Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher – September 20, 2016

(Opening remarks)

“We got our start. We got our start late yesterday on the Bucs. I thought today went really well. This is our first normal week – we had a long week, then we had a short week, so this is our first normal week. Typically what we do on Tuesdays is all about installing basic concepts and emphasizing rest and recovery and all of those things – we had a good day inside, good day outside. We’ll come back tomorrow and we’ll have a solid normal practice tomorrow. Pleased with the way they are right now. We got a great challenge. This is a good football team. (Buccaneers QB) Jameis (Winston) is playing really well. I know they’re disappointed with what happened to them in Arizona. But, their game against Atlanta was extraordinary on all three phases. It’s unusual to play a non-division team, four, five years in a row. There’s some familiarity there from a player match-up. We just have to have a good week.”

(On how surprised he was that DB Lamarcus Joyner was able to play on Sunday with a broken toe and how he thought Joyner played)

“He played really well. He’ll be a little bit limited, I think, this week. But it was nothing that was going to keep him from playing. You can kind of get an appreciation for his commitment to this game and his teammates – playing through that is not easy.”

(On if he thinks Joyner’s toughness is unique)

“It was rare, that’s why we drafted him. We watched him for a couple years there at Florida State and he’s one of those guys – he shows it every day.”

(On how he would assess the play of the secondary through the first two games)

“They’ve been battling. They’re tackling well. The safety-play has been solid. ‘Tru’ (CB Trumaine Johnson) has played well. We’ve played five or six DBs or three safeties and three corners, we’ve played a lot of DBs. I thought, specifically last weekend against Seattle, I thought they played, they tackled well, all of them were contact players in the game.”

(On if LB Alec Ogletree has excelled at the middle linebacker position quicker than he imagined)

“He’s taken it further, sooner than we expected, if that makes sense. Really happy with what he’s doing. He’s got a great feel for it, he gets people lined up – (defensive coordinator) Gregg (Williams) puts a lot of stuff on him – he makes the adjustments and he goes. With each week, each passing week, he’s going to be more decisive and you’ll see more plays out of him.”

(On when he knew DE Robert Quinn was back to how he played before his injury)

“When we got to camp. We were going to hold him back off the conditioning test the first day of camp when the vets reported, but he wanted to do it. When I saw him do the conditioning test, he made significant strides from the OTAs before camp. He’s back. His weight is great, his strength is good, no issues.”

(On how beating the Buccaneers three times in a row effects the team’s confidence level)

“It’s kind of the same approach we took with Seattle. We had success against Seattle, but there’s no guarantee you’re going to have success again, you have to get stuff done on the practice field. They’re a much better team. The last couple of years, they’ve had some significant injuries, they were missing people in our game against them late last year – although we were as well, we were without (S) T.J. (McDonald) and ‘Tree’ (Ogletree) and Rob (Quinn) on the defensive (side). Both teams are healthy right now, at least defensively, I know they’re dealing with some offensively. They’ve done a good job building that team. The quarterback is playing well.”

(On the differences he’s noticed with Tampa Bay’s new coaching staff)

“Well (defensive coordinator) Mike Smith, whenever he’s coached defense, wherever he’s coached it, he does a great job. The defensive side of the ball is very disciplined, they can rush, the linebackers are really good, they can close – they’re sideline-to-sideline players. The schemes are a little bit different, but they’re doing well in the scheme right now. And offensively, they’re very creative. We saw that last year with Jameis – he was frustrated and we got ahead and you could see, just the passion that he had at the position, the control he had over the offense. Now, you add another year with (Buccaneers Head Coach) Dirk (Koetter), he’s only going to get better and better.”

(On if WR Nelson Spruce, WR Pharoh Cooper and CB E.J. Gaines are closing in to being ready to play in the game after practicing today)

“Yeah, we’re going to see. Tomorrow is a full-speed day – today was not – and we’ll see how they respond tomorrow. And then we’ll watch them on Friday and see. We’ll have an injury report for you at some point tomorrow.”

(On if Jameis Winston poses any particular challenge that Blaine Gabbert or Russell Wilson didn’t)

“Yeah, he can push the ball down the field and he’s got outstanding weapons outside, so that’s a concern. He sees well, if he needs to pull it down and run, he can, he can extend plays. He’s made some great throws. In our game last year, he just missed a few. And one can only imagine had he hit them. We can’t afford to give him those opportunities. He’s going to be one of the top quarterbacks in this business for a long time.”

(On how the team has done from a run-blocking standpoint and if there is anything more the offensive line can be doing)

“We have to get better. I thought we improved, against Seattle – even though the numbers don’t reflect it – we were really close on a number of carries. With (RB) Todd (Gurley), he ran hard and hit the hole quick. When there’s an extra guy, an unblocked guy, it’s hard. That’s the nature of the run game. You have to be able to line up and say ‘Hey, whether there’s one or two extra guys, we’re going to line up and run it.’ That’s what we’re committed to.”

Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher – September 16, 2016

(On the short week)

“Yeah, they go by so fast. The players bounce back and like I said, the coaches – we’re caught up, which is good. They’ll get some rest tonight, and we’ll be good to go tomorrow. These weeks go by very fast, when you’re on a short week, especially on the road. I can only imagine what San Francisco is going through because they have to go to Carolina (Panthers). Challenges all around, you know, but you have to accept them on Sundays.”

(On the Rams pass-rush and Seattle’s ability to rush the passer)

“We’ve had success in the past putting pressure on them. We’ll just have to adjust things depending on their plan – that’s what we usually do. But they can really rush. They’re really good especially, you know, they come from all over the place, they win one-on-ones, they’re great at executing pass-rush games – they can really put pressure on you. Then, when they put pressure on you, they affect the coverage down the field and there’s no place to throw the football. From the starting point, running the football with success is always helpful.”

(On whether QB Jared Goff will be activated for Sunday’s game)

“Yeah – I’ve made my mind up. I’ve made my mind up. He’s two – he’s going to be two.”

(On what went into the decision to activate Goff)

“I talked to you guys weeks ago about potentially alternating it. We’re going to do it that way and we’ll see how it goes next week. He’s really excited about it. He’s going to be two and he’s ready to play. He’s got some reps throughout the week, good for him. It’s exciting for him, just knowing that he’s a snap away from going into the game – he was here until the wee hours last night preparing, as he should.

(On whether he intends to alternate the backup Quarterback spot between QB Sean Mannion and Goff)

“There is a chance I will do that – don’t know right now. We’ll see how this goes. ”

(On the Rams running backs going into Sunday’s game)

“(RB) Todd’s (Gurley) going to go, and (RB) Benny’s (Cunningham) going to spell him, and if we need to call on (RB) Malcolm (Brown) we will. But I’m happy with where the running backs are.”

(On how tough it will be to keep the Seahawks from loading up the box on Sunday)

“We’re going to have to take our shots. You saw last night, both teams took shots – you make a couple of plays down the field, it changes things. But, we always subscribe to the philosophy that even if it’s loaded, we still have to find a way to get it done, especially at the end of the game.”

***

Rams Offensive Coordinator Rob Boras – September 16, 2016

(On what happened in the game on Monday night from an offensive standpoint)

“Didn’t play up to our standard, didn’t coach to our standard, didn’t see it coming. I think, across the board, coaches (and) players would say that we thought we had a great week of preparation and then obviously just didn’t live up to our standard, playing-wise, coaching. I talked last week about being resilient and we’re not going to let that define us. Obviously, we have to see if we’re as resilient as we think we are, moving forward. But Coach (Fisher) talks about that 22-or-24-hour rule and we try to put that behind us as fast as we can and move on.”

(On how tough it is to get RB Todd Gurley into a situation where he might be able to break a couple of big plays, when a defense flows as well as Seattle’s does)

“That’s tough, they’re really good at what they do and they’re not real complicated and that’s why these battles that we’ve had over the last four years have been so fun – because we do what we do, and they do what they do and we’re going to find out who does it better. It’s hard in the run game. Their gap integrity, they’re athletic, they have playmakers up front and we try to get some misdirection and try to find a way to get Todd loose to try to create one of those explosives. But they’re as good as anybody at making that difficult.”

(On how he would evaluate how did in the game on Monday)

“Like I said for everybody across the board – playing and coaching – it just wasn’t good enough, it wasn’t up to our standards. We all need to do better, starting, obviously with me at the coordinator position. But I think, to a man, everybody recognizes that we have a lot more in us.”

(On if he heard the 49ers players saying they knew what plays were coming based on the formations and if he came away from the tape thinking the same thing)

“I had not heard that and no, I did not have that same perception.”

(On what is going to have to happen for WR Tavon Austin to become more productive)

“Well I think it goes with anything with the pass game – it’s timing and rhythm and just building that confidence between the quarterback and the receiver. And it’s not just Tavon, it’s across the board – it’s (WRs) Kenny (Britt), it’s Bradley (Marquez), it’s Brian (Quick), it’s (TEs) Lance (Kendricks), it’s Tyler (Higbee). That’s part of, when you protect your guys in the preseason and so forth, but that’s why we get so many reps at practice – it’s just trying to build that consistency and that trust between the quarterback and receiver.”

(On what stood out to him about QB Case Keenum in last week’s game)

“He did some good things – just like Coach (Fisher) has said, there were some good things there. And, obviously, everybody is focusing on the negative and I understand why, I’m not ignorant that way. I think he’s described it, and what he told me (is) he thinks he overthought things. I don’t want to speak for him, that’s not my job, to speak for Case. As an offense, we need to trust him and we need to trust what we see, not overthink it, trust our coaching, trust our vision, trust our instincts and play.”

(On if Keenum is a player who overthinks things)

“No. He analyzes like a lot of quarterbacks do through the study process. So, no, I wouldn’t say that’s been the norm.”

(On what particular challenges Seattle presents with the way they use S Kam Chancellor)

“Again, they’re sound with what they do and Kam is a special player. For the most part, you know where he’s going to be, it’s just he’s a safety that plays at the linebacker-type position quite a bit, so he’s in the box, but then you’ll see him in the back. They do a really good job moving him around. He’s a special talent, and since I’ve been here, you’ve seen him make plays every year.”

(On if Seattle is the toughest team to throw deep against because of their secondary)

“I don’t know if I could say they’re the toughest, but they’d be up there. Right now, obviously, they’re in our focus – I would say yes – but I’m sure there are some others out there, I don’t want to take away from anybody else. They’re a talented group and it’s going to be a challenge and we’re looking forward to that.”

(On the offensive players seeming to be very anxious to get to Sunday for a number of reasons)

“It can be a blessing in disguise – the short week. As hard as it is, both on the players and the coaches, to turn around, sometimes when you have a short week, you don’t have that extra day off like the players do where you’re reading or hearing all the negative things, that you have got to move forward. I think we’re all anxious, maybe not just offensively, but I think, hopefully, collectively as a team we’re excited to go out there and anxious to go out there and show what we’re about.”

(On how he helps QB Jared Goff keep his confidence up after being inactive in the first game)

“I think it starts in the classroom, just as it does for everybody. It starts in the classroom; he’s getting his reps – both, a little bit with the offense as well as with our scout teams. And it’s through the preparation, it’s learning how to prepare as if you’re the player. And that’s the challenge to everybody when they’re a backup in that position – they’re always one snap away. It’s hard, when you’re 21 years old, to recognize that and he’s done a really, really good job through his preparation that he hasn’t relaxed or anything. He’s in there early and he’s staying there late with Case. That’s really good to see for us, just as a franchise, moving forward, just the way he prepares, because that’s what we challenge all of our guys with, regardless of position. But, obviously at that position even more.”

***

Rams Defensive Coordinator Gregg Williams – September 16, 2016

(On what he’s seen on film that generates success against Seattle QB Russell Wilson)

“There’s a familiarity, obviously, when you play somebody twice a year. Our guys have their own scouting report on people that their playing against. And then schematically, we try to do the things that are good just versus Seattle, and we’ve played pretty well in those situations. We have a lot of respect. I have a lot of respect for (Offensive Coordinator) Coach (Darrell) Bevell who runs that up there. I’ve followed him for a long time. He’s been brought up in all the great offensive staffs in the year. And what I’ve seen him do up there is that, similar to what we try to do, I see him fit the offense to the skill-set of the players there. You’ll see a new running back, but you see what they do with the receivers, and how they try to feature the receivers, and how they try to feature their offensive line. They do a good job of matching the skill-sets, schemes, to their players. Hopefully we can have some good recognition things, and make it a good ball game.”

(On what he saw on film that allowed San Francisco QB Blaine Gabbert to be successful)

“I would tell you this, is that we played very well. We played very strong in that ball game, defensively. There are some things, when you play zone coverage, when you want the ball to go certain places. We got to do a better job in the red zone. Wherever I’ve been, we’ve done a good job of making people kick field goals down there. We did a really good job of that last year, and we’ve been doing it all spring long, and then all preseason long. But, regular season is a different story. We’ve got to try to not have penalties to extend drives. Our guys played very, very solid in lots of different ways. The other thing we could’ve done a better job with, is we got our hands on three balls where it legitimately hit us in the hands, and those are three interceptions right there. Two of those three times that we dropped the ball, we could’ve put point on the board. We could have scored with those throws, because there was nobody between us and the goal line. Our guys understand that, and they’ll come back. They’ll bounce back very well. I was very pleased with how they came out and responded at half time.”

(On if he changes the game plan if Russell Wilson is not 100 percent healthy)

“Here’s what we do with that is, we’re assuming he’s fine, because I have a lot of respect. He’s one of the few offensive guys I wouldn’t mind playing on defense. He’s tough now, I will tell you this. He has a lot of great instincts of an athlete; things you can’t coach. So, we’re going to be assuming that he’s fine. As we’ve heard the injury reports all week long, he’s been practicing full, and been doing okay with that. But in the course of the game, we have to be able to adjust to whatever is going on. We’ll see on how it goes, but he’s very, very intelligent on how he goes about running the game, and it’s fun to see those quarterbacks. I’ve had an opportunity to coach against a lot of quarterbacks that are in the Hall of Fame, marquees guys, and I think Russell is one of them, is that “Bev” lets him have say. Hopefully, you guys have seen how I let (LB) Alec Ogletree have say, (LB) James Laurinaitis have say. Those kinds of people that play the positions, and you see them on the sideline, you see him giving his opinion of things. I’m sure all week long, as he’s practiced however he’s feeling, he’s involved in the game plan. I have tremendous respect for him for coming out and answering the bell after the injury anyway. That’s what tough guys are supposed to do.”

(On if it’s the same pass-rush challenge as last week)

“It’s always a tough challenge when a quarterback is mobile. We’re pretty good up there in doing that. We had a couple of…about three or four of them, that I wish we could’ve had back, and the extending of the down. But I will tell you this, when you say just like last week, no, because I think the best quarterback extending plays, is Russell Wilson. So, it’s even more urgent.”

(On if he was surprised he saw so many good things from the defense in Week 1, despite the outcome)

“The big thing was, is that you take a look at a couple of things. We had a couple of short fields where we’re really good on sudden change, whenever we have to come in after a takeaway, or a short field on special teams. We’ve been, wherever I’ve been, in the top ranked in the league every year, we make people kick field goals; we didn’t. One of those drives, we had a second-and-14, pass interference. We had a second-and-15, and all of a sudden, they throw the ball in there, and it extended the play. And that’s just not like us, on playing situational football. The guys grew from it. The thing that was very good for me to see is, before I ever got a chance to talk to them on the sideline, their talking to me. They know, they see, and that’s when you know you got good things going, is when they take ownership, and they understand before even you have a chance to correct them. On game day, I’m not going to add a lot of clutter to them, and I’m not going to add a lot of stress to them, unless there’s maybe a big-eyed lack of focus when I’ve got to snap them back into it. This is a really good group of guys. It’s a really good leadership group of guys. We’ve got to do our part, and keep them out of the end zone, and put more points, and shorten the field a little bit. Like I said, if we could’ve caught those three balls that his us right in the hands, we could’ve helped the offense a lot right there.”

(On what he saw on film regarding red zone situations)

“No. The plays are up there. They probably should’ve ran the ball more than they did, but that’s just (Head Coach) Chip (Kelly’s) nature, he doesn’t like to do that very much. We played 42 rushes in the ball game. Still, with a couple of those quarterback scrambles…don’t read my lips on the sideline, is that a couple of those scramble there are still less than three-and-a-half a carry. Our guys did really well against the run. Got to get off the field a little better on third down. We let a couple quarterback scrambles extend on third down, so I’m sure Russell saw that. We’re going to have to be ready to roll.”

(On how often they practice defending the quarterback scramble)

“A lot. It’s up there. We’ve practiced that an awful lot because of him. Because we have to make sure that we’re knowing what we’re doing against that opponent. Then schematically, we have some things too. Not only just technique in the rush plan, but schematically we have some things, too. Hopefully we’ll be able to get them called at the right times, the right places.”

Practice Report 9/14: Keenum, Offense Moving On to Seattle

Myles Simmons

http://www.therams.com/news-and-events/article-1/Practice-Report-914-Keenum-Offense-Moving-On-to-Seattle/4597d290-e5d1-4eaa-a1e6-d5c4db3e67ac

Before Monday night’s loss to the 49ers, quarterback Case Keenum had gone through a solid offseason program, preseason, and first week of practice. While that did not translate to a strong performance to open the year, Keenum is undeterred as he learns from the outing in preparation for the Seahawks on Sunday.

“I’ve just got to let the game come to me,” Keenum said Wednesday. “Take what the defense gives me. Trust my teammates — they do a great job. And get the ball out of my hands to the right place.”

According to the quarterback, one of his most significant issues was probably overthinking what he saw on the field instead of trusting his instincts and offensive rules.

“I over-thought a lot of things,” Keenum said. “I think that I was seeing ghosts — I was seeing things that weren’t there. I wasn’t trusting myself and my abilities.

“They gave us some different looks,” Keenum added. “For us, we’ve always said, ‘We trust our rules.’ So that’s why our coaches do a great job of preparing us to have rules that can fix anything in a game.”

Head coach Jeff Fisher said Wednesday that this week, he’s looking for Keenum to capitalize when the offense has chances.

“Case made some plays and then missed some opportunities,” Fisher said. “But every game you watch, quarterbacks are missing opportunities. So we have to just make sure we take advantage of those opportunities when they’re there.”

Wide receiver Kenny Britt, who has shown strong chemistry with Keenum since the quarterback was inserted into the starting lineup last season, said he’s expecting the Houston product will be fine going forward.

“It’s only the first game,” Britt said. “You over-think stuff because you don’t want to miss stuff. You don’t want to see one thing and then it be the next thing. So I know things will calm down for him.”

One of the games where Keenum and Britt best displayed their strong chemistry came last year against the Seahawks in Week 16. In the Rams’ 23-17 victory, the duo connected on a 28-yard play-action pass for a diving touchdown — with Britt getting the best of cornerback Richard Sherman on the play.

“Go back to film from the last few years that helped us out, especially the plays that worked for us,” Britt said of what he’s looking at on film this week. “Capitalize on everything we see out there.”

One of the reasons the Rams can go back and intently study what the Seahawks have done in years past is because their defensive scheme has stayed consistent. Seattle runs a Cover 3-based system, and while they will do some tweaks off of that, the foundation is the same.

“They do what they do and they do it well,” Keenum said. “Their secondary is one of the best — obviously. And their front seven — or eight, if you’ll call it with [safety Kam] Chancellor coming down in the box, too — it’s a great run-stopping box, too. So we’ve got our work cut out for us.”

“They’re sound fundamentally and you know they’re going to play one defense, and it’s basically going to be the same thing,” Britt said. “They’re not going to change up their defense for anybody. It’s either you’re coming ready to play, or don’t come at all. So we know that we’re going to be strapped in and ready to go.”

But that doesn’t mean it makes it any easier to figure Seattle out. Success in the past does not guarantee success in the present.

“Teams change, players change, and for right now they’ve got some different players on their defense,” offensive lineman Rodger Saffold said. “Scheme is going to be the same, but at the same time, each week, they’re going to have a blitz that’s going to cause some problems that we’re going to have to figure out on the fly.”

“That was that game, it was that team, too,” Keenum said. “Obviously we can learn some stuff from those games, but we’ve got a new challenge ahead of us and a new opportunity, really.”

And so as the team moves on from Monday night’s loss, the offense is looking forward to potentially righting the ship against a division rival.

“All [this] adversity, challenges, it’s really opportunities,” Keenum said. “And that’s the way I’m looking at it.”

“Just trust what you see, and let it fly,” Keenum added.

EXTRA POINTS

— For Wednesday’s injury report, defensive tackle Michael Brockers (thigh), cornerback E.J. Gaines (thigh), wide receiver Pharoh Cooper (shoulder), and wide receiver Nelson Spruce (knee) all did not participate in practice. Cornerback Lamarcus Joyner (foot) participated on a limited basis.

Running back Todd Gurley also did not participate in the session, but only for a day of rest.

“That’s a coach’s decision, he’s inside,” Fisher said. “He’ll be fine. He’ll be out there tomorrow.”

— Tight end Tyler Higbee received his first game action on Monday night, calling it an exciting experience. He made one reception in his NFL debut.

“It was exciting,” Higbee said Wednesday. “Monday night, especially — you get the crowd out there, it’s cool. It’s a little bit [of a] step up from preseason, which is cool. And I enjoyed it.”

What did Higbee learn from his first taste of the regular season?

“Mainly, it’s the first game. Everybody’s good — you have to bring your A-game every week,” Higbee said. “You can’t slack off, you can’t take any plays off. And in order to win, you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do.”

— Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll had his conference call with L.A. media on Wednesday afternoon and said he’s looking forward to being a part of bringing the NFL back to the venue he called home while head coach of the USC Trojans from 2001-2009.

“I’m proud that we get to be the first ones that start this thing,” Carroll said. “For no other reason but I just love Southern California and love the fans and love who they are and what they’re all about. I feel fortunate that we have a chance to add to, kind of the kickoff event to this. That doesn’t amount to a whole lot, it’s just kind of a personal feeling about it. We’re hoping we’re going to play a good football game and the rest of that stuff will take care of itself later on.”

After Rams shed LBs, Gregg Williams stresses defensive flexibility

http://www.dailynews.com/sports/20160910/after-rams-shed-lbs-gregg-williams-stresses-defensive-flexibility

THOUSAND OAKS >> On Feb. 19, the Rams released James Laurinaitis, cutting ties with their longtime starter at middle linebacker.

On Sept. 3, the Rams parted ways with Akeem Ayers — who started 11 games in 2015 — and second-year linebacker Cameron Lynch, who got more defensive work this preseason after spending his rookie season on special teams.

And on Thursday, the Rams waived undrafted rookie Nicholas Grigsby, leaving just five linebackers on the active roster.

Heading into Monday’s visit to the San Francisco 49ers (7:20 p.m., ESPN), the Rams will have just two linebackers with any significant NFL experience: Alec Ogletree, the new middle linebacker, and Mark Barron, a converted safety who led the team with 116 tackles last season.

Might this be a problem? Not according to defensive coordinator Gregg Williams.

“Take a look at how many times we’re going to play three linebackers this entire season,” he said Saturday. “We’re going to play (nickelback Lamarcus Joyner). We’re going to play another safety, another corner, another player in those areas that a linebacker plays.”

This is not a new move for Williams, who has coached six different NFL franchises across nearly two decades. As an example, the 58-year-old singled out former NFL safety Pierson Prioleau, whom he often used in nickel and dime packages in Buffalo, Washington, Jacksonville, and New Orleans.

That’s the type of flexibility that Williams again expects to find in this year’s defense — doubters be damned.

“Think about all the head-shaking, the head-scratching and the criticizing when I moved Mark Barron in there last year,” Williams said. “He’s pretty good, isn’t he? Everybody going to claim that one now? That was a pretty good move?”

Chip Kelly seems to agree. Asked this week about hybrid linebackers, the 49ers’ head coach said that the versatility of players like Barron have made defenses much harder to outscheme. A few years ago, Kelly might have been able to push the tempo and force his opponent into mismatches before they had a chance to substitute. Facing someone like Barron makes that a trickier task.

“He’s a tough, hard-nosed, physical football player and I don’t think you’re giving him credit for what he is,” Kelly told reporters. “But, everybody wants to say, ‘Well, you have a converted safety at linebacker. So, then we’re going to run the ball right at him.’ Well, turn the tape on. He’s a tough, hard-nosed, physical player.”

This year, the Rams will need similar growth from Joyner, who vented frustrations about his role on the final episode of HBO’s “Hard Knocks.” Although the team had left the door open for Ayers’ return, that they cut him in the first place signals how comfortable they are in giving Joyner — who started six games in his first two seasons — a much larger role.

“We’re going to play the best guys we have that they bring in the door,” Williams said. “I don’t draft them. I don’t sign them. But when they get here, I’m going to coach them. … If you’re any good at all, you will adapt to the skill set of the players.”

INJURY REPORT

The Rams have ruled out receivers Pharoh Cooper (shoulder) and Nelson Spruce (knee) for Monday’s game against the 49ers, as well as cornerback E.J. Gaines (thigh), who missed all of last season with a Lisfranc injury and was beset by various ailments through training camp.

Cooper had been slated to be the team’s No. 3 receiver until his injury, while Spruce made the roster as an undrafted signee despite playing in just one preseason game. Gaines started 15 games as a rookie in 2015.

Right tackle Rob Havenstein (foot) and linebacker Bryce Hager (concussion) are both listed as questionable. Both were full participants in practice on Friday and Saturday.

Myles Simmons

http://www.therams.com/news-and-events/article-1/Practice-Report-910-Preparing-for-Kellys-Offense/9291e25b-220c-4fd2-b6fe-bbee0c9f5412

— For the final injury report of the week, the Rams have declared right tackle Rob Havenstein (foot) and linebacker Bryce Hager (concussion) questionable for Monday night. Cornerback E.J. Gaines (thigh), wide receiver Pharoh Cooper (shoulder), and wide receiver Nelson Spruce (knee) have been declared out.

However, there was good news on the report regarding Spruce. The Pac 12’s all-time leader in receptions was able to participate in practice on a limited basis on Saturday. He did not participate in either of Thursday or Friday’s sessions.

Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher – September 10, 2016

(Opening Remarks)

This closes out the week for us, so now it’s time to rest, recover and then we’ll have a brief walk-thru in the morning, and then head to San Francisco. We’re kind of looking forward to it. Everybody’s good. Our injury report is as follows: (WR) Nelson Spruce is designated as out, along with (WR) Pharoh Cooper and (CB) E.J. Gaines. Then we have (T) Rob Havenstein, who is designated as questionable, and (LB) Bryce Hager is designated as questionable.”

(How LB Bryce Hager has grown since primarily playing special teams last year)

“You know, he paid close attention to our defense last year, you know why he was on all four of them. He had a really good preseason, he’s had a good camp, so no concern whatsoever putting him back behind the ball, and letting him play.

(On the eight months leading up to the season opener and how he feels about in now “being about football”)

“Yeah, its football and we still have some fine tuning as everybody does two days away from kickoff and we have travel. But beyond that, its preparing for those unforeseen situations that come up. A couple more meetings regarding those things and they’re unpredictable things, and just go from there. Then teach them just to play, you know, they’re just going to play. Don’t watch the scoreboard, just go out there and play. We’ll see where we are. It’s a long season.”

(On if it seems as though the regular season came faster than he thought with respect to the teams relocation)

“It’s hard to imagine what we started doing back in March – the move to Oxnard, then the break, then everything in Irvine, and then we’re back here and moved in – now here it goes. Like we said, the rest of the league they don’t care what we’ve been through, so we’ll go show them it was all worth it.”

***

Rams Offensive Coordinator Rob Boras – September 10, 2016

(On his thoughts regarding QB Case Keenum as the starter)

“Like him and everybody else, I feel like we’re all in a good spot. Case is prepared – that’s the one thing he’s been throughout this whole process. He’s handled everything really well. In the opportunities he’s had in the preseason, he played very efficiently and created some scoring drives for us. Real excited to see how it unfolds Monday night for him. I think he’s ready.”

(On if there’s anything different in Keenum’s demeanor this year as the starter, in comparison to taking the starting job through the middle of last season)

“No, I think it’s been very consistent for him. He really embraced it last year when it happened, and he’s had opportunities to start before in Houston, so it wasn’t new for him. He was prepared for it. I’ve seen that same sort of process. He’s probably growing into a leader even more, and I think that’s one of his strengths, and that’s one of the things I’m always telling him and challenging him with, that he can really drive these guys and lead them. And I think obviously just knowing that he’s going in as a starter, it’s allowing him to be an even better leader, because he’s confident with where he is.”

(On where he wants to see QB Case Keenum grow)

“I think obviously as an offense, we all need to continue to get better. I think we’re always talking about playing with tempo. I think as a leader, he’s going to continue to grow just naturally with who he is. But, I think just leading this offense and doing what we’re asking him to do, and never trying to do too much, just staying within himself. Like most of these guys at this level, they’re very hard on themselves, and we’ve all got to play one play at a time. And if something doesn’t go right, how quickly can you move to the next play? And that’s really across the board. But for the quarterback position, you have to have a real short memory.”

(On his expectations for WR Tavon Austin)

“We’ve said it since he’s been here, ‘Tay’ is a special player, and we see it in every avenue when he gets the ball; whether he’s a punt returner, whether he’s a receiver, whether we’ve lined him up in the backfield. He’s an explosive player. I think just with his development, maturing going into where he is in his career now as a receiver. Bringing (Passing game coordinator) Mike Groh in has really helped, not only him technically, but also schematically with us on all offense. It’s just, again, continue to grow on his ability, and really see where we can go with him.”

(On what he’s most excited about regarding the new era of the Rams in Los Angeles)

“It’s the most resilient group of guys I’ve ever been around. In an era where everyone is always complaining or always looking over, these guys have just handled it. Everything is not perfect, nothing in this world is. And they’ve just accepted everything and they’ve moved on. Whether it’s been from leaving St. Louis, to Oxnard, to Irvine, to here, and these guys just keep showing up every day. And if they show that type of resiliency for everything that we just went through, I can’t wait to see how it carries over to the field. Because you need to be resilient, just as I talked about. Everything is not going to go our way. And we need to have that mental toughness and those guys have displayed it, unbelievably, throughout this entire process. And that’s the thing that stands out to me the most with who these guys are. I think that speaks a lot about their character.”

(On where he feels he’s grown as the offensive coordinator since taking over full-time)

“Other than my waistline, since I don’t exercise anymore? I think it’s just a part of the entire staff. We’re all in this whole thing together. I understand that I’m the coordinator, but the entire staff, with (Offensive line) Coach (Paul) Boudreau having over 30 years, and adding (RB Coach) Skip (Peete), and having Mike Groh as I already mentioned. It’s just everybody understanding the collaborative effort that we’re in. Obviously, last year I didn’t have a whole lot of time to think about things when I took over, and I’m just hoping that I don’t overthink things now. The more time you have, the more time you have to overthink it. And I think we’ve just got to trust your instincts and trust the study and the film studies that we’re putting in, and let the plan take care of itself.”

***

Rams Defensive Coordinator Gregg Williams – September 10, 2016

(Opening Statement)

“Beautiful. You guys have been out here all week and this is a great facility, great fields, super offices, very good weight room, training room. I’m happy we’re not moving anymore. This three moves in five months – it is what it is – but this is a fantastic situation here. (Head Coach) Jeff (Fisher) and I went through that a long time ago – back in, what, 1997 – when we moved from Houston to Nashville and we had the real old-fashioned trailers where the doors into the trailers were so tight and small that the players had to duck and turn sideways and all the linemen couldn’t even get in the building. So this is a fantastic setup, we’ve had a good week. Now it’s time to get ready to play.”

(On how he felt the first-team defense defended against the run in the preseason)

“We’ve played pretty decent without having much scheme changes. As you know, hopefully you watch film before you ask a question – I’m not going to talk about scheme on the air.”

(On how difficult this week was, from a coaching standpoint, when the 49ers’ coaching staff and scheme has changed since last year)

“We’ve gone against them before. Every coach has a history, there’s nothing secret anymore. Every single game film in college, every single game film in the NFL, you guys get to watch and every fan gets to watch. There’s nothing secret anymore about the game. We understand (49ers Head) Coach (Chip) Kelly, I have a respect for him and his staff. Heck, I’ve got a former protégé that I coached many years and all of the sudden was on my staff and now (49ers inside linebackers coach) Joe Bowden is up there coaching. There’s really not anything that’s hidden anymore in our league. I think Jeff has said this, our head coach has said this earlier in the week – it’s going to be about execution. We have to go out there and do what we’re supposed to do right. It’s past the coaching now.”

(On how LB Alec Ogletree has developed into the middle linebacker spot)

“I’m very proud of him and I would love for you guys to do more stories about him and go talk to him and talk to his teammates. Anytime you ask a question of an athlete like Alec, he’s going to give you the right answer, the right response. He’s going to be very humble. One of the things, when I first got here a few years ago, everybody told me, ‘You can’t get him to talk, he’s not going to say much.’ And I said this back out there in Oxnard is I think I created a monster, I can’t get him to shut up anymore. He’s so quick-witted, he’s funny, he’s a good young man. But he’s a lot smarter, schematically, and a lot smarter (in) football intelligence than a lot of people gave him credit for. He’s come a long ways, but until you get into the games with the real bullets flying and the real snaps, those are the measures that you’ll always be evaluated by. He’s done very well and his teammates – you can’t fool your teammates – his teammates listen to him because they know he’s right and they know how much work he puts in. It’s been fun for me to watch and I’m serious when I say this – I’ll probably get in trouble – he’s been in here more than our quarterbacks. And he’s been in the film room longer than some of our coaching staff around here. So you have to respect the fact that he’s going to get an opinion because he works hard. And he’s worked so hard and how he’s led our team through training camp – spring practice is one thing – but really training camp and now here, I’ve been very impressed with him, I really have.”

(On some of the challenges that 49ers QB Blaine Gabbert presents with his arm and his legs)

“He does a very good job as far as his quick-rhythm throws, he’s a very accurate passer. I’ve known a lot about him since he was at the University of Missouri, a St. Louis kid, and I know the family pretty well and (former Missouri Head) Coach (Gary) Pinkel and I are good friends from when all those guys were together down on the Missouri staff. I think he’s grown, and he’s handled some adversity situations in the National Football League in a very positive way. It’s not as much, in my personal opinion, about how you handle all the good things, it’s how you handle the tough things. He’s had some injuries, he’s had some benchings, he’s had some things where he said, ‘Hey, I’m going to keep going, I’m going to keep improving,’ and he has. I was very impressed with how he played last year, when we had a chance to play against him last year. And he’s had a good preseason, so we’ll see how he is on Monday night. But he’s done well.”

(On the young linebackers that he’s excited about)

“We have young linebackers, but we have young DBs. And you know, one of the things that you guys have to take a look at from your inexperience part of it is that you’re going to have to decide – you take a look at how many teams we’re going to play this year that’s going to play two backs in the backfield against us. Not very many people like doing that against us. Take a look at how many times we’re going to play three linebackers this entire season. We’re going to play (DB) Lamarcus (Joyner), we’re going to play another safety, another corner, another player in those areas that a linebacker plays. One of the guys who played for me at Buffalo, Washington, Jacksonville and New Orleans and then he was an intern coach for us last year was Pierson Prioleau. So, I started doing this a long, long time ago and he played on four different teams as a DB that played linebacker. And again, I said this earlier, think about all the head shaking and all the head-scratching and the criticizing when I moved (LB/S) Mark Barron in there (to linebacker) last year – he’s pretty good isn’t he, is everybody going to claim that one now, that was a pretty good move? We’re going to play the best guys we have that they bring in the door. I don’t draft them, I don’t sign them, but when they get here, I’m going to coach them and if they don’t like how (I coach them), then that’s too bad.”

(On his philosophy to fit the scheme to the players he has)

“One of the things is that, in our playbook, no matter what it is in the league, how come everybody doesn’t have the same playbook? Why doesn’t everybody play the same scheme? Why doesn’t everybody play the same call? Does that mean that nobody has the answer? What it means is, if you’re any good at all, you will adapt, schematically to the skillset of the players. And here’s a real simple thought-process, why would I coach (DT) Michael Brockers and (DT) Aaron Donald the same way? They play the same position, why wouldn’t I coach them the same way? But people want to do that – no, no, no, no, no. we’ll do the same thing on how we adapt, this year’s scheme, as opposed to the last two years that I’ve been here or when I was at the Saints or the Redskins or the Bills or the Titans. We have to adjust what’s best for these young men right here and what’s best for Alec, (S) Maurice (Alexander) back there in the back-end, (S) T.J. (McDonald) in the back-end being the quarterback of our secondary – and we’ll do that, we’ll adapt that and I’m not afraid to do that, and I’m not afraid to give them say. And as you talk to them more, you’ll see how much say they have in what we do.”

(On if he considers LB Bryce Hager as Alec Ogletree’s backup)

“There are a lot of different people backing up everybody, a lot of people. And that’s another good question, so that I don’t get irritated again – we don’t have backups. If you dress, you start. If you make an NFL team, you start. How much you play is how good are you, but everybody plays in this league, there’s no backups.

NFL chat with Jim Thomas

http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/NFL_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_20?Page=2

Is this FINALLY the end of the line for Aldon Smith?
by Rudy Bukich 1:07 PM

Not quite. But I think he’s close.
by jthomas 1:07 PM

Jim, I knew Aldon Smith a little at Mizzou. We had biology class together in 2010. Super nice guy, it is really sad to see what has happened to him. You just wonder what happened in his mind when he left Missouri and went to the Bay Area.
by TexasTiger 1:08 PM

Interesting. Yeah, I don’t know much about his time at Mizzou.
by jthomas 1:09 PM

Also, I did receive the email about Los Angeles Rams hats….just laughed and clicked the unsubscribe button in the email.
by StlFanDan 1:09 PM

Aldon Smith made a pre-draft visit to Rams Park when he came out. I know he turned off some in the Rams front office during the visit. Supposedly, they didn’t like his attitude.
by jthomas 1:11 PM

Were you invited to the Friday dinner with the Rams legends? Would’ve loved to be a fly on the wall there.
by rp 1:11 PM

I attended a media session before hand at the restaurant.. It was great to see the players, and it was great to see them interact with their former teammates. After a couple of minutes together, the old stories start flowing like the players were still in the locker room together.
by jthomas 1:14 PM

Yes – I got one of the hat emails: I unsubscribed to the Rams emails immediately.
In recognition of the event last weekend, my 5 best wins in St. Louis Rams history (not counting the Super Bowl or NFC Championship Game wins: too easy):
1. 49-37 Divisional Playoff win over Minnesota in Jan. 2000 – almost better than winning the Super Bowl
2. 27-20 Divisional Playoff win at Seattle in Jan. 2005 – 3 for 3 that season!
3. 42-20 over San Francisco in Oct. 1999 – finally breaking the 49ers losing streak
4. 33-27 (OT) at Seattle in Oct. 2004 – the most unlikely comeback!
5. 27-14 over San Francisco in Dec. 2001 – Niners were treating it like a “see where we’re at” game. Ans they found out.
Honorable Mention: 16-13 (OT) over San Francisco in Dec. 2012 – hey, a win in the Fisher Era! Memorable game, though.
by kman 1:14 PM

I like your list. I’d have to include the very first St. Louis Rams victory, 17-14, at Green Bay. Unheralded second-year pro Isaac Bruce blocked a Craig Hentrich punt, getting to the ball so quickly it hadn’t even reached Hentrich’s foot. Then on the very next play, he lined up at wide receiver and caught a touchdown pass. Some other’s to consider, the Trent Green revenge game in 2000, with Mike Martz pouring it on in a 57-31 victory over San Diego _ 13 months after Rodney Harrison crashed into Green’s leg in a preseason game; or how about that 20-17 overtime victory at Philadelphia to start the 2001 season.
by jthomas 1:21 PM

Jim do you remember on maybe back to back plays where Ironhead Heyward and Toby Wright hit each other? I think they each won one of those. Always have tried to find a clip to no avail.
by Tom 1:21 PM

I believe it was in ’96 or ’97, in Atlanta.
by jthomas 1:22 PM

In his MMQB column, this week, Peter King says the NFL doesn’t have enough minority head coaches given their success (with which I concur) but also makes a couple of other interesting points including: Head coaching is a young person’s game and head coaches don’t get enough time to succeed. Do you think Brooks, Linehan or Spagnuolu could’ve made the Rams winners, eventually? Do you think younger NFL head coaches would be better?
by bfulton 1:22 PM

Of the three, I think Brooks might have been the best head coach. With a strong general manager _ he was saddled with Steve Ortmayer _ he might have had a chance. Remember, Big Daddy got only two seasons. John Shaw felt bad about that in retrospect, and it factored into him giving Dick Vermeil a third year in 1999.
by jthomas 1:25 PM

Hey Jimbo-Come party with me!
by Tre Mason 1:25 PM

Sorry Tre. Not much of a partier these days.
by jthomas 1:25 PM

And, to keep things in balance, my 5 most excruciating losses (not counting the Super Bowl ‘loss’ to the Patriots):
1. 29-23 (OT) to Carolina in the Divisional Playoff in Jan. 2004 – to this day I can’t think about this game without getting angry!
2. 31-28 at New Orleans in the Divisional Playoff in Jan. 2000 – if Az-Hakim doesn’t fumble that punt, I still think the Rams come back to win
3. 38-35 at Tampa Bay in Dec. 2000 – Monday night, another galling loss
4. 24-22 at Seattle in Nov. 2006 – thank you, Richie Incognito
5. 10-3 at Philadelphia in Dec. 2002 – the true end of the Greatest Show on Turf era
Honorable Mention: either of 2 home losses to Seattle in 2007 (24-19) or 2013 (14-9) – gotta punch it in , guys
by kman 1:25 PM

Excellent choices, Kman. Can’t argue with anny of them. The ’02 game in Philly was the game in which Warner’s hand was bothering him badly and the aftermath led to the Brenda-gate outburst.
by jthomas 1:27 PM

My outsider view of Spags was that he was an insecure coach who wasn’t a true leader. Were the rumors true that he banned Hanifan from using the gym at Rams Park and took down pictures from the GSOT era?
by rp 1:27 PM

Yes, Hanifan was not allowed in the building. And yes, the pictures were taken down. Spags is a good man, but was just too much of a control freak as a head coach. Insecurity may have played a role in that.
by jthomas 1:28 PM

To add to the excruciating loss list, how about the loss to Detroit in 1999. 4th and 18 or something right? Or, the loss to the Titans in ’99. Wasn’t there a terrible non-call on a roughing the kicker that could’ve made a difference in that one?
by rp 1:28 PM

Taje Allen getting beat in Detroit! Some of the Rams in town for the Legends game were joking about that Friday night.
by jthomas 1:29 PM

Any behind the scenes anecdotes you can share from the Legends of the Dome “reunion” this past weekend?
by rp 1:29 PM

Mike Furrey is head coach at Limestone College, a Div. II school in South Carolina. Mike Jones is head coach at Lincoln U., a Div. II in Jeff City, Mo. I suggested to Furrey that the schedule each other. Most players signed memorabilia with their uniform numbers. I was asked to sign a few items, and put 431 next to my signature. That’s the number of preseason, regular season, and playoff games for the Rams during their 21 seasons in St. Louis. All in all, it was a great afternoon. The players genuinely enjoyed being there, and with rare exception patiently signed everything put in from of them. Not only were the former players on hand, but former Rams PR personnel, game day (press box) personnel, team doctors, trainers, equipment guys were all on hand to help run the event on their own time. It was great to see them all.
by jthomas 1:35 PM

Who does better this year, Bradford – Eagles or Rams?
by Don 1:35 PM

I’ll go Bradford-Eagles, but not by an overwhelming amount. I see the EAgles as like an 8-8 squad.
by jthomas 1:36 PM

I heard on the radio, or in a chat, or on Twitter, or somewhere, that you’re going to the opening of Rams training camp. One question: Why?
by Shirley in Fenton 1:36 PM

Because the team’s first practices in California as well as the first home game in California are part of the story of the team leaving St. Louis. If you are following our coverage of the Rams, it has been cut back drastically from what it used to be, and that will continue to be the case. But we will continue to have some coverage. Many fans are still interested because they want to root against the team. I’ve had many other fans tell me they hate what Kroenke did, but hold no ill will against the players, especially those who played in St. Louis. I’ve had some fans in StL tell me it’s the only team they’ve ever known, and will continue to follow the Rams.
by jthomas 1:40 PM

How much do you think the Rams will miss Jenkins this year? It seems as if he caught inordinate amount of criticism among fans. He stayed relatively healthy and outside of a few bad decisions seemed to be the Rams most productive corner since his arrival in STL.
by Fletch32 1:40 PM

Jenkins has a lot of talent, and was serious about his craft at Rams Park. But he could also be a selfish player, gambling for interceptions and getting burned. His tackling was inconsistent. Saying that, his play last season was easily his most consistent as a Ram. If E.J.Gaines returns to his 2014 form as a rookie, the absence of Jenkins will be minimized. If not, of if Trumaine Johnson is injured, then there will be problems.
by jthomas 1:42 PM

Any chance of Kurt Warner making a run as a third party candidate this year? He’d have my vote and I think he’d win in a landslide (and i probably don’t even agree with him on most issues).
by rp 1:43 PM

That’s funny. I’ve never asked Kurt about any political ventures. Don’t think it’s in the Cards.
by jthomas 1:43 PM

Will you still be reporting on the Rams or shifting into more of a columnist role?
by RamsFansUnited 1:43 PM

My new job description is NFL writer. So there will be some Rams coverage, but it will be more broad-based coverage. Last week, for instance, I wrote about the possibility of the Raiders moving to Las Vegas. For this Wednesday _ tomorrow _ I’m writing 10 questions (and answers) around the NFL as training camps open.
by jthomas 1:46 PM

Jim, have any of the GSOT players said anonymously anything bad about the NFL or Kroenke?
by TexasTiger 1:46 PM

Not as much as you’d think. Otherwise no comment.
by jthomas 1:46 PM

Jim, was there any talk among the guys this past weekend about trying to do a charity game again in the future or was this it?
by WIU Leatherneck 1:46 PM

Some thought it would be a good idea. But the cost and time expended by Tiffani Burris of the Isaac Bruce Foundation and Bruce himself, probably means it’s a one-shot deal. For example, it cost more than $100,000 just to open the dome doors for business. Bruce got no breaks on that from the stadium people. Plus, it’s difficult to get all these players together at one time.
by jthomas 1:49 PM

Since you’re doing more reporting on the entire NFL, now, could you do reporting for fantasy football?
by bfulton 1:49 PM

Thanks for asking. As part of a regular Sunday NFL package we’re planning, we will have some sort of Fantasy Football presence.
by jthomas 1:50 PM

Hi Jim, here’s the link to bring the nfl back to st louis on facebook. http://www.facebook.com
by Alton Ken 1:50 PM

Alton Ken, believe it or not I’m not a facebook guy. But my wife is on facebook and I’ll try to have here punch it in for me. Thx.
by jthomas 1:51 PM

Where do you see, the PD NFL coverage in 3 years? Next year, I expect to see a heavy Rams coverage with more coverage than previous years of the other regional teams (Chiefs, Colts, and etc) but in three years and as the Rams roster churns, there will be less connection with the team.
by Mark S 1:51 PM

That’s a good question. So the short answer is probably less Rams coverage and more regional or overall league coverage as the years go by.
by jthomas 1:52 PM

Howcome no Faulk this past weekend? He was at a golf tournament? Weak. In my opinion, he has been tepid at best in his defense of St. Louis’ football fans, in the wake of StanK’s condemnation of our value as a football town. I get that he works for NFL network, but so does Kurt.
by rp 1:52 PM

Yeah, I talked to Marshall about this a couple of weeks ago, and I believe he was in the big charity pro-am at Lake Tahoe and couldn’t get out of that commitment.
by jthomas 1:53 PM

Jim, Josh Gordon had drug issues in college. I believe he has 3 suspensions in the NFL. I believe in second chances, but what kind of message is Goodell sending. When is enough enough? Thanks.
by Michael 1:53 PM

Well, there’s no indication that he will make the Browns’ final roster. And yes, Gordon has had more chances here than many people get in life.
by jthomas 1:54 PM

Jake Long to the Ravens. Not that he’s away from that cancer of a team…pro bowler again?
by Road to 0-16 1:54 PM

Don’t think the knees and other assorted injuries/surgeries over the years will allow it.
by jthomas 1:54 PM

Several teams, including the Rams, have made big and risky investments in unproven QBs, this offseason. Who do you think made the best bet?
by bfulton 1:55 PM

I still think Paxton Lynch could very well be considered the best of the lot when all is said and done in a few years. Plus Denver didn’t have to give up all those picks to get him like Philly did for Wentz and the Rams did for Goff.
by jthomas 1:56 PM

Hello Jim, What are your thoughts about moving T. J. McDonald to LB to replace Akeem Ayers (hybrid S/LB)?
by Pat M 1:56 PM

You know, T.J.’s hard-hitting playing style could make him an effective undersized LB, but the Rams already have one of those in Mark Barron. They probably don’t need two.
by jthomas 1:57 PM

Do you think if the Rams get off to a good start the rating here will drop? I will watch every week as long as they’re getting blown out.
by Road to 0-16 1:57 PM

Interesting question. Will most of the Rams fans watching here root for the team to lose, or to win? It could be a mixture.
by jthomas 1:58 PM

I sure hope Ike’s foundation didn’t get stuck with a bill after the event last weekend. Any info on that? I was hoping more fans would show up than that. I’m sure he didn’t, but that would’ve been a great opportunity for Kroenke to make amends…maybe a nice sized donation towards the event and Ike’s foundation.
by rp 1:58 PM

I’m told they made a modest profit when all was said and done, but nothing to write home about. The only Rams involvement that I’m aware of was sending a list of former dome suite holders to the Legends organizers, but most of those e-mails bounced back. The Bruce Foundation people asked for a season-ticket list from the Rams _ for help in contacting potential Legends ticket buyers _ but I was told the Rams declined to do so. The LA Rams had an employee there who’s involved in the team’s charity flag football game in Carson, Calif. next month. Interesting, isn’t it, that after zero flag football games in 21 seasons in St. Louis, the Rams decide to hold one in their first year back in LA next month, just a few weeks after Bruce’s game.
by jthomas 2:05 PM

I guess what i meant was, in Irvine will you be covering the Rams like a beat reporter covering the team, or more as a columnist on the aftermath of the move, if that makes sense…
by RamsFansUnited 2:05 PM

I get it. The short answer is a little of both. I’ll certainly want to describe the scene and atmosphere in Irvine. But also write about some of the players.
by jthomas 2:06 PM

Attendance figure for Legends of Dome was just over 10,000, correct? Did you get any sense that Bruce was disappointed in turnout?
by Andy 2:06 PM

Yes, he would’ve liked to have seen more people there, but was very happy about the response and the warm feelings generated by those who were there.
by jthomas 2:07 PM

Hi again, More about moving T. J. opposite of Barron. I was thinking more into the future if Ayers doesn’t work out
by Pat M 2:07 PM

Again, I don’t think you necessarily want two undersized linebackers lining up _ meaning Barron and McDonald both lining up at linebacker at the same time.
by jthomas 2:08 PM

What we’re the deciding factors that led to the cards leaving after 1987?
by Corey 2:08 PM

I was covering Mizzou football and basketball at the time, so I wasn’t involved in the coverage. But it was all about the stadium, a football only stadium because the Big Red as they were called locally at the time had been sharing Busch Stadium with the baseball squad. The big difference between then and now as I recall is that St. Louis civic, business, and political leaders didn’t really have anything resembling a stadium plan. This time around, with the Rams, there was a stadium plan in place by Peacock & Blitz. A stadium plan that Houston owner Robert McNair, chairman of the NFL finance committee, said was “pretty close” to being a good plan in early December.
by jthomas 2:12 PM

jim used to be a rams fan. now I’m going for the titans what do u think their record will be.
by scott 2:12 PM

I think the Titans will be improved. It looks like they want to re-establish themselves as a power running team, hearkening back to the days of Eddie George. Dorial Green-Beckham needs to step up his game at wide receiver. But I think the AFC South will be an improved division overall this year after being a floor mat in recent years. I think Jax will be much improved. Houston bears watching with Osweiler. And the Colts should rebound with a healthy Andrew Luck.
by jthomas 2:14 PM

See another team that may have interest in Foles for a backup? Thanks
by Paul 2:18 PM

Unless there are some injury needs that crop up in the preseason/training camp, I can’t see anybody trading for him. So teams I think will wait to see if he gets released at the end of camp.
by jthomas 2:19 PM

With ESPN Nick Wagnor headed to the 49ers any chance you can take his spot for the Rams?
by Dwayne 2:19 PM

Nope. But best of luck to Nick, a good man and a good reporter.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

What if Nick Foles came into camp and set the field on fire?
by Dwayne 2:20 PM

Don’t think he’ll get that chance.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

do u think st.louis will ever get a team again
by scott 2:20 PM

Doesn’t seem likely in the short term. For one, I don’t think the current group of civic, business, and political leaders have any appetite for pursuing a team, not after they spent lots of time, effort, and money ($16 million) to keep the Rams here and felt like they got nothing resembling a fair shake in return from the league _ and certainly not Kroenke. I do wonder about the long-term viability of the Jaguars in Jacksonville. But that’s a ways down the road, if it materializes.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

Any chance Higgbee beats out Kendriks in camp?
by Dwayne 2:24 PM

Slim. . .and none.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

I recently watched a documentary on Netflix called “Sonicsgate” that discussed Seattle’s loss of its NBA team. Many similarities in this situation and to the loss of the Rams in STL. If the opportunity was presented to you, would you consider being the local journalist who is interviewed to provide background and details on the shady moves by Stan, Demoff, Grubman, owners, etc.? Know any good, local filmmakers who may want to create an ESPN “30 for 30?”
by Greyhound314 2:25 PM

I don’t know. If ESPN has no apparent interest in doing a 30-for-30 on the Greatest Show on Turf _ which I think would be a compelling story _ why would they have an interest in the Rams departure from St. Louis?
by jthomas 2:27 PM

Question for the big O.. As a HOF left tackle what does he see or not see in GRob that is causing him to get so many penalties and does he think GRob can overcome those issues?
by Players fan, not NFL fan 2:27 PM

I’ll pass it along.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

My 2 cents, I left the dome last Saturday with my family and grateful feelings towards the GSOT and Isaac. Truly enjoyed seeing many people I got to know over the years, looked at my old booth which is now empty and closed that chapter. I hope the players are not strangers to STL, but that ending was for us and it ended on our terms. Long live the St. Louis Rams.
by TK 2:29 PM

Thanks for sharing those thoughts.
by jthomas 2:29 PM

Fisher should have picked up Anquan Boldin while he could and cut Quick real quick?
by Dwayne 2:29 PM

I think Boldin would prefer playing for a contender, particularly at this stage of his career.
by jthomas 2:30 PM

Only reason I ask about cards is it makes me wonder if we had our act together they’d be here today. I think that’s where we dropped the ball.
by Corey 2:34 PM

I don’t think St. Louis had it’s act together when it came to the Cardinals. Keep in mind, we also fumbled as a city/region when it came to the expansion bid in the early 1990s.
by jthomas 2:35 PM

Any injury report from Saturday? I saw more than a few guys holding on to their hammys by the 3rd quarter.
by rational fan 2:35 PM

Jeff Wilkins suffered at the least a sprained ankle when he was thrown down on the sidelines by his former long snapper, Chris Massey. His left ankle was wrapped as he left the field Saturday, said it would truly mess up his golf game for a while. I’m sure there were plenty of aches and pains for others on Sunday and Monday as well.
by jthomas 2:37 PM

Jim, This is truly outrageous. Today I got an email from the LA Rams trying to sell Rams’ hats and jerseys. Are they nuts? Anyone else get such an email? Your thoughts.
by Snugglemoose 2:37 PM

Yeah, seems like a lot of people got the e-mail.
by jthomas 2:38 PM

I’m at a weird pace as far as what I would like to see the PD cover NFL-wise. As an organization, I hope the Rams continue to perform exactly as they did here for the last 12 years indefinitely. However, there were players who showed true compassion for STL fans (Heck, Quinn among others) that I will continue to root for and Gurley has a fan for life for immediately acknowledging STL fans when he won the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. However again, I’m looking forward to your broader-based coverage of the league.
by YZ 2:44 PM

We plan to make some training camp stops in the Midwest. And we’ll be in Arrowhead on Sept. 11 for the Chiefs’ season opener. Interesting question. Will most of the Rams fans watching here root for the team to lose, or to win? It could be a mixture.
by jthomas 2:45 PM

I’m rooting that the Rams lose for as long as Kroenke owns the team. That would be an interesting poll question. My gut is many in St. Louis feel the same way I do, but I’m open to the possibility some misguided souls will still root for them – like an addict that can’t kick a bad habit.
by JR 2:46 PM

Maybe that will be a poll question next week.
by jthomas 2:47 PM

Last year Jeff Fisher was on the sideline(forget the game) with the player huddled around him while he was trying to motivate them. I knew then that the Rams were missing players how were leaders. Now with C. Long and JL55 gone they are even more devoid of players who are leaders in my mind. How do you see stepping up now on O and D?
by Players fan, not NFL fan 2:48 PM

I think Ogletree has some leadership qualities that will come to the forefront this season at middle linebacker. William Hayes has always been a team leader. On offense, I’m thinking Cory Harkey, maybe Lance Kendricks.
by jthomas 2:49 PM

I would love to hear about Orlando’s memories of Coach Hannifan during games.
by Trip 2:49 PM

Good one. I’m writing it down.
by jthomas 2:50 PM

Do you see Mason eventually using up all of his chances and getting cut?
by steve r 2:50 PM

He’s getting ever closer to that point.
by jthomas 2:50 PM

I’d like to see the Rams references removed from the Post Dispatch. No sense giving free publicity to the team owner that didn’t want to stay in our town.
by MB 2:50 PM

Well, you’ll have to settle for fewer Rams references.
by jthomas 2:50 PM

Where their guys you were suprised to see didnt show for the Legends game?
by Jiffy Jeff 2:54 PM

Not really. I had contact with Faulk and London Fletcher, and knew they had commitments they couldn’t get out of. I was told Kevin Carter also had such a commitment. As for Steven Jackson, I was told he’s still contemplating playing this year, so he didn’t want to commit. And Long and Laurinaitis are reporting to camps this week and I’m sure didn’t want to pull a hammy or something in a flag football game. Fred Miller had agreed to play but didn’t show. Don’t know why. Tommy Polley was a surprise appearance, organizers didn’t know he was coming, but there he was. (He was the one _ the only one _ on the field without a legends jersey.)
by jthomas 2:58 PM

Hi Jim, Here is a question for Orlando Pace, ask is the Rams have a “ring of fame” once they get the new stadium in Inglewood built, would he be receptive to being there for the honor even though he never played in LA? As a Ram fan, I know he would surly deserve it as one of the greatest Rams of all time.
by RR 2:58 PM

I’ll ask. Thx.
by jthomas 2:58 PM

I pull for individual success of SOME of the players, especially after they leave the team via FA, but hope for the franchise to fail miserably. I’m not sure if that’s possible, but that’s what I feel. Make sense? I wonder if others feel that way.
by steve r 2:58 PM

Makes sense. I’m sure there are others that feel the same way.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

With no injuries involved can Reynolds beat out Saffold straight up?
by Dwayne 2:59 PM

Can’t see it. Reynolds is tough and smart. But Saffold is strong and athletic.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

Do you see enough improvement in the Rams’ o-line?
by damien 3:00 PM

A healthy Saffold means instant improvement right off the bat. A healthy Jamon Brown and another year for Rob Havenstein should only help. Greg Robinson of course is a key.
by jthomas 3:06 PM

I’ll be rooting for certain ex-StL Rams (Long, Laurinitis, Gurley). But, I hope the Rams go 0 for eternity. I also hope they continue to have the worst HC and GM in the business. Also, you may still have to deal with him, so you probably can’t answer honestly…but, did you always know Demoff was a little weasel?
by rp 3:07 PM

Honestly, Kevin and I always had a good relationship. Sure we had some ups and downs. But I can only think of one time he misled me. I get the ill-will. It’s totally understood. And I’m sure there are some things Kevin regrets doing or saying and would have done differently.
by jthomas 3:08 PM

Couldn’t help but think Of Bryan Burwell when I was at the Dome on Saturday. I used to have a press pass and even as a radio nobody, Mr Burwell was always very nice and always said hello when a lot of other guys wouldn’t even look us.
by Jiffy Jeff 3:08 PM

He was the best. I think of him often. And miss him dearly.
by jthomas 3:09 PM

not much of an o-line, Case as QB, no-one to catch a ball….how long before the Rams use up Gurley?
by Bigtuna 3:09 PM

That could be a concern given Gurley’s past injury history and the lack of anything resembling a proven passing game.
by jthomas 3:10 PM

Had the same thought about Burwell while at the game Saturday. He and Strauss are really missed.
by rp 3:10 PM

No doubt. I didn’t know Joe nearly as well as I knew Bryan _ in part because of his time spent as a Cardinals baseball beat writer. But I got to know Joe better once he became a columnist, and yes, I think about him a lot as well.
by jthomas 3:12 PM

So Kroenke wanted a fee from Shad Kahn to sell his 40%!to him?
by Tim C 3:12 PM

As I recall at the time, that was the case.
by jthomas 3:13 PM

I always get the impression that the national media thinks the Rams have moved back “where they belong”, hence there’s really no outrage on the move outside of St. Louis. Seems to me that the GSOT was undervalued nationally way back when too; there seemed to be a bias against St. Louis as the Rams’ home the whole time.
Also, was there any bias against the Rams because they were the only team owned by a woman (seen by some as ‘eccentric’)?
by kman 3:13 PM

I know some in the national media have expressed that sentiment to me, and if that’s the case, perhaps the Lakers should return to Minneapolis, the Clippers to San Diego, and the Dodgers to Brooklyn to square all accounts. And I guess the Rams by all rights should return to Cleveland _ they spent their first decade there after all. The Greatest Show Rams were considered a finesse team by some, and trust me, that description rankled Martz and the players at the time. But I think they got plenty of respect overall. In the case of Georgia, I think some of those feelings were present when it came to the league and some club owners _ she was eccentric. But I don’t recall that such feelings were prevalent among league owners however.
by jthomas 3:19 PM

Randy Kariker (sp?) said on the radio the other day that a close friend of Georgia’s told him Saturday that when she wasn’t doing well StanK promised her that he wouldn’t move the rams from STL when he took over the team. Have you ever heard anything about this before?
by steve r 3:20 PM

Sorry, haven’t heard that one.
by jthomas 3:20 PM

Gut feeling for Rams record this season?
by Adam 3:21 PM

OK, one more. I’ll make some kind of prediction at the end of training camp.
by jthomas 3:22 PM

Head Coach Jeff Fisher –– June 1, 2016

(Opening Remarks)
“We are the last team to start OTAs, and we started them yesterday. We did that for a reason and that is to get the rookies caught up over this period of time so they can compete out here on the field, at least physically and we did a lot of mental work. Yesterday, we started our OTAs with a team meeting and you go through the administrative stuff, and I talked to them about the three players that were not here in yesterday’s meeting and wouldn’t be there. One is (RB) Tre Mason who has been excused for personal reasons, we’re in contact with Tre. Second is (S) T.J. McDonald, and that’s also the case – he’s been excused for personal reasons and we’ve been in touch with T.J. And lastly it was (QB) Nick (Foles).

“I explained to the players, as it was correctly reported this morning, that he has not been here and participating in the offseason program since the draft. I’ve had conversations with Nick and we’re on the same page. We’re trying to work things out and that’s pretty much all I can say. These are voluntary. We have three quarterbacks on the field right now, it’s hard enough to get reps for all three of them. We’re in the process of sorting things out with Nick. It has nothing to do with him not wanting to come in and compete at all. He’s very, very competitive. We appreciate everything he did for us, and his leadership, his teammates miss him. But, I don’t have any more information other than we’re just trying to work things out.

“The big picture of the OTAs, we are going to have all of our offense in, all of our defense in for second time by the end of the OTAs, same thing with our special teams and then we’ll take a break. We have one more this week and then we have three the next couple weeks. With that being said, I’ll entertain your questions.”

(On when he says that he is on the same page with Foles, if that means that he’s telling him to stay away because the team may try and trade him)

“We talked again, as I said, and I think Nick has the feeling that if things stay the same, he’s probably not going to be on the roster. But beyond that, it was more of a mutual thing. It’s not that we said don’t come, it was just saying, ‘Hey Coach, I would just rather stay away until we get things figured out,’ and I said, ‘I’m fine with that.’

(On how disappointed he is that Foles isn’t participating in OTAs)

“I’m on the same page with Nick, so it has nothing to do with being disappointed. It has to do with the business side of our game right now.”

(On if he saw what he expected he would see on the field today)

“Yes, it’s a progression. We introduced more offense. Got some good things out of (QB) Case (Keenum), and good things out of (QB) Sean (Mannion), and some really good things out of (QB) Jared (Goff). Everybody is running around good. We have a time limit here, so we’re abiding by the time limit. We’re trying to practice as fast as we can, and at the same time, protect each other.”

(On how he gauges when to give more reps to a young quarterback like Goff and/or get him reps with the 2s and 1s)

“Our plan is to continue to increase the reps through the OTAs. By the time the OTAs are done, he’s going to have reps with the 1s. That’s how you develop a young quarterback is give him reps with the 1s. Now, we had a period out here, we call it a 4-on-3 period, where it’s passing only and there’s four defenders defending three interior receivers, and he was working against our starting defense and they made a couple plays and there’s no receivers outside to throw to and he’s never done that before – it was his first time in a 4-on-3 drill, so nothing to be alarmed about.”

(On if this week has a normal feeling to it with the team back on the field after the relocation)

“Yes, it was exciting to get back in the meeting. There was a little break for the vets last week. It was really exciting to get back in the meeting and start things yesterday.”

(On if Mason and McDonald will not participate in any of the OTAs)

“It is quite likely that they will miss the OTA sessions.”

(On if this relocation has been easier since he has gone through it once before and if it has been difficult for him to move back home)

“Well, there’s nothing difficult about me coming back home personally – that’s a really exciting opportunity. As far as the move is concerned, it’s different. It’s different than the first time around. As we’ve said, we’ve got tremendous help. Our support staff has done an incredible job considering that we had to come here and then set back up downtown for the draft. And now we have a couple weeks here and then we have to go to UC Irvine – we’re looking forward to that. But, we’ve got great partners out there helping us right now – that includes the University of Southern California, the Coliseum Commission and everybody.”

(On what his number one priority is during OTAs considering they have a limited time period)

“Well, it’s to get through the entire offensive playbook with all the players. We got through it the first time in Phase I and Phase II and now we’re re-installing again, and that’s really what everybody does. Then you come back and you install a third time in camp. As we move into next week and the following week we’ll be doing a lot of situation things – the two-minute and the four-minute and all those other things that come up – but right now we’re kind of in that base offense and defense and third-down phase. From a competitive standpoint, you have to be careful. The closer you get to the goal line the more competitive it gets and we don’t have pads. So we have to do our best to avoid contact and it’s been a good learning experience for the young guys learning how to practice without pads. If you’re familiar college football they put pads on in the spring practice. This is our equivalent of spring practice without pads.”

(On his message to young players developing into a leadership role, particularly with Jared Goff playing the quarterback position)

“It’s be yourself. He wouldn’t have had the success he had at Cal had he not had those qualities, so just be yourself. Come in and learn the offense, execute and things fall into place that way.”

(On CB E.J. Gaines’ status and if they’re being cautious with him)

“Yeah, there’s a few players that are coming off some things that occurred at the end of the season last year. Typically speaking, there’s always going to be a few offseason surgeries. We call them ‘tune-ups’ and things like that. You’ve got to make sure the guys are ready and able to compete. We have a lot of different practice categories. Most are ‘full,’ some are ‘limited,’ some are not permitted to practice right now. Our training staff does a great job keeping us informed and in turn we’re obviously trying to get everybody back on the field.”

(On where Gaines falls in the Rams’ practice category as it relates to injured players)

“You guys are going to hate this answer, but I’ll have an injury report for you the first week of the regular season (laughs).”

(On WR Stedman Bailey and how happy he is to have him around)

“It’s been great to have him. He’s been in the meetings, been helping out. We’ll have some more information here shortly I’m sure.”

(On what he’s expecting to see from WR Tavon Austin this season as a player and as a team leader)

“Tavon, he’s learning this offense because the offense has changed. So, his focus is just on that right now. This offense has been re-designed to make sure he gets touches of the football. As a result there’s a lot more for him to do. But we’re only in the second day, so Tavon will be fine. He’s doing a great job. He hasn’t missed a day. He’s going to have a big year this year.”

(On OL Greg Robinson and what he’s looking to see from him during OTAs)

“The entire offensive line has doubled in size here in the weight room. They’re all bigger and stronger and quicker, so that’s a good thing. Greg is throwing around a lot more weight. He has a much better feel for what we’re doing. He’s sitting at the front of the classroom. He wants to prove something and that’s a good thing for him.”

(On how Goff has progressed since he was first handed a playbook to now in terms of how quickly he’s been able to pick up on everything)

“He’s done a great job. There’s a lot involved and it takes time, but he’s way ahead of where he was even a week ago and that’s only going to get better as we move through the next couple of weeks.”

(On how he can measure Goff’s progression with the playbook and if he has any specific examples)

“Yes, it’s the time that he’s spent in the classroom with the coaching staff, with (Quarterbacks) Coach (Chris) Weinke, and then what’s translating over on the field. We give him more and more offense. As I said, he’s going to get more and more reps. There may be a day when he gets all the No. 1 reps before we’re done with camp. That certainly doesn’t mean to say that he’s won the job, but it means to say he’s developing in the offense and you want to give him that opportunity. It’s different when you’re under center and you’re working with the starting tight ends and the starting receivers as opposed to an undrafted receiver who doesn’t have the complete understanding of the offense and breaks a route off short and he ends up throwing an interception, and then you go, ‘Oh, it’s the quarterback’s fault.’ So, it’s a progression. That’s the best way to describe it.”

(On how pleased he is with Goff’s progression and comfort being under center compared to when he was in college)

“Yeah, he’s coming on. It’s not an issue. There was one issue today, but every quarterback occasionally has an issue. Again, you’ve got an offensive guard playing center so when you have an exchange issue it’s not always the quarterback, it’s a combination.”

(On how much it helps RB Todd Gurley physically and mentally to be participating in OTAs and a full offseason)

“Well, he’s not missed a day and he’s running extra after practice. He looked pretty good running a straight line a year ago at this time. He’s doing everything to the point where you almost say, ‘Let’s back down a little bit.’ He’s had an impressive offseason.”

—

RB Todd Gurley –– June 1, 2016

(On how it feels to be back out at practice)

“If feels good being back out here. Last year this time I wasn’t. Starting off pretty good, trying to keep it rolling.”

(On how much he thinks it helps him to be doing everything this time of the year compared to last year when he wasn’t able to because of his injury)

“Most definitely helped me out a lot more than not being able to do anything last year and to just to get back on the field and do football stuff. Being able to get the plays back and just being out here with my teammates so that’s always a good thing.”

(On coming in weighing less this year and if that was done by design)

“I don’t know what happened this offseason. I was just losing weight. It’s probably just having the first offseason not doing anything for about a month or two. I feel fine how I am. I’m not going to add weight.”

(On Head Coach Jeff Fisher’s remarks that he’s had an impressive offseason and what he thinks is the reason and what he’s doing physically different this year)

“It was just my first real offseason so being able to take some time off and being able to rest and then just getting back to work and working hard to just try to make sure I have a great year this year. I’m eating right, and making sure I’m taking care of my body and doing all the right lifts.”

(On if there was a renewed enthusiasm to finally return to football given the relocation)

“It was fine. Definitely went by fast. We’re just excited to be back and playing football right now. This is what we do. This is our job. We love being out here, being around our teammates. We have a great group of guys. We love each other and we have fun while we’re on the field and we compete.”

(On his impressions of QB Jared Goff thus far)

“I like him. He’s definitely a good quarterback. He’s going to be doing big things. I’m excited to see what else he does during OTAs and camp.”

(On what he likes that he’s seen from Goff)

“Just his composure. Real chill, laid back type of guy. He can sling it. He has a quick release. I’m not a quarterback guru (laughs), but that’s how I see it. He’s got a quick release. A lot of improvement. That’s why we’re in OTAs right now, so we can get better.”

(On if he feels like he needs to take more of a leadership role now that players like James Laurinaitis and Chris Long aren’t on the team)

“I just kind of do my game. I feel like sometimes I can be a natural leader more in terms of being in the weight room, working hard. Guys see that and they feed off of that. So, just basically doing what I’m doing not doing anything extra and making sure I’m holding myself accountable as well as my teammates.”

(On how he sees Goff balancing the need to take ownership of the team vs. getting acclimated with the veterans as a rookie quarterback)

“It just depends what kind of guy you are. You know, Goff he’s probably more of a laid-back kind of guy. Where my friend Jameis (Winston), he comes in and he’s like, ‘This is going to be my team.’ So, it just depends on what type of guy you are. You come in, work hard and eventually it’s going to be his team. So, it’s only a matter of time. No need to rush into it.”

(On QB Nick Foles not being at OTAs)

“We would definitely love to have Nick out here, but he made a decision. I hope he gets back sometime soon. I gave him a text a couple of weeks ago just to check up on him. Hopefully, he’ll be back, but I still love Nick.”

(On if there’s anything particular he wants to focus on this year)

“Definitely, routes and catching. I’ve got to get more catches this year, stay healthy and then run the ball. Get my line right and make sure we start off strong and finish strong. But most definitely I want to work on catching.”

(On having Rob Boras as the offensive coordinator)

“I love Coach Boras. He’s just so relaxed. He’s like, ‘Don’t let me tell you where to run. You just do what you do.’ He’s definitely a good coach. He’s got great concepts. Love the things he’s doing. Great communicator. He gets feedback of what I see on the field or what I actually like, so that’s always good for a coach to do to be able to work with the players. So, I’m definitely excited to have him.”

(On if he’s been able to talk to some of the alumni players regarding the traditions and history of LA Rams football)

“I haven’t talked too much of the older guys that have been on the LA Rams. I’ve hung around with ‘E.D.’ (Eric Dickerson) a couple of times, so I’ve been able to talk with him. It’s been fun. We’re definitely excited to be back. Happy to have you all here. We’ve got to get some wins for sure.”

(On how good the Carl’s Jr. Burger was)

“The burger was excellent. Go get the California Classic Burger from Carl’s Jr. There’s one right up the street, so I don’t want to hear any excuses (laughs).”

(On Running Backs Coach Skip Peete)

“I love Coach Peete. He’s a cool guy. He’s definitely going to tell you if you’re wrong or if you’re right, but he’s going to support you and he’s going to make sure that he coaches you well. He does a great job of coaching us, so I love his style.”

(On if he’s enjoying the transition to LA with regards to being out in the community and his recent endorsements)

“Yes. Like I said, this is my first offseason and I’m in Cali. We just moved here. I’m excited, back at OTAs, back doing football and enjoying a new city. So, it’s definitely been exciting for sure.”

==

Rams QB Jared Goff -– June 1, 2016

(On how the first two days of OTAs have been)

“Good. A lot of learning. Trying to catch up with the speed and learn as best as I can. I feel like every day I come out here and get a little bit better, a little bit better – learn a little bit more. It’s gone really well so far.”

(On if he has to remind himself not to get too worried about learning everything right away because it takes time to adjust to the professional level)

“Absolutely. I think right now, it’s my second OTA, my rookie year and mistakes aren’t the worst things in the world. I’m learning a lot of stuff. The guys are helping me out. (Quarterbacks) Coach (Chris) Weinke’s been great, (Offensive Coordinator) Coach (Rob) Boras has been great, and I’m getting a lot of support from those guys. It’s been a really good transition. I’m learning every day. Trying to get better at something every day and I have been.”

(On how far along he is with grasping with the playbook)

“I don’t know. I think I’m pretty far along. I’ve done a pretty good job with what they’ve given me so far. There’s obviously a lot left, but what they’ve put my way so far, I’ve picked it up pretty well.”

(On if he feels like the coaches are putting a lot on him so far)

“I wouldn’t know it any other way, I guess. This is the only NFL team I’ve ever been on. But, again, it’s not anything that seems overwhelming. I’m picking it up at a pretty good pace, I think, and I feel really good as far as how fast I pick it up. I’m able to apply most of it out here. Again there’s mistakes, but that happens because I’m learning. When there is a mistake, just learn from it and try not to let it happen again.”

(On if there is something that he is pleased with so far in terms of where he is at this point)

“Overall, just being able to functionally operate out there. Just be able to understand what they’re putting in my ear and then being able to spit it back out and then run the play and operate it. At base form, that’s kind of just what you want to do right now. I feel like so far, I’ve done a decent job of that.”

(On if he feels like he has been able to sort of put his head down and show his teammates what he’s about and if he is getting positive feedback from the veterans)

“I’m just continuing to try to fit in with these guys and mesh with them as best I can. A lot of the guys have been really welcoming, really supportive. There have been zero negative things to say about anybody on the team. It’s all been very positive, very supportive, and very helpful. Even with (QB) Case (Keenum) and (QB) Sean (Mannion) – they’ve been very helpful. It’s been a great experience so far.”

(On his goal during OTAs)

“Learn as much as I can and get as comfortable as I can, as quickly as I can. My first two practices, I’ve just tried to pick it up as best I can and try to just functionally be able to do it out there. Like I’ve said a few times now, there’s going to be mistakes, but at the same time – you can’t be perfect. You try to be, but as a rookie in my second OTA, I’m trying to do it…there’s a lot of thinking going on, so you can’t be as perfect as you want. But, so far, I think I’ve done a decent job.”

(On if his rookie year reminds him on his previous transitions from high school to college)

“Yes, it reminds me of when it was my first year on varsity, my first year in college. It’s all a transition every time. I was able to make those transitions pretty well, so we’ll see.”

(On what is the biggest thing that he has to overcome at this point)

“Man, it’s all of it – just learning. Every time I have a play, try to operate it as best as I can. If I make a mistake, learn from it. What the reason for the mistake is, can change every play, so I don’t know exactly what it is. There’s going to be mistakes in my second practice in the NFL, but so far I think I’ve picked up what they’ve given me pretty well and been able to regurgitate it and perform decently.”

(On the how the absence of QB Nick Foles has affected him and how they have told him to deal with it)

“I don’t know anything about that. That’s between (Head) Coach (Jeff Fisher) and Nick. They’re dealing with that.”

(On how much his friends and family back home are messing with him for being an LA Ram)

“It’s been interesting trying to do that transition, especially publicly. I’m obviously born and raised in the Bay and am making the transition down here and making the transition to the fan bases down here and politicking it a little bit, doing the best I can.”

(On if he is a Golden State Warriors fan)

“I am a Warriors fan. I have been forever. Plan to have a little bit of a dual fan-ship with the (Los Angeles) Lakers as well.”

(On if his dual fan-ship will be with the Los Angeles Clippers as well)

“Maybe them too. I like all of the teams down here.”

(On how nice it is to be back to football)

“It’s awesome. I think yesterday it kind of hit me like finally, after I get my first play in, my first completion, it’s alright, we’re back to playing football, back to doing what I’ve done for my whole life and hopefully what I can do for a career for a long time. There’s so much in that pre-draft process that’s non-transferable to actually playing, so it’s nice to get back out on the field and get to see my new teammates and get to form relationships is kind of something I like.”

(On if he has targeted something as his first purchase after he signs his contract)

“No, I have not. Don’t know yet. I’ll let you know when I do.”

Sources: D’Brickashaw Ferguson retiring at age 32

http://www.theredzone.org/BlogDescription/tabid/61/EntryId/55831/Sources–D-Brickashaw-Ferguson-retiring-at-age-32/Default.aspx

New York Jets left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson, a former Pro Bowl player known for his remarkable durability, is retiring Friday at the age of 32, league sources told Rich Cimini of ESPN New York.

Ferguson, the fourth overall pick in 2006, has no known injury issues. Not only did he play every game in 10 seasons — 167 consecutive starts, including playoffs — but he also never missed a practice and never appeared on an injury report.

In fact, Ferguson missed only one offensive snap in 10 years, and that was a trick play when the entire offensive line was removed.

Ferguson couldn’t be reached for comment, but sources say he has decided to retire because he no longer feels he can play up to his usual standard.

Jim Thomas ‏@jthom1
Gurley looking iffy for San Francisco

===

Todd Gurley sits again as Rams add running back to roster

Nick Wagoner
ESPN Staff Writer

http://espn.go.com/blog/st-louis-rams/post/_/id/25486/todd-gurley-sits-again-as-rams-add-running-back-to-roster

St. Louis Rams running back Todd Gurley did not practice for the second consecutive day Thursday as he continues dealing with a foot injury.

Gurley came up limping late in last week’s 23-17 win against the Seattle Seahawks and did not practice on Wednesday, either. While his status for Sunday’s game against San Francisco is up in the air, the Rams added some insurance at running back on Thursday.

With Gurley ailing, the Rams promoted running back Malcolm Brown from the practice squad to the active roster. To make room for Brown, the Rams placed defensive tackles Nick Fairley (concussion) and Doug Worthington (thigh) on injured reserve. Brown took one of those roster spots with defensive back Troy Hill coming over via waivers from New England.

It would stand to reason that the Rams might not want to push Gurley and potentially risk further injury in a meaningless game unless he is feeling much better on Sunday. Promoting Brown would lend credence to that idea.

The Rams also “officially” added linebacker Alec Ogletree as returning to practice though coach Jeff Fisher said Wednesday that it’s “very unlikely” Ogletree will be activated from injured reserve/designated to return and play on Sunday.

Here’s Thursday’s entire injury report:

Did not participate — RB Todd Gurley (foot), CB Eric Patterson (ankle).

Limited participation — LB/S Mark Barron (concussion), OL Andrew Donnal (knee).

Full participation — DT Michael Brockers (thigh), DL Ethan Westbrooks (concussion).

*Fairley and Worthington did not participate and were placed on the injured reserve list.

Practice Report 12/30: Offense Improving with Boras, Keenum

By Myles Simmons

http://www.stlouisrams.com/news-and-events/article-practicereport/Practice-Report-1230-Offense-Improving-with-Boras-Keenum/c5fd0504-88d1-4775-9e10-27ee1066220f

NAPA, Calif. — With the team staying on the West Coast to eliminate a few hours of travel, the Rams got back on the practice field Wednesday afternoon in preparation for the 49ers. Coming off Sunday’s victory, spirits have been up as the team looks to finish the season at .500.

“This has been really good,” head coach Jeff Fisher said of practicing in Napa, Calif. “We’ve cut way back on the travel time and we’ve got great accommodations. Meeting spaces are good, game plan is in. We had a really good Wednesday.”

Rob Boras, now entering his fourth game as the offensive playcaller, likened the experience to preparing for a college bowl game.

“It’s great being here. The guys have bought into it,” Boras said. “We’ve kind of talked about it as our bowl trip, and the guys are all in their sweats just like when you’re in college going to bowl games.

“The energy and enthusiasm has been great in the meetings,” Boras continued, “and then for them to come out here and have a practice like they did, I thought, was really good.”

Boras’ unit has performed well enough to win over the past three weeks, particularly with clean performances. The Rams have not turned the ball over in their last two games. Plus, St. Louis had no pre-snap penalties or sacks against Seattle, illustrating strong growth with the offensive line.

“As an assistant coach, I always want to credit the guys. And

Boudreau and [assistant OL coach Andy] Dickerson have done a great job,” Boras said. “To go in that environment, that was kind of our focus as an entire offensive staff, was just playing with poise in the noise. And the guys did it.”

“Actually, I didn’t get touched that much,” quarterback Case Keenum said. “It’s incredible. You’ve got to hand it to those guys. That’s a tough environment to play, tough environment to hear. For those tackles to be able to sit in there and not [false start], and still be able to block those guys coming around the edge, you’ve got to give those guys a ton of credit. It was an outstanding performance from them. And they’re coming together really well.”

Since re-entering the starting lineup, Keenum has completed 67.7 percent of his passes for 461 yards with three touchdowns and one interception.

“I think just the process that he’s going through now, it’s completions,” Boras said. “He’s a natural leader. Guys like playing for him. He’s got a grasp of what we’re trying to do. I think just continuing along that same path — it’s not going to change. I don’t see the formula for us changing a whole lot.”

“When we decided to go with Case, which was the Baltimore game, we were a play away in regulation from winning that game,” Fisher said. “He’s technically 3-1 as a starter — very close to being 4-0 as a starter. I’d say he’s done a really good job for us.”

Keenum is up to 7.44 yards per attempt in the three-game winning streak as well. With his recent performances, it’s clear the timing has been strong between he and his wideouts.

“During preseason, you kind of rep with everybody,” Keenum said. “I’ve thrown to these guys a bunch. But it’s coming together. We’re getting used to the plays Rob likes to call, and kind of getting where everybody’s on the same page with that. And just executing.”

Keenum and Kenny Britt have shown a strong rapport on deep balls in particular over the past two games. On Sunday, Keenum threw a 28-yard touchdown pass to the wideout, which Britt brought in with a dive.

“It’s easy to build a rapport with a guy who makes plays, and he’s made some big plays the last few weeks,” Keenum said. “It’s been a lot of fun to throw to guys who get open. You tend to look their way a little bit more. And he’s been running great routes and getting open. I think it’s just happened, it’s been on the right play at the right time, in the right coverage. He’s taken advantage of it.”

These four games represent an audition of sorts for Keenum, not just for the Rams, but also for the 32 teams around the league. Even so, Keenum says that’s the way it is for not just him, but everyone who plays.

“Anytime the lights come on, or anytime we step on the field between the white lines and the film’s on, that film goes around to everybody,” Keenum said. “And it’s not just the TV copy — they see everything from a lot of different views. So in the NFL, that’s what your resume is — what you put on tape.”

The same situation could possibly be said about Boras. Since assuming the duties of offensive coordinator a few weeks ago, Boras said he hasn’t necessarily received notification as to whether or not the role will be permanent. And he’s OK with that.

“I’m a tight ends coach who’s getting to call some plays right now,” Boras said. “We can only control what we can control. Right now, this is what coach [Fisher] has asked us to do, and we’re doing it, and we’re having fun doing it. Whatever happens, happens.”

“Right now, he’s running the offense and he’s 3-0 since he took it over,” Fisher said, adding he’s staying focused on the present, too. “It’s a good thing.”

OGLETREE RETURNS TO THE FIELD

No. 52 was a welcome sight on the practice field Wednesday afternoon, as linebacker Alec Ogletree did some work on the side as he progresses in his rehab from a lower-leg fracture.

“It’s good to get him back on the grass,” Fisher said. “We’ll see how he feels tomorrow and try to get him involved in more than just walk-thru stuff. Maybe some scout-team stuff.”

Ogletree was placed on injured reserve with a designation to return, though the team figured it wasn’t necessarily likely the linebacker would play once again in 2015. Fisher confirmed that train of thought on Wednesday.

“From a timing standpoint, he’s ready to start doing things on the grass,” Fisher said. “He’s been straight-line running for a week or so, and we wanted to introduce some change-of-direction him. So no better place to introduce change of direction than on the field with his teammates.”

INJURY REPORT

The Rams listed eight players on Wednesday’s injury report.

For the three players in the concussion protocol, defensive tackle Nick Fairley and safety Mark Barron did not practice. But defensive end Ethan Westbrooks did participate on a limited basis.

“[Westbrooks] was limited today, which was good,” Fisher said. “Overall, I would think the concussion issues which we had should be behind us before the weekend.”

Todd Gurley sat out Wednesday’s session with a foot injury, for which Fisher said the running back was receiving treatment during practice. Defensive tackle Doug Worthington (thigh) also did not participate.

Defensive tackle Michael Brockers (thigh), cornerback Eric Patterson (ankle), and offensive lineman Andrew Donnal (knee) were all limited in Wednesday’s session.

Rams’ Robert Quinn, T.J. McDonald working back after surgeries

Nick Wagoner

http://espn.go.com/blog/st-louis-rams/post/_/id/25186/rams-robert-quinn-t-j-mcdonald-working-back-from-surgeries

EARTH CITY, Mo. — St. Louis Rams defensive end Robert Quinn (back) and safety T.J. McDonald (shoulder) recently had surgery, according to coach Jeff Fisher.

Fisher said Wednesday that Quinn and McDonald have had the procedures done on the injuries that cost them the rest of their 2015 seasons and are beginning the process of rehabbing.

“Their procedures are both done,” Fisher said. “They’re doing well. Rob had immediate relief, which was great, which we expected. T.J.’s shoulder was not in good shape, to say the least. But he’s got a new shoulder. T.J. has been through a lot when you talk about the offseason injury and the foot injury and everything and the shoulder. He’s been through a lot. He should be good to go. From a timing standpoint, we needed to do it just so we can get them in the offseason program.”

Quinn and McDonald were placed on injured reserve in recent weeks, ending their season, but Fisher said that both players should be back in time to participate in the early portions of the offseason program.

As for players still on the roster, the Rams’ injury report was a bit smaller on Wednesday. Here’s a look:

Did not participate: OL Andrew Donnal (knee), CB Eric Patterson (ankle).

Limited participation: CB Lamarcus Joyner (back), WR Bradley Marquez (knee).