Rams only appear short at linebacker

By JACK WANG / STAFF WRITER

[www.ocregister.com]


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

http://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/story/_/id/17496576/how-defenses-attack-cowboys-qb-dak-prescott-nfl

During the preseason, Dallas Cowboys rookie quarterback Dak Prescott put together some impressive tape -- and he had the numbers to support it too. In games versus the Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins and Seattle Seahawks, Prescott threw for 454 yards, five touchdowns and completed 78 percent of his passes. This guy was dealing.

But with defenses now preparing for the regular season and scripting true call sheets, what should the rookie expect as he takes over for the injured Tony Romo as the new QB1 in Dallas? Today, let's discuss how opposing defensive coordinators will attack Prescott as the Cowboys get ready to open the 2016 season this Sunday versus the New York Giants.

Load the box
Think about the security the run game gives to a young, inexperienced quarterback. That leads to the ability to control tempo and manageable passing situations.

To take that away, you have to walk a safety down. Play Cover 1 (man-free) or Cover 3 (three-deep, four-under zone) and use that extra defender as the primary force player on the edge. The Giants have the perfect player to do that in strong safety Landon Collins. He's at his best playing.

Given the talent on the Cowboys' offensive line, and the skill set of rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott, I don't see anyone completely shutting down the Dallas run game. That's a nasty combo. But can you limit the production on the ground? Absolutely. Plus, by using those eight-man fronts on early down and distances, you are daring Prescott to beat you with his arm.

I'll take that -- along with the one-on-one matchups outside for wide receiver Dez Bryant. If Prescott can beat you with 50/50 throws to Bryant, then tip your cap. But don't give Elliott and that O-line a soft run front to expose all day. That allows the Cowboys to put their young quarterback in very favorable game situations.

Late safety rotations
Last season, I talked to an NFL defensive coach about game planning against rookies Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota. The first thing he said? Rotate your safeties late. Doing that versus a veteran quarterback isn't going to win you a game. They get it. But for a rookie who has seen mostly static looks during the exhibition schedule, moving your safeties can create some confusion with coverage reads.

I'm talking about dropping down from two-deep or rolling Cover 3 strong to Cover 3 weak. The same in man coverage. Show press-outside, bail the cornerbacks and then drop a safety underneath as a rover or hole player. Small things that create some confusion and force Prescott to make a mistake.

Disguise pressure
During the preseason the Seahawks showed Prescott a double A-gap look in a zone-pressure scheme. At the snap, one of the linebackers dropped out and the nickel corner came off the edge. Get a free runner at the quarterback, and drop a defender into the underneath throwing lane.

The double A-gap look is one way to get after the rookie, but defenses will have a lot of other options here. Think of 2-Trap pressures (cornerbacks squat outside) and single-high man pressures. Plus, you can play man-free with the linebackers and safeties adding to the front. If your coverage blocks, then go get the QB.

The goal here? Remind Prescott that this isn't some throwaway preseason game. Mix your pressures and force him to move off the spot or throw hot. That creates opportunities for your defensive backs to drive on the ball. And when you have a cornerback like the Giants' Janoris Jenkins, you can bait the QB into throwing you one.

Take away high-percentage throws
Backside slants, inside Hi-Lo combinations, snag routes (corner-curl-flat): You can't give Prescott clear lanes to throw high-percentage routes. Rams defensive coordinator Gregg Williams ran Cover 2 and dropped a defensive tackle into the underneath hole against Prescott. Why? To erase the crossing route. The same with the backside slant. Play three-deep and drop the weak-side safety down at the snap -- right into the throwing lane.

I would expect the Cowboys to move Bryant around (slot alignment) and run him across the field on drag routes (with a pick inside) in some sort of Hi-Lo combo. Create space off the rub.

But you can't give that up. Use an inside "rover" to knock Bryant off the route. Or have a safety jump the crosser/inside break. You have options here to take away those quick reads from Prescott. Make Prescott throw flat routes and force him to challenge you in the intermediate passing game.

Find Bryant on third downs
I'm thinking 3rd-and-7 (or more) situations with Bryant. Where is he? And what is your plan to eliminate Bryant as the No. 1 option for Prescott?

I really like playing 3-Cloud in this situation. That gives you three-deep over the top with the cornerback rolled up. Get a jam on Bryant with a player sitting in the deep outside-third to play the quick fade. The same thing with combination coverages where the defense can bracket Bryant when he aligns in the slot or roll to half field 2-Man if he aligns at the X receiver (split-end).

Yeah, that's a lot of attention paid to Bryant, and you will have to really communicate in the secondary. But with Prescott playing quarterback, I'm going to make someone other than Dez beat me. Maybe that's Jason Witten, Cole Beasley or Terrance Williams. Fine. But I'm not going to turn on the film after the game and watch Bryant make play after play on my defense in critical game situations.

When it's time to get off the field on third downs, Bryant has to be accounted for. Take away Prescott's No. 1 and make him go somewhere else with the ball.

Respect Prescott's athleticism
Preseason tape isn't really a true indicator on where a rookie stands in his development, but defenses still have to respect Prescott's talent and what he brings to the Dallas offense.

Prescott can move. He showed that against the Dolphins. If you fail to rush with contain and you sit in man coverage all day (defenders with their backs to the quarterback), he can eat you up when the pocket breaks down. The same with the zone-read and RPOs. They're coming, and Dak has the size to break through arm tackles.

From the pocket, Prescott has a nice arm to thread the ball into tight windows, and he's pretty solid with his eyes. It's there on the tape: The rookie moves through his progressions with speed.

Prescott had a monster preseason, and that has to be talked about during defensive game planning sessions. Yes, he's a rookie. He's inexperienced. He has never seen a regular-season game plan or regular-season speed. That's a major jump for any first-year guy. It's lightning fast compared to exhibition games.

But if you don't take away what Prescott brings to the offense, respect his ability or eliminate his top target, you are asking for trouble. And you can't allow a rookie to dictate the flow of the game.

Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher calls in and explains why he is satisfied where Jared Goff's development is at right now. Fisher expresses the importance of standing for the national anthem and previews week 1 at SF.

Haven't listened to it yet, so I don't know where it starts. This is a 45 minute file.

[av]http://cdn16.castfire.com/audio/303/2111/9197/2999522/afternoons_2016-09-09-210422-8006-0-487-0.64k.mp3[/av]

http://www.espn.com/espnradio/losangeles/play?id=17508385

I enjoy these threads. Let's see them. Also, I really, really have been wanting to post this...

For me, it's December 4th. Not only because it's the Pastywhites and everyone here would like to see the Rams beat them, but because it will show me that this year's team is legit. Fisher, all-time, is 1-6 against Bellyfat, so I'd like to see if he can finally figure out a way to beat a powerhouse outside the division. Not to mention get that particular monkey(face) off of his back.

Fisher joined the Rams after spending 16 full seasons as head coach of the Tennessee Titans, 11 as executive vice president. In his tenure with Tennessee, he guided the Titans to six playoff appearances (1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2007, 2008), three division titles (2000, 2002, 2008), two AFC Championship games (1999, 2002) and one Super Bowl appearance (XXXIV). From 1999-2010, only three teams had more playoff berths (Indianapolis, Philadelphia and New England). In the 2000s, Fisher totaled 97 victories, the most successful decade in franchise history.

Fisher led the Titans through a retooling period that saw the team grow from 4-12 that year, to 8-8 in 2006, and a playoff berth in 2007, the first playoff appearance since 2003. During the 2006 season, Fisher became the first coach in franchise history to lead the team in 200 contests, reaching the milestone in a game against Baltimore (11/12/06).

He became only the 12th coach in NFL history to coach 200 games with one team, joining George Halas, Tom Landry, Don Shula, Chuck Noll, Curly Lambeau, Bud Grant, Steve Owen, Bill Cowher, Joe Gibbs, Hank Stram and Marv Levy (Mike Shanahan joined the list in December of 2006 to make 13 coaches).

In 2004, Fisher became the fourth youngest coach (46) to win 90 regular season games since 1960. Only John Madden (41), Don Shula (41), and Bill Cowher (44) were faster to 90 wins. Fisher began his coaching career as an assistant for Buddy Ryan and the Philadephia Eagles in 1986, coaching the defensive backs for 3 seasons before becoming the NFL's youngest defensive coordinator in 1988.

On January 13, 2012, E. Stanley Kroenke hired Jeff Fisher to be the 22nd full-time head coach in Rams franchise history. Fisher's agreed to a five-year deal worth $35 million dollars.

Looking at Jeff Fisher's career coaching resume in segments, history indicates Fisher will lead his Rams to the playoffs in his 5th year as head coach.

1995... Houston Oilers........... 7-9
1996... Houston Oilers........... 8-8
1997... Tennessee Oilers....... 8-8
1998... Tennessee Oilers....... 8-8 = First 4 full years as Titans HC posted no winning records

1999... Tennessee Titans..... 13-3 = 5th year
2000... Tennessee Titans..... 13-3= years 5 & 6) well over .500 mark & was considered a top tier head coach

2001... Tennessee Titans....... 7-9
2002... Tennessee Titans..... 11-5
2003... Tennessee Titans..... 12-4 = years 7,8,9) added to years 5 & 6 equals 56 wins & 24 losses

2004... Tennessee Titans..... 5-11
2005... Tennessee Titans..... 4-12 = years 10 &11) coach falters for what ever reasons?

2006... Tennessee Titans....... 8-8
2007... Tennessee Titans..... 10-6
2008... Tennessee Titans..... 13-3 = years 12,13,14) 31-17 record. Rebounded from years 10 & 11

2009... Tennessee Titans....... 8-8
2010... Tennessee Titans....... 6-10 = years 15,16) Rumors swirled that Fisher was at odds with Titans owner about player/personnel decisions? fired on Jan 28, 2011

2012... St. Louis Rams........ 7-8-1
2013... St. Louis Rams........ 7-9
2014... St. Louis Rams........ 6-10
2015... St. Louis Rams........ 7-9 = First 4 years as Rams HC posted no winning records. Will Fisher lead the Rams to the playoffs like he did in year 5 with the Titans?

____

Practice Report 9/10: Preparing for Kelly's Offense

By Myles Simmons

[www.therams.com]


New 49ers head coach Chip Kelly is famous for his up-tempo offense. He won a lot of games with the system at Oregon and it propelled the Eagles to the playoffs in 2013 — Kelly’s first year as head coach in Philadelphia.

Now he’s brought it to a fresh group of players in San Francisco. And while the Rams are familiar with much of the NFC West rival’s on-field personnel, they are not as sure of how the new coaching staff will adapt the scheme to the group.

Nevertheless, defensive coordinator Gregg Williams appeared confident in his plan for Monday Night Football based on Kelly’s track record.

“Every coach has a history — there’s nothing secret anymore,” Williams said Saturday. “Every single game film in college, every single game film in the NFL [media] gets to watch, and fans get to watch. So there’s nothing secret anymore about the game.

“We understand coach Kelly. I have a lot of respect for him and his staff,” Williams continued. “There’s really not anything that’s hidden anymore in our league.”

The Rams do at least have one game of experience against Kelly’s offense, having played the Eagles in Philadelphia in 2014. That’s one of the many games the defense has studied this week in preparation for Week 1.


“We’ve really been watching that tape and what they’ve been doing over the last couple preseason games, and just try to combine them and get a bigger picture on what we’re going to see Monday,” defensive tackle Michael Brockers said.

Still, it can be challenging to try to get a read on how San Francisco may go about attacking Los Angeles’ defense because there isn’t much data. Preseason games are notoriously vanilla in terms of scheme.

“It’s almost like you’ve got to focus on those couple plays that [the firs-team offense plays] — almost just focus on the third preseason game. That’s kind of like the big one for all of the first units and stuff like that,” Brockers said. “So you watch that game, get a key in on what they’re going to do. Everybody is basic, so we’re expecting them to put some different plays in, some stuff that might challenge us defensively. But for the most part, we’ve got to be ready for everything.”

“Our defense here, we kind of install a lot of checks and adjustments throughout the week,” defensive end Robert Quinn said. “And we try to simplify it for ourselves. We’ve got a good core game plan, and we’ll kind of anticipate what they might do.”

Aside from how the Niners will use their personnel is the inherent challenge that comes with the speed of Kelly’s offense.

“I think somebody said they snap the ball between 12 and 16 seconds after a play,” middle linebacker Alec Ogletree said. “So the plays are going to have to come in quick and we just have to get lined up really fast.”

“It’s really a distraction, gets the defense off a little bit. That’s what it’s supposed to do — supposed to be kind of an intimidation thing for the defense. But not for us,” Brockers said. “We plan on being right there, ready for them, and going faster than they are at practice so we can be ready for that speed.”


While much of the offensive attention for San Francisco has gone to its quarterback situation, running back Carlos Hyde may prove to be Los Angeles’ biggest challenge on Monday night. Hyde had three runs go for at least 20 yards in the preseason, showing he’s back from the injuries that plagued him in 2015. The Ohio State product played only seven games last year, rushing for 470 yards and three touchdowns — 168 of which came against the Vikings in Week 1, which was also the second game of Monday Night Football.

“He gets downhill and he’s very explosive,” Ogletree said. “He can make all the runs, all the cuts, and he can hurt you. If you don’t wrap up, he’s going to break through arm tackles. And they do a good job of getting you spread out and giving him easy lanes to run in.”

“His patience in his scheme — he finds those backside cuts, and he’s just getting better every year,” Brockers said. “He’s a big back. We’ve just got to get him down to the ground.”

What the Rams do have in their corner is a defensive coordinator who constantly preaches playing fast. Going against an offense like San Francisco’s, that may be even more important for the first contest of 2016.

“That’s the philosophy since he’s been here, that’s been his whole M.O. of just how things should be,” Quinn said. “It’s just more of an emphasis trying to be exact no matter the tempo. And if we get a little rattled, like I said, we have our checks and adjustments. And just play ball.”

EXTRA POINTS

— While there has been a bit made this week of the Rams going to more of a nickel scheme with their first-team defense outside the building, Ogletree and Williams don’t see it as much of an adjustment.

“It doesn’t really change anything for us,” Ogletree said. “We feel like we played mostly nickel throughout the whole season last year. Most teams do play nickel now because it’s a passing league. So it’s just, our nickel has to get a lot more work in during practice. And the guys, if we have base calls, we have to be aware of that, too.”

“You take a look at how many teams we’re going to play this year that’s going to play two backs in the backfield against us. Not many people like doing that against us,” Williams said. “So take a look at how many times we’re going to play three linebackers this entire season. We’re going to play Lamarcus [Joyner], we’re going to play another safety, another corner, another player in those areas that a linebacker plays.”

According to Williams, that’s all about his philosophy of creating the best scheme to fit the players he has to work with.

“We’ll do the same thing on how we adapt this year’s scheme as opposed to the last two years that I’ve been here, or when I was with the Saints, or [Washington], or the Bills, or the Titans,” Williams said. “We have to adjust to what’s best for these young men right here.”

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

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

Rams' defense will have a new look, and coordinator Gregg Williams is fine with that

By Gary Klein

The middle linebacker is playing the position for the first time.

The weak-side linebacker is a converted safety who led the team in tackles last season.

The strong-side linebacker?

After the release of Akeem Ayers, the Rams have all but said they don’t need one.

At least not very often.

“If you look at how many teams we’re going to play this year that are going to play two backs in the backfield against us — not very many people like doing that against us,” defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said Saturday. “So take a look at how many times were going to play three linebackers this entire season.”

On Monday night, when the Rams open the season against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium, Alec Ogletree will be the new middle linebacker, Mark Barron flanks him on one side and the defense could utilize multiple defensive backs “in those areas that a linebacker plays,” Williams said.


Gary Klein and Lindsey Thiry preview the Rams season opener at San Francisco.

Cornerback E.J. Gaines did not practice this week and was ruled out of the game because of a thigh injury.

So the Rams could rely heavily on cornerbacks Trumaine Johnson,Coty Sensabaugh and Lamarcus Joyner with safeties T.J. McDonald and Maurice Alexander.

“It’s a passing league now,” Sensabaugh said, adding, “I’m just ready to compete. I don’t care who’s out there with us.”

Ayers’ departure — he signed with the Indianapolis Colts — leaves the Rams with three backup linebackers: second-year pro Bryce Hager, sixth-round draft pick Josh Forrest and undrafted free agent Cory Littleton.

Williams is noted for adapting schemes to fit personnel.

Last season, after Ogletree suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 4 at Arizona, Williams moved Barron from safety to a hybrid role similar to the one played by the Cardinals’ Deone Bucannon.

Barron flourished, finishing with a team-best 116 tackles.

“We’re going to play the best guys we have that they bring in the door,” Williams said. “I don’t draft them, I don’t sign them, but when they get here I’m going to coach them.”

Addressing reporters on the practice field a few yards from the Rams’ modular facility, Williams said Ogletree has put in the work, on and off the field, to make a successful transition to the middle.


Rams take wraps off Todd Gurley as regular season starts vs. 49ers
“When I say this I‘ll probably get in trouble: He’s been in here more than our quarterbacks,” Williams said, “and he’s been in the film room longer than some of our coaching staff around here.

“So you have to respect the fact that he’s going to get an opinion because he works hard.”

Ready to go

Left tackle Greg Robinson said he was looking forward to the opener and the chance to show his improvement from a year ago.

He will be protecting the blind-side of quarterback Case Keenum, who is making his first season-opening start.

The 6-foot-5, 332-pound Robinson was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2014 draft. He struggled at times with consistency and penalties during his first two seasons.

“I had a good preseason and that helped build my confidence,” Robinson said. “I feel like the game has slowed down a lot for me.”

Quick hits

Receivers Pharoh Cooper (shoulder) and Nelson Spruce (knee) also were ruled out of the game. Offensive tackle Rob Havenstein(foot) and linebacker Bryce Hager (concussion) practice but they are listed as questionable…. The Rams will have a short walk through Sunday and then depart for the Bay Area.

[www.latimes.com]

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Practicing with the wrong balls.

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Heard a fan theory on the radio recently that Sandy from Grease was in a coma or dying the whole time during the movie due to having drowned on the beach. Some of the reasons for this were intriguing, but incomplete, IMO. I'd like to expand a little on this, because it really is a cool theory.

1. They spent the whole summer together at the beach. Are you telling me that not ONCE did Danny tell her he was gonna be a senior at Ridell High? Remember she was surprised to find he went to that school too. Did they talk about anything during this time where they established a connection that causes them to fall for each other?

2. They never exchanged phone numbers or mailing addresses despite having fallen for each other? Surely she could have let him know they weren't leaving for Australia, but were instead hanging back in his home town by calling or writing.

3. Is it really normal that the during the whole movie groups of people break out in song and dance at random moments? That never happens in real life.

4. In the song "Summer Lovin'", Danny tells his dudes that he "saved her life .. she nearly drowned." Well, what if he didn't, and she did in fact drown? Thus creating this whole fantasy fairytale while hooked to life support. Keep in mind that they don't show her nearly drowning in the opening credits - so why mention it?

5. She fights Danny off in the opening scene when he tries to put the moves on her, thus indicating to everyone that she's a goody two shoes. She then rebukes him some more when he tries again (drive-in). In her oxygen starved mind, she then imagines what it's like to be with a good guy, so she creates one (Lorenzo Lamas), but discovers that maybe she is a little slut inside and wants to explore that. THEN she breaks up Lorenzo and give him no reason and without so much as offering him a consoling word or explanation (so unlike her).

6. [added] a Guardian Angel (Frankie Avalon) makes an appearance in the movie to guide Frenchie's life decisions before telling her (again, in song) that he's head back up to that Malt Shop in the sky.

7. In her song outside of Rizz's house, Sandy ends the song she's singing with the line "Goodbye to Sandra Dee", thus signifying that she's slowly drifting away at the hospital.

8. Since this is the end, her mind concocts a whole smorgasbord of feel-good moments as her brain floods with endorphins. Namely:

• Rizz isn't pregnant - YAY!
• Kenickie falls in love with Rizz again - YAY!
• She sheds her goody-two-shoes ways and becomes someone else exciting - YAY!
• The whole world breaks out in song and dance - YAY!
• The nerd (Eugene) makes the baseball/football team - YAY! (but, uh, he's a senior and school is over)

And last, but certainly not least...
as she slowly takes her last breaths...
she's whisked away with her dream guy in an unrecognizable make and model car ... into Heaven
(largely criticized as the stupidest ending to a movie, but now it all makes sense)

Hello everyone! I have been lurking these forums for about a year now but never got around to making an account until now. First off, I just wanted to say that I really like this community and appreciate all the news and information many of you provide on a daily basis.

The reason why I wanted to make this post is because I had something pretty cool happen yesterday. My parents live across the street from the practice fields at California Lutheran University and I happened to be at their house when I heard yelling and whistles in the distance. So I immediately threw on my jersey and rams hat and walked over to the fields hoping I would be able to see part of their final practice before leaving to San Francisco!

They have two fields that they use for practice. I wasn't able to get too close because they have a fence that blocks out access. A Rams employee came up to me and told me that residents are allowed to watch because they make a lot of noise but said not to take any videos, just pictures. I took a few pictures but the quality of them are not that great since the players were pretty far away.

I did see Gurley make a few good runs and Keenum make a nice throw to Britt. After the 11 on 11 drills, they split the defense and offense up onto two different fields.

I only stayed for about half an hour and then I had to go to work. About half way through my shift a huge guy comes walking into my work with a Rams shirt on. I immediately realize that it's Tyler Higbee. I told him that I am a huge rams fan and said that I saw him tear it up against Dallas in preseason. He started laughing and asked for my name, shook my hand, and talked about if I lived in the area, etc. he said that the team leaves for San Francisco Sunday morning. Overall, he was a really chill and awesome guy to talk to! I'm so excited for Monday for the Rams to take on the 9ers! The offseason takes way too long!

TL;DR
Hello everyone! Long time lurker, first time poster. I live next to CLU and I ran into Higbee at work last night.

One of his feet is limited, per NFLN.....Is this guy capable of being injury free?

Practice Report 9/9: Gurley Primed for Strong Year 2

By Myles Simmons

[www.therams.com]


If you’re a competitor like Rams running back Todd Gurley, the preseason probably isn’t much fun.

First of all, the games don’t count. And when you’re the focal point of the offense like Gurley, as seen on Hard Knocks, the coaching staff likely doesn’t want you getting hit very much.

It’s all about making sure the team is in the best shape possible to begin the season. And now that Week 1 has arrived, everyone is looking forward to Todd Gurley receiving his usual starter’s workload against the 49ers.


“He does some amazing things,” offensive lineman Rodger Saffold said. “It always makes the offensive linemen feel good when your running back gets about 20, 30 yards.

“It’s just like — yes,” Saffold continued with a laugh, “because it’s a lot better for an offensive lineman when you score in four plays than when you score in 12.”

This year, Gurley will be breaking off those explosive runs with a “C” on his uniform. The running back has been named a captain for the first time, showing the immense respect Gurley has earned after his AP Offensive Rookie of the Year season in 2015.

“It means a lot,” Gurley said Friday. “I’m honored and I’m going to to take that role and try to lead this team as much as I can.”

The knee injury Gurley suffered his final year of college that kept him out until Week 3 last year is effectively behind him. Even if it did affect Gurley in 2015, he was still able to become the league’s No. 3 rusher with 1,106 yards.

“I still do a little maintenance stuff twice a week — just make sure I get a couple extra strength exercises.” Gurley said. “But other than that, that’s about it.”

“This offseason I was able to do a lot more than I was the past offseason because of my knee,” Gurley added. “So I was able to do extra workouts and stuff like that.”

If there’s one element the Georgia product appears to want to add this year, it’s becoming a better receiver. Gurley was targeted only 26 times last season, making 21 receptions for 188 yards and no touchdowns. That latter stat is what Gurley really wants to change.

“It’s about time for me to get a receiving touchdown this year,” Gurley said. “Hopefully I’ll get at least one, so that’ll be an improvement from last year, for sure.”


Gurley sat out the second contest against the 49ers in 2015 with a toe injury, but he was electric in the first. He recorded 20 carries for 133 yards, including a 71-yard touchdown run during which he used his speed to go untouched from the line of scrimmage to the end zone.

This matchup will be featured on Monday Night Football, which creates a spotlight Gurley embraces.

“I love it,” Gurley said. “I love the big games, everybody’s watching and that’s what we’re made for.”

With a new coaching staff, the 49ers brought in Jim O’Neil to be their defensive coordinator. He held the same position with the Browns last year — another team Gurley torched for over 125 yards rushing. Still, San Francisco has some strong defenders that could be a challenge for Gurley.

“Obviously, their linebackers are great — they have some great linebackers inside, outside,” Gurley said. “Their interior defensive linemen are pretty good. I know they have a couple guys banged up, but it’s the first game of the year, so they’re going to be ready to play as much as we are.”

One of the players Gurley figures to meet up with a bunch on Monday is linebacker NaVorro Bowman, who led the league in tackles last year.

“It’s the best versus the best,” Gurley said. “Somebody’s got to come out on top, somebody has to lose.”

Niners head coach Chip Kelly said this week the key to trying to slow down Gurley is team tackling — if defenders can catch up to him.

“Very rarely are you going to get one person to get him on the ground,” Kelly said. “We have to do a great job in our leverage of the running back and we have to do a great job in guys running to the football, playing with great effort because he made such an impact as a rookie.”

“I think he’s faster than people give him credit for, maybe,” Kelly continued. “But he’s also such a big, physical runner – you’re going to have to get a lot of guys around him and you’re going to have to gang-tackle him.”

And so even though the running back took only four carries during the preseason, he’s feeling ready for the bright lights — and many carries — that will come on Monday night.

“I feel like my practice habits have been pretty good, just as far as finishing my runs and just out here every day, going hard as much as possible,” Gurley said. “So once the game comes, I feel like I’ll be fine.”

EXTRA POINTS

— Los Angeles had some good news on the injury front, as the team was able upgrade two players on the report. Right tackle Rob Havenstein (foot) and linebacker Bryce Hager (concussion) both went from limited participants on Thursday to full participants on Friday.

The remainder of the report went unchanged, as cornerback E.J. Gaines (thigh), wide receiver Pharoh Cooper (shoulder), and wide receiver Nelson Spruce (knee) all did not participate on Friday.

— Los Angeles reached an injury settlement with offensive lineman Garrett Reynolds, terminating his contract. The Rams placed Reynolds on injured reserve following the club’s final preseason game during the roster reduction from 75 to 53 players.

Rams take wraps off Todd Gurley as regular season starts vs. 49ers

By Gary Klein

[www.latimes.com]

Todd Gurley’s national profile began rising almost immediately after the NFL approved the Rams move from St. Louis to Los Angeles.

The star running back — the only player featured in the Rams’ relocation pitch to NFL owners — signed endorsement deals, appeared in television commercials and was featured prominently this summer in the opening montage for HBO’s “Hard Knocks.”

In two days, Gurley takes perhaps his biggest star turn yet when the Rams open the season against the San Francisco 49ers on “Monday Night Football.”

“I love it,” Gurley said Friday. “I love the big games. Everybody’s watching. That’s what we’re made for.”

Gurley, the reigning NFL offensive rookie of the year, was in college at Georgia when the Rams made their last appearance on “Monday Night Football” in 2014.

Now he is perhaps the main attraction in a game between teams rekindling what was once a bitter L.A.-San Francisco NFC West rivalry.


Gurley, 22, rushed for 1,106 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. He did so despite sitting out the opener while recovering from knee surgery, not starting until the fourth game, and being held out of the season finale against the 49ers at Levi’s Stadium for precautionary reasons.

In his only game against the 49ers, he rushed for 133 yards in 20 carries and scored on a 71-yard touchdown run in a 27-6 victory at St. Louis.

Chip Kelly was coaching the Philadelphia Eagles at the time.

Now the 49ers’ first-year coach is game-planning to stop the 6-foot-1, 227-pound Gurley.

“He’s faster than people give him credit for, maybe,” Kelly said. “But he’s also such a big, physical runner — you’re going to have to get a lot of guys around him and you’re going to have to gang-tackle him.”

To keep Gurley physically sound for the season, Rams Coach Jeff Fisher limited him to only one series during the exhibition season.

Fisher said Friday that there was “no such thing as a sophomore slump” for running backs.

“I would assume that this thing’s going to get better and better, as we get better up front … and we’re able to stay in games and get the ball in his hands,” Fisher said.

Rams players said Gurley appears ready for the opener.

Offensive linemen are especially eager to block for a back who rushed for more than 100 yards in each of his first four starts last season.

“It always makes the offensive line look good when your running back gets about 20 or 30 yards,’’ on a play, guard Rodger Saffold said. “It’s a lot better when you score in four plays than when you score in 12.”

Gurley was selected as an offensive team captain along with quarterback Case Keenum.

Defensive tackle Michael Brockers cited “maturity” when asked if he noticed a difference in Gurley as the back prepared for his second season.

“Taking his craft and taking his game to another level,” Brockers said. “Finishing plays, going down and finishing in the end zone.

“Just the little things you do that show he’s a real professional.”

Gurley worked during the off-season and in training camp to improve his pass-catching skills. Last season, he had 21 receptions for 188 yards but never reached the end zone.

“It’s about time for me to get a receiving touchdown,” he said. “This year, hopefully, I get at least one.”

But the bulk of his work will be as a runner.

On Monday night, he will go up against a defense that features All-Pro linebacker NaVorro Bowman.

“It’s the best versus the best,” Gurley said. “Somebody’s got has to come out on top, somebody has to lose.”

Quick hits

The Rams terminated the contract of offensive lineman Garrett Reynolds, who had been on the injured list. Reynolds received an injury settlement. He is eligible to return after Week 6…. Tackle Rob Havenstein (foot) and linebacker Bryce Hager (concussion) were full participants in practice. Cornerback E.J. Gaines (thigh) and receiver Pharoh Cooper (shoulder) did not practice for the second day in a row.

Rams QB Jared Goff must learn to be a backup

By Vincent Bonsignore, Los Angeles Daily News

[www.sgvtribune.com]

THOUSAND OAKS >> The starting point is nowhere near were Jared Goff originally imagined. In that respect, he’s no different than anyone else. The Rams included.

If anyone says they would have predicted or anticipated or been OK with the first overall pick starting his NFL career at the back of the Rams quarterback line, they’re either lying or not in the loop.

Goff was generally regarded as the most National Football League quarterback available in last April’s draft, and that wasn’t an opinion exclusive to the Rams.

Off that distinction, he separated himself from the rest of the quarterback group and the Rams built their justification to trade six picks to the Tennessee Titans to move from the 15th pick to the first pick overall to take Goff over North Dakota State’s Carson Wentz.

So to say there isn’t even a hint of disappointment that Goff didn’t distinguish himself as the second-string quarterback, let alone the starter, would be disingenuous.

“My whole life, I’ve been the starter,” Goff said.

Now he’s third string. And that takes some getting used to.

For everyone.

Instead of returning home to the Bay Area the starting quarterback of the Los Angeles Rams, he’ll be standing on the sideline in street clothes.

Instead of preparing for the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers, he’s focused on a long-range plan that will eventually lift him from the raw prospect he looked like during training camp to the player everyone assumed he’d rapidly be upon the Rams taking him with the first overall pick.

It’s about having faith in the process rather than trusting this week’s game plan.

“And there is a process,” Goff said. “You’re just going to trust the process, and know that it’s all going to work out.”

He said this with conviction in his voice. But more and more the conversation about Goff is based on hope rather than certainty.

Based on how he performed during training camp and the preseason, it’s all we really have.

Yes, the Rams preached patience with Goff going all the way back to their pre-draft evaluation of him. And in talking to the former Cal Golden Bear, Rams coach Jeff Fisher was up front that getting him on the field could be swift or a prolonged ordeal.

“He talked about if (prolonged) was the case, there will be no rushing,” Goff said. “Whenever it’s time, it’s time. If it needs to happen early, it happens early. If it needs to happen a little bit later, it happens later. I’m just going to continue to trust him and to trust the process, and know that they have a really well thought-out plan in place, and I’m still a part of it.”

But completion of that plan seems so much further away than anyone could have imagined.

And that’s disappointing considering the home run swing the Rams took to acquire Goff.

It was move made for reasons both obvious and subtle.

No question they wanted to make a bold first step back into the Los Angeles market, and it doesn’t get much grander than trading for the first overall pick and grabbing a future face of the franchise at the most important position on the field.

Just as importantly, in talking to Rams folks, there is a sincere belief they are inches away from taking that next step in the growth process rather than feet. Closing that gap was predicated primarily on better quarterback play.

With one mighty swing of the bat, they felt they achieved both objectives.

Nothing like making a bold move to stir up the second-biggest market in the country.

And nothing like adding a dynamic new quarterback to carry the team to the next level.

That didn’t happen, obviously.

Goff performed through training camp and preseason like a prospect still in need of major seasoning. Without the benefit of the minor leagues for more fine tuning, he’ll toil away behind the scenes trying to get up to speed.

To the untrained eye, Goff looks at least a year away from making a significant contribution. That goes for his level of play to his physical stature. He’s every bit the 6-foot-5 he’s listed. But 205 pounds never looked skinnier stretched over his lanky frame.

Meanwhile, starter Case Keenum and second-year man Sean Mannion significantly out-played Goff. So when the Rams drew up their depth chart for Monday night’s season opener, there was no justification to elevate Goff over the two veterans.

Discouraging.

But prudent.

And for the kid for whom so much was expected, about as humbling as you can imagine.

His name was called first overall among 253 players drafted last April.

But no telling when his named will be called upon.

Nobody had that in the script.

“I’m just going to be patient, wait until my number is called, and continue to get ready out on the field, and continue to practice as hard as I can,” Goff said. “When my number is called, be ready.”

Goff’s NFL future pretty much depends on it.

His ability to process and compartmentalize what can only be deemed a set back and learn and grow and emerge better for it are the keys to everything.

And he’ll have to do it as much mentally as he does physically.

With practice time cut down in the NFL over the years and reps at a premium for the starter and back up, third-string quarterbacks get precious few chances to get snaps during the course of the week. So Goff will have to rely on his eyes and ears watching Keenum and Mannion almost as much as his legs and arm.

“Just continue to learn and take mental reps,” he said. “I’ve never done it before, so I am learning how to do that as well. Just trying to try to learn from what they do well, and then learn from their mistakes. Case has been in the league for a long time now. I just pick his brain and ask him as much as I can, and get to know as much as I can before my number is called, so I can be ready.”

When that time comes is anyone’s guess.

Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher –– September 9, 2016

(On what concerns him the most about the 49ers)
“They’re very well-coached. Their defensive side, they can be exotic at times, but they’re very sound. They’re gap-sound, they’re run-game sound. Look at the way Cleveland operated last year – they do a great job communicating on the defensive side. Offensively, they’re big up front, they can run it and they’re going to run it. They’ve averaged 184 yards a game rushing in the preseason and (49ers QB Blaine) Gabbert can extend plays. You have to play solid defense and get off the field. And then special-teams-wise, they’ve got good players, they have some good matchups that will be created this game.”

(On if the foundation comes down fundamentals just like any other game)
“It’s execution. You take the fundamentals for granted, but this is all about going out and executing and taking the stuff that we’ve done out here onto the field.”

(On if he has had weeks, as a head coach, where he has felt like the team was very ready and then they lost the upcoming game and vice versa or if he has a feeling about it this week)
“No, you don’t because it’s like if there’s a mistake in a Thursday practice or a Friday practice, you just correct it. You rather that it takes place during the week than on Sunday or Monday, so no. The same thing is the case with the pregame warm-ups – sometimes I, personally, will come in and say ‘I don’t know if these guys are ready to go’ and then we jump out to a 21-point lead. And then sometimes when you think they’re really going, then things don’t work out. It’s about being consistent, and that’s the thing. So the practice sessions need to be consistent. What you have to do is you have to set the bar in Week 1 and then make sure you get back there every week. And they’ve done that this week.”

(On if there is anything to being in the same time zone as the divisional opponents)
“Yes and then, again, as I said, I have an appreciation for what the other three division opponents have had to do over the years because we’re going to find out very full-well how difficult it is to go out and play at 10 AM your time. But as far as the division is concerned, yeah, I think they’re probably glad that we came out here.”

(On if there has been anything in common once successful rookie running backs, like RB Todd Gurley, enter their second year)
“No, there’s no such thing as a ‘sophomore slump’ with running backs, that just doesn’t happen. It’s about, I would assume, that this thing’s going to get better and better, as we get better up front, for him and we’re able to stay in games and get the ball in his hands. I’ve never seen a ‘sophomore slump,’ as it relates to running backs.”

(On if he personally has any pregame rituals or superstitions)
“No. the Monday night thing is a little bit different in that it’s a long day. So we’re going to try to keep them calm. But personally, no, I pretty much follow the same routine and that’s prepare myself and get back in the rule book when I have got some time.”

(On if there’s a particular song he listens to before the game)
“There was in high school, but there isn’t now.”

(On what his song was in high school)
“I knew you guys would ask. You pick it – it was Jethro Tull, so you pick it.”

(On if Monday Night Football is still as big of a deal for him as it was in high school)
“It’s a big deal for them, it really is. For the next however many Mondays, they’re going to be watching the games – and so are Thursdays, for that matter because the guys watched the game last night. It is a big deal for the players. Coaches would prefer not to have Monday night games, because we’re going to jump right in to a short week next week. We don’t arrive until 2:30, 3:00 in the morning and we have to get going again. Coaches are creatures of habit and you just kind of like the normal game weeks. But it’s exciting, it’s exciting for the players. Things have changed, back in the day when Howard (Cosell) and Don (Meredith) and the rest of them were doing it, that was the only way you got to see highlights from the weekend, were halftime highlights. Now you get to see highlights moments after they happen.”

(On if there’s a sense of excitement with Todd Gurley getting a full workload as opposed to the limited carries he had in the preseason)
“Yeah, we did that on purpose. He looks great, he feels great and he’s ready to go. (RB) Benny (Cunningham) is going to play a little bit and you may even see (RB) Malcolm (Brown) in the game at times, but Todd is the workhorse now.”

(On if he has the same feeling as the players who have the feeling that the team is on the edge of being successful after winning three of the final four games in 2015)
“Their expectations are high, but they also understand the one-at-a-time thing. Like we say every year, you win 11 games or 12 games in a season and go to the playoffs, you can’t just come back the next year and escrow your success and expect to draw on it and go from there, you have to start over every year. That’s what we’ve done, we’ve started over with high expectations.”

(On what jumped out about LB Cory Littleton in rookie camp)
“Cory missed the rookie camp because of the quarter system. Cory really didn’t get to do much until he got to training camp – I think that speaks volumes for him because he had a short period of time and he showed us what he can do.”

(On what he tells players about recuperating from the short week)
“We’ve had the discussions from this standpoint. The things that you do from this evening through the game are going to carry over into next week. It’s the sleep, it’s the rest, it’s recovery, it’s diet, it’s all those things. and then we have to quickly get into the short-week routine where it’s all about recovery. And they all have different needs – some guys play 60 plays, some guys play 10 and some guys don’t play. They all have different needs, but we address them individually.”




Rams RB Todd Gurley – September 9, 2016

(On his thoughts about being named one of the team captains)
“It means a lot. Just for coach and the team to vote on me as a team captain. I’m honored. I’m going to take that role and try to lead this team as much as I can.”

(On if he knows how unusual it is for a player as young as he is to be named a team captain)
“Yeah, for sure, most definitely, most definitely.”

(On his concerns about increased playing time, after a lighter preseason load)
“I’m not too worried about it. I feel like my practice habits have been pretty good. Just as far as finishing my runs, and just out here every day going hard as much as possible. Once the game comes, I feel like I’ll be fine.”

(On his level of anxiety entering Monday night)
“I’m ready, I’m ready. Football is back. It started last night. Everybody is ready.”

(On if it was difficult sitting out the first game of last season)
“It was, but hopefully I have a long career. I have many more games to come, so I wasn’t worried about the first or second game.”

(On if he was on the sideline watching last year’s season opener)
“Yeah, I was still there.”

(On if he watched Monday Night Football growing up)
“No, I didn’t even know about Monday Night Football, probably not until I got to high school or college. But, I’m ready for it.”

(On if he enjoys being in the spotlight)
“Yeah, I love it, I love it. I love the big games, everybody is watching. That’s what we’re made for.”

(On if he did anything differently in the preseason to prepare himself for the workload he’s about to endure)
“I try to keep it the same. Just work a little harder. Obviously, this offseason, I was able to do a lot more than I was the past offseason, because of my knee. I was able to actually do extra, extra workouts, and stuff like that.”

(On his thought regarding taking on a heavy workload entering the season)
“It’s whatever. I’ve been running the ball my whole life, same thing.”

(On if he still has trouble with his knee)
“I still do a little maintenance stuff twice a week. Just make sure I get a couple extra strength exercises. But other than that, that’s about it.”

(On if people will see anything different from him this year, in comparison to last season)
“I can’t predict the future. We’ll see, we’ll see what happens when the season comes.”

(On if he has any pregame rituals or traditions he partakes in)
“I might listen to a couple old songs from high school, or something that I used to play before a Friday night game or a college game.”

(On what songs he listens to before games)
“Anything, honestly. Maybe like some old Wiz Khalifa, or old Lil Wayne. Just something to remind me of an old game or something like that.”

(On which Lil Wayne album is his favorite)
“I’m a Carter II type of guy.”

(On his thoughts regarding the 49ers defense)
“Obviously, their linebackers are great. They have some great linebackers; inside, outside, the interior. The defensive linemen are pretty good. I know they have a couple guys banged up, but it’s the first game of the year. They’re going to be ready to play as much as we are. Monday night, at their place; their definitely a great team for sure.”

(On his thought regarding LB NaVorro Bowman)
“It’s the best versus the best. Somebody got has to come out on top, somebody has to lose.”

(On how much pride he takes in his receiving skills/pass catching game)
“Yeah man, it’s about time for me to get a receiving touchdown this year. Hopefully I get at least one. So that’ll be an improvement from last year, for sure.”

(On if it’s his goal to notch a receiving touchdown this season)
“Yeah, yeah, most definitely; to at least get one”

(On if he watched last night’s game between the Denver Broncos and Carolina Panthers)
“I did. It was a good game, good game man.”

(On if watching the game last night inspires him, or if it’s just another game)
“No, it inspires me. Seeing what (Denver RB) C.J. (Anderson) did last night, it’s like, ‘Oh! He did that against the Super Bowl runner-up team.’ So, I’m excited to go out there and be able to try to run the ball just like he did last night.”

(On if he saw Denver LB Von Miller’s custom made ‘Yeezy’ cleats last night)
“I did. You know I’m a Nike guy so…I don’t care too much about Yeezy’s”

These are unique games for the below listed teams because they open the 2016 season with new starting quarterbacks for their current NFL Teams.

Of the 9 New opening day Starting Quarterbacks, Trevor Siemian already broke the ice with a 21-20 Victory vs Carolina.

Which of the remaining new opening day NFL starting QB's will get a Victory?


Trevor Siemian WON 21-20 vs the Carolina Panthers

VS


Sunday's Games

Dak Prescott home vs New York Gians
VS

Carson Wentz home vs Cleveland Browns Robert Griffen III
VS

Jimmy Garoppolo at Arizona Cardinals
AT

Brock Osweiler home vs Chicago Bears
VS

Shaun Hill/Sam Bradford at Tennessee Titans
AT


Monday Night

Case Keenum at San Francisco 49ers Blaine Gabbert
AT

I'm going to take a shot and say of the 8 remaining new opening day starting quarterbacks, the winners will be?

I predicted Trevor Siemian to loose vs the Panthers so I'm 0-1 with 8 new starting QB's to go.

Dak Prescott Loss

Carson Wentz Win
vs
Robert Griffen III Loss

Jimmy Garoppolo Win

Brock Osweiler Win

Shaun Hill/Sam Bradford Loss

Case Keenum Win
vs
Blaine Gabbert Loss

If you think you know these new Signal callers fate for week 1, I'm interested to know your predictions.

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I like how they used the old Wild West theme music




I know all of us Rams Fans are.............

ready for the real bullets to fly Monday night.

This is supposed to be a show with Rams fans in the audience, talking about the Rams up coming game. Really? We got Eric Davis, Keshawn Johnson, Marcellus Wiley, and another couple of fools talking about everything BUT the Rams. None of these guys care about the Rams, and I think some were pushing hard about wanting the Raiders and not the Rams last year to come back to LA....The only Rams talk there has been, is complaining about Goff and a little bit about Fisher...Most of the rest of the cr@p is about Kaepernick , marijuana legalization in the NFL, and about Can Newton getting hit on the noggin four times.

What about the Oline?
What about the RB group?
What about the Rams Dline?


I hate these stupid, Rams hating MOTHERFU#%$^#@!

I'm talking just rushing yards here, do y'all think he goes over or under? I'm thinking over because he's fresh and will probably bust a long run. They are definitely going to be focused on him though.