http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-rams-report-20171020-story.html
Popular punter
Sunday’s game features Gurley, Rams quarterback
Jared Goff and other star players such as Cardinals quarterback
Carson Palmer, running back
Adrian Peterson and receiver
Larry Fitzgerald.
Fans, however, are apt to save their loudest cheers for Rams punter
Johnny Hekkerand other specialists.
That has become a norm during international series games.
“You get a lot of recognition because it’s a familiar deal for them,” Hekker said. “A lot of their sports out here involve a lot of footwork and kicking the ball.
“So, especially soccer, their football is a lot more foot-oriented.”
Hekker also has raised his profile by participating in ambassadorial trips to Great Britain. Last summer, he was the subject of video about his first afternoon tea.
Hekker, a three-time
Pro Bowl selection, is averaging 46.9 yards per punt.
“When you match up great personality, great person and great production as a player I think you get a special combination of things,” McVay said. “And that’s really what Johnny Hekker represents for us, and it’s easy to see why when he comes over here he becomes a popular player for us.”
Hekker said he looked forward to Sunday, and watching fans continue to learn about American football.
“I love to see them getting a grasp on what other players do,” he said. “The sport here has grown a ton.”