http://www.ocregister.com/articles/rams-737990-goff-snead.html

INJURY REPORT

The Rams will likely be without backup running back Benny Cunningham when they return to the Coliseum on Sunday, but have a chance to roll out an otherwise intact roster.

Cunningham, who did not practice this week because of a neck injury, is listed as doubtful to play against the Falcons. Defensive end Robert Quinn (concussion) and cornerback E.J. Gaines (thigh) are listed as questionable, although the latter was also held out of practice this week. Quinn participated fully on Friday.

Offensive lineman Rodger Saffold, who sat out last week’s loss to the Patriots following recent hand surgery, appears on track to return to the starting lineup.

The Falcons ruled out receiver Mohamed Sanu (groin) and defensive end Adrian Clayborn (knee). Julio Jones, who leads the NFL in receiving yards, was listed as questionable after missing this week’s practices with turf toe.

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/rams-737990-goff-snead.html

Rams still waiting for No. 1 overall pick Jared Goff to blossom
By JACK WANG
2016-12-09 17:47:50

THOUSAND OAKS – Seven months ago, Jeff Fisher raved about the future of the Rams.

“I am so excited,” said Fisher, who often appears dour regardless of his actual mood. “You should have seen us in the room there. Did you see it? I’m happy, are you kidding me? We just drafted a franchise quarterback with the first pick in the draft.”

He was referring to Jared Goff, the Cal product whom the franchise moved heaven and Earth to acquire. Originally slotted behind 14 other teams in the 2016 NFL draft, the Rams gave the Titans six selections – including their 2017 first-round pick – to move up to No. 1 overall.

A high price, perhaps, for a rookie quarterback who has started only three games.

Goff might have a fine career ahead of him. Although he holds a pedestrian passer rating of 70.0, he is still just 22 years old and has shown impressive flashes even as he searches for his first NFL victory.

But regardless of Goff’s future development, the fact remains that the Rams gave up significant draft capital to get him. After falling to 4-8, the first-round pick they gave to Tennessee could end up being a top-10 or top-five selection – one that could go a long way toward plugging other roster holes.

Asked on Friday whether that was a higher price than he’d originally expected, Rams general manager Les Snead insisted that the decision to trade up was a sound one.

“With the QB thing, I’ll always say this: Go get the one you want when you can get him,” Snead said. “Because there’s times you’re going to want one and can’t get him. And do it sooner rather than later.”

The Rams had significant hopes in drafting Goff: that he would prove ready to start immediately, that he would turn around a perennially anemic offense, that he would inject excitement into a fan base that had been without the NFL for two decades.

With the team having lost seven of its last eight games as it heads into Sunday’s home game against the Falcons (7-5), Snead stressed that the development of a franchise quarterback doesn’t happen overnight.

“It does take time to get that,” he said. “You probably weren’t one first-round, young kid away. You need that kid to become a veteran. That was an important piece, and I think for all teams it is.

“The nice thing about Jared is, to date, we’ve seen some of the things that we’ve seen in college that we thought were going to be his go-tos, his assets in the league. They’ve shown up. He’s just not there yet. We’ve got to get him there.”

Snead also noted that the Rams had endured a long stretch of playing with a “No.2 QB” – specifically naming Kellen Clemens, Shaun Hill, Austin Davis and Nick Foles. Add in Case Keenum, who started nine games this year, and that accounts for 50 contests in a streak of five non-winning seasons.

“I give credit to all of them and they all have a special place in my heart because we beat some good teams with those guys,” Snead said. “But I do think that did stunt the passing game and what you can do, and what the coaches can do with it.”

The trouble is, switching to Goff does not appear to have significantly altered the offense, rarely stretching the field even with his superior arm strength. In nine games with Keenum, the Rams averaged 15.4 points and 308 yards per game. In their first three games with Goff, they averaged 13.7 points and 212 yards.

The team has not been mathematically eliminated from the playoffs, but in all likelihood, Goff has only four games left in his rookie season. With each passing week, cries for the franchise to move on from either Fisher or Snead – or both – have grown louder. And if Goff doesn’t show more signs of a potential Pro Bowl future? Those cries might be answered.

“In the real world, you’ve got to raise that guy,” Snead said. “How long it takes is to be determined.”
INJURY REPORT

The Rams will likely be without backup running back Benny Cunningham when they return to the Coliseum on Sunday, but have a chance to roll out an otherwise intact roster.

Cunningham, who did not practice this week because of a neck injury, is listed as doubtful to play against the Falcons. Defensive end Robert Quinn (concussion) and cornerback E.J. Gaines (thigh) are listed as questionable, although the latter was also held out of practice this week. Quinn participated fully on Friday.

Offensive lineman Rodger Saffold, who sat out last week’s loss to the Patriots following recent hand surgery, appears on track to return to the starting lineup.

The Falcons ruled out receiver Mohamed Sanu (groin) and defensive end Adrian Clayborn (knee). Julio Jones, who leads the NFL in receiving yards, was listed as questionable after missing this week’s practices with turf toe.

I think the title should be “So Far, So Good.”

Practice Report 12/6: Atlanta’s Offense Presents Many Challenges

Myles Simmons

http://www.therams.com/news-and-events/article-practicereport/Practice-Report-126-Atlantas-Offense-Presents-Many-Challenges/ca06b495-c7b2-4dfa-a5ce-bf5476b3680d

The Rams have had to face their share of strong offenses this season, and they have another one coming up on Sunday with the Falcons.

Atlanta sports the top passing offense and top scoring offense in the league, averaging 302.0 yards per game through the air and 32.2 points per game. The latter mark is 3.3 points higher than No. 2 New Orleans.

“They’re an explosive offense,” defensive back Lamarcus Joyner said. “I feel like their offensive guys think, ‘Home run, home run, home run, big play, big play.’ That’s the way they think.”

Indeed, the Falcons are tied with the Saints at No. 1 in the league with 53 passing plays of at least 20 yards. While that can be a tough test for any defense, it’s also the kind of challenge the Rams are embracing.

“That’s any DB’s dream — if you’re a competitor,” Joyner said. “So when you see an offense like that on film, you know you have a good challenge. And in your heart, you just get ready to compete and that’s the way this defense has been preparing over here.”

Quarterback Matt Ryan is averaging a career high 9.2 yards per attempt, and is on pace to set a new career high in touchdowns. He’s already thrown for 3,813 yards with 27 touchdowns and just seven interceptions in 12 games.

“He’s very efficient,” defensive end William Hayes said. “They can throw it and he’s got weapons around him. They’re just playing really good, solid football right now.”

And his top target it wide receiver Julio Jones — who has the most yards receiving in the league at 1,253. Jones is averaging 6.0 receptions and 104.4 yards per game, with 12 receptions for 300 yards and a touchdown against Carolina in the first half of the season. He’s had at least 110 yards receiving in five of his last seven games.

“He can do it all — literally,” cornerback Trumaine Johnson. “His speed, he can catch great, physical at the point. He doesn’t go down easy. So, like I said, we’ve got our work cut out for us.”

But it’s not just Jones. The Falcons signed former Bengals receiver Mohamed Sanu in the offseason. And wideout Taylor Gabriel has emerged as another significant target for Atlanta over the course of the regular season. Combined, Sanu and Gabriel have 943 yards receiving and seven receiving touchdowns.

“They compliment each other,” Joyner said. “And that’s why they’re so explosive — because you can’t say, ‘We’re going to take Julio away’ or ‘We’re going to take Devonta Freeman away’ and exclude those guys, because they make their big plays, too. So we just, as a group, we have to get together and have some sort of continuity and get after those guys.”

“That’s what happens in the league. That’s what happens. You take somebody away, you know the ball is going someplace else,” head coach Jeff Fisher said. “It just speaks for their personnel and the weapons that they have. They understand it. When you have a dominating player like they do, you need to have complimentary players and the quarterback trusts them.”

As the Rams continue through their practice week, limiting the Falcons’ big-play and scoring opportunities will certainly be top priorities.

INJURY REPORT

The Rams’ first official injury report of the week does not come out until after Wednesday’s practice. But Fisher did provide an update on defensive end Robert Quinn and wide receiver Tavon Austin, saying they were back on the field for Tuesday’s session. Running back Benny Cunningham, however, was not.

“Benny probably won’t do much this week, but I’ll go into more detail with that later in the week,” Fisher said.

EXTRA POINTS

— There was a moment in Sunday’s game that’s made the rounds, and it’s when Fisher could not find his challenge flag in his pocket. Asked about it today, the head coach said, “I thought it was hilarious.”

“Forever, [I’ve kept] my flag in my back right pocket of my coaching pants,” Fisher continued. “I was a little underdressed in the first half, I started to get cold, so I put some wind pants on and then I put a jacket on. I had this really long jacket, and then I was wired for NFL Films, and then I have a belt pack with two things on the side.

“I had taken the challenge flag and I had stuck in one of the pockets of this big jacket, so when I walked up to the official, I said, ‘I want to review that catch. I think it’s a catch,’ and he goes, ‘Well, where’s your flag?’ I said, ‘It’s right here.’ I can feel it, but I can’t find it. And he goes, ‘Well, you need the flag,’ I said, ‘Just tell [referee] Jerome [Boger] that I’m challenging this and I’ll eventually find it for you.’ It was hilarious, it was just one of those funny moments on the sideline. It’s what happened. I could feel it, but I couldn’t find it.”

Rams

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
WR Tavon Austin – Chest
C Tim Barnes – Foot
DE Robert Quinn – Concussion
G Roger Saffold – Hand
LIMITED PARTICIPATION
T Andrew Donnal – Hip

Quinn is following concussion protocol

Patz

DID NOT PARTICIPATE
DB Nate Ebner – Concussion
TE Rob Gronkowski – Back
DL Woodrow Hamilton – Illness
DB Jordan Richards – Knee
LIMITED PARTICIPATION
TE Martellus Bennett – Ankle/Shoulder
QB Tom Brady – Knee
WR Julian Edelman – Foot
DL Trey Flowers – Shin
WR Chris Hogan – Back
WR/SpT Matthew Slater – Foot

Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher – Post-Practice – November 30, 2016

(Opening remarks)

“A good day today, we were excited. The guys had a lot of energy, they practiced well. (QB) Jared (Goff) had a nice day. We get to take a little deep breath tomorrow and continue with our game plan against an outstanding opponent. The key against this team is your ability to adjust, particularly offensively, because there’s a different game plan for everybody week after week after week, (Patriots Head Coach) Bill (Belichick) and his staff do a great job preparing the defense. We’ll have some things to go to and be ready to adjust. But I think it’s a great challenge for us. We’re excited about it.”

(On how serious G Rodger Saffold’s injury is)

“Yeah, I know exactly how it is. I’ll have an injury report for you on Friday (laughs). I know exactly what he’s got going on there. He’s not out, he’s not been ruled out.”

(On how T Greg Robinson has reacted to everything that has happened recently)

“He’s been great. He understands. Every once in a while, when you take a step back and watch what’s going on and see things through a different window – it’s life-changing. He is really excited right now. He’s been in here early, he’s staying late, he’s focused. We’ve got some stuff behind him and he’s excited about playing.”

(On if Robinson’s problems were mostly mental as opposed to technique problems)

“I don’t want to call this a day care, but things come up outside and there’s distractions and you have to deal with them and you have to put them in perspective and we did that – and he did that. He’s embracing it right now. It’s a combination of technique, it’s a combination of some outside distractions and some misunderstandings – maybe a little lack of preparation. By all accounts right now, he’s ready to go play, so I’m proud of him.”

(On if Patriots DE Chris Long is doing what he expected him to do)

“Yeah, he is. It was a difficult decision to part ways with Chris because he’s one of my all-time favorites and a locker room favorite and everything. But of all the places where one would think that he’d have a chance to be successful, it would be New England. He landed on his feet and he’s playing well. And he’s playing especially well on the right side of their defense because he’s primarily, for his whole career, prior to us getting here and then while we were here, he was a left defensive end. He’s doing some things, he’s dropping, he’s covering and he’s buying in – he bought into it, obviously. It looks like he’s having fun, I’m happy for him. It was a tough decision last year, to go the direction that we did with Chris and (LB) James (Laurinaitis) because they were just such great locker room guys. But I’m happy that Chris is on a team that’s won a lot of games, because he’s deserved that opportunity.”

(On the decision to release a very popular player like Chris Long)

“We were dealing with, over the course of a couple years, with some injury issues, so that was primarily the reason. I liked the youth that we had on the roster, but at the same time, wanted to give him an opportunity. He landed in a good spot. It’ll be a great battle, a great battle. He knows (T) Rob (Havenstein) really well, he knows Greg (Robinson), there will be some great match-ups.”

(On what he has thought of DT Dominique Easley since his arrival from New England)

“He’s done a great job for us in the rotation. He’s having a blast, he’s not making any mistakes and he’s playing hard. I don’t know what happened there, all I know is that we had a very high draftable grade on him and it made sense for us to give him an opportunity. It’s not the first time, these things happen in the league, sometimes guys fit, sometimes they don’t, sometimes they go to another club and there’s a better fit. I know he’s excited. He’s excited about playing against them.”

(On if it makes a difference that Patriots QB Tom Brady and TE Rob Gronkowski did not practice today and may not play on Sunday)

“I don’t know how much they practiced last week. ‘Gronk,’ I don’t know what the situation is, we’ll see. He’s an impact player on their offense. But I can assure you that Tom is going to show up, he always does week after week after week. At his age and with his experience, he doesn’t need a lot of practice reps. We’re not going to be mislead by the lack of practice as far as the quarterback is concerned.”

(On if there are any developments in the Eric Dickerson situation)

“No, it’s the first time I’ve heard his name since yesterday, not a word. All about the Patriots.”

(On what kind of response he’s seen from the defense this week after the game on Sunday)

“They’ve been playing hard and reckless and have been hunting and contact, we just had some issues within the scheme. But they’ve bounced back. They understand the challenge this week. We’re certainly not looking ahead to next week or the following week, but we’ve got some good quarterbacks on our schedule. They understand this challenge and they know they need to be right.”

(On if he has an update on CB Troy Hill’s status)

“We released Troy and re-signed him back to (the) practice (squad). I’m not aware of any of the law enforcement issues and the status there. Like I said last week when we released him, I think people deserve second chances in life – he made a bad decision and he understands that. And there’s a significant difference between being on our active roster on being on practice squad. He’s here and we’ll support him as he goes through this. I believe that he’ll do whatever is asked of him from a legal standpoint and that would include Mothers Against Drunk (Driving) and all that stuff. Hoping to take a negative and turn it into a positive right now with him.”

(On how he deals with scrutiny regarding his job security after some of his quotes on “Hard Knocks” in training camp)

“We opened our world to ‘Hard Knocks,’ and those comments came after a couple of issues that we had. I’ve never been satisfied with 7-9 or 8-8. I’ve had a number of winning seasons. I’m not concerned, I don’t look over my shoulder, like I’ve said over and over again. I’m not concerned about my job, I have a great relationship with (Owner/Chairman) Stan (Kroenke). He understands the difficulties that were placed on this organization, as far as the move is concerned. And I’m moving forward, optimistically, with this team. In fairness to the fans and in fairness to the players, that’s all I can do. We’re just going to prepare day after day and week after week and try to win games, that’s what you do. Over the years, I’ve learned to realize that the most important thing is to be consistent, you need to be consistent through this. Consistent through the wins, consistent through the losses and just keep moving your team forward. You guys have been out here, you’ve seen these guys, they love to practice, they like each other. We went through some trying things over time – I had a player, in particular, that lost his grandfather last night and I had a coach whose son gave birth to his grandson. As a family, you stress those things, you stress the importance of coming to work every day and how lucky we are. We had a great example of the circle of life today with respect to our team.”

***

Rams Offensive Coordinator Rob Boras – November 30, 2016

(On his thoughts regarding the first half against New Orleans)

“It was, obviously, good to see. We’ve been saying it for so long with all the questions about how he’s growing in the classroom, and then we’ve seen the flashes of it, and it was good. You saw it leading up during the course of the week. Just his comfort being in the huddle, the tempo that we had to practice with Friday, the way he handled everything. You saw it coming, and you prayed that it was going to happen. You just didn’t know if it was going to come to fruition, and it did. It just proved it wasn’t too big for him. You saw the way he moved in the pocket. He made some big-time throws. It was a really good first half for him.”

(On why they’ve been so good on opening drives this season, and how to sustain that success)

“That’s a great question. Obviously, we spend a lot of time trying to figure out what our openers are going to be, and have had success, whether it’s been the first series or the second series in a number of games, we just got to continue that in the second half. Trying to script the openers, give the guys the plays that they know that we’re thinking about coming in the second half, to give them some comfort. We know how fast those halftimes go, but we just got to find a way to do better. Again, it’s the focus, and getting back to what we’re doing, and guys just playing one play at a time. Hopefully, we can find that same sort of success in the second half, and find a way to put some points on the board.”

(On the next step QB Jared Goff needs to take in his development)

“I don’t know exactly what the next step it. I think he’s getting more comfortable. Even coming out Tuesday, again, there’s the same plays, but maybe different formations and stuff. A lot of times, it takes the quarterback a day, maybe, to catch up. This Tuesday when we came out yesterday, he was good. You just saw even how much better he was this Tuesday, compared to last Tuesday. Now, he’s just playing football. You don’t see him thinking out here on the practice field. It’s way faster in the meetings, and I think it’s just, again, I’m assuming his confidence level – you’d have to ask him – I think he’s feeling confident too. That’s a big part of having success in any sport, or really anything in life, is having some confidence, and I would think right now, having a taste of success, he feels pretty good. Again, what his next step would be, he’s got to protect the football, as we all do. If we can play turnover free, we’re going to have a chance. But having two turnovers, however they come about, is going to hurt most offenses, and obviously, it hurt us Sunday. So, just being more aware and doing a better job protecting the football.”

(On the challenge of facing the Patriots defense, and how will it manifest itself Sunday)

“We’ll find out Sunday how it manifests. Their defense, with Coach (Bill) Belichick, and Coach (Matt) Patricia, and their whole defensive staff, they do a lot, and they do it very well. That’s a really good team defense. Again, just playing on the road again, and having that environment, different temperature, outside, the crowd noise. Every week there’s new challenges and new obstacles. That’s why this league is the best league in sports. I think he’ll handle it. He’s going to see different looks. We know they’re going to try to create confusion. It’s not just Jared that they’re confusing. Because of that, all the other guys need to step up and apply the rules, and trust what they’re seeing as well. It’s not just the quarterback, it’s, obviously, the other 10 guys on the field as well have to recognize and get on the same page with Jared, and all those different fronts and coverages that we’re going to see.”

(On if Goff is a different quarterback if he was a fifth year senior out of college, compared to a true junior)

“I can’t comment on (Eagles QB) Carson (Wentz), or (Cowboys QB) Dak (Prescott). I haven’t really seen them play at all this year. We just haven’t had any cross over games. But, yeah, I would think anytime that you’re 23 as compared to 21, you’ve played more games, and you’ve had more experience. We’ll see a different quarterback in Jared in two years from now, as compared to what he is now. It’s hard to quantitate how much better he would be, but I think that’s safe to assume the more games you play, the more experience you have, the more comfortable and better that you can be.”

(On what surprised him the most about Goff that he didn’t know about before he started playing)

“Jared has a very short memory, and he’s a very confident young man. I talked, his confidence has probably even gotten better. But, the fumble – he forgets it. He comes back, and he’ll play. The next play. Same thing with the interception. He doesn’t carry that, and that’s hard. We always talk about play the next play, and a lot of times it can just be lip service, but I think he’s got a short memory. He’s confident in himself, and his ability. I think seeing something go bad and how he responded, I think that was a really positive sign, how he battled through those couple plays of adversity.”

(On the decision to make T Greg Robinson inactive, and if Robinson has benefited from that moving forward)

“That was a decision Coach (Fisher) made in communication with the offensive staff. Anytime that you feel threatened, and you get something taken away, I think it refocuses your energy and channels your focus. I think in communication with Greg, and just the guys that were on the sideline just talking about Greg’s energy, and what he was on the sideline, and how he handled the situation, I think spoke volumes. He didn’t pout, he handled it, he was communicating, making calls. Again, he’s handled things in the meeting really well, and had a good practice today. So, we’ll see how he handles it, but everything is pointing in the right direction right now. We expect Greg to perform really well.”

(On the performance of T Andrew Donnal)

“That’s a compliment to all of those guys in the room. When you only dress seven or eight offensive linemen, you say you’ve got to be the third tackle, or the second or third center, or whatever, and Andrew is kind of those guys that has to be the third center, or guard, and tackle, but there just aren’t enough reps in practice for him to get it. So, when he went in, you’re concerned. Not necessarily about him knowing his assignment, because he’s a pro and he handles that part of it very well, it was just going to be adjusting to the speed of things, and he handled it really well. That two-minute drive – I think we got hurt on the first play with Rodger (Saffold) – and then he came in at the two-minute warning, and we went down the field; and we were trying to throw the ball. You weren’t sure exactly what we were going to get, and he handled that as well in the second half, very well. We got down two or three scores and we knew they were going to keep blitzing and coming after us. When they know you’re going to pass, and you have to pass, it’s tough on those five guys up front, and I thought Andrew handled that situation well. It speaks to his preparation both mentally, and the physical aspect of it.”

(On if WR Kenny Britt’s career season a result of the play-calling, or his preparation)

“I’ve talked about Kenny a number of times. His focus in the classroom, his energy on the practice field, I think it’s at an all-time high. I think what’s great is it’s carrying over from the classroom, to the field, to Sundays. He’s having that success, and then success breeds success. The quarterbacks have comfort with him, they trust him, and he’s made plays when he’s been called upon. I’m sure there’s lots of different variables to it, but it starts with him, and then building that rapport with the quarterbacks, which he did this offseason.”

***

Rams Quarterback Jared Goff – – November 30, 2016

(On Patriots QB Tom Brady and what he represented growing up)

“I’ve been a big fan of his growing up. Obviously, he’s one of the greats – if not the greatest. Big fan of his growing up. He’s a Bay Area guy as well. Always looked up to him and have been a fan of his.”

(On what he admires about Brady’s game)

“Everything. He’s really good at everything, has been for a long time. Of course, there are little things that I’ll watch in him, (Saints QB) Drew (Brees), Peyton (Manning) and a bunch of guys across the league, that I’ll take from and have in the past, as well.”

(On what it means to compete on the same field as Brady)

“It’s similar to last week, they’re both great quarterbacks. I need to stay focused on their defense, but at the same time it’s going to be cool to see them out there, maybe see them across the field in warm-ups or something – it’ll be cool to be on the same filed, for sure.”

(On the most difficult part about preparing for a Bill Belichick defense)

“I think it’s just the variety that they have. They change stuff pretty consistently and do what they do really well for a long time – it’s proven results. You don’t really know what to expect going in, you have an idea on film, but you know they’re going to bring something new every week – you have to be ready to adjust.”

(On looking at his game against New Orleans and what stands out to him in terms of the progress he’s made since the preseason)

“I don’t think it’s anything in particular. I think it’s just everything’s improved and the game is starting to slow down. It’s starting to feel more comfortable every day out here and every week on Sundays.”

(On the message Saints QB Drew Brees had for him after the game last Sunday)

“Nothing. It was real quick. Just said, ‘good luck, stay healthy’, and wished me the best. I told him that I’m a big fan of his and I appreciate it.”

(On whether he hopes to greet Brady after the game)

“I think the quarterbacks shake hands, right? After the games? Yeah.”

(On Offensive Coordinator Rob Boras’ comments concerning Goff’s ability to forget about things during the game and how he learned to do that)

“Always kind of been like that with good things and bad things. Throw a touchdown, it’s over immediately. Have a bad play, it’s over immediately. I think that’s kind of the best way to go about it as a quarterback – not get too high, not get too low. Obviously there are times that you’re going to be excited and there’s going to be times where you’re not very happy, but forget about as soon as you can because the next play is the most important one.”

(On playing in California all his life and if he has any memories playing in cold weather)

“Oh yeah, I got a few. Even at Cal last year, our last game of the season at Cal, it was like 35 (degrees) – really cold, against Arizona State and that was a home one. But yeah, we had plenty – Washington, Oregon and Utah.”

(On whether there will be any difference playing in New England)

“No. I’ve played in a bunch of cold weather.”

• This topic was modified 9 years, 3 months ago by zn.

Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher – November 29, 2016

(Opening remarks)

“Good start to the week. Yesterday was ‘put it behind you’ and today was all about the next opponent. We had solid meetings. Backed down a little bit today from a normal Tuesday. We just got some guys that weren’t able to go, but needed the reps – I was pleased with where it went. Jared’s (Goff) into the plan, he’s excited. Like last week, he was excited to go up against (Saints QB) Drew Brees and how could you not be excited to go and compete against (Patriots QB) Tom Brady. They’re playing well and we are on to New England. We’ll have some injury reports for you tomorrow. We’ll have some guys back on the field – I think tomorrow and then maybe a couple guys probably have to wait until Friday. But we’re in good shape right now.”

(On his reaction to Eric Dickerson’s comments regarding their conversation)

“I’ll say this – I stand behind what I talked about yesterday. He’s welcome here. The last conversation we had was really positive – that was on November 17. I got a text from him moments after saying, ‘Thanks for the conversation, best of luck, have a good night and go Rams.’ I don’t know what took place between then and now. But I’m on to New England now – we’re moving forward. He’s welcome – he’s always been welcome as it was documented in things that I said. I want him to be around, want him to be part of this family like we have with everybody else. I don’t know where it came from. We’re moving on.”

(On if he’s surprised about how much traction this received)

“I heard some things. I didn’t pay much attention. I’ve been game planning most of the day, as coaches do. But, I heard that there were some things out there. Again, the way we left it, it was good. I don’t know where it got off course as far as he’s concerned. He’s welcome here. He’s a Hall of Famer. I have great respect for his career, and his jacket, and what he represents.”

(On if he’s reached out to Dickerson again)

“We’ve done that. When we finished the conversation, I thought things were good. So, I’m moving on. We’ve had (former Rams DE) Jack (Youngblood) out here. Like I said yesterday, I’ve talked to (former Rams T) Jackie Slater. Our guys are welcome here, and they’re a part of this; a part of this new start, this new era here in town.”

(On did he address the team about the situation)

“No. I talked about New England. I think that’s probably much more important than this. It’s a fact. These guys are 9-2. This is a good football team. So, that’s where our focus is.”

(On if he’s reached out to any former players that might have been critical of the team in years past)

“I still don’t follow the question here, but I have not had a lot of criticism from my former players. I trust the relationships I’ve established with my players. I have great relationships with my players. This game is about establishing relationships, and I’ve done so. With respect with the Eric situation, and it’s well documented, he’s totally entitled to his opinion and he has every right to be critical. As I told him in the conversation, you can’t have it both ways, you can’t be critical and then come back and ask for this, and ask for that. That’s just common sense. And we got it resolved. Again, based on that last conversation I had with him and the text, it was resolved. Anything about New England?”

(On if the report stating that Dickerson can have luxury suite passes is true)

“I opened everything to Eric. I wanted him to know that we would provide anything for him that he needed.”

(On if this is a distraction to the players)

“No, no it’s not. When you guys finish, you can go in the locker room and ask them. It’s not. They’re focused, they’re ready and they understand the challenge. It’s not a distraction. This is the most I’ve talked about it all day long – I’ve been working all day.”

(On how the team has been able to keep spirits up with the losing record)

“It’s the opportunity each day, as you prepare, to go out and have a chance to win another football game. That’s what it’s about, that’s how our league is. Obviously, we had to put it behind us real quickly and recognize what happened in the game and understood why. Now let’s accept this great challenge. (Patriots Head Coach) Bill (Belichick) is a great coach, he’s got a great staff and he’s got a really good football team. It’s a tough place to play, they haven’t lost many games there. Right now, the score is 0-0, so we’ll see what happens.”

(On Dickerson’s comments regarding being “banned from sidelines” and if there was a contentious conversation that he thought resolved itself)

“We never went there. As you guys know and as he has said, he, again, was voicing his opinion, which he has every right to do so. And then immediately after, wanted things from the organization – and it doesn’t work that way. You can have it one way or the other, it’s just simple. No one banned him. We had that discussion and I opened the organization, I opened our arms to him during the discussion, that’s where we left it, that’s where it was.”

Rams Notes: Todd Gurley can’t capitalize on fast start in loss to Dolphins

JACK WANG

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/rams-736090-gurley-week.html

LOS ANGELES – Todd Gurley didn’t feel like talking.

A few minutes earlier, the Rams running back had blown off a ring of reporters waiting at his locker. A team spokesperson said Gurley would return after getting postgame treatment. Later, after talking briefly to one person on Sunday, he again walked past reporters in the hallway at the Coliseum.

“It’s too late,” Gurley said. “I already did my media.”

His frustration is understandable. On Sunday, the Rams (4-6) fell to the Dolphins, 14-10, their fifth loss in six games. Gurley finished with 76 yards on 20 rushing attempts, the eighth time this season that he has failed to average at least 4.0 yards per carry.

The reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year – a title that feels like a cruel joke at this point – remains mired in an offense that is good for only one or two competent drives per game. He still breaks out an occasional double-digit-yard run, but far more common are the 1- and 2-yard sputters, a trend that continued despite a quarterback change from Case Keenum to Jared Goff.

Considering that Gurley led the league last year with 14 runs of at least 20 yards, his sophomore campaign (590 yards, four touchdowns) has become downright depressing.

“I thought Todd played really hard,” Rams coach Jeff Fisher said. “He made some plays. It’s just getting him the carries and things, but I thought he played hard. He ran the football well and had some plays.”

Gurley’s start was promising enough, breaking out his two longest runs of the year in the first quarter – including a season-long 24-yard touchdown. His first five carries went for 40 yards, and for a little while, it seemed like the Rams had finally forced some defensive attention away from their star running back.

It didn’t last. Gurley’s nine carries in the second and third quarters produced a net gain of just 26 yards. His six fourth-quarter carries produced just 9 yards.

“He was doing what he’s done for his whole life, which is run the ball well,” Goff said. “Early on, we were running the ball. Kind of just a hit a lull, started stepping in front of ourselves.”

Much of the fault still lies with the Rams offensive line, which has been among the league’s worst run-blocking units. But according to Pro Football Focus, Gurley has broken just one tackle on 62 carries since Week 6. Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi, on the other hand, broke four on his 16 carries against the Rams.

BIG RETURN
Rams defensive end Robert Quinn, who started the week in the hospital, not only played Sunday but started and recorded a sack late in the second half.

“I felt fine,” Quinn said. “We did a great week, just getting myself prepared to get back for the game. I felt great out there. I wish I could have done a little bit more, but I was fine.”

Quinn was admitted to a local hospital hours after last Sunday’s game, and later said he had been dehydrated. Quinn didn’t practice all week but played his normal complement of snaps against Miami.

“Rob had a rough week,” Fisher said, “but he came on strong, feels good. We felt like he was going to be fine.”

CAPTAIN CASE
Keenum, deposed by Goff as starting quarterback, remained one of the Rams’ captains and was one of the players who represented the team at the coin toss.

Goff said Keenum, who seemed understandably irritated when he spoke to reporters mid-week, helped him throughout the day as he made his first NFL start.

“Case was great,” Goff said. “I told him before the game, ‘I’m going to need to lean on you,’ and he was great. Very helpful. Gave me good information. He helped me out, told me what he saw and the pressures they were bringing. Him and Sean (Mannion, the third-stringer), both.”

INJURY REPORT
Rookie linebacker Josh Forrest appeared to be the only Rams player to leave the game with a significant injury. Forrest hurt his knee in the second half and needed a cart to get to the locker room.

Rams center Tim Barnes, who didn’t practice all week because of a foot injury, started and played the entire game.

INJURY REPORT

http://www.dailynews.com/sports/20161111/todd-gurley-still-stuck-in-frustrating-cycle-of-rams-offense

Bothered by a thigh injury, Gurley nonetheless practiced in full on Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday. The same went for defensive tackle Michael Brockers (groin), cornerback Trumaine Johnson (ankle) and defensive back Lamarcus Joyner (back).

All four starters seem likely to play against the Jets, whose injury report has reached absurd lengths. In addition to left tackle Ryan Clady, who was placed on injured reserve this week, New York has ruled out linebacker Bruce Carter (quad), defensive back Marcus Williams (ankle), linebacker Josh Martin (concussion), tight end Kellen Davis (elbow) and offensive lineman Nick Mangold (ankle).

Los Angeles Rams rookies continue to get a chance to contribute

Gary Klein

http://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/la-sp-rams-report-20161110-story.html

Fans are not chanting their names and pundits are not publicly debating their readiness for the NFL.

But several Rams rookies other than quarterback Jared Goff, the No. 1 pick in the draft who has yet to take snap, could see increased playing time in Sunday’s game against the New York Jets at East Rutherford, N.J.

Tight end Tyler Higbee, receivers Pharoh Cooper and Michael Thomas and linebacker Josh Forrest have contributed throughout the season or are making plays of late.

Higbee caught a long pass in Sunday’s loss to the Carolina Panthers at the Coliseum.

Cooper made his first catch.

Thomas has made several good special teams plays, and Forrest has started three times and is contributing in a situational role.

Tight end Temarrick Hemingway is still working toward an opportunity.

The 6-foot-6, 250-pound Higbee, a fourth-round pick from Western Kentucky, was the darling of training camp and appeared on track to earn significant opportunities in the passing game.

But through seven games he had only two catches for six yards.

Early in the second quarter against the Panthers, he caught a pass from quarterback Case Keenum and turned it into a 31-yard gain.

“It was nice getting my hands on the ball,” said Higbee, who was targeted six other times against the Panthers. “There were a couple others I wish I could have had, but we’ll get them.”

Coach Jeff Fisher said Higbee “needs to play better” but that he was improving.

“He’s starting to figure it out now and we’ve got him involved,” Fisher said. “He needs to be better at the point of attack and he knows that.”

Cooper, a fourth-round pick from South Carolina, was sidelined for the first four regular-season games because of a shoulder injury suffered in an exhibition at Denver.

He returned a kickoff 23 yards against the Buffalo Bills and was the intended receiver on what turned out to be a pick-six interception by the Bills.

Against the Panthers, Cooper caught a pass in the second quarter for a short gain.

“He’ll probably see a little bit more playing time,” Fisher said, adding, “We just need to get the ball in his hands.”

Thomas, a sixth-round pick from Southern Mississippi, is in search of his first reception. He caught a pass from Keenum late in the game against the New York Giants in London but was beyond the end zone.

Forrest, a sixth-round pick from Kentucky, has five tackles.

Quick hits

The Rams did not practice Thursday, the players’ scheduled day off…. Quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick was listed as limited on the Jets’ injury report. Fitzpatrick suffered a knee injury last week. Jets Coach Todd Bowles has said that Fitzpatrick would start against the Rams if sound. Bryce Petty could start in his place. Jets center Nick Mangold is expected to be sidelined for a third consecutive game because of an ankle injury.

Practice Report 11/9: Working to Increase the Points

Myles Simmons

http://www.therams.com/news-and-events/article-practicereport/Practice-Report-119-Working-to-Increase-the-Points/ff97807a-2c77-4bc0-a05c-8293ca854a42

It’s no secret — the Rams have struggled offensively this season, particularly over the last two games. And so while it’s a team game and Los Angeles is looking for more takeaways from its defense, and perhaps a significant special teams play, the club needs its offense to score more points.

“It’s our job to score points, and it’s frustrating for all of us,” offensive coordinator Rob Boras said. “We believe in what we’re doing. We believe in one another. I’ve said before, what this team has gone through since leaving St. Louis and as much time as we’ve spent together — these guys genuinely like, and I’d use the word love, each other. And I know as men, that’s not a word used very often.

“So they’ve got to look each other in the eye, and we’re all frustrated, but they understand that the guys in the room can get it done,” Boras added. “And that’s the challenge that we have, and these guys are willing to accept that challenge.”

Los Angeles is currently No. 32, scoring just 16.3 points per game. Boras said one of the keys to the club’s improvement will be to resist the urge to press and keep focusing what should bring the team success.

“What we always talk about is that you have one play to play,” Boras said. “If something good or bad happened on the previous play, you get about 12 to 13 seconds between the end of the play and the huddle to let it go and move on to the next play. And that’s part of the mental toughness we’re always challenging the guys to play with.”

“You just can’t press and panic — just play,” head coach Jeff Fisher said. “We’re making the plays on the practice field. Granted, it’s different than on Sundays. But just go out and just play. Relax and play. But don’t hurt ourselves.”

Boras also said the club has been trying to be as creative as possible in order to try to get explosive plays — the kinds of plays that usually lead to points.

“We’ve lined up with Todd [Gurley] in the backfield last week a couple times, just trying to do some things that way to take advantage of our talent, to maybe give the defense some un-scouted looks, and try to put our guys in the best position as possible,” Boras said.

It’s clear from the team’s attitude in and around practice the despite the recent results, players are in good spirits and believe a turnaround is imminent.

“It’s the guys I come to work with each and every day that makes me feel this way because these guys know that we can go out there and win every week,” wide receiver Kenny Britt said. “That’s a confidence builder in each other. And you don’t see anybody moping around because we know we’re always an inch away from taking a W home. And it’s always us. So we realize it’s us — and that’s the only thing we ned to change, is how we execute.”

If the Rams’ offense is to get going this week, quarterback Case Keenum will more likely than not be a significant part of the reason why. In Los Angeles’ four-game skid, the signal-caller has completed 66 percent of his passes for 1,179 yards with five touchdowns and eight interceptions.

But that doesn’t mean Fisher has lost faith in his starting quarterback. Indeed, he’s been making sure Keenum is in a good place mentally throughout the week.

“He’s fine. We’ve had several conversations this week about it, and he’s fine,” Fisher said. “That defense, Carolina’s defense, is a good defense. And we made some plays, we just didn’t finish them. Case is fine mentally.”

“We don’t have to be anything other than who we are,” Keenum said of his talks with Fisher. “We all have got enough talent, we all have got enough drive, enough will, enough intelligence to get the job done. It’s just a matter of executing and getting it done. We’ve got to flip the switch, and execute, and move the ball.”

One element of his game Keenum said he’s been working on is his pocket presence. The quarterback said there were a few moments he might have been able to avoid a few hits had it been better in last Sunday’s game against the Panthers.

“I think my pocket presence was where it needed to be. I think I could’ve prevented a few sacks, a few batted balls just trusting my protections. Stepping up when I need to,” Keenum said. “Sometimes, I make it tough on my tackles. So, definitely worked on that this week.”

This Sunday will bring another significant challenge in the Jets, who boast a solid defense that uses multiple fronts. Their top defensive linemen — Sheldon Richardson, Muhammad Wilkerson, and USC product Leonard Williams — are tough matchups from both a run and pass standpoint. And then New York has cornerback Darrelle Revis with his 28 career interceptions on the outside.

“They’ve got a great front,” Keenum said. “Their D-line — again — is one of the best in the league. So we’ve got our work cut out for us up front. Revis has been doing this a long time. He sees a lot of stuff, so [have to] know where he’s at. And their defense is good. They disguise pressures they do well.”

INJURY REPORT

The Rams have five players listed on their first injury report of the week.

Running back Todd Gurley (thigh), defensive tackle Michael Brockers (groin), cornerback Trumaine Johnson (ankle), defensive back Lamarcus Joyner (back), and wide receiver Nelson Spruce(calf) did not participate in today’s session.

Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher – November 1, 2016

(Opening Remarks)
“The players took advantage of the break. We didn’t have any issues. A lot of guys stayed behind. As I said, where else would you go – it was great. We got some guys back, guys who stayed behind, that needed treatment, and we’re close. ‘Tru’ (CB Trumaine Johnson) was on the field today, and ‘Brock’s’ (DT Michael Brockers) close – it was a productive weekend. As you say, they always come at the right time. We got a good start on the plan and we’re playing an outstanding opponent. We have a big week ahead of us. ”

(On whether the players were anxious to get back on the field)
“They are excited about getting back on the field. We got back together yesterday, had some meetings, and jogged around, got loose, got stretched out for today and particularly for tomorrow. They’re excited.”

(On Panthers QB Cam Newton and Head Coach Ron Rivera saying Newton may be subject to illegal hits and what he has seen on tape regarding that)
“Well, first off, what head coach is not going to support his quarterback, number one? Secondly, there are hits – illegal hits – that are missed in every game on a quarterback. We’ve got, probably, a half dozen or so on (QB) Case (Keenum) – and I have my own theory on that. They’re doing the best they can to officiate the game. Cam’s a great player, he’s a physical player. I know he understands the difference between being hit in the pocket as a passer and pulling the ball down and running as a runner, because he does run the football quite a bit, I mean, he’s a big man. When you go into a pile or go into the line of scrimmage on a called run, where the quarterback’s purpose is to run the football, then there’s going to be some contact. But those aren’t the things, I don’t think, Cam was complaining about – I think he overreacted to the low hit from (Cardinals DE) Calais (Campbell), which, I’ve heard different things, should have been called, should not have been called. Not that Calais did it on purpose, you just can’t have people on the knees of any quarterback, for that matter. Calais found himself unblocked, stumbled and went in, so I can see Cam’s frustration on that. Across the league, it happens all the time. The league’s priority, from a safety standpoint, starts at the quarterback position. I’ve done a lot of work, through the (competition) committee over the years, protecting the quarterback – there’s going to be things that just aren’t called. At the same time, there are hits on quarterbacks that are legal that are called fouls. The league’s doing the best they can to protect them.”

(On if he’s concerned being the next team to play Carolina after all the attention being paid to this issue)
“I’m not concerned about it, because there’s no rule changes, and our players understand the rules – as do their players understand the rules. So I’m not concerned about it at all. I’m more concerned about him extending plays with his legs and making plays with his arm. He was an MVP for a lot of reasons last year.”

(On what concerns him the most about getting the team back in rhythm after the bye week)
“There are statistics associated with the week off, penalties tend to increase a little bit after a week off. You have a tendency over the years, at times, to start a little slower. But I don’t anticipate that with our guys, they’ve played hard, they know how to practice. I’m kind of excited to get back on the field, it seems like we’ve been out of the Coliseum forever right now.”

(On how QB Jared Goff came out today with his extra work over the bye)
“He was good. He’s good and he benefitted from it, no doubt. We’ll continue to give him the same reps we’ve given him the last few weeks, work him in with the 1s during the preparation week.”

(On if he is happy with the offensive line’s performance)
“I think anytime we’re allowing pressure on the quarterback – although we’ve played some good defenses – and not run the football, all attention goes there. But we’re just going to get better up front. You look around the league, there are some teams that are really hurting up front on the offensive line, from a health standpoint, and we’re in good shape. We’re just going to get better.”

(On what he did to relax over the bye week)
“I worked.”

(On if he senses if the opportunity to win the division is still present)
“Yeah, we do. Obviously, that’s our goal, as is the rest of the teams in the division. But, this thing just becomes one at a time now, it really does. November is an important month to make a move if you’re going to have a chance to plan in January, but you can’t look ahead. You can’t look ahead to December. You just got to focus on each opponent. We got a challenge. This is a good football team. It’s hard to look at the tape and see that they only won two games, but it’s a good football team. We get a sense for watching them match-up against Arizona, because we know Arizona very well, and it’s a dominating game. It was a great effort by them, and a much needed win for them.”

(On if he sees any similar tendencies with Carolina that he also sees within NFC West opponents)
“Yeah, they’re built to run the football and they play outstanding defense and their really talented front seven. They’re hard to run the football against they don’t give up a lot of big plays and they can collapse the pocket. You get behind there, and they make it hard on you. Our focus and our goal going into this week is we’re going to have to play the best run defense we’ve played all year, just because of the way they’re built, and the way they commit to it. That puts a lot of pressure on your secondary, but we’re going to have to commit there.”

(On how has LB Alec Ogletree’s role developed since the start of the season)
“This is his first year as our starting ‘Mike’ and he’s taken it by the horns, and he’s running with it. He’s running the show. He’s the guy in the room right now. He came out with his football pants on today. This thing is important to him, and it’s also important to him that everybody does everything right. From a leadership standpoint and an ability standpoint, I think he’s off to a great start.”

(On the health status of CB Trumaine Johnson and DT Michael Brockers)
“They were out today, so they’re coming on. Probably will be a game-time decision. We’ll have an injury report for you at the end of the week.”

(On if he dressed up for Halloween)
“You know, I did not, actually. I’m probably wearing the same thing tonight that I wore last night (laughter). I missed it unfortunately. We extended an invitation to the players’ and staff’s kids, and we made the rookies sit out in that lounge out there and hand out candy. It was kind of cute last night.”

Injury Report: Rams Getting Healthier Just In Time For Key Stretch Of Schedule

October 28, 2016

Sam McPherson

Filed Under: Injury Report, Jamon Brown, Los Angeles Rams, Michael Brockers, Nelson Spruce, NFL, Trumaine Johnson

Injury Report: Rams Getting Healthier Just In Time For Key Stretch Of Schedule

Perhaps the football deities are on the side of the Los Angeles Rams in 2016, now that the team has moved back to the proverbial City of Angels. The team’s bye week is affording several injured players extra time to heal and recover in order to be ready for a soft stretch of the schedule coming up for Los Angeles.

The Rams have only four active players with injury concerns right now, and three of them could be ready in Week 9 to face the slumping Carolina Panthers in Los Angeles. Defensive tackle Michael Brockers (thigh), offensive guard Jamon Brown (hand) and wide receiver Nelson Spruce (knee) are all questionable right now, and the extra week can only help each player get better.

Defensive Strength Sapped

Los Angeles has struggled on defense this year, unlike any prior year under Head Coach Jeff Fisher. Although the Rams are currently ranked 10th in yards allowed and 14th in points allowed, it’s been a grind with all the injuries, especially to the defensive line. L.A. has posted just 10 sacks so far this year, which ranks 27th in the league.

Since Fisher took over in 2012, the Rams have ranked second, third, 13th and 11th in the league in sacks, respectively. With the rest of the line healthy now and Brockers on the way back into the fold, the L.A. pass rush could return to its previous heights just in time to face the soft part of the schedule.

After registering 14.5 sacks in his first four years in the league, Brockers has now missed two games this year with injuries and has zero sacks. Getting him healthy and ready to attack from the defensive line’s interior really makes a difference for the outside pass rushers on the L.A. roster.

Offensive Depth Challenged

The Rams offense during Fisher’s tenure has always been mediocre, if not just outright bad. This season is no different, sadly, with inconsistent quarterback and running back production. Brown has started 10 games since the start of 2015, although he’s only played in five games this season. Whether he starts or not, his injury has impacted the depth on the offensive line, and that always hurts QB and RB effectiveness.

Likewise with Spruce: The undrafted rookie wideout has yet to see the field in 2016, but his dynamic abilities can only help the offense diversify itself, this opening up more running lanes for star RB Todd Gurley. Remember, Spruce caught six passes in his first preseason game, so the staff is very aware of what he’s capable of doing on the field.

Only One Serious Injury

Cornerback Trumaine Johnson’s ankle injury is expected to keep him out at least three more weeks, so he will not be ready to play against the Panthers and their solid WR corps in Week 9. With a little good fortune and healing recovery, Johnson possibly be ready in Week 11 against the Miami Dolphins.

For sure, though, the team will need his presence in the secondary when the Rams travel to New Orleans in Week 12 to face the Saints on the road. The Dolphins don’t possess the offensive personnel that the Saints do, so perhaps the team would be wise to give Johnson that extra week off in order to have him at full strength (or closer to it) for the New Orleans matchup.

Questionable:
Michael Brockers, DT (thigh)
Jamon Brown, G (hand)
Nelson Spruce, WR (knee)

Out:
Trumaine Johnson, CB (ankle)

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/goff-731988-rams-every.html

INJURY REPORT

Coach Jeff Fisher said the Rams are getting healthier, even if the on-field activity didn’t reflect it.

Starting defensive linemen Michael Brockers (hip), William Hayes (ankle) and Robert Quinn (shoulder) all missed practice, as did cornerback Trumaine Johnson (ankle) and guard Cody Wichmann (ankle).

The defensive linemen all missed Sunday’s game against Buffalo, but Fisher said Brockers had been close to playing. Johnson is not likely to play against Detroit, while the status of the other injured players probably won’t be determined until Friday.

Cornerback Dwayne Gratz, signed by the Rams on Tuesday, participated in his first practice. Defensive lineman Morgan Fox, waived to make room for Gratz, will be added to the Rams’ practice squad.

Rams Notes: One way or another, Tavon Austin getting the ball

RICH HAMMOND / STAFF WRITER

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/austin-731846-rams-yards.html

THOUSAND OAKS – In search of ways to get the ball in the hands into receiver Tavon Austin, the Rams have taken the direct approach: They’re handing it to him.

Austin, typically the Rams’ big-play passing threat, often has been stifled this season, but the Rams turned creative Sunday against Buffalo and twice lined up Austin in the backfield. He gained 17 yards on two carries, and later picked up nine yards on a fly sweep.

“You’ve just go to move him around,” Coach Jeff Fisher said after Tuesday’s practice at Cal Lutheran. “They know where he’s at. You watch defenses against us, and they’re pointing across the field (at Austin) to alert.”

There’s a fine line between incorporating a player such as Austin into the offense but not force-feeding him, and the Rams have tip-toed that line this season. Austin is tied for the team lead with 23 receptions (for 218 yards), but his average of 9.5 yards per reception ranks fourth among the Rams’ top four targets.

Opposing defenses have clamped down on Austin, and it started early. In the season opener against San Francisco, the Rams targeted Austin on 13 passes but he caught only four for 13 yards.

Two weeks ago at Arizona, the Rams won but Austin had only six targets and two receptions for 14 yards. So against the Bills, the Rams mixed up things.

Austin caught passes on three of the Rams’ first five plays, and on the seventh play, he shifted into the backfield, into a I formation behind fullback Cory Harkey, and rushed for eight yards. In the second quarter, Austin lined up as the Rams’ single man in the backfield and ran for eight yards.

Austin nearly got to the end zone on that run, but his dive for the corner pylon came up short, so Austin remains stuck on one (receiving) touchdown for the season, which he recorded at Tampa Bay.

“I love to be in that end zone,” Austin said. “I’m just struggling a little bit. I keep getting right there but I just haven’t busted through. It’s all good. The time will come eventually.”

Being in the backfield is nothing new for Austin, who was a running back throughout youth football and until his freshman year at West Virginia in 2009. Austin ran for more than 2,000 yards as a high school senior in Maryland.

“That’s something I’ve done my whole life,” Austin said. “That’s still my first position. It’s all about whatever the coaches need. Running back is still in my heart.”

MAKING MOVES

Starting cornerback Trumaine Johnson, who hurt his ankle Sunday, is considered “week to week,” Fisher said Tuesday, a few hours after the Rams claimed cornerback Dwayne Gratz off waivers from Jacksonville.

Gratz, a third-round pick in 2013, played in the Jaguars’ first three games this season but was inactive in their last game. Gratz has never started an NFL game but played 12 games last season on defense and on special teams. He played collegiately at Connecticut and is listed at 5-foot-11, 199 pounds.

Gratz gives the Rams a bit of depth at cornerback and makes up for the loss of Coty Sensabaugh, whom the Rams cut last week (Sensabaugh signed with the New York Giants on Tuesday). Besides Johnson, the Rams’ only cornerbacks are E.J. Gaines, Troy Hill, Lamarcus Joyner and Marqui Christian.

To make room for Gratz, the Rams put defensive lineman Morgan Fox on waivers. Fox made the Rams’ practice squad coming out of training camp and was promoted to the main roster last week.

The Rams do not issue an injury report on Tuesday, but Fisher previously said he hoped injured defensive linemen Michael Brockers, William Hayes and Robert Quinn could return to the practice field.