a great day for the Browns, even before whatever transpired between Pryor and Louis: linebacker Myles Garrett, the No. 1 overall pick, is in a walking boot due to a high ankle sprain and will miss some time; Jackson said that a Browns player “got thrown into the back of his leg.”

Pryor was the 18th overall pick in 2014, taken by the New York Jets. But Pryor’s attitude, coupled with the Jets using their first two picks this season on safeties, led the team to look for suitors, and New York found a trade partner in Cleveland. On June 1, the Jets traded Pryor to the Browns and received linebacker Demario Davis in return.

At just 25 years old and three seasons removed from being a top draft pick, Pryor will be looking for his third NFL team. For the record, he’s played in 44 career games (38 starts), with 190 total tackles, two interceptions and 14 pass break-ups.

I am excited that the season officially starts today. So for starters I got this...
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3 days til kickoff.

Is Jared Goff prepared? Will Todd Gurley show his 2015 form? Is the OL going to pass protect and open running lanes? Does Sammy Watkins know the playbook enough to contribute vs the Colts? Is Cooper Kupp 100%? Will the play calling keep the defense guessing? Can the Goffense run in up the middle? Is HC McVay up to the task?

Is the Rams "Goffense" ready?

I say, DAMN STRAIGHT IT IS!! :cheers:

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/09/07/pfts-2017-season-predictions/

PFT’s 2017 season predictions
Posted by Michael David Smith

Josh Alper

AFC

1. Patriots 2. Steelers 3. Raiders 4. Titans 5. Bengals 6. Chargers

Wild card: Raiders over Chargers, Titans over Bengals

Divisional round: Raiders over Steelers, Pats over Titans

Conference championship: Patriots over Raiders

NFC

1. Seahawks 2. Packers 3. Giants 4. Falcons 5. Saints 6. Cardinals

Wild card: Saints over Falcons, Giants over Cards

Divisional round: Seahawks over Saints, Giants over Pack

Conference championship: Seahawks over Giants

Super Bowl: Patriots over Seahawks
---------------------------------------
Curtis Crabtree

AFC

1. Patriots; 2. Steelers; 3. Titans; 4. Raiders; 5. Texans; 6. Chiefs

Wild card: Titans over Chiefs, Raiders over Texans

Divisional round: Patriots over Raiders, Steelers over Titans

Conference championship: Patriots over Steelers

NFC

1. Packers; 2. Seahawks; 3. Falcons; 4. Eagles; 5. Cowboys; 6. Buccaneers

Wild card: Buccaneers over Falcons, Eagles over Cowboys

Divisional round: Packers over Buccaneers, Seahawks over Eagles

Conference championship: Seahawks over Packers

Super Bowl: Patriots over Seahawks
------------------------------------------------
Mike Florio

AFC

1. Patriots, 2. Steelers, 3. Broncos, 4. Titans, 5. Chiefs, 6. Texans

Wild card: Broncos over Texans, Titans over Chiefs

Divisional round: Patriots over Titans, Steelers over Broncos

Conference Championship: Patriots over Steelers

NFC

1. Packers, 2. Seahawks, 3. Panthers, 4. Eagles, 5. Giants, 6. Saints

Wild card: Panthers over Saints, Giants over Eagles.

Divisional round: Packers over Giants, Seahawks over Panthers.

Conference Championship: Packers over Seahawks.

Super Bowl: Patriots over Packers.
--------------------------------------------
Darin Gantt

AFC

1. Patriots; 2. Titans; 3. Raiders; 4. Steelers; 5. Chiefs; 6. Texans.

Wild card: Raiders over Texans, Steelers over Chiefs.

Divisional round: Patriots over Steelers, Raiders over Titans

Conference Championship: Patriots over Raiders

NFC

1. Packers; 2. Giants; 3. Seahawks; 4. Panthers; 5. Lions; 6. Falcons

Wild card: Seahawks over Falcons, Panthers over Lions

Divisional round: Packers over Panthers, Seahawks over Giants.

Conference championship: Seahawks over Packers

Super Bowl: Patriots over Seahawks
-------------------------------------------------
Michael David Smith

AFC

1. Patriots, 2. Chiefs, 3. Steelers, 4. Titans, 5. Texans, 6. Raiders

Wild card: Steelers over Raiders, Titans over Texans

Divisional round: Chiefs over Steelers, Patriots over Titans

Conference championship: Chiefs over Patriots

NFC

1. Packers, 2. Seahawks, 3. Buccaneers, 4. Cowboys, 5. Giants, 6. Falcons

Wild card: Buccaneers over Falcons, Giants over Cowboys

Divisional round: Packers over Giants, Seahawks over Buccaneers

Conference championship: Seahawks over Packers

Super Bowl: Seahawks over Chiefs
-------------------------------------------
Charean Williams

AFC

1. Patriots, 2. Raiders, 3. Steelers, 4. Texans, 5. Titans, 6. Bengals

Wild card: Steelers over Bengals, Titans over Texans

Divisional round: Raiders over Steelers, Patriots over Titans

Conference championship: Raiders over Patriots

NFC

1. Packers, 2. Cardinals, 3. Giants, 4. Bucs, 5. Seahawks, 6. Cowboys

Wild card: Giants over Cowboys, Seahawks over Bucs

Divisional round: Packers over Seahawks, Cardinals over Giants

Conference championship: Cardinals over Packers

Super Bowl: Raiders over Cardinals

Here is what happened the last time the Rams played the Colts. This time, they don't have Luck, or Mathis, or Vontae Davis.

We didn't have Aaron Donald then either.

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However Mike Foolio and his sidekick can't help but throw in some snide remarks. But Rams fans should be used to mockery by the media by now.


***********************************************************************
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/09/07/pfts-week-one-picks-8/

PFT’s Week One picks
Posted by Mike Florio

Colts at Rams

MDS’s take: Are you excited for the Jared Goff vs. Scott Tolzien quarterback matchup? I’ll take Goff’s guys to win at home.

MDS’s pick: Rams 20, Colts 17.

Florio’s take: If L.A. getting football back means L.A. witnessing Scott Tolzien and Jared Goff, maybe L.A. is better off without football.

Florio’s pick: Rams 24, Colts 10.
----------
Chiefs at Patriots

MDS’s take: The Patriots are the best team in football. They were last year, and they’re the favorites to be the best this year as well. I have a hunch the Chiefs might just be better than the Patriots by the end of the season, but not in Week One.

MDS’s pick: Patriots 28, Chiefs 17.

Florio’s take: Chiefs coach Andy Reid thrives with the extra time that a bye provides. He’s had the most possible time to get ready for this one. And the Patriots don’t know how Reid will deploy Tyreek Hill. And it’s easier to get past the New England offensive line in September.

And the receiver who shares a brain with Tom Brady is done for the year. And ultimately none of it matters because the Patriots are still the Patriots and Tom Brady is still Tom Brady and they’re hanging Banner No. 5.

Florio’s pick: Patriots 27, Chiefs 17.
-----------
Jets at Bills

MDS’s take: I’m not sure exactly what the difference between “building for the future” and “tanking” is, but I think it might be something like the difference between the Bills and the Jets: Buffalo has traded players away from future picks but still looks like it can be a competent team, while the Jets just look terrible.

MDS’s pick: Bills 17, Jets 7.

Florio’s take: The Bills aren’t great. The Jets aren’t good. #Analysis.

Florio’s pick: Bills 24, Jets 9.
-----------
Falcons at Bears

MDS’s take: The Falcons are favored by a touchdown, and I’m tempted to pick the Bears in a big upset, but I just . . . can’t quite pull the trigger. This is a closer game than people think, but the Falcons will pull it out late.

MDS’s pick: Falcons 24, Bears 23.

Florio’s take: If the Falcons can build a 28-3 lead over Chicago, they won’t be blowing it to the Bears. And, yes, I reserve the right to make a 28-3 reference every week in the picks. Even when the Falcons are on a bye.

Florio’s pick: Falcons 28, Bears 3.
----------
Ravens at Bengals

MDS’s take: This is one of those “I’m not sure who’s better” Week One games where I just pick the home team in a close one.

MDS’s pick: Bengals 23, Ravens 20.

Florio’s take: The Bengals and Ravens both missed the playoffs in 2016, and chances are at least one of them will miss the playoffs again in 2017. Which could put each head coach in grave danger — Baltimore coach John Harbaugh’s recent one-year contract extension notwithstanding.

The home team gets the edge, in part because Joe Flacco missed all of training camp and the preseason with a back problem, and because plenty of other injuries have ravaged the Ravens.

Florio’s pick: Bengals 23, Ravens 17.
----------
Steelers at Browns

MDS’s take: I like the way the Browns are building, but they’re still a year away from contending in the AFC North. On Sunday they’ll begin their march to a seventh consecutive last-place finish.

MDS’s pick: Steelers 31, Browns 17.

Florio’s take: The prospect of the Browns upsetting the Steelers with a rookie quarterback and an overmatched roster is fascinating. But Le’Veon Bell is back, Martavis Bryant is back, Myles Garrett is injured, and the Steelers remain the best team in the division. They didn’t get there by losing games they should win.

Florio’s pick: Steelers 27, Browns 14.
-----------
Cardinals at Lions

MDS’s take: The Lions’ defense is going to be a mess again this year, and Matthew Stafford‘s new contract means they’re not going to have a lot of cap space to fix it.

MDS’s pick: Cardinals 35, Lions 27.

Florio’s take: Cardinals coach Bruce Arians says his team lost its swagger in Week One last year by losing a close game at home to the Patriots. Which underscores the importance of getting the swagger back by knocking off a playoff team in its own building to start the season.

To do that, the Cardinals will have to corral Ameer Abdullah, the running back Arizona coveted before Detroit got him. The Cards settled for David Johnson. It worked out.

Florio’s pick: Cardinals 30, Lions 20.
-----------
Jaguars at Texans

MDS’s take: Houston’s defense should make life hell for Blake Bortles. Life is probably already hell for Blake Bortles, but you know what I mean.

MDS’s pick: Texans 13, Jaguars 6.

Florio’s take: Despite a persistent sense that the Jaguars are on the verge of breaking out, Blake Bortles has regressed and rookie running back Leonard Fournette may lack the durability to justify his top-five draft status. The Texans, on the other hand, have thrived with subpar quarterback play in the past, and they’re ready to take the next step.

The first step will entail dispensing with a division rival in a regular-season debut played before a stadium that will be packed with a throng of grateful Houston fans and far louder than it was in February when the Patriots were capping a comeback for the ages.

Florio’s pick: Texans 34, Jaguars 20.
-----------
Raiders at Titans

MDS’s take: I’m expecting the Raiders to take a step backward this year, and Marcus Mariota to take a step forward. Tennessee takes this one.

MDS’s pick: Titans 24, Raiders 16.

Florio’s take: Arguably one of the best games of the weekend, the Titans are expected to parlay a strong 2016 into their first playoff berth since 2008 and the Raiders are expected to follow their first playoff berth since 2002 into something much bigger. Oakland has had plenty of turmoil during camp and the preseason, and the Titans quietly have been laying the bricks for what could be a very good season.

Florio’s pick: Titans 23, Raiders 20.
----------
Eagles at Washington

MDS’s take: Kirk Cousins begins his run toward a huge contract with a good game against a divisional rival. Washington wins this one at home.

MDS’s pick: Washington 28, Eagles 21.

Florio’s take: Philly is a 1.5-point road favorite for a reason. The reason is the Eagles are on the rise, and Washington may be on the decline. The Philly receivers are better, the Washington receivers are worse, and that may be enough of a difference to swing this one.

Florio’s pick: Eagles 24, Washington 20.
----------
Seahawks at Packers

MDS’s take: This could be an NFC Championship Game preview, and we may look back in 17 weeks and say it was the game that swung home-field advantage. I like the Seahawks to take this game in a slight upset.

MDS’s pick: Seahawks 17, Packers 16.

Florio’s take: The Seahawks haven’t fared well in Green Bay, and the Packers are primed for another Super Bowl run. Although most Week One games aren’t oozing with meaning, this one could determine the site of the rematch.

Florio’s pick: Packers 28, Seahawks 24.
---------
Panthers at 49ers

MDS’s take: The Panthers are coming off a disappointing season, but a Week One date with the 49ers is just the thing to get them back on track.

MDS’s pick: Panthers 27, 49ers 20.

Florio’s take: If the 49ers only played in Week One, they’d never lose a game. This Week One, they will, thanks to a Panthers team that is suddenly underrated two years after going 15-1.

Florio’s pick: Panthers 23, 49ers 17.
----------
Giants at Cowboys

MDS’s take: With or without Ezekiel Elliott, I expect the Cowboys to have a strong offense this season, as Dak Prescott takes a step forward and establishes himself as one of the league’s top quarterbacks. It starts with a big Week one win in prime time.

MDS’s pick: Cowboys 30, Giants 20.

Florio’s take: The Cowboys will have Ezekiel Elliott on Sunday night. But they had him last year for both games against the Giants, and the Giants beat the Cowboys both times. With seven months to prepare for facing quarterback Dak Prescott and 40-percent turnover on the offensive line and major changes to the Dallas defense and a major distraction coming from Elliott’s suspension, the Giants continue to mimic Jerry Jones in their ownership of the Cowboys.

Florio’s pick: Giants 24, Cowboys 20.
----------
Saints at Vikings

MDS’s take: The Vikings’ defense will shut down Adrian Peterson in his return to Minnesota, and the Vikings’ offense will control the ball just well enough to keep Drew Breesfrom a lights out game. The Vikings will open 1-0.

MDS’s pick: Vikings 20, Saints 14.

Florio’s take: Adrian Peterson returns to Minnesota but he may not get many opportunities to stick it to the home team. The real question is whether the Vikings offense can stick it to a traditionally overmatched New Orleans defense. At home, they can.

Florio’s pick: Vikings 30, Saints 24.
-----------
Chargers at Broncos

MDS’s take: It’s going to be a long year for the Chargers in their new home. It’s going to start with a long night away from home.

MDS’s pick: Broncos 20, Chargers 10.

Florio’s take: The newest arrival in L.A. has become a trendy pick to make it to the playoffs. Hey, experts, they only changed cities, not divisions.

Florio’s pick: Broncos 27, Chargers 17.

In no particular order...

Will the excessive "rest" for so many Ram starters cause excessive rustiness? I think it's a legit question.

Can Tanzel Smart pinch hit for AD adequately? I'm cautiously optimistic about the "adequately" part.

Can Joyner be a quality FS or what? The PS games have not been overwhelming for him.

Is Quinn finally healthy? As in '13 and '14 healthy (and productive).

How will Wade's D perform on opening day? We all know what a great DC that Wade is, of course. But how will he scheme his D vs the Colts, exactly? Should be fun to watch, huh?

Will Barwin look "at home" in this Wade D? I'm guessing that he will be. I'm also guessing that he and Quinn will make this a very looooong afternoon for Tolzein.

Anybody else curious to see how Barron plays in this Wade D? I sure am. Could be anywhere from a quick looking tackling machine to a player overwhelmed by the run game. He's probably the player that I'm most unsure about his exact fit in this new D. Hope to be reassured in this Colt game.

Jamon Brown as our RG? Is he gonna be a quality starter anytime soon? Gawd! I sure hope to see evidence that he will be.

Will we see the '15 Todd Gurley? And for more than 4-5 games, at that? We'd better.

Will Higbee look like the developing stud that we all hope that he is? Second year, Tyler. Time to make a statement, man. We wanna see some blocking and some hands.

How much, if any, will Everett and'/or Reynolds see the field? We all know that it's just a question of time. Will they get a few snaps approved by McVay in this game? I'm guessing that they might, especially if the game score heavily favors the Rams. More and more as the season unfolds.

How will McVay utilize Tavon? And will Tavon justify his starter status? Everybody is anxious to see how Tavon does, huh?

Last, but certainly not least, how will Goff perform in this new O with it's many new moving parts? THE biggest question mark of the day, for sure. Sigh...

The others that I didn't mention? It's because I'm not too concerned about them, tbh.

Goff Ready to Show Off New Offense


Myles Simmons

When Sean McVay was interviewing to become the Rams’ head coach in January, he studied plenty of film on quarterback Jared Goff, and was able to meet with the young signal-caller. Los Angeles’ top draft pick in 2016 clearly did not have the type of rookie season anyone envisioned, but McVay noticed Goff still exhibited positive traits — both on and off the field.

“What you see on tape from Jared before you ever get a chance to work with him and know the person [is that he’s a] natural thrower of the football, he’s tough where he’ll stand in there and keep his eyes down the field,” McVay said on Wednesday.

“The thing that I really like is, when I got a chance to interview for the job, you talk to him about how he processed last year,” McVay added. “Clearly, it didn’t go the way that we wanted it to go, but I sensed a guy that was motivated in the right ways. He didn’t lose any of his confidence, but I think it was something that has driven him to work harder moving into this year, motivated for the right reasons.”

As the two got to know each other better over the course of the offseason program, McVay continued to see Goff make strides. The head coach said his quarterback is someone who takes instruction well, with the understanding that most comments are about correction rather than criticism.

In terms of building and developing a relationship with him, he’s been a joy to coach — very coachable,” McVay said. “I think we’ve been really pleased with what we’ve seen in practice – the pocket movement, the ability to work through progressions. The best test is when you can truly get tackled and I think in spurts, he’s showed some really good positive signs of going in the right direction with what he did in the preseason. Certainly this game on Sunday will offer a great opportunity for us to see if what we feel like the confidence that we have in him and that we expect to see.”

Now it’s all coming together, as Goff will make his first opening day start against the Colts on Sunday. It’s been a long process to get to this point, but the quarterback feels ready to show just how much he and the offense has gotten better heading into his second year.

“I think as a whole we’ve really improved everywhere — not only offensively, but defensively, special teams, everywhere we’ve improved,” Goff said. “I think I speak for a lot of people when I say we feel really good where we’re at.”

Like many players going from their first to their second year, Goff said the game has slowed down for him.

“I think that, obviously, getting all the reps through the offseason has been huge and understanding what we’re trying to do and … understanding so much more about the game and about what everyone’s intent is on the field,” Goff said. “Ultimately, just comfortability and just being where I want to be mentally, physically, emotionally, everything.”

Even as a former No. 1 overall pick, Goff said he hasn’t felt much pressure of expectations.

“I don’t think you can pay attention to anything and put too much unneeded pressure on yourself,” Goff said, adding his approach is to “everyday come in here and do the best you can and continue to be the best person, player, teammate you can be. And, ultimately at the end of the day, it should be enough.”

And yet, the bar has undoubtedly been raised this year with McVay as Los Angeles’ head coach. With that, Goff sounded a lot like his head coach — who often cites “daily improvement” as a main focus — when asked how he’ll define success in 2017.

“You always want to win and that’s always the main point, but I think as long as we continue to keep getting better and continue to improve, I think the rest will take care of itself,” Goff said. “You don’t want to say too much or say too little, but I think we’re happy with where we are right now and excited about the future and excited to go into this season and hopefully make some noise.”

Goff echoing that coaching point may be minor, but it speaks to how the new coaching staff has approached developing a successful team.

“I’ve felt like they’ve done an incredible job just changing the culture around here and doing a great job with not only the offense, but Sean peeks in on the defense at times and has done a great job just keeping everything in line,” Goff said.

And so Goff and the Rams will begin their 2017 season on Sunday. While Goff admitted he may have a few nerves to start — “There will be some of that, but I’ve never really had many issues with being able to stay calm,” he said — those will likely fall away with the first hit. After all the practices and coaching points dispensed, McVay is looking forward to seeing the quarterback lead the offense against Indianapolis.

“I think with Jared leading the way, we feel good about it. We know it’s going to be about making good decisions, distributing the ball to the playmakers that we do have,” McVay said. “As long as we just take it one play at a time, we expect him to make good decisions, throw with accuracy, timing and rhythm. And if he does that, then I think he’ll give himself a chance to play good football for us.”


[www.therams.com]

"
Vegas over/under: 6

Wins: Colts, Texans, 49ers

Losses: at 49ers, Cardinals, at Cardinals, at Cowboys, Eagles, at Giants, at Jaguars, Redskins, Saints, Seahawks, at Seahawks, at Titans, at Vikings

Analysis: The poor first impression Jared Goff made as a rookie might not reflect what lies ahead, but it's defining perceptions for him and the Rams. QB tiers voting has the Rams playing at a QB deficit in 15 games, with the only advantage (a small one) coming against Houston. On the positive side, the Rams face only one Tier 1 QB (Drew Brees), and they also draw Indy without Andrew Luck."

SO we are worse than the last year of Fisher? Put your money down, boys!

Watching this week's interviews it's there IMO. McVay seems really confident first off. Then Goff's comments about how the offensive players have an understanding now of what defenses are doing and the play design. Watkins, even Tru just seem to be eager to see whether what they think this team is will be what they have on the field.

I'm used to hearing comments and undertones about how guys are confused, or having trouble picking up the offense, or otherwise excuses how it's the first season in an offense, or it's another system, etc. Not one word on any of that nonsense.

We don't know how this season's going to start, or how they'll handle the adversity that comes up, or how they'll handle the rough divisional matchups that come after a favorable schedule to open up. But right now I'm just getting a vibe that there is a belief building in that locker room. Could just be wishful thinking and kool-aid too, who knows, but man there just seems to be something different brewing.

... for Colts ahead of season opener

Gary KleinContact Reporter

Two Rams players are receiving plenty of attention for possible roles in the game plan for Sunday’s season opener against the Indianapolis Colts.

One of them, quarterback Jared Goff, is actually on the roster and set to play.

Defensive lineman Aaron Donald remained a no-show Wednesday because of a contract dispute, but Rams coach Sean McVay declined to officially rule him out of the game at the Coliseum.

And Colts coach Chuck Pagano said his staff was preparing for the possibility that Donald would play.

Pro Bowl selection even if he did report to collect a near $106,000 game check.

Tyrunn Walkerand Morgan Fox have benefited from added reps.

“It’s allowed us to develop some depth that maybe we didn’t realize we had,” McVay said.

Much of McVay’s focus has been devoted to Goff, the No. 1 pick in the 2016 draft who will start his first season opener.

Goff, winless in seven late-season starts as a rookie, acknowledged Wednesday that “there is always a lot of jitters and a lot of excitement” the first game of a season.

“Yeah, there will be some of that,” he said, “but I’ve never really had many issues with being able to stay calm, so I’ll just continue to do what I do.”

Colts quarterback Andrew Luck, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2012 draft, will not play Sunday because he is still recovering from offseason shoulder surgery. Scott Tolzien will start in his place.

Pagano and his staff have studied film of Goff from last season and this preseason. He anticipates that Goff will be improved, especially recognizing coverages and blitzes.

“Having gone through it a couple years ago with Andrew, you typically see a big jump from any quarterback from Year 1 to Year 2,” Pagano said, adding Goff was a “big, talented guy, good manager of the offense, making good decisions, got arm talent, can make all the throws.

“All of the same things that we saw when he was coming out, the reason they took him where they took him.”

Barron ready
No preseason reps, no problem.

The Rams kept linebacker Mark Barron sidelined for the entire offseason and preseason so that his shoulder would be sound for Sunday’s game.

“Of course you want to be able to get a whole offseason in and get all those reps,” Barron said, “but I had to make sure I felt good for Week 1, so I’m going to make it work.”

Barron was not the only defensive starter who did not take a preseason snap. The Rams also held out linebacker Robert Quinn and cornerback Kayvon Webster.

The absence of those players during the preseason — along with Donald’s holdout — means Rams starters will play the Colts without any collective game reps in Wade Phillips’ 3-4 defensive scheme.

Barron is not concerned, noting that all of the players no longer sidelined are veterans.

“We’ve all played ball before and we know how to prepare for games, and we know how to get ready for whatever we need to get ready for,” he said. “So I really don’t think it will be a problem.”

Etc.
The Rams listed no players on the injury report. Along with Luck, the Colts listed center Ryan Kelly (foot), receiver Chester Rogers (hamstring), guard Ian Silberman (lumbar) and cornerback Vontae Davis (groin). ... The Rams announced that owner Stan Kroenke’s family has donated $1 million to Red Cross relief efforts in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Harvey. … Linebacker Connor Barwin, who played four seasons in Houston, started a “Tackles for Houston” campaign to raise funds to aid flood victims. Tackle Michael Brockers and running back Malcolm Brown, both Texas natives, started fundraising efforts in the aftermath of the storm.