Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher – Post-Practice – October 19, 2016


(Opening remarks)

“I just want to say, off the top, since our arrival here, everything has just been outstanding. The facilities are so impressive. We had a great practice today. Players are coming around now. We put the difficult loss behind us, and we’re looking forward to the weekend, and especially excited about being here. I was informed over the last few days that this game was sold out over a period of a couple hours. It speaks volumes of the enthusiasm and the commitment that’s here for our game, and we’re happy to be a part of this year’s opportunity to play here. We’re in good shape, we’re healing up, and again, we’re happy to be here.”


(On the team’s health)

“We had a really good meeting this morning. Let me go back. Clearly, coming off a difficult loss in Detroit, and then leaving almost immediately after the game for here was a challenge for us. But, they knew well ahead of time, and they accepted it. We got here, they settled down. We tried to keep them awake, but we weren’t as successful as we thought, but they got rested up. Yesterday, they got to participate in the Play60 event. Those that were nicked and things got their treatment, got their exercise. Took advantage of the marvelous facility here, and then we got started this morning. Their energy today on the practice field was everything that I expected out of them. The game is behind them, and they’re looking forward to the Giants.”


(On if playing a game at 6:30 a.m. PT alters is preparation schedule)

“Tomorrow morning when we start our treatments at 8:00 a.m. and our meetings at 9:00 a.m., that’s the time, that’s our time. We’re there, we made it. We’ll have to deal with it when we return to L.A., but we’re there. They’ve done a good job. It’s all about rest, recovery, hydration, acclamation, and the players have accepted that. So, that’s not a concern of mine. We’re going to have to send a huge wake up call to the city of L.A. on Sunday morning, because kickoff is early. But, it’s not going to affect us.”


(On the status of DE Robert Quinn)

“Rob is coming. He was limited today on the practice field. We’re optimistic that he’ll be able to return.”


(On if he did anything different, preparation wise, during this trip to London, in comparison to the trip last season)

“Yeah, it was different in that we came over on Monday following a home game. What was different was we had to lead up to…in the National Football League, it’s an inherent challenge to go form the West Coast, and then play a 1:00 p.m. (Eastern) game, which is in essence a 10:00 a.m. game on the West Coast. That in itself was a challenge for us that we dealt with last week. I thought the energy, and the fight, and everything was all there. We just lost the game. It’s hard to compare both of them, but we’re doing some of the same things that we’ve done from a dietary standpoint, and rest, and recovery.”


(On his thoughts regarding QB Case Keenum’s miscues and his development process as a quarterback)

“You look around the league, and there’s miscues all over the place. What we’re excited about is how the offense has started to ascend over the last couple of weeks. We played some good defenses early. If you exclude our opener at San Francisco, our offense is starting to do this. He got very comfortable. The game slowed down for him. 19 consecutive completions is hard to do, and he did it. As we continue to go, and every week is a challenge, and I’m extremely impressed with the Giant’s defense right now. But, we have to continue to do those things and make those plays. I think he’s handled things very, very well. He’s shrugged things off. This game didn’t need to come down to a two-minute drive to kick a field goal, or try to tie. Case, in his mind, he was expecting to put the ball in the end zone. So, he tried to make the throw, and they made the play.”


(On if he’s had a chance to look at the stadium, and if he understands the significance of being the first football team to play a game in Twickenham Stadium)

“I’ve not been there. We’re going to go through there on Saturday and have a walk-thru, and we’re excited about that. The players are excited about that. Our administration, our operations department has been there; they’ve toured it. I spoke with representatives from the National Football League, and everybody says, it’s a great venue. It’s going to be a great environment for both teams. It’s interesting when you play on the road, you prepare your offense for crowd noise. Fortunately, in the situation that we’re in now, when you play at home, you prepare your defense for crowd noise. We have to prepare both sides for crowd noise, and as will both teams. I think as will the Giants. It’s just going to be a great environment.”


(On how much of the surroundings and distractions he lets in to get the most out of the players)

“It’s a great question. I think you short-change the players if we wake up in the morning, we go out and practice, we come in and go to meetings and that’s it. You want the players to take advantage of this experience. I spoke to several players today and said ‘How was your day yesterday?’ He goes ‘I went to London, it was the coolest thing I’ve ever seen. I’m calling mom and dad and telling them this is a really cool place.’ You want to give them some time to do that, to see the sights and experience that. It’s a fine line there. When they have a couple hours off, we’re encouraging them to go do that. They’re excited, as I am and the staff is, to see and participate in this venue. Just the experience here at the facility, we’re, obviously, very grateful that we’ve been given the opportunity to share the facility, with a top-two team in rugby in the world and see what their world’s like. It’s been a good experience. We want the players to go out and get a little feel for it.”


(On if there is any timetable for DT Michael Brockers)

“Nothing, no. he just didn’t practice today. So we’ll see how that goes as each day moves forward.”


(On what he’s said to the defense to keep their spirits up)

“It’s not an emotional thing, it’s a pride thing. Shoot, we gave up 31 points last week, so they were disappointed, their expectations are higher than that. You bounce back, but the only way you bounce back is you have to start preparing for the next opponent and we’re well into that right now. This is a challenge, this team is on the move – I like to think we’re similar, from that respect. Their offense is getting on track; a really outstanding defense, ‘Jenks’ (Giants CB Janoris Jenkins) is playing really good. Their defense is playing well, they went out and made the moves that they needed to, to get this defense going. If their offense struggles, their defense will carry them and that’s kind of how we’re built – or we should be built – if our offense is going to struggle, the defense should carry us.”


(On if he thinks the Rams are a part of something in the United Kingdom after relocating to Los Angeles)

“Bigger picture, when the schedule came out, we were really excited about it. And it’s gone very, very fast and we’ve been through a lot of things. We were reflecting earlier today on this, in essence, from an organizational standpoint, this is our sixth home since March – if you take into consideration all the moves, the short moves. We’re kind of calling this home right now and we’re going to make the most of it. But it is, there’s been a lot of things along those lines that have happened to this organization – that includes player acquisition, the trade to get (QB) Jared (Goff) and the move and everything like that. This is just one of those things that we hope to capture from an organizational and an NFL standpoint.”


(On if one of the reasons the team has adapted to moving around so much this year is because they like each other)

“Yeah, the get along great, they have fun. They challenge each other, they kid with each other, but this is a close-knit group considering what we’ve been through.”


(On if all the moves have any impact with how the players perform)

“You can’t let it become an excuse. We’ve taken the approach that it doesn’t matter where you play or what time or who you play, you just have to go out and play, and that’s what they bought in to. We started that a long time ago, we started that when we started packing things up in St. Louis. We don’t necessarily have all the answers right now, but what we do know is that we’re expecting to be a pretty good football team and, in order to do that, these are the things you need to do.”


(On the possibility of an NFL franchise in London)

“You know, the enthusiasm, the support is clearly here. There’s no doubt about that. That’s a league issue – I know the league is looking really hard at it. I think it would be great for the National Football League if, at some point in the future, that were able to happen.”


(On if he thinks a franchise in London would create competitive disadvantages)

“Again, the league is going to look at all those things. I think what’s interesting about it is, and what happened a couple weeks ago, with respect to the scheduling, when Indianapolis decided not to have a bye, they requested not to have their bye following this trip. So they came in here, they played well, they did not have a bye, they came back and they won. I think that’s interesting, from the league’s perspective. But again, that’s out of my world, but it’s a good point.”

Rams Quarterback Case Keenum – Post Practice – October 19, 2016

(On today’s practice)

“It went well, moving around a little bit. Getting back on a different schedule with Tuesday off. But I think everybody’s kind of adjusting and getting their legs back underneath them. ”


(On whether practice went better than expected considering what the team has been through from a logistical standpoint)

“I think so. I think our motto has been wherever and whenever. We got a good pitch here and they’re doing well hosting us. This place,Pennyhill (Park Hotel), is awesome, it really is an incredible place. My wife and I have really enjoyed it. It’s been great.”


(On whether he has heightened concern or worry potentially going into the bye week with a three game losing streak)

“Not something I focus on or think about. I want to win every week. Any time you don’t win, food doesn’t taste as good, it’s just not as good. I hate losing. I want to win every time I step on the field. No matter when it is, where it is. To get the opportunity to play this week, after last week is important, I think.”


(On what he noticed on film that allowed the team to click offensively against Detroit last week)

“I think we were well prepared. I think the coaches did a great job preparing us. Guys are playing hard. You saw (WR) Kenny (Britt), the runs after the catches. From the first play of the game I thought we ran the ball really well. Really, look at the offensive line, I don’t think there were really any sacks and I wasn’t on the ground very much at all. They played extremely well, we have got to continue that. We have got to build on that.”


(On what he sees when he looks at the Detroit game on film as it pertains to his performance)

“I thought I gave guys chances to make plays down the field. Obviously, the guys did a lot more than they didn’t. Obviously, we’ve got to finish. To have the ball in your hands, with a chance to tie or win the game, with a minute and a half left, you’ve got to do that in this league. It’s something I want to do, and I know I can do, and I know this team can do. Offensively, I think it’s something that we’re going to pride ourselves on and win a lot of games in the future with that stuff.”


(On how much confidence there is within the offense given the way they’ve played the last couple weeks)

“I think we’re building on confidence. I think confidence and momentum is a big deal in this league. I think the offensive line has confidence in each other. I have confidence in them. (RB) Todd’s (Gurley) growing in that as well. All aspects, with the receiving corps as well - those guys running their routes. I’m confident they’re going to be where they need to be and they’re going to go up and make plays, where I can throw the ball up at times and let them make a play.”


(On what he expects to see from the Giants defensive front)

“The Giants are very talented upfront and on the backend as well. Obviously, with (CB) Janoris (Jenkins), who was with us last year. Looking at them on film, they’re a sound defense. We’ve got our work cut out for us. We’ve got to protect the football. We have got to be able to run the ball well. I think our coaches are coming up with a great plan.”


(On whether he’s learning more about himself as a player this season as a starter)

“I think you’re always learning stuff about yourself. For me, I want to always be getting better. I never want to feel like I’ve arrived or gotten ‘there’, wherever ‘there’ is. I think that’s what all the good ones do – they continue to get better – no matter how much they’ve played or how many games they’ve played or how much experience they have. That’s something I’m trying to do, is continually be better, each time I step on the field.”


(On whether it’s a unique situation going up against a former teammate in Janoris Jenkins and potentially knowing his tendencies as a player)

“A little bit. But you know, we’re a year different. Scout team’s obviously a little different going against a guy. It’s a different defense, a different scheme. He’s a great player and he’s showing up on film. It’s no surprise. But we got to know where he is at all times.”


(On whether bringing a team back from behind to win a game late is something he looks to add to his achievements as a quarterback)

“I think you look at the NFL in general, all of the great ones, they’re known for never being out of a game. That’s definitely something that I want to take pride in. No matter what the situation is, I want to be able to go down and score points. But I think our team, our offense is doing a good job, coming together as a group, as a unit. I think we’ve got a chance no matter what the situation is. We’ve just got to keep getting better. We have got to build on it.”

Ram on Ram violence....read at your own discretion....
http://www.todayspigskin.com/nfc/lo...-paid-the-wrong-wide-receiver-this-offseason/

LOS ANGELES RAMS
The Rams may have paid the wrong wide receiver this offseason

ByJeff Smith


The Los Angeles Rams decided to fork over some big money to one of their young wide receivers this offseason. Unfortunately, they may have paid the wrong guy. After the Rams gave Austin a four-year, $42 million extension this offseason, per Conor Orr of NFL.com, it was expected that he’d be the focal point of the team’s offense. While that hasn’t exactly been the case (not that they haven’t tried), what makes things even worse is that another receiver has stepped up in a big way to start the 2016 season.

After a 2015 season in which Austin totaled 907 yards from scrimmage (473 receiving, 434 rushing) and nine total touchdowns, head coach Jeff Fisher stated the following about the extension:

“Tavon has been an integral part of our offense and special teams since we drafted him in 2013,” Rams coach Jeff Fisher said in a statement. “It is important to our organization to retain players we’ve drafted and invested in, and Tavon is an example of that. We’re excited for him to continue his career with the Rams.”

This contract keeps the 25-year-old receiver in Los Angeles until he’s 31, while also handing him $30 million in guaranteed money in the process. The question is, if the Rams waited another, say, six games into the 2016 season, would they still be handing out this type of money to Austin? Better yet, would they be more interested in giving it to Kenny Britt instead?

Austin has been essentially force-fed the ball through six games, seeing a team-high 50 targets, but catching just 26 passes for 242 yards and a touchdown. On the flip side, the 28-year-old Britt has caught 30-of-40 targets for 492 yards and two touchdowns. he has nine receptions of 20-plus yards and is averaging 82 yards per game. Without question, Britt has been the most reliable receiver on the Rams roster and is a guy who’s showing serious staying power.

Britt may be older than Austin, but his contract with the Rams is up after the 2016 season, so he’ll hit the free-agent market and should be an interesting name to watch. More importantly, after re-signing Austin, it’s unlikely that the Rams will choose to bring back Britt as well.

Some may argue that the superb start to the season for Britt is one that was hard to see coming, but that’s not really the case. Look back to 2010 when the Rams’ No. 1 receiver was still with the Tennessee Titans, and caught 42 passes for 775 yards and nine touchdowns in just 12 games. Realistically, Britt has only had one “bad” season which wasn’t due to injury, which came during his final year with the Titans when he was on his way out.

Austin may be the more electrifying player of the two, but Britt has the prototypical size, speed and playmaking ability for a No. 1 receiver. The Rams leading pass-catcher through six games stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 223 pounds. He seems to be coming into his own with quarterback Case Keenum also, and we know he and rookie quarterback Jared Goff have a connection as well (thanks to HBO’s Hard Knocks).

It’s understandable that the Rams were paying for potential when it came to Austin, but had they waited, the decision to focus on getting Britt under contract beyond the 2016 season may have become a priority. Now, it’ll be interesting to see what the Rams do this offseason, and whether or not they choose to let Britt test free agency, or offer him a competitive contract to try to keep him in Los Angeles.

Just wanted to get some thoughts on this. Moving to Houston I only have these 2 choices for internet. I tried to look into others, but these 2 companies have monopolized the city. And even if there were other companies, my new apartment is pre-wired for one of these. Note: this is just for internet. Haven't decided if I want the cable tv or not.

Here are the pros and cons that I found of each...

ATT
Pros:
Cheaper
Fiber optic line
Lower rate of outages during storms
Slightly more customer friendly

Cons:
-Lower speeds. Apparently since it is a direct line that the lower d/l speed of 24 MB is plenty. I currently have cable internet at 50 MB. They told me that cable lines are shared, so multiple customers use a single line and give higher speed to compensate for usage during peak hours. Not sure if this is true or puffery.

-Data cap. They have data caps but it is 1TB. They told me even with all the gaming and streaming I do, it's very rare that I would exceed that.

Comcast/Xfinity
Pros:
Unlimited data (they have a cap but don't enforce it. Allegedly.)
Higher speeds

Cons:
-Customer service (we all know about the horror stories)
-Expensive
-Older wiring technology
-Higher rate of outages during storms (at least that is what my uncle told me).

Any feedback is appreciated.

I am blown away that there is no thread about the Dodgers here!. We are up 2-1, and teams in that position win like 70+ % of the time.....I am excited to possibly see the Dodgers in the World Series, first since 1988.....

This is for those who are into fantasy football.
***********************************************************
http://mmqb.si.com/mmqb/2016/10/18/...s-white-kenny-britt-doug-martin-jordan-howard

The Rise of James White, Kenny Britt Is Fool’s Gold, Buy Doug Martin, Fear for Jordan Howard
Plus, all sorts of advice on waiver wire candidates, buy-low and sell-high options heading into Week 7
By Gary Gramling

Kenny Britt: In a way, he’s the beneficiary of low expectations. No opponent is sending extra help to cover Britt, and it’s allowed him to pull in 30 of his 40 targets while opponents send everyone toward the line of scrimmage to stop Todd Gurley.

Last week’s two-TD game was a fluke; Britt’s absolute ceiling is the six-catch, 60-yard average he was putting up prior to last week. That’s not a bad ceiling, but it’s one of a fringe starter.

I dont want to start any debates so no need for any dialogue. Just cast a vote and see what the exit polls look like.

Lets keep in fun and not debate on who and why we are voting for ______ candidate.

Anyone we should trade for or trade away?

Updated October 18, 2016 7:13 PM
By Tom Rock tom.rock@newsday.com

When Coty Sensabaugh was released from the Rams earlier this month, he and his family had many concerns. One of them was his wife’s airline ticket for the Rams’ upcoming game in London which seemed as if it would have to be returned.

But then the cornerback signed with the Giants. Suddenly that airline ticket came in handy.

“It wound up working out for us,” he said on Tuesday.

In a strange confluence of events, Sensabaugh will face his former team in just his second game with his new squad. What’s even more out of the ordinary is that he’ll receive a paycheck from both teams for the effort.

“The NFL is a weird business,” he said. “You can never be surprised by anything in this business. So many unforeseen things can happen at any given time, it’s just part of this business. It comes with the territory.”

Sensabaugh made it clear that his loyalties lie with his current employer. And he’s willing to spill on anything from the playbook to general philosophies.

“There’s a couple of little things that I may have remembered from going against them in camp and stuff, and I was on the defense so I’m pretty familiar with that,” he said. “I’m a Giant now, so anything the guys need to help win I’m all about winning. I’m excited about this week. It’s another opportunity to get another win. That’s what we’re aiming for.”

Living 3,000 miles away, I dont get to see local media coverage so he could be very visible and I am just not seeing much of him. In years past however, he has been very visible and vocal about constructing the team, using many witty phrases like "We'll stack good decisions". I thought he would be a larger part of Hard Knocks as was the other GM's but I think he was only on camera a couple of times. I just wonder if something is going on behind the scenes that were not seeing. Could there be a riff on the QB choice? Could he be pissed that he doesnt have a new deal? Anyone have any updates

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000723663/article/kenny-britts-juggling-grab-is-best-of-week-6

Login to view embedded media View: http://www.therams.com/videos/videos/Cant-Miss-Play-Kenny-Britt-makes-47-yard-one-handed-catch/597a1764-bb4f-42e3-8cb5-b1ed5117a8d2


Don't give up. Don't ever give up.

Kenny Britt learned on Sunday that with patience and persistence great things are possible. Though the Los Angeles Rams may have lost a three-point game to the Detroit Lions, their second in two weeks, their leading wide receiver hauled in one winner of a catch.

Britt's juggling grab against the Lionstopped Week 6's Top "Performance Moments of the Week", presented by Bridgestone. (link at top)

Down seven with 9:49 to go in the third quarter, the Rams were looking to strike back after Matthew Stafford led the Lions on a quick 60-yard touchdown drive to take the lead. On the first play of the drive, Rams quarterback Case Keenum made a play-action fake to Todd Gurley and dropped back to pass to Britt. The wideout had beaten cornerback Johnson Bademosi, but the corner was closing fast along with help from safety Glover Quin.

Keenum's pass dropped in just beyond the outstretched arm of Bademosi and into Britt's right hand. The wide receiver held the ball close to his chest as he fell to the ground, only to seemingly lose control of the pigskin after being touched down. His ensuing bobble was theatrical, albeit unnecessary, as his initial grab had secured a Rams first down on a 47-yard pass play. L.A. went on to tie the game five plays later.

Also on the countdown: Kendall Wright shows off the right stuff on a diving touchdown. ... Odell wins in football and in love. ... Arrelious Benn emerges from irrelevance to secure Jacksonville's second-straight win.

Wait! There's a pattern here: Rams drafted RB's start off strong but continue to hit a wall?

http://www.downtownrams.com/single-...s-start-off-strong-but-continue-to-hit-a-wall

October 18th, 2016 | By: Jake Ellenbogen

What on earth is going on with Todd Gurley? The Rams need him more than ever now as they are fighting to keep ground in the NFC West and staring down a three-game losing streak in the face. Gurley is averaging 2.9 yards a carry which is atrocious to any NFL back's standards but definitely to a RB who won Rookie of the Year last year. As crazy as Gurley's struggles have been, is it a surprise? Judging by the Rams previous history of drafting RB's under Head coach Jeff Fisher and General manager Les Snead, it's not exactly uncommon for their backs to start off strong and then start to struggle. Lets take a look.

2012: Isaiah Pead (2nd Rd) & Daryl Richardson (7th Rd)
We won't actually get into Isaiah Pead because while he wasn't given much of a chance to really play, he had an injury and fumble problem. However, with Richardson he went from being a guy not expected to play much his rookie year due to the dual headed backfield of impending 2nd rounder Pead and Pro Bowl RB Steven Jackson. Well, Richardson ended up with 98 carries for 475 yards rushing and even added 24 catches for 163 yards receiving. Richardson wasn't amazing but he looked solid as a change of pace back who played in all 16 games his rookie year.

What went on after was Richardson winning the starting job for the 2013 season over Pead and new-comer rookie RB Zac Stacy. Richardson was victim of a poor blocking scheme that hurt the production of every back to start the season. He may have also been a victim of the fact he just isn't built to be a bell cow type of back. He only ended up with 69 carries for 215 yards but showed improvement in the passing game with 14 catches and 121 yards. Later on after the season he admitted he was slowed down and was ineffective due to the fact he played with a turf toe injury which ended up ruining his chances at being Steven Jackson's successor.

Richardson came into the 2014 off-season having to beat out standout rookie starter Zac Stacy, third-round pick Tre Mason, 2013 UDFA Benny Cunningham and fellow draft class member Isaiah Pead for the final spots, he lost and was waived.

2013: Zac Stacy (5th Rd)
The rookie out of Vanderbilt looked like a star in the making. He started off taking a backseat to aforementioned Daryl Richardson and shortly after went on to start the last 12 games of the season and almost eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark. Stacy finished his rookie season with 250 carries for 975 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground. He also added 26 catches for 141 receiving yards and a touchdown.

Stacy in his second season was not how he imagined. He only received 76 carries for 293 yards rushing and a touchdown. He added 18 receptions for 152 yards but it wasn't the same Stacy. Stop me if you have heard this before, the rookie RB took over Stacy's starting job. Tre Mason ran away with the job and looked to be the Rams true home-run threat. Stacy would soon after ask for a trade after the 2014 season due to the Rams drafting RB Todd Gurley no.10 overall.

2014: Tre Mason (3rd Rd)
Like mentioned above Mason made the most out of his opportunities and it ultimately won him the starting job over Stacy. Tre Mason started in nine games and ran 179 times for 765 yards and four touchdowns. He added 16 catches for 148 receiving yards and a touchdown. Mason didn't get to start as many games as Stacy did in his rookie year which is why his production seems low but he actually ended up averaging over four yards per carry which is something Stacy never did.

Of course the pattern that is developing throughout this piece. The Rams drafted the rookie RB Todd Gurley who was rehabbing an ACL tear at Georgia. Tre Mason because of this he was supposed to open the season as the starter but had to sit out week one due to an injury so Benny Cunningham started week one. Mason started the next two games and looked lost and indecisive during them, clearly not the Mason we saw the year before. Then Gurley came in week four and blew up, went on to take the league by storm and suffered an injury week 16 that gave Mason his last chance to start in which he got in the end zone but his 2.4 yards per carry were lackluster.

After that game, we haven't seen Mason since quite honestly I hope as well as every Rams fan I have talked to hopes Mason will get his life back together but he seems to completely have lost his mind and that could be due to foreign substances he's rumored to have taken or the fact his play went downhill. Either way Mason has hit a wall just like the rest of the Rams backs and while we hope to see him on the field some day in the future, it doesn't look realistic at this time.

2015: Todd Gurley (1st Rd)
Obviously he is the starting RB of the L.A. Rams but where is the real Todd Gurley? He started off his rookie campaign in week four when he made his first start. He finished with 1,106 yards on 229 carries and 10 rushing touchdowns. Gurley also added 21 receptions for 188 yards. The good news is that Gurley's 21 career high receptions are going to be shattered this year since he already has 14 going into week seven. On top of that his yards should be shattered as well seeing as he's already 55 yards away from tying his receiving yards last year.

Now on to the real worrisome stuff. Gurley is on pace for 317 carries so the Rams seriously need to start using Benny Cunningham and Malcolm Brown more if they want Gurley to last. Gurley is also on pace to not even hit the 1,000 yard mark which this year's first-round rookie Ezekiel Elliott is actually on pace to almost hit 2,000 yards. Gurley fumbled three times last year and now he already has two so safe to say nothing is going right for Gurley. After it was explained by Rodger Saffold that the goal line play in which Gurley was stuffed was because Gurley went to the wrong side of the line Gurley has had some serious shade thrown at him by the same people that went out and bought his jersey this off-season.

I love Gurley and I think he is going to get it together so I'll reserve my judgment past just the first six games of his sophomore year. Also while it is very impressive what Elliott is doing in Dallas, it's not fair to compare him to Gurley seeing as Elliott has an incredible offensive line and the Rams offensive line has had a rough time this season. Perhaps the bye week after the Giants game will help Gurley if he doesn't find his groove this Sunday. For now I would have to say this is a pattern to monitor but, I expect Gurley to retire as an elite back when it's all said and done.

For those of you who are located on the west coast, will you be getting up at 6:30 to watch the Rams game? I am thinking about just recording it and watching it without commercials when I wake up but I know I'll be tempted to check the score and this site as soon as I wake up.

I am also nervous about our secondary against the giants. I hope Quinn is back to stop OBJ from burning us! I also hope Janoris Jenkins does not have a chip on his shoulder about the Rams "low balling" him and gets a pick six off of Case. It should be a good game but I am worried! Thoughts ?

Few things in Boras' playcalling irks me more than when he chooses to call a running play up the middle on 2nd and long...as it's almost-always a sure 3rd and Long result and, thus, a virtual drive killer.

Wanting to see just how poorly the Rams have fared on these plays, I went through each drive chart this season and wrote down what the Rams did when they ran the ball on 2nd Down and between 8 and 12 yards to go and what they did when they passed the ball on 2nd and 10. Results:

RUN: 16 carries, 33 yards, 2.06 avg, Longest Run = 5 yds.
PASS: 8/12, 77 yds, 1 TD

Can we somehow get Fish-Bore to simply stop running it on 2nd and Long??? IT'S NOT WORKING (as if that matters)

Blue and Gold said:

and allowed penetration. It killed any chance to follow the pulling guard. Saffold's guy escaped the block, but G-Rob missed badly

Click to expand...

The weekly release for the Los Angeles Rams Week 7 match-up with the New York Giants is available for viewing and download by clicking the link below. The Rams-Giants game will take place Sunday, October 23 from London, England, at Twickenham Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6:30 a.m. Pacific. Dan Fouts, Kevin Harlan, and Stacey Dales will be calling the game.

http://rams.1stroundmediagroup.com/weeklybooks/

The following items are included in the release:

• Rams-Giants Game Information
• Coaches Bios
• Rams 2016 Team Notes
• 2016 Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Stats
• 2016 Rosters, Depth Chart and Pronunciation Guide
• Rams Records
• Miscellaneous Stats
• Updated Player Bios
• Last Game’s Play-by-Play

These are selected questions and answers only. To read the entire chat click the link below.


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http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/NFL_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_32

Jim Thomas - NFL Chat

Do you think the Raiders moving to Las Vegas will be approved by a large majority of the NFL owners?

I think it will. The league's stance on gambling with respect to Las Vegas seems to have softened in the past couple of years. And the NHL has already paved the way by agreeing to have a team there. Besides, the NFL owners have been known to like money.
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Any chance within 20 years STL ever gets another NFL franchise?

I would say I doubt it, but I wouldn't rule it out. Does the league ever decide it wants to expand? Does a new group of civic and political leaders emerge here who want to pursue a team?
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Do you see Aaron Rodgers' issues as a temporary slide or the beginning of his decline?

He just looks tentative on a lot of his throws, as if his confidence is no longer there. The throws aren't as accurate. I still think he can regroup and return to what he has done in the past. He has shown flashes of it this season, such as the first half of the Detroit game earlier this season.
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Colin Kaepernick is done, isn't he? He just can't throw the ball with any accuracy. Do the Niners go back to Blaine?

(Watch the hit at the end)



He's not done yet. Kelly is starting Kaepernick this week vs. Tampa Bay. The overlying problem, beyond the talent - or lack of talent - of Gabbert and Kaepernick is the lack of overall talent around them. For starters, that's not much of a group of receivers or tight ends. That points to the front office and ownership as much as the quarterbacks.
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if Kroenke was such a genius when he "discovered" Kurt Warner, why did he allow him to be exposed in the expansion draft when Cleveland came into the league?

He hadn't "discovered" him yet. No, I kid. . .I joke. Amazingly, starting left guard Tom Nutten also was available in that expansion draft. Nutten was a staple of those Greatest Show offensive lines, a very good pass blocker. Jim Hanifan raves about the job he did on Warren Sapp in the 1999 season NFC title game against Tampa Bay.
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So, Dak Prescott can lead the Cowboys to a 5-1 record, but the #1 overall pick can't see the field ... where's the disconnect?

Interesting isn't it. I've heard some gossip from afar that the Rams may not be quite as thrilled with Goff as they're letting on.



(Or it could be that the Cowboys have the best O-line in the NFL which makes everyone else look better).
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How do you rate the Rams' offensive line so far?

So-so. Keenum hasn't been sacked all that often. I thought the run-blocking would be better at this point.

(And there you go).
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Do the LA fans (so called), realize that by the time the new stadium is built the Rams will be playing half their games in other countries? Beijing, London, Mexico City and probably Berlin since Germany wants a game.



Malibu Stan does like those London games.
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Out of curiosity, I visited the chat on the LA Daily News. Other than never-ending praise for the host of the chat and deep-probing questions about what color the uniforms should be (what is this obsession with laundry?), I gained very little insight on any football-related matters.

I can see why the la fans all flock here for information. You may want to give a tutorial on how to run a chat session.



I haven't seen the chat you're referring to, so I'm not going to comment other than to say we appreciate you stopping by.
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The only undefeated team in the league is led by Sam Bradford. How is that possible?

We live in a great country, a land of opportunity. After all these years, I have to believe Bradford is due a break or two.


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Seems like every week a coach is calling for expanding replay to review even more aspects of the game (to correct bad calls by the officials). This week, it is pass interference. Do you see replay becoming an even bigger part of football than it is now?



The league is more obsessed with keeping games at close to 3 hours in length than it is on getting every call right. I'm sure it will be discussed. Isn't PI reviewable in the Canadian league? The thing that bothers me most of all is how subjective the pass interference calls are from week to week, game to game, crew to crew.

You see how closely PI was called Monday night in the Jets-Cardinals game, and then somehow the Sherman play _ which seemed pretty obvious in Seattle-Atlanta _ goes uncalled. I know it's a fast-moving game, but how can there be such a fluctuation in interpretation?
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Did you see the empty seats at the Rams last home game? If they aren't filling up the stadium after not having football for 20 years. What does that mean for the future?

Yes I did. It's more noticeable using certain camera angles _ the higher up shots as opposed to the shots from ground level. Don't get me wrong. It was still a good crowd. But it does make me wonder what it would be like if the good fans of LA were subject to 12 consecutive non-winning seasons punctuated by a 15-65 won-loss stretch over 5 years.


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Hey Jim, I really enjoyed your article on why the Rams couldn't muscle up against the Lions. Reading it would enlighten the LA fans tremendously on Fisher and his failures. Looks like the promise of a bright 3-1 start is slipping away. Again.

I appreciate the kind words. Every week, I write a "Rams Rewind" story that appears the day after the game with my observations and perspective. Normally, it appears only online at stltoday.com. Yeah, it does look like the Rams are falling backing into some of that "7-9 bull. . . ." but it's only six games. Still plenty of time for the season to go either way.
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The Bengals and Redskins are two teams that have surprised me. I'm surprised at how bad the Bengals have been, and how good the Redskins are.

I thought Washington was dead after those first two losses, with Cousins' play seemingly slipping back into pre-2015 levels. But they've managed to win 4 in a row and here they are in the thick of the playoff mix so far.

The NFC East looks much-improved. It's been a while since it's been a dominant division. The Bengals have surprised me also. The offense looks sluggish. Do they miss not having Hue Jackson as their offensive coordinator that much?
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Hi Jim - nobody seems to mention Fisher running the clock out at the end of the 1st half? Why? If they failed then Detroit would have had the ball backed up and a safety could have been on? Thoughts? Leon, UK (hoping for an exciting win in London this Sunday!)

That's a great point Leon. I did think of it briefly after the game.
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I would speculate that if the Rams scored they didn't want any time on the clock for Detroit to score.

I get that. But if there's a change of possession on the 1 1/2-foot line and just 20-something seconds remaining in the half, Detroit probably isn't going to go 99 1/2 yards to score in that time. The Lions are too close to the goal line for a kneel-down, so maybe you can get Aaron Donald free for a tackle in the end zone.
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Are the Rams preparing any ceremony for when Fisher becomes the NFL coach with the most losses? (Just 7 away!)

Maybe that's when they announce the new contract.


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I'm back to wanting to replace Fisher. Who are the coaches thought to be ready for a head coaching position in the NFL?

If you want to go with an offensive-minded head coach, Kyle Shanahan _ now the Atlanta OC _ looks like the hottest thing going. You could go after a college coach, such as Houston's Tom Herman. If you're into recycling, does Wade Phillips get another chance? Unfortunately, it's too late to lure Dick Vermeil out of retirement again.
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Looking back at the RGIII trade it is my understanding that three players are still with the Rams Brockers, Olgletree, and G. Robinson. I evaluate the results of the trade as follows:

If the Rams had simply stayed put, and had been lucky, they could have taken Brockers. So there is no gain from the trade. My guess is they would have taken Trent Richardson or Justin Blackmon.

G. Robinson has actually been a negative. If they hadn't invested so much in him they would have looked elsewhere for a left tackle. There is no gain for him.

That leaves Ogletree who seems like a good player. He is all the Rams have to show for the "king's ransom" of draft picks they received. A good player, but not one that will turn a franchise around by himself.

Your thoughts?

Your memory is good. Here are the 8 players that came from the RGIII trade: DT Michael Brockers, CB Janoris Jenkins, RB Isaiah Pead, OL Rokevious Watkins, LB Alec Ogletree, WR Stedman Bailey, RB Zac Stacy, OT Greg Robinson. Only Brockers, Jenkins, Ogletree, and Robinson are currently playing in the NFL.

None of the 8 players has made a Pro Bowl. Brockers, Jenkins, and Ogletree are pretty good players, with Ogletree potentially the best of the bunch. I think Robinson has improved somewhat but still hasn't played up to No. 2 draft status. As things stands now, the trade hasn't been that much of a windfall for the Rams.
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4th and Goal from the One with 1 second on the clock. The Rams want to be a power running offense but THEY ARE NOT. Often stoned at the line. Bad call by Fisher or bad execution?

Both. Two Lions got penetration in the middle of the Rams' line to blow up the play. But why line up in an ultra-jumbo formation there? That rarely seems to work these days. Why not have two or three WRs lined up wide to stretch out the defense?

Put Tavon Austin in motion, so the defense has to put their eyes on him for a split second and wonder if a jet sweep is coming. If you have time, check out the story I wrote on the play in our weekly Rams Rewind on stltoday.com.
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Much has been talked about how great the Rams defense is, but after the front line, is there really much talent or depth there?

To me, the defense has never quite fulfilled its promise despite all those past and present top draft picks in the front 7. It has shown flashes of it, including the Seattle and Arizona games this year, but has never developed into a top 10 unit.
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Keenum's a free agent at year end. Do the Rams try and keep him and since he will want to play will he want to accept their offer?

Fisher likes Keenum a lot, so if Fisher's back I'm sure he'll try to bring Keenum back. And Keenum's play so far this year _ especially this past week in Detroit _ has earned himself a little money.
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Miami and San Fran at home look like the only two games left on the schedule where the Rams will be favored. This is starting to smell like a 6-10 campaign.



You never know. It's a week-to-week business, and more than half the games these days come down to the fourth quarter. I think it's a sure thing there will be one or two victories over the final 10 games that we don't expect, and one or two losses we don't expect.
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Is Josh McDaniels a viable head coach or is he just another in a long line of excellent coordinators who would be in-over-their heads as the man in charge? I know he was the HC in Denver, but it appeared the job was too big for him.

Interesting point on McDaniels. He didn't exactly sparkle in St. Louis in 2011 as Sam Bradford's offensive coordinator. A lot of those Belichick disciples haven't done well once they've strayed from the Mothership. McDaniels may get another chance as a head coach after this season, but wherever he goes, he won't have Tom Brady.
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To win championships in the NFL you have to have a stacked roster, and this "organization" only defines "stacked" by how high Kroenke's $100 bills are, not by wins.

That does seem to be the overriding consideration for ESK.

(Yes, because of the 32 NFL owners, only Stan Kroenke is interested in making money).


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With a subpar team, declining attendance and being about the 8th option on how to spend you sports dollar in LA, how do you suppose PSLs will sell? They are bound to be expensive and I'm sure stan will tell anybody that listens to him how much "jack" he's put into his new town. Are fans really going to be that impressed with a new stadium, no matter how bad the product is?

Perhaps initially those PSLs will sell. But a lot of the fans who are attending the LA Rams games at the moment figure to be priced out of the new building. And as you mentioned, there are a lot of other entertainment options. As Leigh Steinberg told me, a sports team not only has to be winning to succeed in LA, it has to have stars.
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The final standings of the NFC West looks like...

Arizona 11-5, Seattle 11-5, LA 7-9, San Francisco 3-13.


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So does Dean Spanos, upon losing the stadium referendum in SD, eat crow and move in with Stan?

That appears to be his only option at this point. Or stay in San Diego in that crumbling stadium.
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How' that roster depth working out for the Rams after trading away multiple picks to draft a QB # 1 so he can stand on the sidelines holding a clip board?



Not very well at the moment.
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So Fish has no control over the actions of his team? Twice they attack the victory formation and he has nothing to do with it? I call bs.

Teams invariably reflect the personality of their head coach.

(Yes, because if your head coach has a winning personality, there will be fewer injuries and penalties called against your team, plus the ball will mostly bounce in your favor).

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Do you know if there is a "St. Louis blacklist" with the rams from management? Despite having been here all of those years and developing relationships with players/staff/front office, I have yet to hear about a single interview since they moved from a St. Louis source. And they say WE should get over it!

I'm not sure anyone from the St.. Louis market has requested an interview. Although I'm always available whenever Stan wants to talk. The Rams know this. There's no need for the Rams to look back on St. Louis now that they're in LA, and they're doing a pretty good job when it comes to pretending those 21 years never existed.
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The fish is quite obviously clueless about offense. If for nothing else, he should be fired for that.

Here's to another adventure in mediocrity. I'm flabbergasted about how he keeps his job.

It is pretty amazing.


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I've read that NFL ratings have plummeted. Do Red Zone channels ratings figure into that? If not, could Red Zone be cannabalizing the ratings? From a fantasy perspective, it's more perfect than watching just one game.

I don't think Red Zone is included. Nor or any of the various apps where you can stream a game. I'm sure that's taking away some of the viewers, but not to the extent of an 11 percent drop.
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No matter who is lined up at o-line, receiver, defensive backfield, the Patriots continue to roll. Is that owing more to Belichick or Brady?

They both deserves some credit, but I'd title it more to Brady. Hard to win in this league without a quarterback.
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When was the last time a #1 overall pick didn't play right away? Is it an indictment of Fisher and his coaches to not see that Goff wasn't NFL ready and Wentz is?

That would be QB JaMarcus Russell in 2007. He played in only 4 games as a rookie with 1 start. Threw only 66 passes that year. Was out of the league after '09. The 8 No. 1 overall picks drafted between Goff and Russell all started on opening day.

That list includes 5 QBs: Jameis Winston, Andrew Luck, Cam Newton, Sam Bradford, and Matthew Stafford. Two offensive linemen: Eric Fisher and Jake Long. And 1 defensive lineman/outside linebacker: Jadeveon Clowney.

(Here's my nominee for the next Los Angeles Rams starting quarterback, since some in this chat believe the organization is not interested in winning, only making money. She would at least be a star).


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Who do you think is the first coach to get the ax this season?

Tough call. Among the five zero-win and 1-win teams, Hue Jackson and Chip Kelly are in their first year with their team; Todd Bowles is in his second; and Ron Rivera and John Fox have taken teams to Super Bowls. Perhaps Pagano (Indy) or McCoy (San Diego) if the losing continues in those places.
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Three years ago I made a bet with a friend that the Rams would go 10-6 in at least one of the next three season. This is the last season and when the Rams were sitting at 3-1 my friend was sweating big time. Now they're 3-3 and he's sitting easy. Is there much of a chance that this team can go 10-6 this year?

Doubt it.
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Fisher takes a lot of bullets for this team, and rightfully so, but why is Snead's head not in a noose too?

Les keeps a very low profile, doesn't he?
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Gurley looks ordinary so far. Is the Knee bothering him, conditioning issues or unable to process the playbook? If he continues to be pale, Rams are toast for years to come.

He looked pretty good in the early going Sunday, but got only 14 carries _ a season low. Yes, the passing game was going well, but the Rams didn't stick with the running game.
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For Fisher's $35 million salary (so far) - what does that equate to, something like $1million per victory?

Not yet. He's 30-39-1 so far.
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Hey Jim, Us "so called" LA Ram fans don't need to be "enlightened" on the failure of Fisher and his record, we're well aware of it. But we are still in the honeymoon stage of having our Rams back.

As for Goff, I knew they made a mistake on him, my preference was for Wentz. I just don't see it in Goff's eyes. He looks like he is way over his head. And Fisher not playing him is just to a degree hiding the fact they made the wrong choice.



I liked Wentz better coming out as well.
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I think the product is bad in the NFL this year. Very view talented and well-disciplined teams. The game last night was painful to watch with so many flags (which were all well-deserved). Reminds me of a John McKay quote during the first season with the Bucs. When asked about his team's execution, John McKay replied: "I'm in favor of it".

OK, I get that. Between all the flags and more reviews, a lot of the games lack a flow. I think there's still plenty of talent. But there do seem to be more sloppy games. Maybe that's a byproduct of less practice time and less time allowed in pads.
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The diving at the victory formation has been reported on as the Rams players retaliating for dirty plays by the Lions O-Line, did you see the dirty plays by the Lions?

Did not. But a lot of what goes on in the trenches basically goes unseen.
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The Rams woes are traceable directly to Fisher and Snead. These guys just don't get it and are doomed to failure.



Well Fisher and Snead did do admirable work in getting the Rams out of that 15-65 funk. But they've been stuck in neutral for a few years now.
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do you think Goff is dressing as the backup because he is more prepared than Mannion or do you think it's for pr reasons?

That's a good question. Mannion sure looked good in the preseason. I think you'd have to say he's better prepared at this point.
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Chances Goff starts a game for the Rams, assuming Keenum doesn't get hurt?

Sometime this season? I'd say 70-30 that Goff starts at least 1 game some time this season.
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You heard it here first. Todd Gurley will end the season leading the NFL in rushing yards. I have a feeling the running game will pick up substantially after the bye week and Gurley will go on a tear. Zek Elliott will run out of gas eventually. Todd did last year.

You'll see! You'll all see!

For my sanity at least, this is what I'm going to do.

We're 3-3 after 6 games - 4 of which have been road games.

The bright spot of this: @Niners; Seahawks; @Bucs; @Cardinals; Bills; @Lions - when the schedule first came out, I thought we'd be lucky to get to 3-3. My original thoughts were:

@Niners - W
Seahawks - L
@Bucs - L
@Cardinals - L
Bills - W
@Lions - W

In true Rams fashion, they did the exact opposite of what I expected - but the result is where I wanted to be after 4 road games, including 2 trips far East.

For the rest of this season? All of a sudden we are looking at 5 extremely winnable games:

Giants
Panthers
@Jets
Dolphins
@Saints

Only one of these teams is even at .500 right now, and it's our next opponent. If we can get right here, the Rams can go out and win 4 out of 5 of these....we're in business.

I never thought I'd use a title like that, but our D isn't as good as last year and that sucks. Does anyone have any ideas on what could be done?

I think it starts and finishes in the trenches, if our D-line can be as dominant as it was last year, then I think our secondary doesn't look so vulnerable, we're not get the pressure on the QB this year like last, we sure needed it in these last two games. We could have easily rattled Taylor and Stafford had we gone after them early on. I know we've been injury hit in that unit, and I hope that everything is now going to sort it self out and we get everyone back fighting it.

Is it that:

1. opposing lines have worked us out;
2. are they physically more imposing this year;
3. are we throwing in too many tricks and stunts and not executing the basics;
4. are we choosing the wrong formations / not changing at the line of scrimmage;
5. it's just the injuries and our squad being paper thin?
6. are we just in a defensive slump, we usually have them early in the seasons!

I'm sure if we pressure the QB to have 0.5 / 1s less processing time, it would aid the CBs etc.

Anybody else have any thoughts?

Rams got a little more offensive in loss to Lions

Gary Klein

They have been quick to describe this journey abroad as a business trip, nothing more than another game on the schedule.

The Rams play the New York Giants on Sunday in a NFL International Series matchup that takes them nearly to the season’s midpoint.

On another level, the week spent cloistered in a resort about an hour outside the city is an opportunity for Rams players and coaches to figure out who they are.

Or, more important, who they might become.

A 3-3 team destined for another 7-9 season? Or a team that can figure out a way to win games outside the NFC West and contend for a playoff spot?

Sunday’s defeat by the Detroit Lions, the Rams’ second loss in a row, offered a few encouraging signs, especially on offense. But it also again exposed the Rams as a team unable to put together a complete or near-complete game.

“We just couldn’t make the plays we needed to make on defense,” Coach Jeff Fisher said Monday during a conference call with reporters.

That was a change.

For most of the season, defense carried a team with the NFL’s worst-ranked offense. Fisher did not enjoy being continually reminded of that.

Now he won’t have to.

The Rams generated 387 yards against the Lions and improved from 32nd in the league to 31stwith a 301.3 yards-per-game average. They rank 28th in passing at 220.5 yards a game, and 28th in rushing at 80.8.

Not a huge move upward, but progress nonetheless.

“The offense did their job,” Fisher said. “That’s where the focus has been over the last month.”

The defense, with a line depleted or slowed by injuries, struggled the last two games.

Tackle Michael Brockers, sidelined against Buffalo because of a hip injury, left Sunday’s game with what Fisher said was a different issue.

“I don’t think it’s related to the previous one,” he said.

The defense also misses Robert Quinn.

The two-time Pro Bowl end was a one-man wrecking crew in victories over Seattle, Tampa Bay and Arizona before suffering a shoulder injury that sidelined him the last two games. His status for Sunday remains uncertain.

Matthew Stafford only once. “It’s a long season. We’ve got room for improvement. We’ll start with us up front on the line.”

The secondary also must find a way to cope without injured cornerbackTrumaine Johnson.

The Rams beat Seattle, Tampa Bay and Arizona by creating turnovers, including interceptions. Pressure on the passer from the front seven helped create them but defensive backs need to do their part.

They Rams have no interceptions in the last two games.

Overly aggressive

Fisher said he apologized to Lions Coach Jim Caldwell after the game in the wake of an aggressive push by the Rams defensive line when Stafford took a knee on the final two plays.

“It was not something that we practiced or that we preached,” Fisher said.

The players, he said, acted on their own because of unspecified “things” that Donald endured during the game.

“If the game’s over, the game’s over, pay respect to your opponent,” Fisher said, adding that there is “all the stuff that goes on inside, up front between the offensive linemen and the defensive linemen. We’ll address it and it’s unlikely that it’ll happen again.”

Quick hits

Rookie receiver Pharoh Cooper was inactive against the Lions because of roster needs caused by injuries in other position groups,” Fisher said. “It’s hard at times when you have injuries to afford yourself to keep up six receivers. I felt like we needed to keep nine defensive linemen up. Therein lies the issue with respect to Coop. It’s not something that he’s done or he hasn’t done…. He had a great week of practice, he’s doing well.” … The Rams have taken Thursdays off this season, but they will be off Tuesday and then practice Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

[www.latimes.com]

Rams know how it feels to be around the horn

Sam Farmer / On the NFL

No one would blame the Rams for sounding the alarm after losing consecutive games and dropping back to .500.

Actually, though, Rams Coach Jeff Fisher sounded it before his team played at Detroit on Sunday. In order to prepare his players for an early game in the Eastern time zone, one that kicked off at 10 a.m. PDT, he carried an air horn with him and twice blared it to make sure the Rams were on their toes.

Fisher sounded the annoying, ear-splitting blast on Saturday night at the hotel during a team meeting, and again at the pregame breakfast Sunday.

“He scared a lot of guys at breakfast with it,” punter Johnny Hekker said. “He said, ‘Listen, we can’t let timing be an excuse. Time zones are what they are. We’re here to play football. We’re professionals.’ If you can’t get up for a game, then you’re not cut out for the league. That’s the reality of it.”

According to the betting site Sportsinsights.com, heading into this season, West Coast teams were 61-111 (a .355 winning percentage) since 2003 when playing in the Eastern time zone.

The Rams were offensively sharp for most of their game against Detroit, and didn’t look sluggish despite what for them was a mid-morning kickoff.

On Sunday, they have the additional challenge of playing the New York Giants in London, a game that kicks off at 2:30 p.m. local time, meaning 6:30 a.m. in Los Angeles.

“You’ve got to be ready each time you play. We could play in the Sahara Desert, it don’t matter,” Rams defensive tackle Cam Thomas said. “Each team’s got to be ready.”

The Rams are in danger of dipping to 3-4 after winning three in a row. That’s a wake-up call that doesn’t require an air horn.

[www.latimes.com]

Jeff Fisher has instilled a 24 hour rule with our team in which they have 24 hours to celebrate a win or 24 hours to lament a loss. I have NFL game pass and have been trying to follow this rule. I will try to rewatch the game by Monday night (usually just in condensed mode). Then after watching the game and making notes I will move on to the next opponent.

I just finished up the game from yesterday and here are the notes I took:

-I hope Boras takes some ideas from Jim Bob Cooter. Cooter had some excellent play calls

-Our oline is thriving in pass protection and I'm not sure what the struggle is in run blocking other than maybe not just running more power.

-Groh has brought something very wonderful to our team. Receivers are catching the ball. The route running is looking good. The concepts are improving. They are encouraging Keenum to push the ball down the field.

-4th down at the end of the first half was a huge momentum shift in that game. Unreal momentum shift - yet we still had a chance. Getting the ball to start the second half we had 3 penalties in our first 4 plays and that one play was negative yardage. That was ugly.

-Forrest had a pretty good game. Made some really nice plays in coverage and in the run game.

-That Boldin TD. What in the world was going on? Mo was staring out wide toward Troy Hill before/after the snap. Joyner was keyed in on the run. Ogletree was sitting middle and slid away from where Boldin ran. When I saw the play live I thought it was all on Joyner, but after watching the replay I really don't know. It seemed like Mom didn't even know the ball was snapped - he doesn't react to Boldin until after the ball is thrown.

-Britt and Quick played very well. Britt especially and I think Quick feeds off of that.

-Keenum had some really nice and accurate throws. You can still tell he is lacking in arm strength. But he was making good decisions and putting the ball where is needed to be.

-Lions Sam Martin has a pretty nice leg. I love me some Johnny Hekker though

-Troy Hill struggled with contain on those wide receiver screens. Also had really bad position on the deep pass to Tate

-Joyner should be spending practice teaching other players how to wrap up. The guy is small but if he can get his hands on you he is wrapping you up.

-Does anybody in the league like to hit more than Ogletree? Dude is always trying to get a lick on the player. Is that Singletary in his ear?

- Why were we pushing it so far down the field late in the game. We only needed a field goal to tie. Where kendricks landed after he fell was almost right on the red line of Zs range?

-Those last few plays between the Dline and Lions Oline. It looked like on the first play Couples got off the ball quick and dove down swinging with his arm to try and force a fumble. He was off the ball fast, was probably pretty close to getting the ball. The second play looked like retaliation from the Lions.

(Opening Remarks)

“We’re very pleased with the offensive output. Four touchdown drives over 75 yards. (QB) Case (Keenum) setting the franchise record for consecutive completions. We had the offense going and the offense did their job. That’s where the focus has been over the last month. As I mentioned last week, we’re improving, we just have to keep it going. Case got a lot of help, great plays, great catches – he had a big day. Obviously it wasn’t enough to win. The difficulty we had in the game was keeping Detroit out of the end zone and 31 points is unacceptable from a defensive output. We had some opportunities, had so opportunities to change the game. The play right before half, the fourth and inches – we get that in, it looks different, feels different, we come out (in the second half) take possession. Unfortunately in the third quarter, to start the third quarter we had a questionable call on the holding, on the kickoff return, that backed us up. We had a couple of false starts, so we got pinned. We just couldn’t make the plays we needed to make on defense. (Detroit QB) Matt (Stafford) had a big day – we were concerned about, like I alluded to after the game last night. He had four drops – he had a near perfect day. He really didn’t put the ball down the field, with the exception of two plays, what was out of broken coverage on the defensive offside. But they found a way. We’re moving on. It’s hard to imagine that less than twenty-four hours ago we were playing a game, and now here we are all settled in London moving on to the Giants. ”


(On whether DT Michael Brokers re-aggravated his hip injury in Sunday’s game and if he has any word on the severity of the injury)

“We checked Mike out. It’s a different injury. I don’t think it’s related to the previous one. They kept him out last week. So, he’ll be day-to-day this week.”


(On whether there is anything more he can do as a coach to help bring down the number of penalties other than just addressing them with the players)

“We knew going into the game that Matt was good at home with the cadence. We do the best we can with respect to the defensive offsides. We were dealing with the crowd, backed up offensively to start the third quarter. We had the two false starts. I’m not necessarily overly concerned right now. Our numbers, we were at six last week, we had eight this week. I disagreed with the defensive pass interference on (S) Maurice (Alexander). I did not see the hold or on the first kickoff return to start the second half on (DE) Eugene (Sims). When you look at them, when the game is over and you look at the penalties, you see your number be eight or whatever, that’s too many. But then you go and you look at them closely and that was a big play for Maurice, to stop their drive – the penalty is called and then they continue the drive, as opposed to, we’re off the field and we got a punt in (WR) Tavon’s (Austin) hands. In close games those are significant penalties. But the team is aware. The team is addressing penalties like they’re addressing their practice tempo – their effort and their commitment to meetings and things like that. I’m not overly concerned right now. The penalties aren’t our problem.”


(On if he had any issue with the defense rushing on Detroit’s final kneel-down plays at the end of the game)

“There’s been some criticism with respect to that. This approach did not come from the sideline – it was not a call, it was not something that we practiced or that we preached. I think it was a byproduct of frustration and things that (DT) Aaron (Donald) endured during the game and the players took it on themselves to do it. We’ll address it. I talked to (Lions Head) Coach (Jim) Caldwell after the game and apologized and I said I’d get to the bottom of it. If the game’s over, the game’s over, pay respect to your opponent. You guys don’t realize all the stuff that goes on inside, up front between the offensive linemen and the defensive linemen. We’ll address it and it’s unlikely that it’ll happen again.”


(On if there are things they can clean up on the defensive side going into the Giants game)

“We have to clean stuff up this week, defensively, there’s no doubt. I’ve talked to you guys about my opinion of (Lions QB) Matt (Stafford), and now we’ve got (Giants QB) Eli (Manning). We gave up 160 yards to (Lions WR) Golden Tate, who’s an outstanding player and you all saw what (No.) 13 (WR Odell Beckham Jr.) did for the Giants. He’s a good player, so we’ve got to do a better job. The ball’s going sideways, it’s going to go sideways. It went sideways a lot yesterday – sideways meaning that they’re throwing the ball out and doing their rub, picks and their screens. We just didn’t play them well, we need to make those tackles. We had a couple balls go down the field – one in the high red zone to the tight end, which was a good throw – credit their offense, it was a great design and Matt looked off our defense and he put the ball down there. And then we had the false start and we had a blown coverage and he just put it up – that was a big play to Golden that got them down to the two yard line. We’ve got to do better – completion percentage, balls going outside in the short and all those things are not a concern, but the big plays down the field, especially in a game like this, you can’t allow to happen.”


(On how the travel went to London last night and if he’s happy with how everything went)

“The players, obviously the mood in the locker room after the game was somber, filled with disappointment, things like that, but we have to move on. Everything was communicated to the players, it was very, very organized, our operations led by Bruce Warwick and Kate (Walker), they had everything together. We had a meal upstairs and the families were included in that – family members upstairs in the suite. And then we obviously had to go through the TSA procedure. We got on the buses and the flight took off, then we settled down. I think players, for the most part, got some rest. We came in this morning – everything was set up, we’re ready to go. The coaches, as we speak right now, are game-planning downstairs, haven’t had a whole lot of sleep, but, I think by Wednesday, we’ll be okay – players are the same way, we’re encouraging them to eat and take care of themselves. And fortunately, from an injury standpoint, we didn’t have anything other than (DT) Mike (Brockers). So we’re good to go, we’re on to the Giants right now.”


(On if losing a series of close games can be mentally draining on a team)

“No, we went into this ballgame knowing our opponent very well. And our opponent, being Detroit, they had two close wins, and three very, very close losses. We expected there was a potential for that to happen. It just didn’t work out for us. I think in this case, we showed some positives, especially form an offensive stand point, and that carries over. Our offense is getting better. I think the numbers are improving. I don’t really care where we’re ranked, and all those kinds of things. The Detroit defense had a hard time stopping our offense, as we did their offense. I expect our defense to bounce back as the health factor improves. The encouraging thing to me in the big picture is, the offense is making plays, and (QB) Case (Keenum) is comfortable, and we’re pushing the ball down the field, we’re getting the ball in the end zone, we’re getting the ball to our playmakers. No, the run game is not there. We showed signs of it early, and I was encouraged. They adjusted, so we put the ball down the field. That’s what you have to do in this league.”


(On the reasons WR Pharoh Cooper was inactive, and why RG Cody Wichmann did not play)

“Cody was, in our opinion, good enough to play if we needed him. (RG Jamon Brown) ‘JB’ had played well last week, and we decided to go with eight (active offensive linemen. The roster was different, the 46 was different. (TE) Temarrick (Hemingway) was inactive, (CB Trumaine Johnson) ‘Tru’ and (WR) Nelson (Spruce) were inactive. It’s hard at times when you have injuries to afford yourself to keep up six receivers. Our defensive line was questionable with (DE) Will (Hayes) coming back, and with Mike coming back. I felt like we needed to keep nine defensive linemen up. Therein lies the issue with respect to ‘Coop’, it’s not something that he’s done or he hasn’t done. It’s just hard to get all these guys up. ‘Coop’ is doing well. He had a great week of practice, he’s doing well. It’s just hard to keep everybody up.”