http://www.rams-news.com/quinn-expects-to-be-challenged-sunday-pd/%5DQuinn expects to be challenged Sunday –PD
Rams defensive end Robert Quinn is looking forward to the challenge.

http://www.rams-news.com/will-rams-dbs-press-the-issue-vs-cleveland-pd/%5DWill Rams DBs press the issue vs. Cleveland? –PD
Predating even the arrival of defensive coordinator Gregg Williams last season, the sight of Rams cornerbacks playing off coverage on opposing receivers in recent years has frequently driven fans and observers crazy.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-vs-browns-shanes-select-seven-gray/%5DRams vs. Browns: Shane’s Select Seven –Gray
On Sunday, the St. Louis Rams (2-3) will host the Cleveland Browns (2-4) in week seven action at the Edward Jones Dome. While St. Louis will be coming off its bye week, Cleveland will be looking to bounce back from an overtime loss against the Denver Broncos.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-must-solve-riddle-of-unfamiliar-opponents-wagoner/%5DRams Must Solve Riddle of Unfamiliar Opponents –Wagoner
To be sure, the St. Louis Rams’ record since Jeff Fisher arrived as head coach in 2012 is below average.

http://www.rams-news.com/practice-report-1023-matchup-of-elites-with-quinn-thomas-simmons/%5DPractice Report 10/23: Matchup of Elites with Quinn, Thomas –Simmons
With the Browns coming to town for Sunday’s contest, there are plenty of interesting matchups across the board. But one that provides a certain amount of intrigue will pit one of the league’s best left tackles against one of its best defensive ends.

http://www.rams-news.com/for-rams-making-trick-plays-work-on-special-teams-a-long-process-wagoner/%5DFor Rams, Making Trick Plays Work on Special Teams a Long Process –Wagoner
Every week, almost without fail, opposing coaches preparing to play the St. Louis Rams go out of their way to mention the need to be prepared for what the Rams can and will do on special teams.

http://www.rams-news.com/robert-quinn-tavon-austin-probable-for-sunday-against-browns-wagoner/%5DRobert Quinn, Tavon Austin probable for Sunday against Browns –Wagoner
The St. Louis Rams have had some big names on their injury report all week but the news isn’t all bad as they head toward Sunday’s game against the Cleveland Browns.

http://www.rams-news.com/garrett-reynolds-we-have-to-keep-growing-as-a-unit-video/%5DGarrett Reynolds: We Have To Keep Growing As a Unit –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/gregg-williams-we-play-our-safeties-deeper-than-any-team-in-the-league-video/%5DGregg Williams: We Play Our Safeties Deeper Than Any Team in the League –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/jeff-fisher-cleveland-is-a-legit-team-video/%5DJeff Fisher: Cleveland is a Legit Team –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/why-the-rams-and-their-physicality-are-the-browns-worst-case-scenario-audio/%5DWhy the Rams and Their Physicality are the Browns “Worst Case Scenario” –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/tony-grossi-of-espncleveland-com-previews-the-rams-browns-game-audio/%5DTony Grossi of ESPNCleveland.com previews the Rams – Browns game –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/mike-sandos-browns-rams-edge-video/%5DMike Sando’s Browns-Rams Edge –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/john-greco-talks-playing-with-the-rams-audio/%5DJohn Greco Talks Playing with the Rams –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-secondary-comes-together-behind-jenkins-pd/%5DRams’ secondary comes together behind Jenkins –PD
On Green Bay’s first pass play of the day, quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw deep down the left sideline toward wide receiver Ty Montgomery. Rams cornerback Janoris Jenkins was in tight coverage and the pass fell incomplete.

http://www.rams-news.com/good-for-gurley-browns-rank-last-against-the-run-pd/%5DGood for Gurley: Browns rank last against the run –PD
On Sunday at the Edward Jones Dome, Rams running back Todd Gurley can become only the second rookie in NFL history to rush for 140 or more yards in three consecutive games.

http://www.rams-news.com/gurley-not-taking-favorable-matchup-for-granted-wagoner/%5DGurley Not Taking Favorable Matchup for Granted –Wagoner
Despite what the numbers say about the Cleveland Browns’ inability to stop the run so far this season, the St. Louis Rams and dynamic rookie running back Todd Gurley are taking nothing for granted as they head toward Sunday’s matchup.

http://www.rams-news.com/with-rodger-saffold-out-rams-reshuffle-offensive-line-again-wagoner/%5DWith Rodger Saffold out, Rams reshuffle offensive line … again –Wagoner
When St. Louis Rams coach Jeff Fisher announced last week that right guard Rodger Saffold would miss the rest of the season because of a pending shoulder surgery, it was clear the offensive line would have to make a change.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-still-without-robert-quinn-tavon-austin-on-hypothetical-injury-report-wagoner/%5DRams still without Robert Quinn, Tavon Austin on hypothetical injury report –Wagoner
The St. Louis Rams had no changes on their Thursday injury report.

http://www.rams-news.com/todd-gurley-press-conference-video/%5DTodd Gurley Press Conference –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/nick-foles-it-will-be-great-to-play-at-home-video/%5DNick Foles: It Will Be Great To Play at Home –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-conscious-of-how-austin-davis-can-help-cleveland-wagoner/%5DRams conscious of how Austin Davis can help Cleveland –Wagoner
Given the ever-changing nature of NFL rosters, it’s a simple fact of life that every week is going to feature games in which players square off against their former team.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-update-5-month-recovery-for-saffold-after-surgery-pd/%5DRams update: 5-month recovery for Saffold after surgery –PD
Rams offensive lineman Rodger Saffold underwent surgery Wednesday in New York City to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder.

http://www.rams-news.com/jim-thomas-talks-tuesdays-public-hearing-on-rams-future-audio/%5DJim Thomas Talks Tuesday’s Public Hearing on Rams’ Future –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/kurt-warner-and-isaac-bruce-talk-rams-and-gurley-audio/%5DKurt Warner and Isaac Bruce Talk Rams and Gurley –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/nick-wagoner-talks-rams-vs-browns-audio/%5DNick Wagoner Talks Rams vs. Browns –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-notes-team-reunites-rookie-offensive-linemen-pd/%5DRams notes: Team reunites rookie offensive linemen –PD
Rams rookie guard Jamon Brown, a third-round draft pick from Louisville, spent most of training camp on the right side and then started the first five games of the regular season at left guard.

http://www.rams-news.com/teams-not-throwing-jenkins-way-pd/%5DTeams not throwing Jenkins’ way –PD
On Green Bay’s first pass play of the day, quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw deep down the left sideline toward wide receiver Ty Montgomery. Rams cornerback Janoris Jenkins was in tight coverage and the pass fell incomplete.

http://www.rams-news.com/dont-look-now-but-rams-have-chance-to-contend-pd/%5DDon’t Look Now, but Rams Have Chance to Contend –PD
Whenever conversation turns to the Rams and relevance within the NFC West, consumers reflexively check their wallets, their sanity or the ties between the club and media outlet offering such propaganda.

http://www.rams-news.com/frank-cignetti-we-trust-our-preparation-video/%5DFrank Cignetti: We Trust Our Preparation–Video

http://www.rams-news.com/jeff-fisher-press-conference-1021-video/%5DJeff Fisher Press Conference – 10/21 –Video

Rams notes: Team reunites rookie offensive linemen

Joe Lyons

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/football/professional/rams-notes-team-reunites-rookie-offensive-linemen/article_b69e4772-0d5e-561b-9304-d0382fd697c8.html

Rams rookie guard Jamon Brown, a third-round draft pick from Louisville, spent most of training camp on the right side and then started the first five games of the regular season at left guard.

Now, with veteran Garrett Reynolds stepping in to take the place of Rodger Saffold, who’s done for the season with a shoulder injury, Brown appears to be moving back to the right side.

“It’s not too bad,” the 22-year-old said following Wednesday’s practice at Rams Park. “I take it all the way back to college, where I played both sides, left and right tackle. Here, it’s pretty much the same. Now it’s just a matter of mastering the technique on the right side.

“The left side, you’re used to a certain play being on the front side and now, on the same play, you’re on the back side. It can get confusing at times, but I feel like I do a pretty good job with it.”

In the end, Brown said, it’s the coaches’ decision.

“Whether he wants me to play on the left or the right, it doesn’t matter,” the 6-foot-4, 323-pound Brown said. “I have a job to do and I’m going to do it on either side.”

With fellow rookie Todd Gurley leading the way, the Rams ran for 164 yards in a 24-22 win in Arizona and followed up with 191 rushing yards in a 24-10 loss at Green Bay. Brown feels that’s a sign of things to come for the Rams and their youthful offensive line.

On Sunday, Gurley and the Rams will face Cleveland and a rushing defense that has allowed a league-worst 149.8 yards per game on the ground.

“I’m very confident in our line,’ he said. “I think we’ve progressed a lot, coming from OTA’s into training camp and now into the season. I think we’ve made huge strides and we will continue to get better week in and week out.

“Obviously, there are still things we can do better and we’re constantly trying to work on those things.”

Brown is excited to be working alongside of second-round draft pick Rob Havenstein, but …

“It doesn’t skip a beat because I’ve worked with everybody in our room,” he said. “I just have to make sure I do my job and I’m sure everybody else will do theirs. We gotta continue to do what we do. It’s not really about their defense, it’s about us. And as long as we keep that mindset, we’re going to be fine.”

ALEXANDER IS BACK

Maurice Alexander, a reserve safety and special teams player, is back at practice after missing two games with a groin injury. He was hurt early in the Pittsburgh game on Sept. 27.“I’m feeling good, nice to be 100 (percent) again,” the second-year pro from Eureka High said. “When I first got hurt, I was hoping to get back quicker but the docs and trainers — they obviously know more than I do — they told me it’d be even longer than it’s been.“It was definitely frustrating because I felt good and felt faster than ever. An injury like that, you really have to be patient because if you push it too much, try to come back too soon, there’s always a chance you can re-injure it and be out even longer.

“But I’m back to where I was before and I’m looking forward to getting out there again on Sunday.”

RAMS IN THE COMMUNITY

The Rams will take part in a pair of charity events:

• Two-time Pro Bowl punter Johnny Hekker will punt off the roof of SSM Health St. Clare Hospital in Fenton Thursday at 9 a.m. as part of the SSM Kick Cancer Rooftacular. Hekker, kicker Greg Zuerlein and long snapper Jake McQuaide are co-chairs of the fund-raising program, which supports the needs of cancer patients throughout the community.

• In partnership with the United Way of Greater St. Louis, Rams players Benny Cunningham, Bradley Marquez, Marcus Roberson and Doug Worthington will join the team’s cheerleaders, Rampage and staff in hosting a Play 60 event Thursday from 3:30-5 p.m. at the O’Fallon Park YMCA.

RAM-BLINGS

For a team coming off a bye week, the Rams’ first injury report of the week was surprisingly extensive.Sitting out Wednesday’s workout at Rams Park were the expected injured players — linebacker Alex Ogletree (broken leg), defensive end Chris Long (knee) and tight end Lance Kendricks (finger) — but also included running back Tre Mason (ankle), wide receiver Tavon Austin (hamstring) and defensive end Robert Quinn (knee). Cornerback Janoris Jenkins (concussion) was limited.And the Browns’ list is even longer. Defensive backs Joe Haden (concussion/finger) and Tashaun Gipson (ankle) did not practice and neither did linebacker Craig Robertson (ankle) and tight end Rob Housler (hamstring). Veteran offensive lineman Joe Thomas and defensive linemen Randy Starks were given the day off to rest.

The following Cleveland players were limited on Wednesday _ tight end Gary Barnidge (ankle), linebacker Tank Carder (shoulder), defensive lineman John Hughes III (knee), wide receiver Marlon Moore (hamstring) and defensive lineman Danny Shelton (knee).

Back-up quarterback Johnny Manziel (right elbow) was a full participant in Wednesday’s workout.

• The Rams unofficial depth chart lists ex-safety Mark Barron as a starter at linebacker. Barron, who started the Green Bay game, was acquired from Tampa Bay at the trade deadline last year and is listed at 6 feet 2 and 213 pounds.

http://www.stltoday.com/sports/football/professional/teams-not-throwing-jenkins-way/article_1b9bdc6a-cc90-5cab-9af4-f50bb8a1165f.html

Teams not throwing Jenkins’ way
5 hours ago • By Jim Thomas

On Green Bay’s first pass play of the day, quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw deep down the left sideline toward wide receiver Ty Montgomery. Rams cornerback Janoris Jenkins was in tight coverage and the pass fell incomplete.

After that, Rodgers gave Jenkins the “Richard Sherman” treatment during the Rams’ 24-10 loss Oct. 11. Rodgers threw 29 additional passes that day at Lambeau Field; not one of those 29 was thrown in the direction of Jenkins, whose stat line consisted of all zeroes. No tackles, no interceptions, no pass breakups. …

“It was boring, but at the same time I still had to play football,” Jenkins said. “I couldn’t go to sleep out there because it was A-Rod. In my mind every play I was just thinking he was gonna come over there anyway.”

But Rodgers didn’t. Much was made of the fact that Rodgers didn’t throw at Sherman, the much-heralded Seattle cornerback, a year ago when the Packers and Seahawks met in their 2014 season opener.

Perhaps Rodgers was showing similar respect to Jenkins.

“I see it as a sign of respect,” Jenkins said. “But at the same time, he probably saw something on the other side that he liked better. Probably match-up wise or whatever.”

A week earlier in Arizona, Jenkins was involved in a couple of high-profile plays — one good (an acrobatic interception) and one bad (a pass interference penalty). But otherwise, Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer didn’t throw much in Jenkins’ direction either.

“Most times, what I’ve been noticing the first five weeks, teams are basically trying me with the double move,” Jenkins said. “If they don’t have any success with that, they just go away from me. But like I said, I just stay on top of my game and don’t go to sleep out there.”

The Montgomery route against Jenkins in the Green Bay game was a double move — a stutter-and-go to be precise. But Jenkins didn’t take the bait.

He has, of course, taken the bait in the past and that has led to some feast-or-famine moments for the fourth-year pro.

The feast has come in the form of six defensive touchdowns scored by Jenkins since entering the league in 2012 — more than any other NFL player. One of those TDs came on a recovered fumble; the other five have come on interception returns for TDs, a total that ties the franchise record for career “pick 6s.”

The famine has come when Jenkins has gambled, going for the interception and getting beaten for TDs by receivers fooling him with double moves.

But such plays have been few and far between lately. Jenkins is playing well entering Sunday’s home game with Cleveland, displaying more game-to-game consistency than he has displayed in the past.

Pro Football Focus has him ranked 16th among all NFL cornerbacks in terms of overall grade. Opposing quarterbacks have only a 79.3 passer rating against him according to PFF.

While acknowledging that the gambling and double moves have resulted in some problems in the past, Jenkins feels he’s playing some of the best ball of his career.

“Yeah I do,” he said. “I say that to myself, that I’m finally 100 percent. No nagging injuries. I’m not out there with a sore knee or a sore ankle, you know what I’m saying? I’m just finally healthy.”

Although the Rams didn’t make much of it last season, Jenkins suffered a sprained MCL in the team’s Oct. 19 Monday game with Seattle, and it bothered him for much of the season. Teams knew that, and threw at him.

“Once they knew that I was hurt, they were coming at me,” Jenkins said.

He was on the team’s injury report for most of November because of that knee injury and reappeared on the injury report near the end of the year with a back issue.

“Why I was getting beat, I was hurt last year,” Jenkins said. “I don’t care what anybody says. Double moves, I was just trying to make plays.”

So far this season, Jenkins has 23 tackles, two interceptions, and two pass breakups.

Even after allowing two TD passes against Rodgers and Green Bay, the Rams as a team have allowed only five touchdown passes on defense all season, which is tied for the league low. While recognizing that the NFL is very much a week-to-week league, the secondary is finally showing signs of gelling as a unit.

“We’ve been together for a while now,” Jenkins said. “So everybody’s got a feel for each other, how each other plays. Their strengths and weaknesses, so we’ve just got to keep putting it together week in and week out.

“We’re pretty technique-sound. I think Coach D’s doing a good job, fixing our fundamentals and techniques within press.”

(Dennard Wilson is one of the Rams’ defensive backs coaches.)

Jenkins and fellow cornerback Trumaine Johnson are in their fourth season together in the Rams’ secondary, although Johnson has not been a full-time starter during all of that time. At safety, Rodney McLeod and T.J. McDonald are in their third years as starters.

McDonald is the only one of those four starters who is under contract after this season. The others are scheduled for unrestricted free agency.

In the case of Jenkins, the Rams have had ongoing discussions with his agent on a new deal since last spring. Jenkins, in fact, said the Rams made an offer to him last week during the Rams’ bye.

But the numbers apparently weren’t to Jenkins’ liking because he indicated Wednesday that he plans to wait until the end of the season to act on a contract, hinting that he may test the market.

“I’m not talking about the contract,” Jenkins said. “I ended that last week, when they gave me those numbers. It was something I didn’t want to hear. I ended it just like that. I’ll play it out. I’m gonna bet on myself.”

The 16th CB gets ~8 million per year, according to “Over the Cap”. http://overthecap.com/position/cornerback

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_f7497f453106?Page=0

With Saffold out yet again, Reynolds to fill in as starter but what about depth now? Do we look at going with what we have, looking at teams practice squad players or even trade? Youth and inexperience concern me that we’ll struggle to even break .500 – young guys look decent so far but this is definitely what drives the bus
by TD51 2:02 PM[/i]

I think the Rams will stand pat at this point on the o-line. Although they always look around to see what’s out there. They decided to sink or swim with youth when they expended 5 draft picks (one of which was the 2016 pick in the July supplemental draft) on offensive linemen and didn’t add a veteran starter via free agency.
by jthomas 2:04 PM

How is Saffold’s first surgically repaired shoulder holding up? Should we expect that to crop up, again? If not, will the latest surgery leave Saffold equally sound in the other shoulder?
by bfulton 2:04 PM

To my knowledge, that shoulder _ the left shoulder _ has not been a problem. Obviously, there are no guarantees that either shoulder will hold up over time.
by jthomas 2:05 PM

What are expecting to see from the Rams this cone Sunday to you this gurley will wear his brace and what’s your predictions for the outcome and gurley numbers
by dave 2:06 PM

I think the Rams will hold serve at home and defeat the Browns. This could be a big game for Gurley because the Browns enter the contest ranked last in the NFL in run defense. They are yielding 149.8 yards per game and 5.0 yards per carry.
by jthomas 2:07 PM

Does Saffold have a torn labrum? Have not heard exactly what is wrong with the shoulder.
by David 2:07 PM

It’s believed to be a torn labrum.
by jthomas 2:08 PM

How big of a crowd are you expecting for Sunday?
by Rams Fans United 2:08 PM

I’m thinking it will be the smallest crowd so far this season. Somewhere in the 40,000s.
by jthomas 2:08 PM

The NFC West doesn’t look as strong this year with Seattle / San Fran struggling. What are the chances the Rams win the division this year?
by Gladdy 2:08 PM

It definitely doesn’t look as strong as it’s been for the last several years. You’d think the Rams should be able to be a contender, but based on what we’ve seen the previous three seasons under Fisher, seeing will be believing.
by jthomas 2:09 PM

Any truth to the TE Cook trade rumors? If so, for what?
by bfulton 2:09 PM

I’m told the Rams have received some calls on Cook, but nothing serious yet. Remember, we’re still 2 weeks until the trading deadline.
by jthomas 2:10 PM

BTW…….Have the Rams announced which home games that they will be sporting the throwback unis? They don’t seem to promote that very much.
by Knux 2:10 PM

I’m told the Rams will have two throwback games, but that one of them won’t be this week against Cleveland. (I would’ve have loved to have seen the old red-and-black Cleveland Rams uniforms circa 1937 in this one against the Cleveland Browns.) I have no idea why the Rams have waited to announce the throwback days. There are only 5 home dates left after Cleveland: San Francisco, Chicago, Arizona, Detroit, and Tampa Bay. So it will be two of those five games.
by jthomas 2:13 PM

First Uni question of the day what are the throw back dates this year?
by Up North 2:13 PM

Actually, you’re the second, so you get the silver medal. Dates have yet to be announced, but I’m told it won’t be Sunday vs. Cleveland.
by jthomas 2:14 PM

What’s the most we can get for Jared Cook?
by Tommyverceticb7 2:14 PM

Have no idea. Keep in mind, any team that trades for him inherits a contract that pays him $7 million in 2016 and $7.1 million in 2017. He’s averaged 51 catches for about 650 yards, and 4 TDs over his two full seasons.
by jthomas 2:16 PM

How is Gurley on blitz pickup?
by David 2:16 PM

I think he’s been pretty good so far.
by jthomas 2:16 PM

How about some throw back offense to the greatest show on turf days?
by David 2:16 PM

I’m all for it.
by jthomas 2:16 PM

Might as well take the seventh rounder for Cook. He is garbage…a worthless football player. Plus, no WAY we resign him!
by laramsfan 2:16 PM

How can you call a player who has averaged 51 catches for 650 yards and 4 TDs in his 2 full seasons garbage? Plus, he’s under contract for two additional seasons.
by jthomas 2:17 PM

meant to say “retain” him, not “resign”
by laramsfan 2:18 PM

OK that makes more sense.
by jthomas 2:18 PM

After watching the Chargers torch the Packer D for 500+ yards what percentage would you put on the O line, receivers, and QB for the lack of production
by Up North 2:18 PM

I think I answered this one last week. And I think my percentages there were QB (55 percent), O-line (30) percent), WRs (15 percent).
by jthomas 2:19 PM

@jthomas Is it possible they could be wearing the throwbacks on the road after their last home game?
by PureAdrenaline 2:20 PM

I don’t think that’s how it works.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

Any chance Kevin Demoff or any other Rams brass shows up for the dog and pony show or is this all Eric Grubman and ill willed fans?
by skibum 2:20 PM

I believe it’s going to be the Eric Grubman show.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

Any news on Alec Ogletree? How is his recovery coming and will he be back this season? I read he could be back for the Cards game?
by AzRamsFan 2:20 PM

He’s still injured. Last week, I saw him with the leg in a cast and using one of those scooters to get around. The Arizona game would’ve been the earliest he could return had the Rams put him on the IR/designated for return list immediately. Don’t know if that’s the realistic target; remember Fisher said it would be at least 2 months.
by jthomas 2:23 PM

I’m kinda glad we didn’t draft Manziel.
by David 2:23 PM

Ya think?
by jthomas 2:24 PM

any news on uniform motifications? tired of the purple grapes at home. frankly, there awful to look at.
by ekern55 2:24 PM

Have heard nothing.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

Jim,
Thanks for the chat, always the high point of my week. I think Joyner has been playing pretty well so far, do you concur?
by JoeRamfan 2:24 PM

Agreed. Even though he got burned on that James Jones TD pass in Green Bay, I think he has made considerable strides as compared to his rookie season. He has been an active, aggressive tackler and has made some plays on the ball.
by jthomas 2:26PM

With the running game improving do you think we will see the true full back promoted from the practice squad I love that full back dive play
by Up North 2:26 PM

Harkey does pretty well as a lead blocker. So does Kendricks, who lined up there a good deal in Green Bay.
by jthomas 2:27 PM

Have the owners stated how much the relocation fees will be for teams to move?
by jim 2:27 PM

Not yet. They’re working on it.
by jthomas 2:27 PM

Pretty telling that Demoff won’t even announce the throwback jersey dates. He’s quit on the fans and is trying to destroy the fanbase.
by steve 2:27 PM

I don’t know about all that, but it is a little strange.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

at this point in the season, what do you consider the Rams greatest needs for next year? OL and WR?
by Greg in Raleigh 2:28 PM

A big part of that answer depends on what free agents the Rams re-sign, and which ones leave. Jenkins, Johnson, McLeod are pending free agents in the secondary. Same for Hayes, Sims, and Fairley on the defensive line, Quick at wide receiver, Harkey at fullback/tight end, Zuerlein at kicker. Also is Long back next year? Saffold? Cook (if he makes it through this season)?
by jthomas 2:31 PM

According to ESPN, the Rams offense ranks dead last in total yds, total yds per game, passing yards per game, total points scored, and points scored per game. Pretty dog gone terrible. Who would you say should be held accountable for this outcome? I say this is a complete coaching failure.
by Steve 2:31 PM

It’s all Schottenheimer’s and Bradford’s fault.
by jthomas 2:31 PM

What are you initial feelings about Havenstein and Brown, on their Way to being above average or is the development slower than expected
by Greg in Raleigh 2:32 PM

I’d say on their way to being above average.
by jthomas 2:32 PM

cute
by Steve 2:32 PM

Well, weren’t they the root of all evil?
by jthomas 2:33 PM

Any update on your relocation odds?
by Rams Fans United 2:33 PM

Holding firm at 45-55.
by jthomas 2:33 PM

Jim, Do you think coach Fisher will sit Cook and put TE Cunningham in on the action?
by Quarryworkers Eighttwentynine 2:33 PM

If Cunningham plays it will because Kendricks can’t go following the finger surgery.
by jthomas 2:34 PM

Jim- what year is your P-D chat Banner photo from?
by Shark 2:34 PM

I don’t know. I never see it when I log on for this chat. But I told them a few years ago, don’t update it until the Rams finish the season above .500! (Wait a minute _ that was 2003.)
by jthomas 2:35 PM

Do you see the Rams making any splash before the trade deadline?
by Matt 2:35 PM

Well, I think there’s a little smoke behind these Jared Cook rumors. We’ll see.
by jthomas 2:35 PM

GA. jim nope we miss rams football if the lay an egg on sunday how much fire wiil coach fish be under
by roc 2:36 PM

From management/ownership? Probably very little. From the fans? Probably a lot.
by jthomas 2:37 PM

Hi Jim, Rams back at it again in a must win against Cleveland? They have a shot at the division! On a side note, I’m sure you have covered better high schools games than what we saw last night between the Giants and Eagles!
by Stevespn 2:37 PM

If the Rams truly want to be a playoff contender, they have to defeat teams like the Browns at home. Plain and simple. As for the Giants-Eagles, I was able to watch most of it. Yeah, it was tough to watch.
by jthomas 2:38 PM

I think the rams are playing the oline out of position would it be better to move greg inside gaurd an havenstien to left tackle those to guys on the same side could dominate dline in the run game
by roc 2:38 PM

I’m not sure Havenstein has the footwork or overall athleticism to play left tackle. He seems like the prototypical right tackle to me.
by jthomas 2:39 PM

Can you share the list of Rams’ pending free agents?
by bfulton 2:39 PM

I mentioned them in an earlier answer. These are off the top of my head, so I might miss 1 or 2: CB Jenkins, CB Johnson, S McLeod, DE Sims, DE Hayes, DT Fairley, K Zuerlein, WR Quick, FB Harkey.
by jthomas 2:40 PM

I’ve not been impressed with Mason. Can Cunningham or Watts give Gurley enough of breather so that he isn’t used up too quickly?
by bfulton 2:41 PM

I wouldn’t give up on Mason just yet. He had that hamstring injury at the start of the regular season, and has barely played the past two games.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

What about the Town Hall, what can we expect from that?
by Rams Fans United 2:41 PM

Should be interesting. This is a chance for fans and non-fans to have their voices heard, offer opinions and ask questions. I’m sure the league will be paying attention, too, to how many people show up.
by jthomas 2:43 PM

Great to have you here JT! With all the scuttlebutt floating around regarding a possible trade interest in Jared Cook, I was wondering how much damage would be inflicted to the Rams salary cap. As I understand it, he counts for around $8 million for the next few seasons. Does that dead money get pro rated or does it immediately disappear? I know that when the Rams traded Bradford, he still counts $3.5 million against the 2015 cap. Can you clarify?
by Knux 2:43 PM

About $2.6 million of unamortized signing bonus is left on Cook’s 2016 and 2017 contracts. So that amount would accelerate into this year’s cap basically negating any saved salary from the remainder of his 2015 base. But trading him now wouldn’t be cap prohibitive.
by jthomas 2:48 PM

Prediction on the Alderman vote?
by J. Kerth 2:49 PM

I believe when all is said and done they approve the financing.
by jthomas 2:49 PM

I know it’s early but we have Jenkins and Tru (i believe) both in contract years, any idea what the plan is to retain these guys? I know we have Gaines that would have been a starter but what do you foresee with the DB’s re-signing with the Rams?
by TD51 2:49 PM

I believe the Rams were hoping at one point to have Jenkins wrapped up right around the start of the season, but that didn’t happen obviously. I’m not sure things have ever been that far along with Johnson. I think they’ve both played pretty well lately. (Yes, even given that busted coverage by Johnson.)
by jthomas 2:54 PM

Jim, I have been a Rams fan far too long to buy into the narrative that says we are going to beat all the teams with a losing record currently on our remaining slate and deliver a winning record for first time in 13 years. Hang on – aren’t we one of those teams with a losing record that our opponents will be eyeing up as a likely W! Rams stacking wins just doesn’t happen. Do we know when the team won 3 back to back games, let alone 4 or 5? (My guess is start of Lineham era in 2006) . So, from your knowledge of this year’s team, what record do we have after the next 4 Games? I reckon we frustratingly split 2-2 (W against Browns/Chicago; L against 49ers(!) and Minnesota) to go 4-5. Hope I am wrong, I like Nick Foles but offense just too fragile to put up 20+ points per Game to win regularly.
by UK Ram 2:55 PM

Of course. But I’m not aware of any narrative that says the Rams are going to win all these winnable games just because the schedule lightens up from here on out. I don’t think anyone expects that, and as you mention, the Rams have not shown any ability to stack up wins under Fisher. During his tenure in St. Louis, the team has won as many as 3 games in a row only once _ in 2012.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

Time for the weekly question on Quick. Any chance Quick has shaken some of that rust off over the bye? will have an impact on Sunday?
by Patrick 3:00 PM

I think it’s trending that way. He went from 6 plays and zero targets vs. Arizona to 20 plays and three targets vs. Green Bay.
by jthomas 3:01 PM

Guess this goes out to the chat room, I live in OH but may be coming in for a game, possibly even this weekend. Any recommendations of affordable hotels nearby so don’t have to drive to game? Any other advice? Thanks!
by TD51 3:01 PM

There’s a Drury Inn right across the street from the dome. Don’t know if they jack up their prices for home games, but that chain is usually pretty affordable. Laclede’s Landing, a restaurant and entertainment area is within easy walking distance to the dome. Anyone else have any ideas?
by jthomas 3:03 PM

When do you believe we will hear about how this new stadium will be financed?
by Rams 3:04 PM

Don’t know. I’m sure at some point.
by jthomas 3:04 PM

Greg Robinson was a devastating run blocker in college, Why haven’t the Rams run to his side more ?
by EricRams 3:04 PM

I think the Rams have run to his side more than a little in the past two games.
by jthomas 3:05 PM

Jim, you said you relocation is 55/45. Which is which? 55 stay or 45 stay?
by Lambs for Sale 3:05 PM

45 to stay/55 to go.
by jthomas 3:05 PM

There are hotels within walking distance by Busch and on Washington Avenue
by Stan’s speech writer 3:06 PM

More advice for Ohio.
by jthomas 3:06 PM

Is Foles the weak link on the offense? Horrible decision making execution could have cost them a victory against the Packers.
by bfowler 3:06 PM

Well, that may have been the case vs. Green Bay. But he was one of their best players against Seattle and Arizona.
by jthomas 3:07 PM

What will it take for you to raise your percentages to 55 stay? Is there anything that is in the works that has a large impact and if so, when is the magical date?
by Lambs for Sale 3:08 PM

I’d still like to see the basics of that financing plan. Having the city approve its share of the financing plan would be a big help.
by jthomas 3:08 PM

How long does it typically take for an offensive lineman to mature (i.e. hit his stride) in the NFL? About 3 years?
by Brad W 3:09 PM

Yeah, I think you’re in the neighborhood there at 3 years.
by jthomas 3:09 PM

With the Browns up this week and Johnny football in deep do do again do you think there may be a chance we see Davis
by Up North 3:09 PM

I guess Davis would be Cleveland’s second-string QB if Manziel was a pre-game inactive.
by jthomas 3:10 PM

Hey Jim, any explanation why offensive players on the Rams tend to just disappear after producing the previous season? For example, DRich, Stacy, Givens, Quick. And now to a lesser extent Bailey & Mason. Thanks
by STL45Fan 3:11 PM

That’s an interesting question. The circumstances of course are different with Quick because he’s coming off a pretty serious injury. But Richardson, and so far Stacy, haven’t been able to duplicate their early success in St. Louis at new outposts.
by jthomas 3:14 PM

I am hoping we see the full Rams running attack Sunday. And I also hope to Cignetti adjust when the Browns stack the box. Please tell me Cig will be ready with a pass play or two that takes advantage of this. I think this might be our chance to score a bunch of points; a poor run defense plays right into Fish’s scheme.
by Healey 3:14 PM

So it would seem.
by jthomas 3:15 PM

Patriots arguably ranked as the best team in the NFL right now. During their bye week they tinkered with their roster, always trying to improve. Rams did nothing and we aren’t even close to the Patriots. What gives? Snead has always been a little bit of a gambler, has Kroenke locked up the money box and is sitting on it in LA? Thou shalt not spend money on the “St. Louis” Rams?
by Uncle Leo 3:15 PM

I don’t think tinkering with their roster is the reasons the Patriots are unbeaten. I think it has more to do with Mssrs. Brady and Belichick.
by jthomas 3:16 PM

Aaron Rodgers stood on the sidelines for three years, learning. Brady didn’t play the first year. The two best QBs in the NFL didn’t get shoved into the starting lineup as rookies. Why don’t teams take that approach anymore?
by Andy 3:17 PM

When you draft a QB No. 1 or No. 2 overall, I think there’s great pressure to play them right away. Keep in mind, both the Packers and Patriots had established QBs when they drafted Rodgers and Brady. (I’m speaking of Favre and Bledsoe here.) Not every team has that luxury.
by jthomas 3:18 PM

Good Day to you Jim, when the team travels on chartered flights do you fly on the same flight as they do, also stay at the same hotel. Also is that a time when you can have some good off the record conversations?
by Bob Hruby 3:19 PM

Only time in 21 seasons that I have traveled with the team is on the London trip a couple of years back. Usually stay at the team hotel, but not always. Sometimes that leads to some off-the-record conversations, but not as much as you’d think.
by jthomas 3:20 PM

Any thought on Bradford’s performance so far this year? I’m amazed he hasn’t been hurt yet. Maybe the Eagles Oline is far better than the Rams.
by Dschwag 3:21 PM

Last night (vs. Giants) was the first time I’d watched him for an extended period of time. He just doesn’t look totally comfortable to me. And I wonder if that system really is the best fit for him. He has taken some shots however, and gotten up. For a variety of reason, the Eagles had trouble last night getting into a rhythm offensively. You can’t blame him for one of his interceptions last night _ the WR inexplicably stopped running the route. But the first INT was a high throw, and the third he threw into traffic. Keep in mind, he hadn’t really played for a year and a half in the regular season. He just doesn’t look like he’s got his feel for the game back.
by jthomas 3:26 PM

Hi Jim, Great to see you again! Whats your take on Mannion? If Foles were to go down do you think they’d start Mannion?
by sphincter 3:26 PM

No, it would be Keenum.
by jthomas 3:26 PM

Is Chris Long out this weekend? Longer than this weekend?
by Uncle Leo 3:26 PM

No official word yet. In fact, no official injury report until Weds. But my guess is that he misses this weekend and maybe another game or two beyond that.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

Jimbo! Thanks for stopping by, you know I always enjoy your visits. Do you think the Rams will be competing for the division this year?
by sphincter 3:27 PM

I’ll put it this way: I think they are capable of competing for a playoff berth.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

Assuming everything falls into place, do you think the NFL would risk the negative PR by encouraging St. Louis to invest millions of dollars developing a stadium plan which calls for using a large share of public funds, only to deny them? What precedent would that set for future projects (using public funds) in other cities?
by Stan’s speech writer 3:28 PM

I don’t think that would be a very good precedent.
by jthomas 3:28 PM

The KC Chiefs are spiraling downward, Missouri Tigers having a hard time of it. Are the Rams the best football in Missouri right now?
by Uncle Leo 3:28 PM

Perhaps. That’s not much of a consolation prize though, is it?
by jthomas 3:29 PM

Rams said they used the bye week to self scout. Do you think the offensive through this process learned that Bailey runs the best routes and has the best hands of all the receivers. Aneas Williams, Isaac, Torry and Marshal think so . Tavon and Gurley have been given the opportunity to make plays and have taken advantage of the opportunity. It is time for Bailey to get the majority of the snaps and see if he is another playmaker to add to another dimension to the offense. Do you agree.
by ramsfan 3:29 PM

I’ve always liked Bailey. But actually, he’s playing more at this point of the season _ much more _ than he did in 2014 or ’13.
by jthomas 3:30 PM

OK thanks now follow up question, with everything going on about pending move etc, has your job gotten tougher to do especially with getting access to team officials than in the years past, or they more stand offish
by Bob Hruby 3:30 PM

The higher you go on the organizational depth chart, the more stand-offish. So yeah, it has gotten tougher.
by jthomas 3:31 PM

I think I am going to attend the Town Hall meeting next Tuesday.
by Stan Kroenke 3:31 PM

Good. Stop by and say hi.
by jthomas 3:31 PM

In the G.Bay game it would have been nice to see some screen passes to slow the rush down, or a quick pass to one of the three serviceable TE’s the Rams have. In fact, its been missing from most all of the games. Can you ask the OC what he has been doing to slow the rush down?
by Deacon 75 3:32 PM

Actually, I think the screen game was pretty effective earlier in the season. But I agree with you; I would’ve have liked to have seen it used more against the Packers. The Rams did try the screens, or versions of the screen, a couple of times vs. Packers but without success.
by jthomas 3:33 PM

6 weeks into the season, the Rams are in second place and 2-0 within the division, with the easy part of the schedule up ahead. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
by optimist 3:33 PM

Yes, and Santa Claus is coming to town!
by jthomas 3:34 PM

Jim, a few weeks ago this game looked like a W for us. Now I’m really thinking it might go the other way. Our O line shouldn’t improve with a back up right? Predict the score please.
by Cutman 3:34 PM

Rams 27, Browns 20.
by jthomas 3:34 PM

You stated you didn’t think Bradford is up to par yet, but in your opinion got the best of the QB swap, Rams or Eagles?
by Don 3:35 PM

Too early to tell. We need at least one season, don’t you think?
by jthomas 3:35 PM

JT if the nfl tells the rams to stay do you see a change in ownership there has been rumor of buyers for the rams
by conner 3:35 PM

Given his track record, it’s hard for me to see Kroenke as a seller.
by jthomas 3:36 PM

I am a Season Ticket holder and registered for the Town Hall next week, if I get a “ticket” and am able to attend. What would you recommend I ask if I get a chance to ask a question? Is there anything that can be said or done at that event that means anything?
by Brett O. 3:36 PM

1.) Will the NFL really follow the relocation guidelines? 2.) How can the league in their right minds say that Stan Kroenke has met the relocation guidelines. 3.) How can the league turn its back on a city/region willing to build a second stadium In 25 years _ doesn’t this set a terrible precedent? 4.) Should an NFL owner be allowed to move just because he wants to enrich himself? 5.) What makes the NFL think LA will support two teams, or even one? . . . .Those are a view for starters.
by jthomas 3:41 PM

In your opinion, if you were on the opposing team and you had one person on the Rams defense that you would not want to be tackled by, who would that be. Not who can hit you the hardest, but tackles the hardest.
by Bob Hruby 3:43 PM

I’d still say Barron or McDonald.
by jthomas 3:44 PM

I feel like this town hall meeting has as much chance of changing things as political bumper stickers change voting habits.
by Bob 3:46 PM

You’re probably right.
by jthomas 3:46 PM

Ok, do you think the NFL will not all the “REAL” tough questions to be asked?
by Tim 3:46 PM

I don’t think they can censor the questioners.
by jthomas 3:48 PM

What gives? You answer all of Bob Hruby’s questions, and none of mine! Do I need to include a wedding picture next to my name too?
by Jeff in LA 3:48 PM

Whah! Whah! Whah! 15-yard penalty for whining.
by jthomas 3:49 PM

In the spirit of Halloween, what is jthomas1’s favorite scary flick?
by Jim Beam 3:49 PM

I’m scared of scary movies. Still gotta be the Exorcist.
by jthomas 3:50 PM

What is your over under for attendance at this weeks game? By attendance I mean actual butts in seats. Thanks JT
by Vern 3:50 PM

I’m gonna say high 30s.
by jthomas 3:51 PM

In the Green Bay game, was there a designated player to track Rodgers? I thought he was pressured nicely but most of the time he got away.
by Rudy 3:51 PM

Yeah, but when Aaron Rodgers is Green Bay’s leading rusher, your defense has had a pretty good day.
by jthomas 3:52 PM

Awesome answer, thanks!
by Jeff in LA 3:52 PM

Are we happy now? 🙂
by jthomas 3:52 PM

They may not be able to sensor the questioners, but they can PLANT some FAVORABLE ones!
by Tim 3:52 PM

Oliver Stone, I didn’t know you took part in these chats. Welcome.
by jthomas 3:53 PM

Last week Givens had 2 catches, 18 yards for the Ravens. Is it about what you expected the ex-Ram to produce? Seemed like a great opportunity for him.
by Uncle Leo 3:53 PM

As someone new to that team, obviously he’s still learning the offense. I do think it’s a very good opportunity for him.
by jthomas 3:54 PM

Is it possible Manziel gets suspended before Sunday?
by Tom 3:54 PM

Don’t think it’ll happen that fast.
by jthomas 3:55 PM

“You can’t handle the truth!”
by Tim 3:55 PM

Oh boy. . . .
by jthomas 3:55 PM

JT has the defense been giving the offence any sideways glances yet
by Up North 3:55 PM

Not yet.
by jthomas 3:55 PM

Do you get a sense the “league” has already determined who they’d like to lead the return to LA charge but don’t know how to sell it to the public yet?
by sphincter 3:55 PM

No. I think the dilemma is that they don’t see one “magical” solution at this point _ one that makes most everybody happy.
by jthomas 3:55 PM

Let me try this again – LEAVE “most happy” aside!
Do you get a sense the “league” has already determined who they’d like to lead the return to LA charge but don’t know how to sell it to the public yet?
by sphincter 3:59 PM

No.
by jthomas 4:00 PM

Does Trey Watts get some touches this week?
by Uncle Leo 4:00 PM

He’s on the practice squad.
by jthomas 4:00 PM

Sent this to grubman yesterday using the link in the PD story. Just pasted it into the chat.
by BC 4:00 PM

OK, that explains it.
by jthomas 4:00 PM

Did I read that right…a new stadium could be built and Kroenke can choose to NOT play in it?
by Ramathorn 4:01 PM

No stadium will be built in St. Louis unless there is a team to play in it.
by jthomas 4:02 PM

Do you think the “league” will grant a relocation to LA? within a year? regardless to who is not happy?
by sphincter 4:03 PM

Yes.
by jthomas 4:03 PM

I think the only magical solution would be to expand to LA and London but that would deplete the talent pool that is already strained. Face it you can not come up with 32 decent starting QBs now
by Up North 4:03 PM

Myself, I think expansion would be the best solution.
by jthomas 4:03 PM

During the off week do the quarterbacks sharpen there game and look at film
by Marty 4:04 PM

Yes.
by jthomas 4:04 PM

When Stan Kroenke looks at his St. Louis Rams income statement at the end of the year, is the last number red or black?
by Jim Beam 4:04 PM

It is impossible to lose money in the NFL. Bill Bidwill once bragged that he could make money without selling a single ticket (because of the TV dollars). Kroenke is just making fewer dollars in recent years than when he originally bought into the team.
by jthomas 4:06 PM

Kudos to James Lauranitis. He took a beating earlier in the year by some in this chat thread but has looked revitalized in the last few weeks. Jimbo – isn’t it great to see him blitzing up the middle!
by Brett O. 4:06 PM

I like him as a blitzer.
by jthomas 4:06 PM

Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher – 10/13/15

(Opening statement)
“What you try to accomplish here is to get young guys some valuable reps during the bye week that haven’t really gotten the reps. The backups need the reps. A lot of the starters need some reps here the first couple of days, so we take advantage of that. We even include the practice squad players with offense and defense, just to make sure that they’re ready at a moment’s notice. So, coaches got together and like I said, yesterday we looked at some things that we need to improve and we got a head start on it today. So, it was a modified practice, particularly because it’s Tuesday. But we’ll have two good sessions Wednesday and Thursday.”

(On how the offensive line looked after G Rodger Saffold left the game with an injury)
“(G/T) Garrett (Reynolds) did fine. I mean, I said that on Monday. Garrett plugged right in. So, I was fine with the way he played. He was a settling factor and was cutting people downfield and finishing plays. Yeah, so I thought he was fine.”

(On if they have started game planning for Cleveland or if this week is more self-scouting)
“We’re self-scouting this week. The coaches are ahead, but we’re just working on some things. Then, we had numerous mistakes on defense on the field, so we went through some of those just as a reminder, so they don’t come up. Then, we’re working on the first down stuff and polishing the run game. We rested (RB) Todd (Gurley) today for obvious reasons, like I said. But we have some technique things we need to work on, as far as special teams are concerned.”

(On if he rested any other veteran players at practice today)
“Yes. Yeah, there were a number of them.”

(On if he would list who he rested today)
“Probably not. I don’t have to put an injury report out until next Wednesday.”

(On if he rested LB James Laurinaitis today)
“Yes, we rested James today.”

(On if he rested TE Lance Kendricks today)
“Yes.”

(On if he rested DE Robert Quinn today)
“No. Actually we did. I rested him a little bit. You guys took role out here didn’t you?”

(On if he rested DT Michael Brockers today)
“He was also one that did not participate today, yes.”

(On if he only evaluates one game back or if he takes this time to evaluate all of the games)
“Well, it’s a body of work is what we’re looking at. Are there trends? That’s what we’re looking at right now. The trends are that we’re not making enough first downs on offense. Defense, we’re getting the turnovers. Offense, number-wise, we’re not giving up sacks, per say, but we’re giving up way too many hits on the quarterback, so those are things that we’re working on now.”

(On if he needs to just tweak something a little to remedy the situation)
“You just keep working and refining. On any given play you can find a minor mistake. Those are the things we’re trying to correct. And even on plays where you make big plays – there’s a big run, a (RB Todd) Gurley run for 50 yards – there’s a mistake there someplace you have to eliminate.”

(On if there’s any update on G Rodger Saffold)
“Nothing, no.”

(On if they’re not finished with the tests on Saffold)
“Correct.”

(On how good he feels about where the team is)
“We’re not satisfied with the record by any means. I think we’ve shown improvement and I think that some of the things that we did at Lambeau were impressive. Weren’t impressive enough to win the game, but I think we’re showing improvement and that’s the most important thing.”

(On the one intangible thing about this team that makes him go, ‘This is why we’re improving’)
“It’s a short memory and it’s confidence in each other. They have a short memory. You’ve got to put it behind you and go. Go onto the next thing.”

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-notes-bryant-promoted-from-practice-squad-mcgee-cut-pd/%5DRams notes: Bryant promoted from practice squad, McGee cut –PD
With just seconds to play in a win over the University of Wisconsin two years ago, Rams safety Christian Bryant feared his NFL dream had ended.

http://www.rams-news.com/long-wait-is-over-for-brian-quick-pd/%5DLong wait is over for Brian Quick –PD
Brian Quick was riding high last year at this time, with 16 catches for 235 yards through three games, one of those grabs being good for a 51-yard touchdown against Dallas.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-practice-report-102-quick-set-to-return-simmons/%5DRams Practice Report 10/2: Quick Set to Return –Simmons
It’s been a long road back from a serious shoulder injury for wide receiver Brian Quick, and all indications are that he will be on the field when the Rams take on the Cardinals in Arizona.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-report-wr-quick-to-see-first-action-of-2015-pd/%5DRams report: WR Quick to see first action of 2015 –PD
Wide receiver Brian Quick will be on the active roster Sunday when the Rams (1-2) take on the Arizona Cardinals (3-0) in a 3:25 p.m. NFC West showdown at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.

http://www.rams-news.com/michael-brockers-were-playing-a-lot-faster-than-last-year-video/%5DMichael Brockers: We’re Playing A Lot Faster Than Last Year –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/brian-quick-cant-wait-to-get-out-there-with-my-brothers-video/%5DBrian Quick: Can’t Wait to Get Out There With My Brothers –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/gregg-williams-our-guys-are-preparing-in-a-very-good-way-video/%5DGregg Williams: Our Guys Are Preparing In A Very Good Way –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/jeff-fisher-weve-got-a-good-sense-of-what-theyre-doing-video/%5DJeff Fisher: We’ve Got A Good Sense of What They’re Doing –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/laurinaitis-kenny-britt-probable-to-play-against-arizona-wagoner/Laurinaitis, Kenny Britt probable to play against Arizona –Wagoner
The St. Louis Rams made some roster moves Friday as their injury report indicated a need for another safety. So the Rams released cornerback Brandon McGee and called up safety Christian Bryant from the practice squad.

http://www.rams-news.com/run-first-rams-struggles-go-beyond-the-basics-wagoner/%5DRun-First Rams’ Struggles Go Beyond the Basics –Wagoner
The St. Louis Rams’ offseason left zero doubt about the offensive identity they were trying to forge.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-see-cardinals-as-a-lot-better-with-carson-palmer-back-wagoner/%5DRams See Cardinals as ‘a Lot Better’ with Carson Palmer Back –Wagoner
It’s not exactly a groundbreaking observation to note the influence quarterback Carson Palmer has on the Arizona Cardinals’ offense when he’s behind center.

http://www.rams-news.com/the-rams-are-better-than-you-think-an-extensive-st-louis-cap-analysis/%5DThe Rams are Better than you Think: An Extensive St. Louis Cap Analysis
I’m not saying the Rams are Super Bowl bound. I’m not saying the Rams are a top tier NFL team. However, I do believe the Rams have one of the healthiest cap structures in in the NFL.

http://www.rams-news.com/john-robinson-talks-rams-vs-cardinals/%5DJohn Robinson Talks Rams vs Cardinals

http://www.rams-news.com/fisher-up-front-arizona-preview-video/%5DFisher Up Front: Arizona Preview –Video

Rams receiver Brian Quick set to make season debut

Nick Wagoner, ESPN Staff Writer

http://espn.go.com/blog/st-louis-rams/post/_/id/22071/rams-receiver-brian-quick-set-to-make-season-debut

EARTH CITY, Mo. — The St. Louis Rams offered an answer to the most-asked question about one of their players last week when they made running back Todd Gurley active for his first NFL game.

No sooner had those questions dried up when the focus quickly turned to when receiver Brian Quick would make his 2015 season debut after returning from a serious shoulder injury.

Unlike with Gurley, coach Jeff Fisher left no doubt when asked about Quick on Friday.

“[He] had a great week, I hope it carries over into the game,” Fisher said.

Asked if that meant Quick would be active this week, Fisher repeated himself.

“I hope it carries over into the game,” Fisher said, a smile creeping across his face.

In other words, there won’t be some pregame workout in which coaches monitor Quick or any charades about game-time decisions. Instead, Quick, nearly a year after suffering the shoulder injury that cost him the final half of the 2014 season, will be up and playing on Sunday.

Quick said he had a good idea that this was his time earlier in the week when he started getting some reps with the first-team offense. It was hard to decipher at the time whether that was a function of Quick being elevated, receiver Kenny Britt’s absence because of a shoulder injury or something in between.

But with Britt back in practice Friday, Quick continued to get the reps and was clearly excited about making his return.

“[It’s been] a long time coming,” Quick said. “I’m just ready to go out there and take advantage of the opportunity I have.”

Quick’s absence in the first three weeks has brought persistent questions about his status. Was he not fully healed? If he wasn’t fully healed, why wasn’t he on the injury report? Conspiracy theorists even wondered if he’d done something to get in trouble.

To hear Quick tell it, though, it was simply a matter of getting back up to speed both physically and mentally during the past year. By his own admission, Quick missed valuable time last season and then didn’t get to participate in organized team activities in the spring. Even when he returned with some limitations in training camp, he found himself playing catch up as he returned to an offense with a new coordinator in Frank Cignetti.

On Friday, Quick wouldn’t point to one issue that kept him inactive the first three weeks of the season but said it was all-encompassing.

“It was everything, period,” Quick said. “Just getting back to the speed that I need to get back to. I’m still working.”

Quick spent the first three weeks of practice working with the scout team almost exclusively, but he started ratcheting up the work with starters this week without Britt. Fisher took notice of how well Quick did when he stepped in.

“And he stepped right in there and literally was flawless with his reps,” Fisher said. “He knows exactly what to do.”

How much or what, exactly, Quick’s role will be Sunday against Arizona remains to be seen. Like with Gurley and the run game last week, it’s wise not to expect Quick to be some sort of panacea for a struggling offense.

But it can’t hurt to have Quick back, either. He was the team’s leading receiver when he got hurt last year and is a solid blocker on the outside in the run game. And the one benefit of not playing in the first three weeks is that he has fresh legs going into a game against a strong secondary.

As for his nerves, Quick doesn’t think he’ll have butterflies as the game approaches.

“I’m going to take the same approach I always do as far as staying calm and staying focused,” Quick said. “As an offense, you have to be calm and just do the little things right. It’s about details. You can’t go out there and bust assignments and do the wrong thing. You have to be calm and take care of your business.”

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-chargers-marriage-for-inglewood-site-may-not-work-pd/%5DRams, Chargers Marriage for Inglewood Site May Not Work –PD
With two sites in the Los Angeles area vying for teams, and three “home markets” fighting to keep their teams from leaving, the NFL relocation issue is a Rubik’s Cube of scenarios and potential solutions.

http://www.rams-news.com/barron-flourishing-in-safetylinebacker-hybrid-role-for-rams-pd/%5DBarron Flourishing in Safety/Linebacker Hybrid Role for Rams –PD
Mark Barron was a first-round draft pick in 2012 out of Alabama, and started 37 games in nearly 2½ seasons with Tampa Bay before last year’s late October trade sent him to the Rams.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-preparing-for-same-old-dominant-larry-fitzgerald-wagoner/%5DRams Preparing for Same Old Dominant Larry Fitzgerald –Wagoner
As one of the three teams Arizona Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald has played against the most in his NFL career, it stands to reason that Fitzgerald’s numbers against the St. Louis Rams would be impressive.

http://www.rams-news.com/james-laurinaitis-kenny-britt-upgraded-on-estimated-injury-report-wagoner/%5DJames Laurinaitis, Kenny Britt upgraded on ‘estimated’ injury report –Wagoner
For the second week in a row, the St. Louis Rams had some changes on their Thursday injury report despite not practicing.

http://www.rams-news.com/mmqbs-andy-benoits-film-breakdown-rams-vs-steelers/%5DMMQB’s Andy Benoit’s Film Breakdown: Rams Vs. Steelers

http://www.rams-news.com/nick-foles-says-the-rams-offensive-struggles-start-with-him-wagoner/%5DNick Foles Says the Rams’ Offensive Struggles Start with Him –Wagoner
Three weeks into the NFL season, the St. Louis Rams have the league’s lowest-ranked offense, mustering an average of 274.3 yards per game. While coach Jeff Fisher and his group insist they’re on the verge of a breakthrough, it’s hard to see that level of progress from the outside.

http://www.rams-news.com/stan-kroenke-now-forbes-second-wealthiest-nfl-owner-wagoner/%5DStan Kroenke Now Forbes’ Second-wealthiest NFL Owner –Wagoner
Earlier this week, Forbes magazine released its ranking of the 400 wealthiest Americans with estimated values for each person. As you’d suspect, any list of the richest Americans is sure to include members of one of the most exclusive clubs around: NFL owners.

http://www.rams-news.com/with-guessing-game-over-todd-gurley-could-be-in-line-for-more-work-wagoner/%5DWith Guessing Game over, Todd Gurley Could be in Line for More Work –Wagoner
Now that the question of when St. Louis Rams rookie running back Todd Gurley will make his debut has been answered, the focus has shifted to when Gurley will be ready to take on an expanded role in the offense and offer the production that goes with it.

http://www.rams-news.com/week-4-preview-rams-at-cardinals/%5DWeek 4 Preview: Rams at Cardinals

http://www.rams-news.com/kurt-warner-talks-rams-and-arizona-cardinals-audio/%5DKurt Warner Talks Rams and Arizona Cardinals –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/jason-cole-la-committee-has-very-strong-support-of-st-louis-audio/%5DJason Cole: LA Committee Has ‘Very Strong Support of St. Louis’ –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/steve-mariucci-gives-his-preception-of-the-rams-audio/%5DSteve Mariucci Gives his Preception of the Rams –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/cbs-sports-week-4-nfl-preview-rams-at-cardinals-video/%5DCBS Sports Week 4 NFL Preview: Rams at Cardinals –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/wagoner-rams-current-struggles-be-tied-into-the-rams-preseason-gameplan-audio/%5DWagoner: Rams Current Struggles be Tied into the Rams Preseason Gameplan? –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/james-laurinaitis-we-want-to-make-palmer-uncomfortable-in-the-pocket-video/%5DJames Laurinaitis: We Want to Make Palmer Uncomfortable in the Pocket –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/jared-cook-its-about-getting-better-every-week-video/%5DJared Cook: It’s About Getting Better Every Week –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/todd-gurley-weve-got-to-get-the-job-done-video/%5DTodd Gurley: We’ve Got to Get the Job Done –Video

Practice Report 9/30: Gurley’s Ready for More

Myles Simmons

http://www.stlouisrams.com/news-and-events/article-practicereport/Practice-Report-930-Gurleys-Ready-for-More/4b87dd3c-8db5-4745-a953-cc43b2012d72

The production and result were not the desired outcomes, but from a health standpoint, running back Todd Gurley’s debut on Sunday was a success.

“I was fine, I felt good,” Gurley said of his recovery on Monday. “Just a little bit of soreness. It was nothing too crazy.”

As you might expect, the running back said he’s glad to have the ballgame out of the way.

“It definitely felt good just to get that first one out,” Gurley said.

While Gurley tallied only 9 yards on six carries and had one 5-yard reception, offensive coordinator Frank Cignetti said he was encouraged by what he saw out of the rookie running back.

“I thought he made good run reads,” Cignetti said. “I thought he was decisive. I thought he had good vision.”

That vision is likely a factor for why head coach Jeff Fisher said on Monday that Gurley was close to breaking off a few long runs. Gurley said he noticed the same when he reviewed the game film.

“About two or three runs like that,” Gurley said. “But, you know, it’s football. It’s just like coach harps on — it’s the little details. So that’s why we practice and hopefully we can take that over to the game.”

And when it comes to those close runs, offensive lineman Rodger Saffold said he thinks it’s only a matter of time before they are executed properly.

“He’ll get there. Things are going to get there,” Saffold said. “Things are going to open up because it’s just one or two small things from breaking open.”

Quarterback Nick Foles said Wednesday he has been impressed with what he’s seen from Gurley in practice. The quarterback praised the rookie’s maturity, calling him a smooth running back who will be an explosive runner.

“He doesn’t run like a rookie. He runs like a guy who is sure of himself and knows who he is as a player,” Foles said. “He’s coming off of an injury as well and he’s playing his first game in the NFL, so I know there’s a lot of nerves, but each and every day he comes out to practice and works his butt off. He looks great in practice, and I know he’s going to show it on the field.”

One of the adjustments Gurley has made is running in an outside zone scheme. The running back said he didn’t do any of that in college, and he’s getting better at playing in it.

“It just takes repetition,” Gurley said. “Just keep getting reps at it an looking at other teams’ outside zone schemes and learning from that and watching film with each other, with the O-line. So we’ll get it down pat, get this thing rolling soon.”


If there is one improvement Gurley wants to make immediately, it’s breaking tackles. The running back sounded disappointed he wasn’t able to get past one player into the next level on Sunday.

“It’s the NFL and all, but for me, I’ve got a mindset whether it’s the NFL or not, I shouldn’t let one defender tackle me,” Gurley said.

And while Gurley’s looking forward to getting back on the field on Sunday, he’s not going to push for more touches.

“You can have one carry and it’s for 80 yards,” Gurley said, adding the most important thing for him is the team winning. “I’ll let the coaches decide that. I don’t call the plays.”

INJURY REPORT

There were five Rams listed on the injury report on Wednesday, all of whom did not practice.

Running back Chase Reynolds and defensive end Eugene Sims are closer to returning, but still sidelined with knee injuries. Safety Maurice Alexander suffered a groin injury in Sunday’s game. As Fisher said Tuesday, wide receiver Kenny Britt is dealing with a minor shoulder issue and did not practice Wednesday either. And linebacker James Laurinaitis received a rest day.

FROM THE OTHER SIDE

With strong play in all three phases, the Cardinals have jumped out to a 3-0 start to their season. Offensively, a significant reason why they are executing so well is the re-emergence of quarterback Carson Palmer.

Palmer suffered the second torn ACL of his career in 2014, but has been able to come back in even better shape, according to Arizona head coach Bruce Arians.

“I tell you, it’s amazing. Sports science today is so unbelievable,” Arians said Wednesday. “He’s probably fitter and stronger and better fit than he was when he was 30 or 31. Just the things that he did with his body, his core is so much stronger. His legs are obviously stronger, but it’s also helped his arm.”

Palmer has completed 63.6 percent of his passes for 803 yards with nine touchdowns and only two interceptions. We’ll have more on Palmer and the Cardinals’ offense in our Opponent Breakdown post later in the week.

REPORT: St. Louis Rams Will Sign WR Nick Toon

@3k_ on Sep 28, 2015, 12:59p 35

After working out for the Rams last week, it sounds like Nick Toon will be joining the active roster.

#Rams to sign WR Nick Toon, per source. Toon had workouts with #Rams and #Seahawks last week.

— Ross Jones (@RossJonesFOX) September 28, 2015

This comes on the heels of Toon’s workout, along with six other wideouts, last week.

The obvious suggested implication? WR Brian Quick is done. After the serious shoulder and rotator cuff injury he suffered last year, he nearly had his career cut short for him:

Quick hasn’t appeared on any injury reports and Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher has been committed to his shoulder’s rehabilitation throughout the process. So it’s a bit strange that perhaps aside from the injury issue Quick has been among the inactives for each of the Rams’ three games. For the 33rd overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Rams just never were able to get him to reach his potential aside from the early four game stretch to kick off the 2014 season.

No word on a corresponding move to adjust the 53-man for Toon’s arrival as yet…

http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/9/28/9409889/st-louis-rams-nick-toon-signing-brian-quick

• This topic was modified 9 years, 2 months ago by Agamemnon.
• This topic was modified 9 years, 2 months ago by Agamemnon.

That seems awfully low to me. I would think
there were a lot more than that.

w
v

===============================
http://thinkprogress.org/sports/2015/09/21/3703665/the-human-toll-of-2-weeks-of-nfl-football/

Just two weeks into the current season, about 15 percent of all NFL football players have already officially suffered an injury.

According to official statistics released by the NFL, 234 players were dealing with various kinds of injuries heading into the the second week of play. This includes 12 concussions, two neck injuries, and one other unspecified injury to the head. There were also 40 knee injuries.

During the second week of play, another 16 players suffered injuries so severe that they needed to be removed from the game. (More injuries will be identified as teams prepare their Week 3 injury reports.) Bills safety Aaron Williams suffered a neck injury and was taken off the field via ambulance.

The rate of injuries this year is not out of the ordinary for the NFL. In the 2013-14 season there were more than 1,300 injuries, including 87 concussions, over the course of play. (Although the rate through Week 2 appears greater than this, it also includes injuries that have been sustained during the pre-season.)

The NFL implemented a number of changes this year that were intended to reduce the number of injuries. In March, NFL owners agreed to eliminate “all chop blocks and peel blocks by running backs outside the tackle box,” ban “players from pushing teammates at the line of scrimmage in order to block punts” and expand “defenseless-player protection to include interception returns.” None of these arcane changes have had any noticeable impact on the total number of injuries thus far. The NFL claims that previous rule changes have reduced the number of concussions sustained by NFL players.

A study released last Friday of 91 deceased NFL players found 87 tested positive for chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CPE), a brain disease linked to repetitive brain trauma.
===================

http://www.rams-news.com/donald-wont-be-rooting-for-steelers-this-week-pd/%5DDonald won’t be rooting for Steelers this week –PD
Aaron Donald has never owned a Terrible Towel. He’s never even attended a Steelers game in person. But the Pittsburgh native cannot tell a lie. He grew up watching his hometown Steelers on television, and rooting hard.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-face-enormous-challenge-against-steelers-defense/%5DRams Face Enormous Challenge Against Steelers Defense
Talk about tests. It’s a big one the St. Louis Rams will face Sunday when they return home from a spanking from the Washington Redskins to play a Pittsburgh Steelers team that gets running back Le’Veon Bell back from a two-game suspension.

http://www.rams-news.com/rams-report-gurley-says-hes-ready-to-play-if-asked-pd/%5DRams Report: Gurley says he’s ready to play if asked –PD
Last week, prior to the Rams’ loss to Washington, rookie running back Todd Gurley was asked what he would answer if coach Jeff Fisher asked if he were ready to play. His answer: “I don’t know.”

http://www.rams-news.com/todd-gurley-not-listed-on-injury-report-wagoner/%5DTodd Gurley Not Listed on Injury Report –Wagoner
The St. Louis Rams only had two players listed on Wednesday’s injury report. Neither of them is running back Todd Gurley.

http://www.rams-news.com/james-laurinaitis-i-hate-losing-more-than-i-like-winning-video/%5DJames Laurinaitis: I Hate Losing More Than I Like Winning –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/rodger-saffold-youre-going-to-see-a-big-upswing-in-focus-this-week-video/%5DRodger Saffold: You’re Going to See A Big Upswing In Focus This Week –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/nick-foles-we-need-to-run-the-ball-to-open-things-up-video/%5DNick Foles: We Need To Run the Ball to Open Things Up –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/todd-gurley-when-the-time-comes-it-comes-video/%5DTodd Gurley: When the Time Comes, It Comes –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/john-fassel-tavons-decision-making-was-excellent-video/%5DJohn Fassel: Tavon’s Decision Making Was Excellent –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/frank-cignetti-we-have-high-expectations-of-ourselves-video/%5DFrank Cignetti: We Have High Expectations of Ourselves –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/jeff-fisher-press-conference-923-video/%5DJeff Fisher Press Conference: 9/23 –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/opponents-completing-81-percent-against-rams-ap/%5DOpponents Completing 81 Percent Against Rams –AP
Kirk Cousins had just four incomplete passes against the St. Louis Rams in the Washington Redskins’ Week 2 victory. It only gets tougher for the secondary, with Ben Roethlisberger, Carson Palmer and Aaron Rodgers coming up.

http://www.rams-news.com/steelers-rams-preview-ap/%5DSteelers-Rams Preview –AP
The Pittsburgh Steelers are about to add the NFL’s second-leading rusher from a year ago to complement the league’s current second-best rusher.

http://www.rams-news.com/mike-tomlin-sees-greatness-in-rams-hard-working-aaron-donald-wagoner/%5DMike Tomlin Sees Greatness in Rams’ Hard-Working Aaron Donald –Wagoner
Speaking to St. Louis media on Wednesday afternoon, Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin had already showered St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald with praise when he was asked about the greatness of one of his players, receiver Antonio Brown.

http://www.rams-news.com/aaron-donald-to-his-pittsburgh-family-better-root-for-the-rams-on-sunday-wagoner/%5DAaron Donald to his Pittsburgh family: ‘Better root for the Rams’ on Sunday –Wagoner
As the ticket requests for this week rolled in, St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald had just one stipulation for his many family members flying in from Pittsburgh.

http://www.rams-news.com/fisher-expects-old-friend-mike-munchak-to-try-to-slow-rams-pass-rush-wagoner/%5DFisher expects old friend Mike Munchak to try to slow Rams pass rush –Wagoner
When he arrived as the new head coach of the St. Louis Rams in 2012, Jeff Fisher was able to get most of his original band back together.

http://www.rams-news.com/leveon-bell-set-to-return-against-rams-wagoner/%5DLe’Veon Bell set to return against Rams –Wagoner
The St. Louis Rams got some bad news before the season even started when Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell’s three-game suspension for violating the league’s policy on substance abuse was reduced to two games.

http://www.rams-news.com/stop-blaming-the-players-this-is-jeff-fishers-team-alexander/%5DStop Blaming the players, this is Jeff Fisher’s team –Alexander
One of the first things that concerned me about the St. Louis Rams’ first road game of the 2015 season was that there was going to be some sort of hangover after beating Seattle Seahawks in the home opener last week.

http://www.rams-news.com/big-ben-steelers-will-keep-going-for-2-video/%5DBig Ben: Steelers will keep going for 2 –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/nick-wagoner-on-how-the-rams-are-preparing-for-the-steelers-audio/%5DNick Wagoner On How the Rams are Preparing for the Steelers –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/carey-davis-on-the-tall-task-at-hand-for-the-rams-dealing-with-this-steelers-offense-audio/%5DCarey Davis on the Tall Task at Hand for the Rams Dealing with this Steelers Offense –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/jeff-fisher-the-players-have-a-short-memory-which-is-important-audio/%5DJeff Fisher: The Players Have A Short Memory, Which Is Important –Audio

http://www.rams-news.com/aaron-donald-we-have-to-do-our-job-and-execute-video/%5DAaron Donald: We Have to Do Our Job and Execute –Video

http://www.rams-news.com/robert-quinn-weve-got-to-start-fast-and-stop-the-explosive-plays-video/%5DRobert Quinn: We’ve Got To Start Fast and Stop the Explosive Plays –Video

Practice Report 9/23: Gurley Prepping for Possible Debut

Myles Simmons

http://www.stlouisrams.com/news-and-events/article-practicereport/Practice-Report-923-Gurley-Prepping-for-Possible-Debut/c86b1957-1668-4559-ad91-70e76c05f37e

Around the league, Wednesday is considered one of the most important practice days of the week. It’s typically the session teams will go full speed and perhaps put on pads, given its proximity from the previous and upcoming game.

This week, Wednesday was a full-go practice for nearly everyone on the Rams’ active roster — including running back Todd Gurley. While Jeff Fisher has not yet tipped his hand as to whether or not the rookie will make his debut on Sunday, the head coach has said the team is ramping up Gurley’s reps. And the running back looks good on the practice field.

“He’s had two good days. He had a good day today in pads and he had a good day in the three-quarter speed practice yesterday,” said Fisher, who did not list Gurley on the injury report. “He’ll get a day off tomorrow and we’ll see how he is Friday.”

Not only is he looking good, but he’s also feeling that way, too.

“Today was a great day,” Gurley said. “I really wasn’t thinking about it too much. I was just going out there and doing me. It felt good.”

“Wednesday is our big day, so they wanted to see how I felt from Wednesday to tomorrow,” Gurley added. “We’ll have tomorrow off, and then we’ll see how it goes on Friday to Saturday.”

Given that Gurley has been rehabbing his knee since late last year, one of the factors with him returning to the game field has been getting into football shape. Gurley said Wednesday ramping up his reps has been helpful in that process.

“It’s definitely getting there,” Gurley said. “I know as far as recovery — recovery from being tired — I definitely feel a lot better. I feel like I’ve been doing a great job with that. And getting those reps is helping me a lot.”

The running back’s teammates have noticed the progress he’s made on the practice field. Though they don’t know whether or not Gurley will play either, they recognize the kind of impact he can make on the offense.

“Todd’s a talented guy,” quarterback Nick Foles said. “We all know what he did in college. He looks great in practice. He’s looking good moving around — great vision, and a real smooth runner.”

“I think he’s just another threat on the offensive side of the ball that defenses have to worry about,” right guard Rodger Saffold said. “It’s just another time to get another good player on the field.”

Gurley has maintained throughout the process that he won’t do much lobbying of the coaches to play. Instead, he’s letting his performance during the week do the talking.

“What I do outside in practice, that’ll give them a feel for how I feel and what they believe, and what they see,” Gurley said. “So it’s what I bring on the practice field that can only determine the outcome.”

And so as everyone waits to see whether Gurley will debut on Sunday, the running back said he’s just going with the flow. That is, with one caveat.

“Just going with practice and taking it a day at a time. Not looking too far ahead,” he said, later adding, “I definitely feel like myself again.”

YOUNG OFFENSIVE LINEMEN

Rookie offensive linemen Rob Havenstein and Jamon Brown now have two games under their belts, and the reviews have come back positive for both.

“I think they’re doing a good job,” offensive coordinator Frank Cignetti said Wednesday. “They’re doing a great job preparing. They come out here and practice very well, and you can see in the first two weeks that there’s progress being made.”

Saffold, the veteran of the offensive line group, has already seen plenty of growth from the two rookies, and is looking forward to more.

“We’re just getting started,” Saffold said. “They’re going to be seeing some of the guys they’ve probably looked up to right across from them, so this is the way of being a rookie and going along with the ups and downs of the season. We’re trying to constantly stay up, so consistency, once again, is a big thing.”

For more on Havenstein and Brown, be sure to check out our feature story on both of them on the site tomorrow.

MORE PRAISE FOR DONALD

As discussed yesterday in this space, Sunday’s game represents a homecoming of sorts for Aaron Donald. The defensive tackle is not only from Pittsburgh, but also attended the University of Pittsburgh where he starred for the Panthers.

All that, of course, is common knowledge — as is Donald’s relentless work ethic. And Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin provided another example of how the Defensive Rookie of the Year continued to make himself better even in the dead of winter.

“Aaron Donald, besides being a special player, is a special man,” Tomlin said on a conference call with St. Louis media. “I’ve gotten to know him over the years being a neighbor over here at Pitt.”

“It was a week after the Pro Bowl and I saw him in that parking lot every morning because he was coming over to get his work like he normally does at the University of Pittsburgh,” Tomlin continued. “I saw him just about every morning in February. When a lot of guys are on beaches and vacationing, this guy was getting out of his car at 6:30 in the morning to work out. That’s not out of character based on the things that I know about him.”

Both Fisher and Tomlin are members of the competition committee, and Fisher noted on Wednesday the Steelers head coach mentioned that Donald story in one of the committee’s offseason meetings.

“Nothing different,” Fisher said of Donald. “He just gets up in the morning and goes to work and works out. He’s all about business. It’s certainly paid off for him.”