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znModeratorJoe Curley@vcsjoecurley
And from a stadium where starters were playing…Rob Lowder@Rob_Lowder
The #49ers have lost starters Malcolm Smith, George Kittle and Solomon Thomas to injury. Matt Breida is now down on the field. It’s still the first quarter. #DALvsSF—
Nick Wagoner
ESPN Staff WriterThere’s nothing more important in a preseason game than coming out of it as healthy as possible, at least when it comes to your starters. To that end, the 49ers had something of a disastrous night against the Dallas Cowboys. Despite planning to play their starters for only a series or two, the Niners watched as three projected starters and two key backups departed suffered various ailments. Linebacker Malcolm Smith (hamstring), tight end George Kittle (shoulder), defensive lineman Solomon Thomas (head), running back Matt Breida (shoulder) and tackle Garry Gilliam (head) left with injuries and did not return to the game. The extent of those injuries remain to be seen but it’s still alarming to see so many of them this early, especially given how many health issues the 49ers dealt with last season. For a roster that is still in need of proven depth, any injuries to starters before the season begins are cause for concern
znModerator.@KhaDarel_4 with his first NFL touchdown courtesy of @BrandonAllen_10 🙌#LAvsBAL pic.twitter.com/jJUFUDWAxW
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) August 10, 2018
znModeratorjrry32
I didn’t watch the game. I just saw the score. My reaction? Wake me up when the regular season begins. The Ravens under Harbaugh have an amazing preseason record because they care and try. Let me know when our starters play.
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Dylan Cardwell@TheRamsReportIG
it’s the Rams’ backups vs the Ravens’ starters. Don’t read too much in to it.—
Myles Simmons@MylesASimmons
Noteboom in at LT. Allen in at C for LA to start this drive. Demby at RT. Nice blocks by Noteboom and Allen to start a run for Justin Davis, goes 7 yards.==
Lindsey Thiry@LindseyThiry
You know it’s the preseason, and that the team is in good shape, when the most intriguing position battle is for the No. 3 running back spot.—
Downtown Rams@DowntownRams
John Kelly in just four plays has shown excellent ability to spell Todd Gurley on third down. Kelly shows vision on the first run and burst, third play he shows his receiving ability out of the backfield and fourth play is a nice blitz pickup. #Rams have someone here.We are seriously going to lose our minds over one bad PRESEASON game for Troy Hill after he shut it down in the POSTSEASON? Yeah. Nope. Not dying on that island.
==
Rich Hammond@Rich_Hammond
Sean Mannion: “It’s certainly not my best performance. I really wasn’t able to get into a rhythm early. So obviously I was disappointed with how the whole game went”Sean McVay on Sean Mannion’s game: “I certainly don’t want this performance tonight to be indicative of the type of camp he has had. It’s such a small sample size. Some of the situations he was put in were really just tough spots.”
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Louis Riddick@LRiddickESPN
Can’t wait to hear all the “smart” football talk about how bad preseason football is/ and how they wish there wasn’t any, and then the same people say how the the level of play in the regular season is bad, yet have no idea how to improve it. #nfl==
Cameron DaSilva@camdasilva
After seeing this game, I’m not sure Jared Goff should play a single snap in the preseason. Rams are in trouble if he goes down.==
znModeratorFive Takeaways: Running Backs Impress in Rams Preseason Opener vs. Ravens
Myles Simmons
https://www.therams.com/news/five-takeaways-running-backs-impress-in-rams-preseason-opener-vs-ravens
BALTIMORE — The Rams began their preseason slate on the East Coast, falling to the Ravens, 33-7.
But being that it’s preseason, the final score far from tells the whole story. With that in mind, here are five takeaways from the first exhibition matchup of 2018.
1) RAMS REST THEIR STARTERS
As expected, head coach Sean McVay elected to rest nearly all of Los Angeles’ starters for the first preseason contest. McVay had previously said on Tuesday that much of the work the Rams were able to get against the Ravens during practice could serve as a kind of substitute for game action.
The only starters who played were right guard Jamon Brown — who will be suspended for the first two games of the season — and second-year outside linebacker Samson Ebukam.
“It just kind of felt good to have that live mindset because all this time we’ve just been laying off on the [quarterback],” Ebukam said at halftime. “This felt good just to turn loose one time. It’s just the first preseason game. It’s like oiling ourselves right now. We’re just getting loose, getting ready for the season.”
Ebukam recorded a tackle in his first game action of the preseason. But he also rushed the passer effectively, forcing Baltimore’s quarterbacks off of their spots in ways that led to sacks.
2) WESTBROOKS GETS SACKS
While defensive lineman Ethan Westbrooks is not currently listed as a starter, he’s been taking first-team reps throughout training camp at three-technique given the absence of defensive lineman Aaron Donald. Westbrooks showed the work is paying off, recording two sacks in the first half.
Both sacks came in the second quarter and on third down, helping to end Baltimore possessions. On the first, Westbrooks got to quarterback Lamar Jackson and brought him down before outside linebacker Justin Lawler could come in and clean it up. Then Westbrooks brought down Jackson again on 3rd-and-5 from the Baltimore 25, this time with inside linebacker Bryce Hager there to help.
Westbrooks is heading into his fifth NFL season after first signing with the Rams as an undrafted free agent out of West Texas A&M.
3) OFFENSE SPUTTERS IN FIRST HALF
There’s no way around it: Los Angeles’ offense did not perform well in the first half.
The unit recorded only three first downs on 25 plays, picking up 45 total yards in the game’s first 30 minutes. The club ended the first half 1-of-7 in third-down efficiency.
Quarterback Sean Mannion started the contest and finished just 3-of-13 for 16 yards with an interception. He was also sacked twice, losing 13 yards on the plays.
Los Angeles’ offense was undoubtedly vanilla when it comes to scheme, and the unit was missing nearly all of its starters. And it is the first preseason game after all. But it was a disappointing night for the offense when it comes to overall performance.
4) DAVIS, KELLY PROVIDE SPARKS
There’s been some thought that running backs Justin Davis and John Kelly may be competing for a roster spot as the club’s third RB. If that is the case, Davis and Kelly likely made the decision tougher with their performances.
Davis ran well in the first half, taking seven carries for 41 yards. His longest run began a second-quarter drive and went 17 yards. The second-year running back has had a solid training camp so far.
Kelly entered the game in the second half and provided the offensive highlight of the game — taking a carry 40 yards down the field. The play began with Kelly running to his right, but he made a nice cut and ended up running diagonally toward the left sideline. Rookie wide receiver Steven Mitchell also had a nice block on the play.
The 2018 sixth-round pick out of Tennessee continued his strong play in the fourth quarter, taking a carry 14 yards with a solid cut to move Los Angeles deep into Baltimore territory for the first time all game.
Kelly finished the game with 13 carries for 77 yards, also making a pair of receptions for 14 yards.
5) NATSON RETURNS WELL
Wide receiver JoJo Natson had a lot of opportunities for returns and made the most of them — both on kicks and punts.
Natson returned seven kickoffs, averaging 23 yards on each with a long of 27 yards. And he returned four punts averaging 14.3 yards per return. His longest punt return went 29 yards up the right sideline to start a touchdown drive, with defensive lineman Brian Womac posting a solid block to spring Natson.
Additionally, Natson had a key third-down reception for nine yards on Los Angeles’ first scoring drive in the fourth quarter.znModeratorMe thinking, we need to get some help at backup QB soon. Colin Kapernick is still out there. He may be worth a look. Better than whet we got now. There is also talk, that the Ravens may only keep two QBs on the roster, maybe RG3 as a possibility as well.
In terms of back-ups, I think Allen is fine and would like to see him with the 1s.
One of the things this game showed is that you can’t spend 3 days practicing away and then play a game.
It;s like every team that tried the “stay for an extended time” routine travelling to a London game. The ones that did it that way got whacked.
…
znModeratorGot some skin in the game.
Never want to see his face again and I hope he rots in Hell forever (Preferably in a different Hell than the one I’m going to go to).
Sincerely,
MattYes it;s personal for you isn’t it.
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znModeratorVincent Bonsignore@VinnyBonsignore
Obviously the #Rams ate too many crabcakes this week in Baltimore.#Rams Mannion is a bit of a victim on the dropped pass and some shody blocking, but he just hasn’t looked sharp throughout camp. It’s right to expect more from a quarterback going into his fourth year
One thing to note: There is confidence in #Rams building that, if it came to down to Mannion having to step in as starter, Sean McVay is good enough to coach him up and put the offense in position to be effective. That said…..You’d still like to see more from a guy in year 4
Nice coverage by #Rams LB Ramik Wilson. He’s had a really strong camp
Like what I am seeing from #Rams Noteboom at LT. Good power and surge on the run block and nice footwork ansd quickness on the pass block.
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Joe Curley@vcsjoecurley
Darryl Williams whiffs and Brandon Allen is decleated. “Strip sack” doesn’t do it justice.Rams starting OL is the same one that started Week 17 against San Francisco. Darrell Williams-Aaron Neary-Austin Blythe-Jamon Brown-Cornelius Lucas
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Mark Viviano@MarkWJZ
Rams defense flagged on consecutive plays for “lowering the head to initiate contact” OR what was previously known as “playing tackle football.”
it’s an adjustment @NFL—
Alden Gonzalez@Alden_Gonzalez
Johnny Hekker shanked a punt,
confirming that this is all just some weird dream.==
znModeratorVincent Bonsignore@VinnyBonsignore
Young guys I’m interested in watching who have flashed in camp: DL John Franklin-Meyers, RB John Kelly, OT Joseph Noteboom, OL Jamil Demby, WR Josh Reynolds, C Brian Allen. Also TE Temarrick HemingwayFor sure the young starting linebackers. Just not sure how long the first team will be out there. Kiser’s on my list too. He’s looked efficient in practice especially in gap/run support.
znModeratorFreedom Rider: Social Media’s Danger to the Black Left
“The move against Alex Jones will be used to defend further censoring of left wing voices.”https://www.blackagendareport.com/freedom-rider-social-medias-danger-black-left
Of course Black Agenda Report utilizes social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook and YouTube to communicate with readers. Any individual or organization who needs to connect with large groups of people does so as well. But our adversaries know that too and have embarked on unprecedented efforts to diminish black and left voices or silence them altogether. The change was announced quite publicly in November 2016 when the Jeff Bezos owned Washington Postpresented the infamous Propornotlist. This anonymous group claimed that some 200 sites, including Black Agenda Report, were susceptible to Russian propaganda, hence the propaganda or not label.
Now the attack is a bit more subtle but quite effective. Individuals and groups find themselves “ghost banned,” unable to post on social media platforms but never given a reason why. YouTube subscribers find themselves unsubscribed. YouTube channels are demonetized and unable to earn revenue if they cover left leaning political issues. The search engine reach of organizations like Black Agenda Report have been diminished on Google.
“Police invented a persona, Bob Smith, who was able to ‘friend’ individuals with a fake story of activism.”
There is also an old school frontal assault reminiscent of the FBI’s infamous Counter Intelligence Program, COINTELPRO. The police department in Memphis, Tennessee used Facebook to spy on Black Lives Matter activists. They even invented a persona, Bob Smith, who was able to “friend” individuals with a fake story of activism and then monitor their movements, plans and announcements. Any event that attracted a black audience was targeted, private information was collected and shared with law enforcement across the country, public utilities and private corporations such as Fedex.
The benefits of social media are obvious. But left activists must rethink how or even whether to use platforms which are both useful and dangerous. We may find new comrades and associates on Facebook and Twitter but we can also find the Bob Smiths of the world. We must remember that mass movements existed long before the invention of the world wide web. The internet was in its infancy when the Million Man March took place in 1995. Somehow more than 1 million people knew they were to be in Washington on a specific date and time. We don’t have to relegate ourselves to a problematic enterprise in order to make ourselves known and heard.
“The internet was in its infancy when the Million Man March took place in 1995.”
It is time to take a serious look at our dependence on Facebook, which Julian Assange called, “The most appalling spy machine ever invented.” Every serious activist should take a look at how they contact other people. It isn’t necessary to give up social media altogether but it is essential to have phone numbers, email and written addresses for anyone we may wish to contact. Old fashioned address books gathering dust need to be resurrected.
The system that we critique so assiduously is quite serious about limiting our effectiveness when it can’t do away with our organizations altogether. An accusation of being a Russian bot or a fake news site is enough to consign one to social media oblivion and the inability to communicate at all.
In short, they are coming after us and they will use many ruses to do it. Right wing pundit Alex Jones was recently kicked off of Facebook, Twitter and YouTube for violations of terms of service. There is nothing new about Jones antics. He has been violating those terms for years without consequence. The sudden concern for what he has done for years is highly suspect. Some observers believe that he is in fact a United States intelligence asset.
“Old fashioned address books gathering dust need to be resurrected.”
There is no reason for anyone on the left to cheer Jones being censored. The move against him will be used to defend further censoring of left wing voices. There will always be Alex Jones like characters on social media. His absence helps no one except the intelligence apparatus who will find new ways to use our words and activities against us.
We are living in an era when every person on the planet is under surveillance, regardless of their ideology or political activity.The National Security Agency (NSA) has records of every email and every phone call made in the country. The Boston Globerecently revealed the existed of a program called Quiet Skies , which has the power to put any air traveler under direct, physical surveillance from federal air marshals. Behavior such as “Reversing or changing direction and/or stopping in transit in an airport, boarding last, or observing the boarding gate from afar,” can guarantee that a traveler will unknowingly be accompanied by an air marshal on their next flight.
“Every person on the planet is under surveillance, regardless of their ideology or political activity.”
Social media is dangerous precisely because we use it voluntarily. We voluntarily provide personal information to strangers at Facebook, which is seen as harmless and even benign. But Facebook recently decided that planned demonstrations against white supremacists in Washington were created on orders from the Kremlin and removed their informationfrom the site which everyone uses to promote their activity.
The dystopian world of the novel 1984 is here but in an even worse way than Orwell imagined. In his imagination Big Brother interposed himself into the lives of ordinary people. But in 2018 the people are giving their enemies information that may be used to harm them. Humans are loathe to go backwards but that is what we must start considering. We may well have to time travel to the days of rotary phones and pieces of paper. Otherwise we are giving our enemies ammunition that they will surely use.
znModeratorIn keeping with that here are some posts from fans about watching the FF when they were young:
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Max
I remember vividly some of those games back in 1967, especially that game against Johnny U and the Colts in the season finale that won the Coastal Division for us. I remember after the game was over Unitas said, “I ate grass for 60 minutes.” Man, the foursome beat the crap out of him, and the Colts had some great OL, including HOF Jim Parker.
Every kid who was hooked on the NFL back then knew the moniker fearsome foursome. It had this cool mystique to it. If you could draw, you drew them on your book covers.
The fearsome foursome got a lot more attention in 1967, nationally, when they went 11-1-2. They were all over Sports illustrated that year. And Roger Brown was the least publicized member, he was considered more of a replacement for Rosey. But he was a solid player.
It was still the strength of the defense, and the main reason they won 11 games. The other reason was Gabriel, who was very underrated. He had to carry that offense, especially after Bernie Casey left in 68. But the defense was average at best without that front four.
==
CanuckRightWinger
1970 I watch LIVE IN BUFFALO NY, George Allen’s Fearsome Foursome manhandle the Bills 19-0 at what native Buffalonian Ron Jaworski called The Rock Pile, aka long gone War Memorial Stadium. I got a photo of Jack Snow warming up with fellow Irish alumi, LB John Pergine with my Kodak Brownie Instamatic! Jimmy Calla, biggest guy on our Niagara HS Football team and I scoop the 2 Rams tickets at a local Pool Hall where the thugs hung out…..mostly Yugoslavians, the 2 tickets were available because two of their gang members got sentenced that week.
That Fearsome Foursome was Jones, Olsen, Diron Talbert and Coy Bacon and all four started all 14 games. They were still a very dominant DLine and I certainly still viewed them as The Fearsome Foursome…..they were dominant!
Rams miss Playoffs in 1970 and Dan Reeves fires George Allen….to me, that’s the end of the Fearsome Foursome.
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phoenixrising
I began following the Rams in 1966, but I was 11 yrs old. I caught Grier’s last year, but it’s hazy. What I can say with certainty is they were known as the Fearsome Foursome before and after Grier’s departure. In fact they probably had more notoriety with Brown as they were a better team–they were pretty bad before Geroge Allen. The reason the moniker carried on was because of the quality of Brown as a star player prior to joining the Rams. My recollection is that the level of play actually stepped up with Brown.
In my mind the FF ended with Lundy’s departure. I remember it being tossed around with Coy Bacon, etc, but it seemed more nostalgic than relevant.
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rams74
I started following the Rams in late 1965. I was 7 years old. From those earliest days, I mostly only remember the offensive players: Roman Gabriel, Jack Snow, Dick Bass, Les Josephson. But I also remember watching the Fearsome Foursome live, and reading about them. Mostly, I remember Merlin and Deacon from that group. To be honest, I’m not sure if I can remember Rosey Grier from his playing days or not. I tend to think I don’t. I definitely remember Roger Brown, Diron Talbert, and Coy Bacon, though, and to me they were part of the Fearsome Foursome. It ended when Deacon left.
To me, the Fearsome Foursome is part of my earliest memories of the Rams and the NFL in general. Others can say, if they want to, that the FF is Jones, Olsen, Grier, and Lundy. That’s fine. To me, it’s who I remember watching.
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sloramfan
my mom and dad divorced when i was about 4, my mom remarried, and we moved to FLA. she developed MS, and in 1965 we (us 3 kids) moved back to CA and moved in with my dad, an avid rams fan.. i dont remember much of the first season of watching football with him then, but what i do recall was that i liked the colts(lol)… and he didn’t..
i think by the end of the year my fav team changed, because i remember we used run out in the front yards of socal, grab a football and me my brother and 3 other local kids would mimic a show we watched, ” Rams Action”. hosted by dick enberg…
now im a little gray on the rosey grier year, but i remember most of the announcers, and papers were still mentioning the FF, and i believe it was all the way up to the coy bacon, diron talbert years…
late ’60’s, maybe up to ’71..
i was there, and the FF was a pretty big thing in socal for my first few years as a live and die ramsfan..
znModeratorAqib Talib did a Q&A on his Instagram. He’s already been interesting and entertaining to cover. pic.twitter.com/kzqstR1q9W
— Rich Hammond (@Rich_Hammond) August 8, 2018
August 8, 2018 at 10:10 pm in reply to: Rams stream games locally … + one PS game broadcast live nationally #89192znModeratorOne game to be broadcast live nationally on NFL net
Saturday, 8/18
4:00 PM et – Oakland Raiders vs. Los Angeles Rams
znModerator2018 NFL Training Camps: Keeping Jared Goff healthy a priority for Rams, who lack QB depth
Despite all the talent L.A. has collected its backup QBs are a big unknown, and more observations from Ravens/Rams campOWINGS MILLS, Md. – A year ago at this time, entering their preseason opener, the chore for Rams then-rookie head coach Sean McVay was pretty simple: Get Jared Goff as many reps as humanly possible to immerse him in this offense, rebuild his confidence and make him forget about his shaky rookie season.
Now, well, the situation is quite different.
Goff had a strong 2017 season – just the latest young quarterback to blossom under McVay’s tutelage and play calling – and he appears at ease in this offense as the Rams have suddenly gone from playoff afterthoughts to potential Super Bowl hopefuls with a reloaded roster and heavy expectations. And it just so happens that one of the few roster spots not teaming with experience and depth is at backup quarterback, where the assembled group of three passers behind Goff have combined for 50 career NFL attempts, one start, and zero touchdowns. It’s not exactly teaming with options should Goff miss a few games, and McVay is now charged with protecting Goff through the preseason – where he undoubtedly will end up playing less than last summer – and cultivating something from the group of backups (Sean Mannion, Brandon Allenand Luis Perez) in case of emergency.
McVay and his staff are going over that mental calculus this week, with their joint practices with Baltimore over at the Ravens’ practice facility and the preseason opener at M&T Bank Stadium looming Thursday night. With Goff now established in this offense, the days of him taking expanded reps with the second-string offensive line are probably over, while Mannion (a fourth-year pro who has accounted for all 50 of those NFL pass attempts I mentioned) is now an injury away from trying to prop up a team with Super Bowl aspirations
“The thing that is tricky, especially with some of the starters is,” McVay told me, “when you are talking about a guy like (left tackle) Andrew Whitworth, who is going into year 13, now if you don’t play him then how comfortable do you feel with putting Jared out there? So it’s a lot of layers to it, to where when you want to rest somebody else then it affects how you operate …
“I’m really having a tough time – and we’ve talked about this as a staff – at how do you balance the dynamic between getting those preseason reps, and then, what the risk that potential could come from if something happens. And you can’t do that – you can’t be scared – but you also want to be smart and mindful of, those couple snaps, does it make a difference in how sharp he can be and can you try to mimic and emulate those game-like situations and limit the risk? And those are things that, I’ll be honest, I struggle with and continue to learn. And as you get more experience you maybe have a more clear-cut philosophy.”
Bottom line, I don’t think we’ll see much of Goff this summer. The Rams starters as a whole will likely be rested for this preseason opener, and Mannion – who threw for 185 yards and no touchdowns or interceptions in his lone NFL start (a loss to San Francisco last season) – will have a chance to gain some confidence this time around. For a team that collected this much talent, I continue to wonder if the Rams might be prompted to acquire a more experienced and proven No. 2 quarterback at some point based on how the preseason goes (one team official didn’t exactly rule out that possibility, noting how in the past the backup job here has been manned by guys like Nick Foles and Case Keenum, who went on to great starting success elsewhere).
“I think he’s really taken a lot of steps in the right direction,” McVay said of Mannion.
Rams/Ravens observations
I cautioned against the anti-Orlando Brown, Jr. tide during the pre-draft season, when much was made of his poor combine results. He was still going to be a Day Two pick and he has done a nice job grabbing an early hold on Baltimore’s starting right tackle spot. Even with All Pro guard Marshal Yanda back off the PUP list, and a possible reshuffle in order at some point, Brown has given the coaches plenty to think about and if the rookie keeps this up I believe he starts the season in this spot.
Aaron Donald’s holdout from the Rams remains indefinite. McVay is trying to stay in touch with him but the Rams don’t expect to see him for a while. “Our conversations have been good,” McVay said.
Cooper Kupp was more or less unstoppable in Tuesday’s practice. The second-year receiver was a go-to guy for Goff and the chemistry was obvious in the 11-on-11 unscripted portion. The Ravens tried lining up slot corners and regular corners and even hybrid linebackers on him but to no avail. In general, he was a matchup problem and with Robert Woods and Brandin Cooks on the outside, and the Rams hopeful for a breakthrough season for tight end Tyler Higbee, Kupp remains in line for a bevy of targets. Goff and he have something special going on.
The Rams secondary has the makings of being elite. Its size leaps out at you on the practice field, as well as its tenacity and speed. The secondary created turnover after turnover against Baltimore’s starting offense on Tuesday, including picking off Joe Flacco several times in the red zone. “Today was a real challenge for us communicating with a little noise (music blared from the speakers during 11-on-11s) and a lot of different looks,” said corner Aqib Talib, one of several new parts on that defense. “We got to communicate on the fly, fast, so I think it was like a quiz for us … and we did a helluva job.” Toggling between watching two fields, I didn’t have a full count of how many interceptions the Rams got on the day, but Talib asserted, “we got like five.”
Questions remain about how what amounts to a group of mercenaries will gel on this defense but Talib said he and corner Marcus Peters are hitting it off well. Both have worn out their welcome in past stops, and the Rams have them here on short-term contracts hoping to find lightning in a bottle. “We good,” Talib said. “That’s my homie. We good.” During a long season, this dynamic could go a long way to determining the team’s fate with so many players in L.A. for one year on more-or-less prove-it contracts. “The guys we’ve added have all been smart, conscientious football players,” McVay said of a group that includes Peters, Talib and Ndamukong Suh.
Ravens rookie tight ends Hayden Hurst and Mark Andrews are often featured on packages with the starting offense and their size and outside ability provide some matchup problems and new looks. Some of those sets are ripe for running the ball, or allowing for one of the tight ends to keep deep. Hurst made several diving catches and big plays during these two practices and he should be an immediate contributor if he can avoid nagging injuries. Andrews flashed as well. “He’s really made a huge jump,” offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said of Hurst, “both in-line and with his route running.”
Baltimore has been desperate for youngsters to emerge to compliment Terrell Suggs and Matt Judon with the pass rush. A year after barely playing, Timmy Williams is taking big steps in that regard. He was a disruptive force in team drills and someone who will be featured quite a bit in the preseason. A natural edge presence at Alabama, his breakthrough would be a major development for this defense. “He’s becoming the player we thought he was going to be when we drafted him,” defensive coordinator Don Martindale said of the 2017 third-round pick, who he believes “is going to be a premier pass rusher.”
Keep an eye on the ball when it comes out of rookie quarterback Lamar Jacksons hand. His spiral has consistently had a wobble to it throughout camp – most notable on deeper stuff – and he continues to adjust to the NFL football. “It’s still a work in progress,” Mornhinweg said.
There were no real incidents between these teams during two spirited practices in some extreme heat. The past history between Talib and the Ravens’ new receiver Michael Crabtree never boiled over despite them being lined up against one another quite a bit, and there was nothing extracurricular save for some brief pushing and shoving and some trash talking.
znModeratorLes Snead says Rams and Aaron Donald are in ‘same ZIP code, area code, ballpark’ on contract extension
GARY KLEIN
Les Snead says Rams and Aaron Donald are in ‘same ZIP code, area code, ballpark’ on contract extension
Rams defensive end Aaron Donald, right, gets past Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Lane Johnson during a game on Dec. 10, 2017. (Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press)
The Rams and star defensive tackle Aaron Donald have not reached an agreement on a new contract, but general manager Les Snead intimated Wednesday that the sides were not completely at odds in regard to a proposed extension.
“We’re in the same ZIP code, area code, ballpark,” he said.
So the two sides are close?
“ZIP code usually means you’re close,” Snead said, “but we still haven’t agreed.”
Snead made his comments as a long procession of Rams players descended a hotel escalator en route to team buses that would take them to the Baltimore Ravens’ practice facility for a walk-through.
Donald, of course, was not among them.
The reigning NFL defensive player of the year remains a holdout, the Tuesday deadline for the four-time Pro Bowl accruing a season toward unrestricted free agency having passed.
“I think all of us weren’t anticipating Aaron showing up on the 7th,” Snead said. “As we worked through this, we always figured this wasn’t the date, per se.”
Donald, the 13th pick in the 2014 draft, is scheduled to earn about $6.9 million this season in the final year of his rookie contract. He is believed to be seeking a deal that would make him not only the NFL’s highest-paid defensive player, but put him in the realm of the game’s highest-paid players — at $20 million or more per season.
“Nothing’s changed since we started this process,” Snead said. “The goal is like, ‘Hey, come up with a win-win solution for the reigning defensive MVP and the Los Angeles Rams,’ and that’s a long-term contract for Aaron Donald.”
If he plays this season without a new deal, Donald could become a restricted free agent in 2019. But the Rams could nix those plans by putting the franchise tag on him in each of the next three seasons.
Coach Sean McVay joked last week that he was having “nightmares” about the situation. He said Tuesday that he has been in contact with Donald but steers clear of contract discussions.
The Rams open the preseason Thursday night against the Ravens. Their final preseason game is Aug. 30 at New Orleans, and the season opener is Sept. 10 at Oakland.
Snead said that there was not a specific date for getting a deal done and that the Rams would not “put a false timeline” on the process.
“Whatever the date is to prepare for the regular season,” he said, “but again, there’s no hard date there.”
znModeratorIs progress being made in the Rams’ negotiations with Aaron Donald? GM Les Snead indicated yes: https://t.co/A3Z03kGIjb
— Rich Hammond (@Rich_Hammond) August 8, 2018
znModeratorVincent Bonsignore@VinnyBonsignore
#Rams GM Les Snead in talks with Aaron Donald: “We’re in the same zip code”==
Rich Hammond@Rich_Hammond
Les Snead said the Rams and Aaron Donald are “in the same zip code, area code, ballpark” when it comes to contract talks. “Zip code usually means you’re close but you still haven’t agreed,” Snead said.==
Gary Klein@LATimesklein
Snead said there was an offer on the table. Rams never considered Aug 7 date significant to getting deal done.znModeratorSpeed_Kills
The Rams in Baltimore
They gave up at least 3 sacks that I saw. Two were on Goff the other on Allen. The Ravens could not cover Kupp but handled everyone else pretty good
Goff did hit Kupp on back to back TDs but other than those two plays I’m not sure Sean is happy with what he saw today
Kelly looks good, Kizer looks like a Fletcher clone lol in terms of stature
Higbee and Hemingway certainly look the part. Higbee has great size and height. He was standing right in front of me and he’s a gifted athlete. He wasn’t playing much in the later session. Not sure if he got dinged
Man it was so uncomfortable out there today. Very humid …. these athletes are incredible for being able to work through that.
My son and I each got a Todd Gurley autograph and got a picture of him with son as well. He stayed in that heat and signed dozens of hats, and jerseys
I didnt get a chance to see th defense go against the Ravens as they were on the opposite side of the field.
I’m sorry I missed watching the defense. But we had a good seat in the shade and I didn’t want to lose it.
Good turnout of Ravens fans…. saw quite a few Ram fans too
znModeratorAqib Talib starts Rams’ interception spree in last workout against Ravens before Thursday’s preseason opener
Gary Klein
http://www.latimes.com/sports/rams/la-sp-rams-ravens-camp-20180807-story.html
No chains were pulled, no punches thrown.
No words, in fact, appeared to have been exchanged between Rams cornerback Aqib Talib and Baltimore Ravens receiver Michael Crabtree during two joint practices.But Talib was a huge presence Tuesday, intercepting the first pass of the day in a drill and starting an onslaught of interceptions by the Rams.
“We got one early and they kept on coming,” Talib said. “They kept on rolling.”
The Rams traded for Talib and cornerback Marcus Peters during the offseason to improve the defense’s turnover capability.
Talib, an 11th-year pro, has 34 interceptions. Peters has 19 interceptions in three seasons.
Both made big impressions during offseason workouts, a minicamp and early in training camp, but Tuesday was the first time they prominently displayed their ball-hawking skills in the same practice.
Talib set the tone immediately by picking off a pass by Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco. Peters later snatched a Flacco pass in the end zone during a full-team drill.
Safety John Johnson and linebacker Ramik Wilson also intercepted passes on another hot and muggy afternoon.
Flacco and, notably, rookie quarterback Lamar Jackson also burned the Rams a few times. But a defense that features several new players appears to be making strides with Talib as a veteran leader.
Rams cornerback Marcus Peters, left, tries to knock a ball loose from teammate Aqib Talib’s possession during a drill at a joint training camp practice at the Baltimore Raven’s headquarters on Tuesday in Owings Mills, Md.All eyes were on Talib and Crabtree throughout the two days because the players had fought while playing for different teams in each of the last two seasons. Talib pulled a gold chain from Crabtree’s neck in both incidents.
As was the case Monday, when they lined up opposite each other 10 times, there were no incidents between them. Talib covered Crabtree only twice Tuesday on plays that went another direction.
When asked about their history, and the lack of sparks during the two workouts, Talib chose some colorful language while twice describing the issue as “dead.”
There were a few minor flareups between other players during a punt-return drill and in the moments after Peters intercepted a pass, but the Rams appeared to have emerged otherwise unscathed.
The Rams will hold a walkthrough Wednesday and then play the Ravens Thursday night at M&T Bank Stadium.Donald situation
Holdout defensive tackle Aaron Donald did not report by the midnight EDT deadline that would allow him to accrue a season toward gaining unrestricted free-agent status in 2019.
“No update on Aaron,” coach Sean McVay said earlier in the day.
Donald is set to earn about $6.9 million this season but is believed to be seeking an extension that would put him among the NFL’s highest-paid players.If Donald eventually reports, he could become an unrestricted free agent in 2019, though the Rams could blunt that scenario by putting the franchise tag on him for as many as three seasons.
McVay has been in contact with Donald, but said he does not broach contract talks.
“It’s more just about checking in, how’s his family doing, things like that,” McVay said. “I think when we are able to get in touch with each other face to face is kind of when you want to have that kind of dialogue.”Hot, humid homecoming
Running back Todd Gurley grew up in Baltimore and in North Carolina, and played in college at Georgia.
But he apparently is no longer accustomed to practicing in hot and humid conditions.
“That’s what happens,” he said. “You forget.”
Gurley grew up rooting for the Baltimore Orioles and said he was happy when the team traded infielder/slugger Manny Machado to the Dodgers.
“All we need is Adam Jones to come on over there and I’ll be completely fine,” he said of the Orioles outfielder.Etc.
Defensive lineman Michael Brockers did not practice. … Cornerback Ramon Richards made several plays and got teammates roaring when he faked out two Ravens players and dashed upfield during an aggressive punt-coverage drill. … Talib on LeBron James joining the Lakers: “I’m trying to get some season tickets on the floor. I think they sold out but I’m breaking the bank for ’em, man. So Bron, King James, help me out.”
10:05 p.m.: This article was updated to say the Aaron Donald did not report to camp.znModeratorThis is a lot of Snead hair in one place. pic.twitter.com/6e30ZoTJev
— khs (@KaraHenderson) August 6, 2018
znModeratorThis is really important stuff. The most predictive part of QB data is how they do from a clean pocket. https://t.co/sCW16AU6OP
— Sam Monson (@PFF_Sam) August 7, 2018
znModerator.@NFL teams start making calls to get more film on her. High motor, looks to finish, plays through the whistle, photo booth power, explosive hips and powerful hands. pic.twitter.com/hTnTBugENW
— Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) August 7, 2018
znModeratorJ.B. Long@JB_Long
I watched 98.3% @RamsNFL defense today, but the final few snaps of the #LARams offense I did take in, RB John Kelly looked ready. to. go.===
Lindsey Thiry@LindseyThiry
Reporters in Baltimore asked Todd Gurley to describe L.A. as a sports town: “Pretty fun town. It’s the best city anyway so you get LeBron there, get the Dodgers, got the Angels, Chargers, Rams, Kings, Mike Trout. It doesn’t get much better than that.”Todd Gurley was asked how he feels returning to his hometown:
“It’s cool. It’s whatever, we’re out here.”
I hope Todd never changes.==
• Defense intercepts Flacco
• Suh stands out in one-on-one drillsMore: 🔟 Observations #RamsCamp 📰 » https://t.co/tIRXU8Bowi pic.twitter.com/Csb2WOB3iW
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) August 8, 2018
znModeratorVincent Bonsignore@VinnyBonsignore
As expected, #Rams don’t expect Aaron Donald to report to preserve his UFA status after 2019. It’s all a moot point anyway whether he’s an UFA or RFA after season as both sides want to lock down a long-term extension. If they do, none of that matters—
Rich Hammond@Rich_Hammond
Aqib Talib and Michael Crabtree had no issues during two days of practice.
“That shit dead,” Talib said.Temperature at Rams-Ravens practice went down a bit today but tempers rose, with a few minor scrums. No punches, etc., and nothing involving Talib/Crabtree. Your standard “it’s hot and we’re tired of each other” stuff.
There are two Rams — Andrew Whitworth and Ndamukong Suh — who are clearly visible from anywhere on the field. They’re like oversized statues of football players that were wheeled onto the field to intimidate the players.
Sounds like a number of top Rams might not play Thursday, including Jared Goff.
==
Gary Klein@LATimesklein
Gurley initially said he wouldn’t want to play in preseason, but then, keeping it light, he jokingly reconsidered: “I’d probably rather do the preseason, honestly, because they try to make you do 12 100s instead, which is crazy. So sometimes it’s better to just play in the game.”==
Rams owner Stan Kroenke set to take full ownership of Arsenal https://t.co/EAexXVGl5w
— Gary Klein (@LATimesklein) August 7, 2018
znModerator10 Observations from Rams Second Joint Practice with Ravens
Myles Simmons
https://www.therams.com/news/10-observations-from-rams-second-joint-practice-with-ravens
OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Rams went through their second joint practice with the Ravens on Tuesday afternoon. Here are 10 observations from the session.
1) The Rams began practice in much the same way they did on Monday, going through stretches and individual drills as a team before joining the Ravens for more team work. The offense once again worked on plays against air in the red zone, while the defense went through their regular positional work.
2) Once the teams came together, defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh stood out in one-on-one drills with the Ravens offensive line. Rushing from left end against the right tackle, Suh dominated his first rep by getting around the Baltimore O-lineman. Then Suh easily shed rookie Orlando Brown Jr.’s hands trying to extend to him on the second rep to get to the quarterback. The second rep was particularly impressive, because it was one motion and Brown’s hands were gone.3) The younger players had some strong reps against Baltimore’s offensive line as well, with sixth-round pick Trevon Young making his way around the edge to get to the QB. Newcomer Marcus Martin — the NCAA all-time leader in sacks — also used a spin move to get around one of Baltimore’s reserve left tackles and get to the quarterback.
4) The Ravens turned up the music on the field with their offense and the Rams defense, creating communication challenges for both units. With The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” blaring, linebacker Cory Littleton blew up a screen play to a running back in the backfield.
5) Later on defense in 11-on-11, safety Lamarcus Joyner run blitzed and would’ve had a clear tackle for loss in the backfield. Joyner timed the blitz perfectly. If the play was live, Joyner maybe could have tackled Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco before he could’ve handed the ball off to his running back.6) Cornerback Ramon Richards — an undrafted rookie out of Oklahoma State — flashed a bit both on defense and special teams. During an 11-on-11 period with the reserves, Richards broke up a deep pass on the right sideline. He was close to an interception, but it was a difficult play to make considering where he was in relation to the wide receiver. Then during special teams drills working as a gunner on punt team, Richards beat a Ravens double team to the delight of the Los Angeles sideline.
He’s had a solid training camp so far, and should be someone to keep an eye on during the preseason matchups.
7) Los Angeles recorded two interceptions during one 11-on-11 period. Cornerback Marcus Peters picked one off in the end zone, using his closing speed to make a nice play on the ball during a red-zone period. Then Littleton picked off a running back pass — tipping the ball up in the air and catching it to foil the trick play.
In general, the defense had a strong day with cornerback Aqib Talib and safety John Johnson also making interceptions on the first unit. (Full disclosure: I didn’t quite “observe” either of those interceptions because at that point I was watching the field with the Rams offense and Ravens defense.)
8) Kicker Greg Zuerlein was perfect on his five field-goal attempts on Tuesday. His longest kick came from 50-yards out.
9) Late in practice, running back — and Baltimore native — Todd Gurley made a couple impact plays on receptions out of the backfield. The first was a screen pass that would have gone for long yardage. Left guard Rodger Saffold was lead blocking for Gurley on the play, as he did for so many of Gurley’s screen plays in 2017. The Georgia product also caught a swing pass that would have gone for significant yardage on the right side.
10) Quarterback Jared Goff also connected with wide receiver Mike Thomas on a deep crossing route to the right side. Goff hit Thomas in stride, putting a nice end to one of the offense’s 11-on-11 segments.znModeratorRams HC Sean McVay — 8/6
(On if there was help needed to put the joint practice together)
“Yeah, we had a lot of great people, (Director, Operations/Facilities) Bruce Warwick and (Assistant to the Head Coach) Billy Nayes, a lot of people behind the scenes did an excellent job setting it up. Very appreciative of (Ravens Head) Coach Harbaugh and his group and what a great job they’ve done accommodating us. Seemed like it was a good first day – guys practiced smart and were able to get a lot out of it. Lot of respect for this organization and how they’ve competed over the last handful of years. So, looking forward to another good day of work tomorrow and really what it enables us to do especially with some guys that may not be able to play in that game on Thursday – to get that good work against some really good football players and that’s what we felt like we got today. A lot of different situations as well.”
(On what the status of DT Aaron Donald is and if he anticipates him to be there tomorrow)
“I don’t think anything is going to change with that in the near future. I’ve had a little bit of dialogue with (DT) Aaron (Donald) and we’re hopeful that we’ll get something done, but I don’t think there’s any realistic deal to August 7 being a date that changes anything. But, you never know and things remain the same. I’m looking forward to trying to connect with him later on today and we’ll see where we’re at.”
(On if it would be a surprise if Donald shows up tomorrow)
“It would be. Yeah, I’d be surprised.”
(On if there was a fear of fighting at the joint practice)
“We wanted to be able to get a lot of good work in today and I thought Coach Harbaugh’s guys did a great job of competing smart from what it seemed like as well and so did our guys. But, that was definitely the message because we don’t need any of that, especially because some of the things that can happen injury wise, things like that. Always talk about what’s the intent of coming out here to practice and it’s to get better and to get to go against another really good football team and that’s what we felt like we got today.”
(On if there were other precautions made to deal with the humidity)
“(Director of Strength Training and Performance) Ted (Rath) and (Senior Director, Sports Medicine and Performance) Reggie (Scott) did a good job with the hydration, trying to get them adjusted to the Eastern Time Zone in a fast, quick manner, but I thought the guys did a nice job. It’s definitely sticky though. I mean you feel the difference coming out here then compared to – we get spoiled in that California weather where there’s no humidity. But, I think it’s great work for us and the fields were in good conditions. So, today was a good day for us all.”
(On what he thinks of the facilities)
“I love it. It’s really impressive. You feel like you’re pulling up to a country club. So, pretty nice.”
(On if he has a plan for QB Jared Goff yet or if he’ll not even play)
“There’s a good chance that a handful of guys, if we feel like we get the work that we want, will sit out on Thursday. That’s a big part of being able to get good work in here and kind of limit some of the risk for injuries. But, that’s something that we’ll determine as a staff after tomorrow because we’ve got two good practice plans and then we’ll see where we’re at and how we want to approach Wednesday and Thursday with some of those guys.”
(On if there is a noticeable difference between the two teams other than the Baltimore Ravens already being there in their third week of practice)
“I didn’t get a chance to see a lot of their offense. Saw a lot of their defense, very impressed. They do a great job. They’ve always been really good on defense, physical units, sound coverages, a lot of communication on the back end – really impressed with (ILB) C.J. Mosley and (S) Eric Weddle. Obviously, (OLB Terrell) Suggs for such a long time has been doing it at a premier Pro Bowl caliber level. But, you feel good defense. To say that you can tell they’ve been out a week longer or not, I just know there’s a good football team out there that you’re going against and it was a great challenge today.”
(On how the pace and rhythm has changed logistically with meetings and how they’re all in one place in Irvine)
“It’s nice. It actually worked out pretty good because back at Irvine we’ve got eight practices in, eight walk-thrus and then wanted to be smart in terms of how we got our players acclimated to the time zone and to the weather. So, let them sleep in a little bit. Had a little bit of a team meeting and a walk-thru this morning and then practiced. The defense will lift post-practice today and then offense tomorrow. But because we’ve eliminated the walk-thru if you will, we actually have a little bit more time in the day and that’s where we made the emphasis on getting a lot out of practice, had a few more reps then what we’re typically accustomed to. Excited to go back and look at this tape and see where we can get better.”
(On if he addressed not getting into fights with CB Aqib Talib specifically)
“We talked about it. (CB) Aqib (Talib) is a smart player. He’s a leader. I think he knew that there would be a lot of eyes on that specific situation and trusted that based on our conversations, he’d be smart about it and he certainly was. A lot of respect for Aqib.”
(On if the offense had any turnovers during the periods)
“It didn’t seem like it. But until you go back, there were some tipped balls, there were some different things that we can clean up. I thought there was a lot of good stuff, but there is also some things that based on going against a defense like that, that we certainly will look at, do a better job of coaching in. Then hopefully execute better tomorrow.”
(On if he noticed a calmness in Goff this season)
“I think he’s always kind of had a nice, calm even-keeled demeanor that you guys talk about a lot. That’s been consistent for him. I think he’s more comfortable with some of the things that we’re doing. Any time that you’re able to continue to get a bunch of different reps – you always talk about repetition is the mother of learning – he’s gotten a lot of different looks at some of these concepts. So, he’s more comfortable playing with the guys in the huddle, being able to have that continuity where really (WR) Brandin (Cooks) is the only new guy in that huddle with him that he had last year. I think you do see him get more comfortable, but it’s practice. Looking forward to really evaluating those guys in those game-type of situations. But, feel really good about Jared, knowing how difficult that position is in the entirety of what we ask of the quarterback position specifically. But, he’s definitely improving and I think you definitely see him having a total command of what’s going on right now.”
(On Goff wearing a brace today was because of an issue or for protection)
“Yeah, I think it’s just probably precautionary. You have to ask him, so not really sure.”
(On if it’s difficult for him being with the offense and not really see what’s going on with the defense)
“It really is, but that’s where you have such great confidence in (Defensive Coordinator) Wade (Phillips) and our defensive staff as a whole. We’ve always talked about it. When you’ve got great coaches like we do, if we do a situation where it’s a two-spot drill – just with the involvement that you have offensively – you feel like you could get some good work in and then I’m excited to watch the tape and kind of be in tune with what happened. That’s what’s nice about the way you’re filming it and all the different angles that (Director of Video) Larry (Clerico) and his crew give us. But yeah, you would like to be able to do it, but you’ve got to be considerate of what’s most efficient and just how we operate, that was what we felt like was going to be best.”
***
QB Jared Goff
(On the heat and humidity in Baltimore)
“But, we’ve played in games – Jacksonville I think that was the one last year you looked at that it was really humid like this. So, it can happen. I’m sure we’ll have a game this year or multiple games, that will be in that type of temperature. So, we’ve got to deal with it and I thought today was good to feel that.”
(On wearing a knee brace at practice today)
“I wear a knee brace every single game and then when we do live practices I’ll mix it in. Our first live practice of the year, I wore one just because guys are excited and amped up. Today against a new team, you never know, so I wore one today. But, I’ve been wearing one since I was a junior in high school, senior in high school.”
(On if he’s okay with being held out from Thursday’s game)
“Yeah, up to him (Head Coach Sean McVay). Yeah, we feel good right now, but whatever he wants to do we’re on board with.”
(On how today went practicing against a different defense)
“Good. I think at first, you’re so used to playing your own defense, so used to seeing the same looks, you kind of have to get used to it – especially with not really much film study coming into it. You’ve got a little bit of an idea of what they do, but not much. Then, you get out here and you get through a few periods and you kind of get an idea of what they do and you get comfortable towards the end.”
(On if it’s good to have to make those adjustments in practice)
“Yeah. It’s rare. It’s something you never get. When you play in a game – any game – you’re so prepped for what they’re doing and you have such a good idea of what they’re going to do. Out here it’s kind of on the fly and it’s different and it’s the only opportunity you get to do that.”
(On if he thinks about DT Aaron Donald’s situation besides when asked about it)
“Not really. I mean we’ve talked about it from time to time, but we don’t focus on it. We’re here with the guys we’ve got here, but we’d love to have (DT) Aaron (Donald) as soon as that gets done. He’s an incredible part of our team, incredible player, incredible person and someone we want here. But, they’re dealing with that and through good time hopefully they’ll get it done soon.”
(On if he feels like he’s getting sharper as training camp progresses)
“Yeah, it felt good Saturday. I think as time goes on you just continue to get more comfortable. I think when we start to really – we’ve really put in all our installs now. We’re starting to rep the same plays over and over again and our good plays over and over again. Starting to figure out what we like, what we’re good at. When that happens, I think you become more comfortable with it and stuff starts to roll a little bit better.”
(On if these practices and change of scenery is something the team can build on)
“I personally like it, just to break up the monotony. We’ve been out in Irvine (California) for feels like forever. To get out here and just have a different scenery, different team, get to enjoy Maryland a little bit – I think it’s nice.”
(On if he would feel handicapped at all by a decision to sit him for Thursday’s game)
“I don’t think so. No. What did we play in last year? How many games did we play in last year – preseason? Three? It’s fine. I’m sure we’ll play in three.”
(On if the continuity heading into year two of Head Coach Sean McVay’s offense factors into that)
“You’ve got to ask him those questions. I don’t know. I think there’s definitely part of that where we’re a little bit more comfortable and not so much unknown. But, whatever he wants to do we’re on board with it and then you guys can critique me about it (laughs).”
***
DL Michael Brockers
(On if he is used to the humidity because he is from Houston or does it take some adjusting to)
“Yeah, when you’re spoiled with having great weather – 70 degrees, no humidity, little breeze – you know, you’re a little spoiled. So when you get out here, yeah, it was a little thick when we first got out here.”
(On if he got over the heat pretty quickly)
“It took about a period to get a little adjusted where you felt like you could breathe a little bit. But at first man, you know, you’re breathing in a little bit of humidity, it gets a little muggy.”
(On if the team has to overcome battling the heat during practices)
“Oh yeah, I mean, this is football. We start in the summertime and you know so it’s a part of it. You just have to learn how to adjust and work through adversities.”
(On how it feels to practice against players other than your own)
“It was fresh, it was fresh. You got new sets, you got new personnel, stuff like that, new snap counts. I think that was getting into it, I think I started to kind of catch on, we’re on another count, we’re not going against the Rams. So it took a little adjustment, but it’s going to benefit us in the long run.”
(On if he thinks the joint practices benefit the offense or defense more)
“Not really, I think it benefits both teams. You get a different look, you don’t get to beat up your guys so much, you get to go against another opponent, see different looks. I think it benefits both sides of the ball when it comes to practicing with another team.”
(On if it’s nice to switch things up in camp and practice with another team)
“Yeah, it’s kind of cool because it kind of opens your eyes to what other facilities teams have. When they treat you like Baltimore did today it was love so we came out here and it was just good work all the way around.”
(On what it’s like going up against the Ravens with the Rams’ new group of defenders)
“It kind of boosts our confidence a little bit. When you’re going against your team so much, you obviously know each other, you know each other’s playmakers and stuff like that. Going against another team and you get stops so it kind of makes you feel like it’s for real ball, it’s what it’s going to look like on Sundays. Getting out there and getting some stops on third down, getting some sacks and the secondary breaking up some passes, it felt great, definitely for us.”
(On how it feels playing with the new defensive unit and if it still feels like everyone is still getting to know each other)
“Man, it’s still training camp, man. We’ve still got practices, you know, so it’s all about getting in the film room, kind of looking at little small adjustments here and there that we can fix. We believe it’s all about doing your part, so when everyone’s doing their part and doing it well, we think we can be successful.”
(On if he has had any contact with DT Aaron Donald and his sense on if and when he might see him)
“Not really, man. I haven’t had any contact because you kind of leave him alone when he’s in the offseason. I know he’s working, I know he’s grinding. No real contact. I know he’s getting the work done, doing everything possible where he’s in shape when he comes here. That’s all I can look forward to, whenever he gets here, he’s ready to roll.”
(On if he thinks RPO plays are spreading and if they are going to be around for a while)
“I think it’s going to be around for a little while. Really, who used it to the best of their ability was the Eagles and really working off of playing a run and having to play the pass as well. So, it’s a new little nuance, we’ll see how well it works. If it works well, you’ll see it for a while. If it gets shut down this upcoming year, I think it will fade out just like everything else. Like the big one with the running back – the wildcat, so it will just be like the wildcat.”
znModeratorLevel of comfort, competing against another defense + more.
Catch up with Jared Goff following the first practice in Baltimore. #RamsCamp pic.twitter.com/ye1RDqjUJN
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) August 6, 2018
znModeratorRams And Ravens Benefit From Productive, Fight-Free Practice
Rams And Ravens Benefit From Productive, Fight-Free Practice
OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay took his team across the country in an effort to escape the typically mundane NFL training camp practice that’s all too commonplace in August.
He got exactly what he wanted Monday during a two-hour joint session with the Baltimore Ravens.
“It was a good first day,” McVay said. “Guys practiced smart, we were able to get a lot out of it.”
It was hot. It was humid. There was hard hitting.
And not a single scuffle.
“That was definitely the message,” McVay said. “We don’t need any of that, especially because some of the things that can happen injury-wise. We always talk about what the intent of practice is out here, and it’s to get better and go against another really good football team.”
The Rams and Ravens got all the benefits of competition, with less risk of injury because tackling was not allowed.
“I felt like the two teams cooperated very well,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. “Quite a bit of physicality and just a good, strong football practice.”
The teams will do it again Tuesday, then take a break on Wednesday before getting together for a preseason game on Thursday night.
A joint practice provides a welcome relief for players who are tired of banging helmets or throwing passes against their teammates during the dog days of summer.
“It’s tough really, what to make of it, but I think it is a good test,” Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco said. “You get used to going up against your defense, seeing what they do every day, so it’s good to see something else.”
McVay knew he was in for something different when he got his first glimpse of the Ravens recently expanded training facility.
“I love it. It’s really impressive,” he said. “You feel like you’re pulling up to a country club.”
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti poured plenty of money into the complex, and he was on hand Monday to watch the practice. So was Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, who wore shorts but made the mistake of pairing that with a black shirt under a sizzling sun in 90 degree temperatures.
“It’s definitely sticky,” McVay said. “You feel the difference coming out here. We get spoiled in that California weather where there’s no humidity, but I think it’s great work for us. The fields are in great condition; today was a good day for us all.”
After both teams dressed, the Rams and Ravens warmed up on adjacent fields before pairing off — Rams offense vs. Ravens defense, Baltimore offense vs. Los Angeles defense.
Special teams got some work, too.
It was so comprehensive, that McVay may change the way he uses his personnel on Thursday night.
Asked if quarterback Jared Goff would see action, the coach replied, “There’s a good chance a handful of guys, if we feel like we get the work that we want, will sit out on Thursday. That’s a big part of being able to get good work in here and kind of limit the risk of injuries.”
Defensive end Aaron Donald remained a no-show at camp, and McVay said there was no progress on the holdout.
“I don’t think anything is going to change with that in the near future,” McVay said. “I’ve had a little bit of dialogue with Aaron, and we’re hopeful to get something done. But things remain the same.”
Ravens guard Marshal Yanda, however, practiced for the first time since last September, going through individual drills over the first section of practice. He missed the last 14 games of the 2017 season with a fractured ankle and sat out the early part of training camp following shoulder surgery.
znModerator10 Observations from Rams First Joint Practice with Ravens
Myles Simmons
https://www.therams.com/news/10-observations-from-rams-first-joint-practice-with-ravens
Md. — The Rams arrived on the East Coast Sunday evening and were well rested for their first practice with the Ravens on Monday afternoon. Here are 10 observations from the first joint session of the week.
1) The teams began practice on separate fields for stretching and some individual work. With the weather hot and humid — temperatures were at 90 degrees, with a head index of just over 100 degrees — Los Angeles’ players said afterwards they needed a little time to acclimate to the more sticky climate. The crowd was raucous as well, especially considering it was a sweltering Monday afternoon.
2) During that separate period, the Rams’ defense worked on regular individual drills while Los Angeles’ offense ran through some plays against air. Those were likely plays they would end up running during the 11-on-11 sessions with Baltimore later on.3) The teams began work with red zone 7-on-7 drills — Los Angeles’ offense vs. Baltimore’s defense on one field, and the Ravens offense vs. the Rams defense on another. On the first play for the L.A. defense, Flacco bailed out of the pocket to his left after his initial reads were covered. He eventually threw a pass for a touchdown, eliciting cheers from the crowd. Defensive coordinator Wade Phillips disagreed with the way the crowd interpreted the play, however, turning around to yell, “Sack!” With the strong coverage on that first rep, he was probably right.
4) Linebacker Bryce Hager flashed a bit in the early goings of practice as well. The fourth-year linebacker out of Baylor recorded a pass deflection on a swing route during 7-on-7. Then he had a nice thump on a run play during 11-on-11. Both plays came against Baltimore’s second offense with Hager playing with the Rams’ second defense.
5) Linebacker Ramik Wilson also made an impact during the first 11-on-11 drills. Playing next to signal-caller Cory Littleton, Wilson first made a run stuff on a play, coming up to hit the running back right at the line of scrimmage. Two plays later, he nearly had an interception after tipping a ball up at the line of scrimmage. Throughout camp, Wilson has shown a proclivity for getting his hands on the football.
6) The Rams defense generally performed well in that segment of 11-on-11, with Aqib Talib breaking up a pass over the middle to wide receiver Michael Crabtree. Then cornerback Nickell Robey-Coleman broke up a pass over the middle as well.
7) The Rams worked on their punt return against the Ravens between 11-on-11 periods. L.A. had returner Pharoh Cooper back, but only ran through a full punt return a few times. There was more work on fielding directional punts, two Rams players attempting to block a Ravens gunner, and going after a punt for a potential block. Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh was on the field to watch the drills, which makes sense as he was a longtime special teams coordinator for the Eagles.8) Los Angeles’ offense did well during a third-down period. Going 11-on-11 with the Ravens’ defense, quarterback Jared Goff connected with wide receiver Cooper Kupp on 3rd-and-short with a quick out route to the right. Goff then hit wide receiver Robert Woods on a pass over the middle for a first down on 3rd-and-long. Woods was wide open on the play.
9) Kicker Greg Zuerlein hit four of his five attempted field goals against the Ravens, the longest coming from 51-yards out. Reserve kicker Sam Ficken continued what’s been a strong camp, nailing all three of his attempted field goals. Ficken’s kicks were from 43, 46, and 48-yards out.
10) Finally, the offense ended practice with a two-minute drill. In the scenario, Los Angeles started at its own 20 with 1:11 on the clock needing a field goal. Goff engineered a successful drive, finding wideouts Brandin Cooks, Woods, and Kupp to move the ball down the field effectively. Zuerlein nailed a long field goal to cap the drive, giving the offense a win.
The second-team offense fared just as well, with quarterback Sean Mannion connecting with wide receiver Josh Reynolds and Ficken hitting his field goal for a successful drive.
Related ContentznModeratorMike Preston@MikePrestonSun
Today wasn’t a good day for the Ravens offense. The Rams got after them early and often.znModeratorTHE RAMS TRY TO STAY AHEAD OF THE CURVE
Albert Breer
There’s a lot going on at Rams camp. You have the Aaron Donald holdout. The offseason haul of Ndamukong Suh, Marcus Peters, Aqib Talib and Brandin Cooks. Year 2 for Sean McVay in L.A. Year 3 for Jared Goff in the NFL. Todd Gurley coming off an Offensive Player of the Year season, and signed to a massive contract extension.
Expectations are high—and on the day I was in Irvine, those expectations looked justified in the efficient, high-energy, quick-paced practice McVay and his staff ran. At least for now—and no one’s lost a game yet—the Rams looked hyper-organized and effectively blended together. But what struck me was how the team was focused on getting ahead of potential potholes. Here are three I think worth looking at …
• First, there was a real acknowledgement that the players may have caught some teams off-guard last year with McVay’s innovations on offense. Goff mentioned to me that all the motion and formationing and movement in the scheme crossed defenses up last year. He expects the teams on the Rams’ 2018 schedule to be more prepared this time around. Which means it’s on McVay, Goff and company to keep it moving.
“The tape’s out there,” Goff “That’s number one. Number two, we’ve evolved. We’ve tried to implement new stuff. This guy’s pretty smart over here [nodding toward McVay], and he’s come up with some good stuff. And we’ve got some new wrinkles that should give teams fits. That starts with him, the dialogue he has with all the other coaches, and then with us giving him feedback on what we’re seeing, he’s very, very good in listening to us.
“He’ll listen to anybody, and any sort of feedback we can give him he loves. I thought last year we were always evolving as the season went on. It felt like teams were always one week behind on what we were doing offensively.”
• Second, and this plays off that notion, McVay hasn’t wasted time to troubleshoot anything he can. It may be picking up something to evolve the offense one day, and picking up something else to maintain the culture he’s established the next. To that end he’s tapped into new relationships with people like Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, Celtics coach Brad Stevens, Pats coach Bill Belichick and L.A. mayor Eric Garcetti to try to continue to innovate.
And from all that networking, McVay says the best advice he’s gotten is, “There’s power in saying, ‘I don’t know’, and let’s figure out a way to collaborate together and find the best approach for our players, and for our team. And fortunately you’re in a situation where you have a lot of people you can lean on. You feel so fortunate to be surrounded by our coaching staff, with a lot of veteran coaches that have done a great job, that have been through experiences that I just haven’t been through.”
• Third, there’s clearly confidence here. You can see it in the way McVay carries himself on the field, and the way his coaches are teaching and correcting on the fly, and in how the players are competing. GM Les Snead told me the difference between last year and this year, is evident in that belief – “What we earned last year, which Sean couldn’t give in a team meeting or with a great speech, is confidence.”
And all the same, McVay’s monitoring it.
“We’ve talked about it—‘Like the confidence, like the swagger, but make sure it doesn’t border on arrogance,’” McVay said. “It’s understanding you have to earn that confidence every day. Previous success helps you have that confidence, but also continuing to work. We talk about it every single day. Our whole process is committed to that daily improvement, getting one percent better.”
Of course, every team that comes off a playoff year and has an aggressive offseason like the Rams did is going to feel good in August. And plenty fail to live up to expectations. Which, give them credit, is something these guys seem pretty aware of.
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