Post Game Reactions; Rams / Cowboys
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BonifayRam
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At this moment in place & time ..........he sure looks "to be that guy"
May not be anything to watch in practice or timed for speed & quickness or tested but put him in a football game & all he does is make plays.
Jacobarch
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I hate to rain on all your parades but let's see how these guys do against starters and when they actually scheme around players weaknesses. Right now it's just a bunch of dudes running around like chickens w their heads cut off.
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I’m in the same boat.
At the same time; you’d still rather see them excel in these situations than not.
hotanez
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actually let's not, the majority of these players I don't want to see play any meaningful snaps except maybe mopup duty in blowouts. Most members are excited to see how the depth plays out, I don't think anyone really thinks these guys can overtake one of our starters. I do hope to see more improvement from Day and Gaines in the last 2 games.
oldnotdead
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People need to calm down.
Demby: He certainly struggled. But that's what happens when you constantly shift a young inexperienced player all over the place. Center is a position that is probably the hardest to play in the NFL. To expect a player who has never played inside, much less at center to play well is the stuff of fantasy. He's thinking his way through each snap, I can see it in his hesitant play, which accounts for his penalties. It also is affecting his snaps because he's setting the line, focusing on too many things which don't come naturally to him as a novice at the position. Allow him to simply play one position, OG and then evaluate him. Demby is a RG who can play limited snaps at C as a contingency replacement. That's clear. If Neary didn't have substance abuse issues he probably would bump Demby, but I don't see the Rams taking the chance on Neary.
Evans: The same thing applies to Evans that applies to Demby. Edwards has only basically played at OT which is his natural position so, of course, he plays better. Duuhhh But Evans by his build projects better inside at OG than OT, unless it's RT. He played decently during his stint at RT which makes sense.
The Rams are probably only going to carry 8 o-line on the active 53 just as they have done for the last 2 years. I still say Evans, Edwards, and Demby will be those other 3. When you look at what's behind them it's obvious. That's why Kromer is pushing them (especially Evans and Demby to play all over) because on game day they are only going to dress 7 o-linemen.
Neary was the only other guy on the o-line that might have made a legitimate push. But his suspension probably has sunk his chances other than say an in-season long term injury to a starter.
Mike Thomas always teases in TC. But his inconsistent hands continue to sabotage his chances. It's the same story every year with this guy. Drops are drive killers during the regular season. Webster makes it before Thomas. I'm not sure Jojo is going to make this team. His drops, especially on punts, is worrisome. IMO Webster will replace him as the returner in September.
Overall the team played much improved.
Demby: He certainly struggled. But that's what happens when you constantly shift a young inexperienced player all over the place. Center is a position that is probably the hardest to play in the NFL. To expect a player who has never played inside, much less at center to play well is the stuff of fantasy. He's thinking his way through each snap, I can see it in his hesitant play, which accounts for his penalties. It also is affecting his snaps because he's setting the line, focusing on too many things which don't come naturally to him as a novice at the position. Allow him to simply play one position, OG and then evaluate him. Demby is a RG who can play limited snaps at C as a contingency replacement. That's clear. If Neary didn't have substance abuse issues he probably would bump Demby, but I don't see the Rams taking the chance on Neary.
Evans: The same thing applies to Evans that applies to Demby. Edwards has only basically played at OT which is his natural position so, of course, he plays better. Duuhhh But Evans by his build projects better inside at OG than OT, unless it's RT. He played decently during his stint at RT which makes sense.
The Rams are probably only going to carry 8 o-line on the active 53 just as they have done for the last 2 years. I still say Evans, Edwards, and Demby will be those other 3. When you look at what's behind them it's obvious. That's why Kromer is pushing them (especially Evans and Demby to play all over) because on game day they are only going to dress 7 o-linemen.
Neary was the only other guy on the o-line that might have made a legitimate push. But his suspension probably has sunk his chances other than say an in-season long term injury to a starter.
Mike Thomas always teases in TC. But his inconsistent hands continue to sabotage his chances. It's the same story every year with this guy. Drops are drive killers during the regular season. Webster makes it before Thomas. I'm not sure Jojo is going to make this team. His drops, especially on punts, is worrisome. IMO Webster will replace him as the returner in September.
Overall the team played much improved.
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Rams report card: Grading L.A.'s key rookies vs. Cowboys
By: Cameron DaSilva | 4 hours ago
The preseason has been largely about the Los Angeles Rams’ rookies with several first-year players already making an impact – particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Taylor Rapp has predictably been a standout for the Rams, but a few lesser-known rookies have also caught the attention of Sean McVay.
In the Rams’ 14-10 loss to the Cowboys on Saturday night, rookies were all over the field. Here’s how we graded some of the more notable first-year players.
OLB Natrez Patrick: A
Patrick was a stud against Dallas, rising to the occasion as the top pass rusher on the field. He had a half-sack and hit the quarterback another time, making three total tackles. His athleticism was apparent and even Sean McVay mentioned him as someone who played really well. This was an important game for the undrafted rookie.
“Natrez has done a nice job. Really, we just transitioned him to outside linebacker a couple weeks ago almost by necessity as a result of Justin Lawler’s injury and (Trevon Young) being banged up. He’s really done a good job,” McVay said.
S Taylor Rapp: B+
Rapp’s reps were once again limited as the Rams continue to protect him for the regular season, putting him out there for only 21 plays. However, he made his presence felt with three tackles, including a great stop on Randall Cobb and a near tackle for loss. His versatility is valuable and it’s fun to watch Wade Phillips utilize him in a number of ways. His best role is likely as a box safety near the line of scrimmage.
RB Darrell Henderson: B+
Henderson was much more explosive and decisive this weekend compared to the preseason opener. He had a great 26-yard catch on a wheel route early and ripped off a nice 8-yard run, as well. His rushing stats are nothing to get excited about but Henderson’s speed and agility have really stood out.
OL Bobby Evans: D
Evans played every snap on the offensive line, slotting in at multiple positions. Unfortunately, he struggled throughout the game. At right tackle, he was getting beat quickly and fairly easily, while his lack of strength was apparent when lined up inside at right guard. If Evans were to be forced into the lineup during the regular season, the Rams offense would be in some trouble.
NT Greg Gaines: B
Gaines only played 16 snaps, surprisingly, so he wasn’t on the field much. He made one tackle, which came for a loss, and despite being double-teamed, he did get some penetration. When given one-on-one opportunities, he’s looked good. Just don’t expect him to offer much as a pass rusher.
ILB Dakota Allen: B+
Allen blew up one receiver with a huge hit at the line of scrimmage and popped the helmet off another ball carrier, so his physicality was on display. He finished with a team-high eight tackles with one coming for a loss. McVay liked what he saw from Allen, too.
“He did a great job. I think he’s another guy – he was injured in the offseason, you see just the play-making ability, the physicality when he was at Texas Tech, and those are some of the reasons we like him. … You see the physicality. When he arrives, he arrives violently, and he did a good job tonight.”
WR Nsimba Webster: B
Webster is making a strong push for the final roster, either as a return specialist or wide receiver – or both. He looked fluid in the open field and his routes were crisp, which isn’t something often seen from a young receiver. He has more potential than JoJo Natson, who muffed a punt and hasn’t done much to stand out in the preseason. Webster caught four passes for 38 yards, hauling in all four of his targets.
CB David Long Jr.: B-
Long played about half the game and made four tackles – second-most on the team. He did get beat on an in-breaking route, though the Cowboys receiver dropped the pass to save Long from a catch allowed. He did allow another catch in coverage, but overall, it was a decent outing for the rookie corner. One thing is clear, though, and it’s that Long is much better in man coverage than sitting back in zone.
theramswire.usatoday.com
By: Cameron DaSilva | 4 hours ago
The preseason has been largely about the Los Angeles Rams’ rookies with several first-year players already making an impact – particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Taylor Rapp has predictably been a standout for the Rams, but a few lesser-known rookies have also caught the attention of Sean McVay.
In the Rams’ 14-10 loss to the Cowboys on Saturday night, rookies were all over the field. Here’s how we graded some of the more notable first-year players.
OLB Natrez Patrick: A
Patrick was a stud against Dallas, rising to the occasion as the top pass rusher on the field. He had a half-sack and hit the quarterback another time, making three total tackles. His athleticism was apparent and even Sean McVay mentioned him as someone who played really well. This was an important game for the undrafted rookie.
“Natrez has done a nice job. Really, we just transitioned him to outside linebacker a couple weeks ago almost by necessity as a result of Justin Lawler’s injury and (Trevon Young) being banged up. He’s really done a good job,” McVay said.
S Taylor Rapp: B+
Rapp’s reps were once again limited as the Rams continue to protect him for the regular season, putting him out there for only 21 plays. However, he made his presence felt with three tackles, including a great stop on Randall Cobb and a near tackle for loss. His versatility is valuable and it’s fun to watch Wade Phillips utilize him in a number of ways. His best role is likely as a box safety near the line of scrimmage.
RB Darrell Henderson: B+
Henderson was much more explosive and decisive this weekend compared to the preseason opener. He had a great 26-yard catch on a wheel route early and ripped off a nice 8-yard run, as well. His rushing stats are nothing to get excited about but Henderson’s speed and agility have really stood out.
OL Bobby Evans: D
Evans played every snap on the offensive line, slotting in at multiple positions. Unfortunately, he struggled throughout the game. At right tackle, he was getting beat quickly and fairly easily, while his lack of strength was apparent when lined up inside at right guard. If Evans were to be forced into the lineup during the regular season, the Rams offense would be in some trouble.
NT Greg Gaines: B
Gaines only played 16 snaps, surprisingly, so he wasn’t on the field much. He made one tackle, which came for a loss, and despite being double-teamed, he did get some penetration. When given one-on-one opportunities, he’s looked good. Just don’t expect him to offer much as a pass rusher.
ILB Dakota Allen: B+
Allen blew up one receiver with a huge hit at the line of scrimmage and popped the helmet off another ball carrier, so his physicality was on display. He finished with a team-high eight tackles with one coming for a loss. McVay liked what he saw from Allen, too.
“He did a great job. I think he’s another guy – he was injured in the offseason, you see just the play-making ability, the physicality when he was at Texas Tech, and those are some of the reasons we like him. … You see the physicality. When he arrives, he arrives violently, and he did a good job tonight.”
WR Nsimba Webster: B
Webster is making a strong push for the final roster, either as a return specialist or wide receiver – or both. He looked fluid in the open field and his routes were crisp, which isn’t something often seen from a young receiver. He has more potential than JoJo Natson, who muffed a punt and hasn’t done much to stand out in the preseason. Webster caught four passes for 38 yards, hauling in all four of his targets.
CB David Long Jr.: B-
Long played about half the game and made four tackles – second-most on the team. He did get beat on an in-breaking route, though the Cowboys receiver dropped the pass to save Long from a catch allowed. He did allow another catch in coverage, but overall, it was a decent outing for the rookie corner. One thing is clear, though, and it’s that Long is much better in man coverage than sitting back in zone.
Rams report card: Grading L.A.'s key rookies vs. Cowboys
Here’s how the top rookies performed against the Cowboys on Saturday night.
theramswire.usatoday.com
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Rams report card: Grading L.A.'s key rookies vs. Cowboys
By: Cameron DaSilva | 4 hours ago
The preseason has been largely about the Los Angeles Rams’ rookies with several first-year players already making an impact – particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Taylor Rapp has predictably been a standout for the Rams, but a few lesser-known rookies have also caught the attention of Sean McVay.
In the Rams’ 14-10 loss to the Cowboys on Saturday night, rookies were all over the field. Here’s how we graded some of the more notable first-year players.
OLB Natrez Patrick: A
Patrick was a stud against Dallas, rising to the occasion as the top pass rusher on the field. He had a half-sack and hit the quarterback another time, making three total tackles. His athleticism was apparent and even Sean McVay mentioned him as someone who played really well. This was an important game for the undrafted rookie.
“Natrez has done a nice job. Really, we just transitioned him to outside linebacker a couple weeks ago almost by necessity as a result of Justin Lawler’s injury and (Trevon Young) being banged up. He’s really done a good job,” McVay said.
S Taylor Rapp: B+
Rapp’s reps were once again limited as the Rams continue to protect him for the regular season, putting him out there for only 21 plays. However, he made his presence felt with three tackles, including a great stop on Randall Cobb and a near tackle for loss. His versatility is valuable and it’s fun to watch Wade Phillips utilize him in a number of ways. His best role is likely as a box safety near the line of scrimmage.
RB Darrell Henderson: B+
Henderson was much more explosive and decisive this weekend compared to the preseason opener. He had a great 26-yard catch on a wheel route early and ripped off a nice 8-yard run, as well. His rushing stats are nothing to get excited about but Henderson’s speed and agility have really stood out.
OL Bobby Evans: D
Evans played every snap on the offensive line, slotting in at multiple positions. Unfortunately, he struggled throughout the game. At right tackle, he was getting beat quickly and fairly easily, while his lack of strength was apparent when lined up inside at right guard. If Evans were to be forced into the lineup during the regular season, the Rams offense would be in some trouble.
NT Greg Gaines: B
Gaines only played 16 snaps, surprisingly, so he wasn’t on the field much. He made one tackle, which came for a loss, and despite being double-teamed, he did get some penetration. When given one-on-one opportunities, he’s looked good. Just don’t expect him to offer much as a pass rusher.
ILB Dakota Allen: B+
Allen blew up one receiver with a huge hit at the line of scrimmage and popped the helmet off another ball carrier, so his physicality was on display. He finished with a team-high eight tackles with one coming for a loss. McVay liked what he saw from Allen, too.
“He did a great job. I think he’s another guy – he was injured in the offseason, you see just the play-making ability, the physicality when he was at Texas Tech, and those are some of the reasons we like him. … You see the physicality. When he arrives, he arrives violently, and he did a good job tonight.”
WR Nsimba Webster: B
Webster is making a strong push for the final roster, either as a return specialist or wide receiver – or both. He looked fluid in the open field and his routes were crisp, which isn’t something often seen from a young receiver. He has more potential than JoJo Natson, who muffed a punt and hasn’t done much to stand out in the preseason. Webster caught four passes for 38 yards, hauling in all four of his targets.
CB David Long Jr.: B-
Long played about half the game and made four tackles – second-most on the team. He did get beat on an in-breaking route, though the Cowboys receiver dropped the pass to save Long from a catch allowed. He did allow another catch in coverage, but overall, it was a decent outing for the rookie corner. One thing is clear, though, and it’s that Long is much better in man coverage than sitting back in zone.
Rams report card: Grading L.A.'s key rookies vs. Cowboys
Here’s how the top rookies performed against the Cowboys on Saturday night.
That’s a good encapsulate.
Guys like Webster... this coaching staff will sort out who to keep.
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If he looks good when being solo blocked, that's great. If he's absorbing two blockers at the line, that's even better - that leaves 10 against 9 for the rest, and one of those 10 would be AD. If he does that during the regular season, the coaches would be ecstatic, even if he isn't a dominant pass rusher. Frankly, few true NTs are great pass rushers, but I expect him to get a few sacks, probably on times that he only has one blocker on him. But they didn't draft him to be the star of the defense - they drafted him to keep blockers from getting to the second level so often, and to absorb OL so that the stars on the Rams' D can do their thing.
Reddog99
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I want to see more from the ILB as of right now so I'll be watching that close.
As for WR I'd like to see them cut Natson and Thomas as they are prone to mistakes and keep Webster. Bachman and Greene looks ok too. I like our RBs with Kelly being #4.
Bortles is alright and so far it's up in the air with the other two with Wolford looking good week 1 and Allen looking good week 2 but honestly im leaning towards Walford.
Secondary is looking good. Overall defense doesn't look too bad actually. Rapp, Allen, Patrick, Parker, Peterson, Deayon, Williams, Obo, Gervase, Long, Carraway even Ketner Kupp looked good. I am a little down on Hatfield. Penalties were ridiculous.
OL looks ok I guess. Demby didn't have a very good night.
TE didn't impress me.
ST looked good I thought.
Not a bad night overall.
As for WR I'd like to see them cut Natson and Thomas as they are prone to mistakes and keep Webster. Bachman and Greene looks ok too. I like our RBs with Kelly being #4.
Bortles is alright and so far it's up in the air with the other two with Wolford looking good week 1 and Allen looking good week 2 but honestly im leaning towards Walford.
Secondary is looking good. Overall defense doesn't look too bad actually. Rapp, Allen, Patrick, Parker, Peterson, Deayon, Williams, Obo, Gervase, Long, Carraway even Ketner Kupp looked good. I am a little down on Hatfield. Penalties were ridiculous.
OL looks ok I guess. Demby didn't have a very good night.
TE didn't impress me.
ST looked good I thought.
Not a bad night overall.
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I'd likely go with Allen - tougher competition so far this preseason. I think either can be added to the practice squad this season, Allen narrowly. Neither excites me with their long term potential, but it's good to have a warm body stashed in case of injuries.
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Well with Patrick for example we're talking about a roster spot. Not starting. So he doesn't need to show vs starters and that's not gonna happen.
IMO what we're seeing with the OLBs in particular is the result of talent + good coaching. Lot of them playing fast and standing out vs other depth options.
Also with both Obo and Patrick you have some good upside. Patrick might be a UDFA but he was clearly overlooked, the dude can play and for us he'll fill 2 roster spots so I'm confident he made the team.
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And that's huge. They are going to have to cut some talented players, and if they can fill two spots with one player, it might mean they can save somebody else somewhere on the roster. And it's not like there is likely to be a talented OLB (and definitely not a talented ILB) he would be supplanting. They are just going to be trying to not lose players in the secondary, who will be so useful after the Rams lose some to free agency after this season.
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His physical struggles last night had little to do with being moved around because he was terrible at OG where he should have zero confusion after a full season on the roster and two camps.
He got trucked physically, made loads of mental mistakes, and basically needs to pick it up. Right now he has gone from penciled in as primary depth to a fight for a roster spot.
LARAMSinFeb.
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Let's hope we still have them, too. Unfortunately somebody's probably going to get paid to "freshen up the look."
Tailback
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After quickly watching my DVR copy of the game I came away very happy. My biggest fears going into this season were DB, LB, and OL depth. Not starters, depth. Well, maybe the starters at LB.
At LB Patrick, OBO, and Allen looked good. OBO has to stay healthy but if he does...
At Safety, Rapp is the real deal. Enough said. He's already better than LMJ, plus Weddle is there anyway.
Corners seem to be a strength. One or two could be trade bait.
O line starters are good. The depth there is hard to judge because they're being moved around so much. My opinion is not set yet.
The wide receivers seem to be stacked. There may be trade bait there also. Natson brings no value as a WR and really needs to go. Having a unitasker on the roster at basically the lowest spot is detrimental to the roster as a whole.
At LB Patrick, OBO, and Allen looked good. OBO has to stay healthy but if he does...
At Safety, Rapp is the real deal. Enough said. He's already better than LMJ, plus Weddle is there anyway.
Corners seem to be a strength. One or two could be trade bait.
O line starters are good. The depth there is hard to judge because they're being moved around so much. My opinion is not set yet.
The wide receivers seem to be stacked. There may be trade bait there also. Natson brings no value as a WR and really needs to go. Having a unitasker on the roster at basically the lowest spot is detrimental to the roster as a whole.
BonifayRam
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Okay we knew we were weakest @ OG going into this new season........ just for the sake of discussion ....If we lost Austin Blythe due to injury for a period @ the very beginning of this season for a month ......who would start in his place @ RG?
This OL is in better overall condition @ the OT's but if one OT were to go down early in the first 4 games due to injury & forces Noteboom out of his starting LG post we are still in trouble @ OG. Who would start @ LG? If our starting center Brian Allen were to suffer a month long early injury as described above & Austin Blythe had to move into center .....once again the OG is an issue.
Seems to me that it's time to focus on the issue with our reserve OG cadre. Kromer would have his hands full if these issues with our reserve OG's don't get better.
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Boni for right now I would guess Edwards is the backup for OG and RT. He looked solid on the edge and could probably settle in at RT without Boom needing to flip everything on the right side. But I would love to hear someone ask McVay that question.
Oh and I believe if Allen can't go at Center the backup is Neary. For now at least. But I don't think Blythe can cut it there, think it's too much for him to snap and line call in this offense. Our third string Center will end up on the PS I think too.
LT backup is Boom obviously. If they need him at LT it's a quick slide over to the edge vice working feet the opposite at RT. I know nothing fazes Boom, it's just that they have a guy who looks capable so I think they'd go that route first. But again these are the types of questions that media should be asking, vice dumbass questions about whether Goff is ready to become a leader etc.