Threads
-
To unlock all of features of Rams On Demand please take a brief moment to register. Registering is not only quick and easy, it also allows you access to additional features such as live chat, private messaging, and a host of other apps exclusive to Rams On Demand.
Ogletree makes no apologies, blows gasket in new role
- By CGI_Ram
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 14 Replies
http://www.ocregister.com/articles/ogle ... -play.html
Bonsignore: Rams LB Alec Ogletree makes no apologies for blowing a gasket in his new role
Aug. 26, 2016 Updated 5:59 p.m.
‘We pride ourselves on getting lined up correctly and being dominant and getting the other offense off the field,' says Rams linebacker Alec Ogletree, who has taken on new responsibilities this season as the team's defensive play-caller.
ED CRISOSTOMO, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
By VINCENT BONSIGNORE / STAFF COLUMNIST
DENVER – The on-field to-do list for Rams middle linebacker Alec Ogletree begins the moment the last play ends. And you’d probably be shocked if you knew exactly how little of it is devoted to himself .
Unless your current job includes management responsibilities.
If so, you can appreciate the challenges Ogletree faces now that he has added defensive play-calling to his job duties since switching to inside linebacker.
Or the headache and anger sometimes the result of trying to make sure everyone around you is doing his job. And how their ability to do so – or not – is a reflection of you.
It’s the complications of being responsible for yourself and a bunch of co-workers.
For Ogletree, that means hustling back to the line of scrimmage at the conclusion of the last play while digesting the next call from defensive coordinator Greg Williams – who is shouting in Ogletree’s ear from the sideline via walkie talkie transmission – then relaying the information to the rest of the defense and making sure 10 other players are lined up correctly and all operating on the same page both individually and collectively.
Then, at the very last second, shifting the focus back to himself.
Because, well, he’s got a job to do too.
Got all that?
“Yeah,” Ogletree says, laughing. “It can get frustrating at times.”
He can smile now only because the helmet is off, practice is finished and a late afternoon of relaxation awaits.
Keep an eye on him when the Rams play the Denver Broncos on Saturday, though, and you might get a different look.
If you watched last week’s “Hard Knocks” episode you know what I’m talking about.
Ogletree blew a gasket trying to get fellow linebacker Akeem Ayers to line up correctly just before a snap against the Kansas City Chiefs. Ayers was hopelessly out of position, and the Chiefs broke off a long play during their game-opening touchdown drive.
It was the second straight week the Rams defense let the opposing offense easily march down the field for a touchdown to start the game.
Ogletree, utterly fed up, let Ayers and everyone else around him on the sideline have it. It’s one thing to give up a touchdown, that happens. But for it to be the result of guys making silly mental mistakes and not being where they’re supposed to be is another thing entirely.
Eventually defensive end Robert Quinn interceded and calmed Ogletree down.
A few days later the fourth-year linebacker was a bit more tranquil about things, but no less serious.
He made no apologies for going ballistic.
“I felt it was needed,” Ogletree said. “That’s two weeks in a row we gave up touchdowns on opening drives. That’s something we don’t do and it’s something we can’t tolerate.”
Ogletree would have felt that way regardless. But he’s especially more sensitive to things now that he’s responsible for the Rams aligning and functioning correctly upon getting the play call from Williams.
It’s a new gig for Ogletree, who spent his first three years on the outside while James Laurinaitis called the defensive plays from his middle linebacker spot.
A new position and added responsibilities mean more shade on Ogletree. That sometimes means taking responsibility when teammates don’t line up correctly and the Rams give up big play as a result.
“It’s a reflection on me, Ogletree said. “And I do take it personal.”
Doesn’t matter one bit if it’s a preseason game.
“You definitely keep that in perspective,” he said. “But at the same time, you know, it’s simple stuff we’ve been working on. You just can’t mess that up.
“We pride ourselves on getting lined up correctly and being dominant and getting the other offense off the field. We want to create three and outs and turnovers and whatever we have to do to get out offense the ball. When we don’t do that it (stinks).”
Which is why it’s worth watching what the Rams do Saturday against the Broncos. It’s their last real dress rehearsal before the regular-season opener against the San Francisco 49ers, which means the starters likely playing into the third quarter.
The Rams defense, long regarded as the backbone of the team, has struggled a bit in two preseason games getting off the field on third downs and letting the Cowboys and Chiefs mount long touchdown drives. And that’s raised concerns considering starting cornerback Janoris Jenkins and safety Rodney McLeod created huge holes by bolting to the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles, and veterans Laurinaitis and Chris Long were released as part of a youth movement.
The Rams are confident they have the necessary pieces to replace the players lost, but until that’s definitively proven it’s a concern.
“It’ll be a good test for our early group in there,” Rams coach Jeff Fisher said. “I’d like to see the defense get off the field.”
That wasn’t the case against the Chiefs and Cowboys, who shoved the ball down the Rams’ throats to start both games.
“The things that have happened in the first half in a couple of these games have been very good correctable things that these guys have grown from,” Williams said.
Maybe so.
But Ogletree wants to see evidence of that as soon as possible.
Partly because he plays such an integral role in making sure that happens.
But also because he’s no longer afforded the luxury of viewing his job from an individual lens. Now more than ever, he’s connected to the rest of his teammates. Their failures are sometimes his failure. And it can be frustrating when objectives aren’t met.
“Because you know the potential that this defense has,” he said, “You want it to be perfect, because that’s what this defense can be.”
As Ogletree is finding, there’s some psychology involved in the pursuit of that perfection.
While yelling at some teammates works well, others require a more reassuring voice. As he gets more in tune with the various personalities, the communication should improve.
“Every guy is different,” he said. “So you have to look at each guy individually and figure out how they learn best and try to approach them in the right way to get them going.”
If you saw “Hard Knocks” this week, that sometimes means blowing a gasket.
It’s all in a day’s work.
Contact the writer: vbonsignore@scng.com
Bonsignore: Rams LB Alec Ogletree makes no apologies for blowing a gasket in his new role
Aug. 26, 2016 Updated 5:59 p.m.
‘We pride ourselves on getting lined up correctly and being dominant and getting the other offense off the field,' says Rams linebacker Alec Ogletree, who has taken on new responsibilities this season as the team's defensive play-caller.
ED CRISOSTOMO, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
By VINCENT BONSIGNORE / STAFF COLUMNIST
DENVER – The on-field to-do list for Rams middle linebacker Alec Ogletree begins the moment the last play ends. And you’d probably be shocked if you knew exactly how little of it is devoted to himself .
Unless your current job includes management responsibilities.
If so, you can appreciate the challenges Ogletree faces now that he has added defensive play-calling to his job duties since switching to inside linebacker.
Or the headache and anger sometimes the result of trying to make sure everyone around you is doing his job. And how their ability to do so – or not – is a reflection of you.
It’s the complications of being responsible for yourself and a bunch of co-workers.
For Ogletree, that means hustling back to the line of scrimmage at the conclusion of the last play while digesting the next call from defensive coordinator Greg Williams – who is shouting in Ogletree’s ear from the sideline via walkie talkie transmission – then relaying the information to the rest of the defense and making sure 10 other players are lined up correctly and all operating on the same page both individually and collectively.
Then, at the very last second, shifting the focus back to himself.
Because, well, he’s got a job to do too.
Got all that?
“Yeah,” Ogletree says, laughing. “It can get frustrating at times.”
He can smile now only because the helmet is off, practice is finished and a late afternoon of relaxation awaits.
Keep an eye on him when the Rams play the Denver Broncos on Saturday, though, and you might get a different look.
If you watched last week’s “Hard Knocks” episode you know what I’m talking about.
Ogletree blew a gasket trying to get fellow linebacker Akeem Ayers to line up correctly just before a snap against the Kansas City Chiefs. Ayers was hopelessly out of position, and the Chiefs broke off a long play during their game-opening touchdown drive.
It was the second straight week the Rams defense let the opposing offense easily march down the field for a touchdown to start the game.
Ogletree, utterly fed up, let Ayers and everyone else around him on the sideline have it. It’s one thing to give up a touchdown, that happens. But for it to be the result of guys making silly mental mistakes and not being where they’re supposed to be is another thing entirely.
Eventually defensive end Robert Quinn interceded and calmed Ogletree down.
A few days later the fourth-year linebacker was a bit more tranquil about things, but no less serious.
He made no apologies for going ballistic.
“I felt it was needed,” Ogletree said. “That’s two weeks in a row we gave up touchdowns on opening drives. That’s something we don’t do and it’s something we can’t tolerate.”
Ogletree would have felt that way regardless. But he’s especially more sensitive to things now that he’s responsible for the Rams aligning and functioning correctly upon getting the play call from Williams.
It’s a new gig for Ogletree, who spent his first three years on the outside while James Laurinaitis called the defensive plays from his middle linebacker spot.
A new position and added responsibilities mean more shade on Ogletree. That sometimes means taking responsibility when teammates don’t line up correctly and the Rams give up big play as a result.
“It’s a reflection on me, Ogletree said. “And I do take it personal.”
Doesn’t matter one bit if it’s a preseason game.
“You definitely keep that in perspective,” he said. “But at the same time, you know, it’s simple stuff we’ve been working on. You just can’t mess that up.
“We pride ourselves on getting lined up correctly and being dominant and getting the other offense off the field. We want to create three and outs and turnovers and whatever we have to do to get out offense the ball. When we don’t do that it (stinks).”
Which is why it’s worth watching what the Rams do Saturday against the Broncos. It’s their last real dress rehearsal before the regular-season opener against the San Francisco 49ers, which means the starters likely playing into the third quarter.
The Rams defense, long regarded as the backbone of the team, has struggled a bit in two preseason games getting off the field on third downs and letting the Cowboys and Chiefs mount long touchdown drives. And that’s raised concerns considering starting cornerback Janoris Jenkins and safety Rodney McLeod created huge holes by bolting to the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles, and veterans Laurinaitis and Chris Long were released as part of a youth movement.
The Rams are confident they have the necessary pieces to replace the players lost, but until that’s definitively proven it’s a concern.
“It’ll be a good test for our early group in there,” Rams coach Jeff Fisher said. “I’d like to see the defense get off the field.”
That wasn’t the case against the Chiefs and Cowboys, who shoved the ball down the Rams’ throats to start both games.
“The things that have happened in the first half in a couple of these games have been very good correctable things that these guys have grown from,” Williams said.
Maybe so.
But Ogletree wants to see evidence of that as soon as possible.
Partly because he plays such an integral role in making sure that happens.
But also because he’s no longer afforded the luxury of viewing his job from an individual lens. Now more than ever, he’s connected to the rest of his teammates. Their failures are sometimes his failure. And it can be frustrating when objectives aren’t met.
“Because you know the potential that this defense has,” he said, “You want it to be perfect, because that’s what this defense can be.”
As Ogletree is finding, there’s some psychology involved in the pursuit of that perfection.
While yelling at some teammates works well, others require a more reassuring voice. As he gets more in tune with the various personalities, the communication should improve.
“Every guy is different,” he said. “So you have to look at each guy individually and figure out how they learn best and try to approach them in the right way to get them going.”
If you saw “Hard Knocks” this week, that sometimes means blowing a gasket.
It’s all in a day’s work.
Contact the writer: vbonsignore@scng.com
GDT: Rams at Broncos
- By CGI_Ram
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 571 Replies
Login to view embedded media
View: http://www.therams.com/news-and-events/article-1/Practice-Report-825-Quinn-to-Make-Preseason-Debut-at-Denver/0b52cced-c602-4ff7-9a86-0ebcab314c60
QUINN TO MAKE HIS DEBUT
Last year’s Week 9 contest at Minnesota was the first time he’d ever missed an NFL game due to injury. It was the first Rams’ game he didn’t start since 2012. And after he tried to be effective in a pass-rushing role against the Bears in Week 10, the Rams shut Quinn down as he underwent season-ending back surgery.
“It sucked,” Quinn said after Thursday’s practice. “But I mean, it’s just an unfortunate accident. It happened, you just have to overcome it. It’s in the past, leave it in the past and try to make something happen this year.”
That process has been well underway since the start of the offseason program, as the team has brought Quinn along slowly. The defensive end mostly worked off to the side with trainers for the first couple of weeks, before participating in individual drills and a few team sessions. He’s been going full tilt since the start of camp, although there are days where the Rams back him off just a bit as a precaution.
“One of the biggest things you have to do with a competitor like him is hold him back,” defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said. “If we didn’t have the problem of holding him back, we have the wrong guy.”
Now, Quinn is set to make his 2016 preseason debut against the defending Super Bowl champion Broncos on Saturday night. Head coach Jeff Fisher said the plan is to have the D-lineman play for a couple series, and then in a few pass-rushing situations.
“I think I’ll have a few snaps, hopefully break that ice because it’s been a while since I really got out there,” Quinn said.
Everyone remembers Quinn’s spectacular 2013, in which he had 19.0 sacks. He wasn’t a slouch in 2014 either, coming away with 10.5 and going to his second consecutive Pro Bowl. And after playing through much discomfort last year, Quinn says he’s feeling more and more like himself once again.
“I’ve got to do a little bit extra just to be on the safe side,” Quinn said, giving credit to the training staff. “But every day, I feel pretty much rejuvenated.”
He’s also clearing the inevitable mental hurdle that comes with sustaining a season-ending injury.
“If you think about the injury, usually that’s when you kind of re-injure yourself. So I’m trying to just not think about it as much as possible,” Quinn said. “Of course, it’s a back surgery. It’ll get tight from time to time. But that’s around the time when we should start relaxing, cooling down — body starts settling. So, no, I don’t think it’s going to be anything to worry about.”
Saturday will be an important checkpoint in terms of performance and recovery for Quinn. And heading in, he’s feeling as if he’s returned to form.
“I feel like I’ve got the power back. I feel like I’ve got some explosion back,” Quinn said. “But, again, I haven’t played a game. So who knows where it’s truly at? Like I said, I feel great, but I guess the game will tell.”
EXTRA POINTS
— Fisher said generally, the Rams will add a series or two to what players did last week for playing time against Denver.
“There may be a few guys that participate in somewhat fewer snaps, but for the most part, we want to push this thing well into the second quarter, and we’ll go from there,” Fisher said.
Quinn, of course, would likely be an exception to that. And Todd Gurley
could be as well, as Fisher said he hadn’t yet decided how he’d distribute reps for the running back.
“I was really pleased with what he did last week — I really haven’t decided,” Fisher said. “He’s getting a lot of great practice reps. When we kick off against the 49ers, his reps in the preseason are meaningless.”
The quarterbacks will go through a similar plan, although starter Case Keenum is slated to see more time on the field. Keenum has played two series in each of the first two preseason games, and that number may increase to three or four depending on how the game goes. Jared Goff will come in from there, and Fisher said he would like to get Sean Mannion time this week as well.
OPPONENT BREAKDOWN
The Broncos finished the 2015 season the way every would have liked to — holding the Lombardi Trophy with confetti falling as Super Bowl Champions.
But the defending champs have experienced some turnover on their roster, particularly at the quarterback position, as last year’s starters Peyton Manning and Brock Osweiler retired and signed with the Texans, respectively. However the QB competition shakes out, Denver will likely remain a contender because of its top-tier defense.
AT A GLANCE
Executive VP of Football Operations/General Manager — and Hall of Fame quarterback — John Elway hired former Texans head coach Gary Kubiak to take over as head coach in order to push the team from contender to champion and the gamble clearly paid dividends in Year 1. Despite shaky quarterback play from both Manning and at times Osweiler, the Broncos compiled a 12-4 record and ran the table in the postseason to win the Super Bowl in Kubiak’s first year at the helm.
Despite coming into the Super Bowl as underdogs to the Panthers, the Broncos’ defense got sacks and forced turnovers en route to a 24-10 victory. Denver’s No. 1 unit allowed led the league by allowing only 283.1 yards per game and was No. 4 in points allowed at 18.4.
Clearly, there have been some changes to both the offense and defense with the defending Super Bowl squad. Defensive end Malik Jackson signed with the Jaguars. Offensive lineman Evan Mathis signed with the Cardinals. Linebacker Danny Trevathan signed with the Bears. And Osweiler famously went to Houston. ??But the club matched Miami’s offer sheet to re-sign running back C.J. Anderson and signed vaunted pass rusher Von Miller to a six-year deal in July after placing the exclusive-rights franchise tag on him.
Still, the quarterback situation provides the most intrigue heading into this year. Denver drafted Trevor Siemian in the seventh round of the 2015 draft, and he spent his rookie season mostly confined to the sideline. Veteran Mark Sanchez is now on his third team, having arrived via a March trade with Philadelphia. And the Broncos traded up for first-round pick Paxton Lynch, who has flashed in his preseason action, but may need significant time in order to become ready to start.
WHO MAY NOT PLAY?
Tight end Jeff Heuerman, who entered training camp as the starting tight end, has been dealing with a hamstring injury and appears unlikely to be ready for Saturday.
Defensive lineman Derek Wolfe has ben away from the team dealing with a family issue, and with the missed practice, may not play.
Outside linebacker Demarcus Ware is fresh off the NFI list this week, and as such is fairly unlikely to play. After back surgery, his goal has been to be ready for the regular-season opener.
WHO ARE PLAYERS TO WATCH?
The obvious answer here is the three quarterbacks: Siemian, Sanchez, and Lynch. Each has had his moments, but Siemian appears to have the inside track to becoming the Broncos’ starter for Week 1.
Siemian will start Saturday’s contest against the Rams. Kubiak declined to say who would come in second at quarterback, but at this point, it seems that both Sanchez and Lynch could be the backup to start the season.
Sanchez has played well in spurts, but he’s also fell victim to the turnovers that have plagued him throughout his career. Last week for instance, the USC product was in the midst of a good-looking two-minute drive, when he fumbled in the red zone. The 49ers recovered but turned it over themselves before Sanchez fumbled again. Those are the kinds of plays that could keep him out of the QB-1 role.
Lynch, on the other hand, just doesn’t seem to have the requisite experience needed to start from Day 1. That said, he has shown an ability to launch the ball all over the field with his arm strength. Plus, he’s displayed a proclivity for escaping a collapsing pocket and pick up yards with his legs.
QUINN TO MAKE HIS DEBUT
Last year’s Week 9 contest at Minnesota was the first time he’d ever missed an NFL game due to injury. It was the first Rams’ game he didn’t start since 2012. And after he tried to be effective in a pass-rushing role against the Bears in Week 10, the Rams shut Quinn down as he underwent season-ending back surgery.
“It sucked,” Quinn said after Thursday’s practice. “But I mean, it’s just an unfortunate accident. It happened, you just have to overcome it. It’s in the past, leave it in the past and try to make something happen this year.”
That process has been well underway since the start of the offseason program, as the team has brought Quinn along slowly. The defensive end mostly worked off to the side with trainers for the first couple of weeks, before participating in individual drills and a few team sessions. He’s been going full tilt since the start of camp, although there are days where the Rams back him off just a bit as a precaution.
“One of the biggest things you have to do with a competitor like him is hold him back,” defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said. “If we didn’t have the problem of holding him back, we have the wrong guy.”
Now, Quinn is set to make his 2016 preseason debut against the defending Super Bowl champion Broncos on Saturday night. Head coach Jeff Fisher said the plan is to have the D-lineman play for a couple series, and then in a few pass-rushing situations.
“I think I’ll have a few snaps, hopefully break that ice because it’s been a while since I really got out there,” Quinn said.
Everyone remembers Quinn’s spectacular 2013, in which he had 19.0 sacks. He wasn’t a slouch in 2014 either, coming away with 10.5 and going to his second consecutive Pro Bowl. And after playing through much discomfort last year, Quinn says he’s feeling more and more like himself once again.
“I’ve got to do a little bit extra just to be on the safe side,” Quinn said, giving credit to the training staff. “But every day, I feel pretty much rejuvenated.”
He’s also clearing the inevitable mental hurdle that comes with sustaining a season-ending injury.
“If you think about the injury, usually that’s when you kind of re-injure yourself. So I’m trying to just not think about it as much as possible,” Quinn said. “Of course, it’s a back surgery. It’ll get tight from time to time. But that’s around the time when we should start relaxing, cooling down — body starts settling. So, no, I don’t think it’s going to be anything to worry about.”
Saturday will be an important checkpoint in terms of performance and recovery for Quinn. And heading in, he’s feeling as if he’s returned to form.
“I feel like I’ve got the power back. I feel like I’ve got some explosion back,” Quinn said. “But, again, I haven’t played a game. So who knows where it’s truly at? Like I said, I feel great, but I guess the game will tell.”
EXTRA POINTS
— Fisher said generally, the Rams will add a series or two to what players did last week for playing time against Denver.
“There may be a few guys that participate in somewhat fewer snaps, but for the most part, we want to push this thing well into the second quarter, and we’ll go from there,” Fisher said.
Quinn, of course, would likely be an exception to that. And Todd Gurley
could be as well, as Fisher said he hadn’t yet decided how he’d distribute reps for the running back.“I was really pleased with what he did last week — I really haven’t decided,” Fisher said. “He’s getting a lot of great practice reps. When we kick off against the 49ers, his reps in the preseason are meaningless.”
The quarterbacks will go through a similar plan, although starter Case Keenum
is slated to see more time on the field. Keenum has played two series in each of the first two preseason games, and that number may increase to three or four depending on how the game goes. Jared Goff will come in from there, and Fisher said he would like to get Sean Mannion time this week as well.OPPONENT BREAKDOWN
The Broncos finished the 2015 season the way every would have liked to — holding the Lombardi Trophy with confetti falling as Super Bowl Champions.
But the defending champs have experienced some turnover on their roster, particularly at the quarterback position, as last year’s starters Peyton Manning and Brock Osweiler retired and signed with the Texans, respectively. However the QB competition shakes out, Denver will likely remain a contender because of its top-tier defense.
AT A GLANCE
Executive VP of Football Operations/General Manager — and Hall of Fame quarterback — John Elway hired former Texans head coach Gary Kubiak to take over as head coach in order to push the team from contender to champion and the gamble clearly paid dividends in Year 1. Despite shaky quarterback play from both Manning and at times Osweiler, the Broncos compiled a 12-4 record and ran the table in the postseason to win the Super Bowl in Kubiak’s first year at the helm.
Despite coming into the Super Bowl as underdogs to the Panthers, the Broncos’ defense got sacks and forced turnovers en route to a 24-10 victory. Denver’s No. 1 unit allowed led the league by allowing only 283.1 yards per game and was No. 4 in points allowed at 18.4.
Clearly, there have been some changes to both the offense and defense with the defending Super Bowl squad. Defensive end Malik Jackson signed with the Jaguars. Offensive lineman Evan Mathis signed with the Cardinals. Linebacker Danny Trevathan signed with the Bears. And Osweiler famously went to Houston. ??But the club matched Miami’s offer sheet to re-sign running back C.J. Anderson and signed vaunted pass rusher Von Miller to a six-year deal in July after placing the exclusive-rights franchise tag on him.
Still, the quarterback situation provides the most intrigue heading into this year. Denver drafted Trevor Siemian in the seventh round of the 2015 draft, and he spent his rookie season mostly confined to the sideline. Veteran Mark Sanchez is now on his third team, having arrived via a March trade with Philadelphia. And the Broncos traded up for first-round pick Paxton Lynch, who has flashed in his preseason action, but may need significant time in order to become ready to start.
WHO MAY NOT PLAY?
Tight end Jeff Heuerman, who entered training camp as the starting tight end, has been dealing with a hamstring injury and appears unlikely to be ready for Saturday.
Defensive lineman Derek Wolfe has ben away from the team dealing with a family issue, and with the missed practice, may not play.
Outside linebacker Demarcus Ware is fresh off the NFI list this week, and as such is fairly unlikely to play. After back surgery, his goal has been to be ready for the regular-season opener.
WHO ARE PLAYERS TO WATCH?
The obvious answer here is the three quarterbacks: Siemian, Sanchez, and Lynch. Each has had his moments, but Siemian appears to have the inside track to becoming the Broncos’ starter for Week 1.
Siemian will start Saturday’s contest against the Rams. Kubiak declined to say who would come in second at quarterback, but at this point, it seems that both Sanchez and Lynch could be the backup to start the season.
Sanchez has played well in spurts, but he’s also fell victim to the turnovers that have plagued him throughout his career. Last week for instance, the USC product was in the midst of a good-looking two-minute drive, when he fumbled in the red zone. The 49ers recovered but turned it over themselves before Sanchez fumbled again. Those are the kinds of plays that could keep him out of the QB-1 role.
Lynch, on the other hand, just doesn’t seem to have the requisite experience needed to start from Day 1. That said, he has shown an ability to launch the ball all over the field with his arm strength. Plus, he’s displayed a proclivity for escaping a collapsing pocket and pick up yards with his legs.
Please get me straight on OT Isaiah Battle
- By BonifayRam
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 34 Replies
Question here for all our members................Why has OT Isaiah Battle being placed on the final proposed 53 player roster by so many fans? I read often here & many other forums seeing him listed as the third swing OT over many other reserve OT's. I see my fellow members here having him assigned to the 53 player roster? I think what am I missing here I must be one dumb Ram fan. I just don't see it. I have not seen it. I have yet to see him take on any DE on the field in any NFL game regular season or pre season to this date.
The epic adventure of #1-OLT Greg Robinson is well posted about. Meanwhile I know a good amount about #2- OT Rob Havenstein who was the top rookie ORT last season. I have also consider myself a well informed fan on what #3- OT Rodger Saffold has done playing both OT positions for many seasons. I have seen #4- OT Darrell Williams last season in cameo series handle both of the OT posts in a actual NFL games & held his own without any issues, same can be said about both his pre season games this season. I watched rookie 4th rd. selection #5- OT Andrew Donnal last season as a rookie start 2 OL positions @ ORT & OLG & finish a game as the starter @ ORG post plus. I have observe Donnal in both pre season games mostly @ ORT but some ORG. Donnal has looked very much improved from last season & has played very well. I also seen rookie #6- OLT Pace Murphy play like a long time veteran making zero mistakes in both 3rd & 4th quarter action in both pre season games. Even #7 OT Swindle has looked good late in both pre season games @ ORT.
Now is it possible for someone tell me what our No#8 OT Isaiah Battle has done? & Why is do we have so many automatic projected assignments to the master 53 player roster? Can anyone take the time to help out this dumb clueless Ram fan & make a serious argument :rant:on the behalf of OT Isaiah Battle.
.
The epic adventure of #1-OLT Greg Robinson is well posted about. Meanwhile I know a good amount about #2- OT Rob Havenstein who was the top rookie ORT last season. I have also consider myself a well informed fan on what #3- OT Rodger Saffold has done playing both OT positions for many seasons. I have seen #4- OT Darrell Williams last season in cameo series handle both of the OT posts in a actual NFL games & held his own without any issues, same can be said about both his pre season games this season. I watched rookie 4th rd. selection #5- OT Andrew Donnal last season as a rookie start 2 OL positions @ ORT & OLG & finish a game as the starter @ ORG post plus. I have observe Donnal in both pre season games mostly @ ORT but some ORG. Donnal has looked very much improved from last season & has played very well. I also seen rookie #6- OLT Pace Murphy play like a long time veteran making zero mistakes in both 3rd & 4th quarter action in both pre season games. Even #7 OT Swindle has looked good late in both pre season games @ ORT.
Now is it possible for someone tell me what our No#8 OT Isaiah Battle has done? & Why is do we have so many automatic projected assignments to the master 53 player roster? Can anyone take the time to help out this dumb clueless Ram fan & make a serious argument :rant:on the behalf of OT Isaiah Battle.
.
-
Poll
Case Keenum, from two-star HS prospect to Rams starting QB
- By JKBOGEN
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 21 Replies
Case Keenum, from two-star HS prospect to Rams starting QB
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-...from-two-star-HS-prospect-to-Rams-starting-QB
August 25, 2016 | By: Jake Ellenbogen
Imagine growing up in one state, going to college in that same state and then playing football in the NFL for that state. Not common right? Well, that would be Case Keenum's football life in a nutshell.
Keenum was born in Brownwood, Texas. He stayed there as long as he could. He attended Wylie high school in Abilene, Texas. He started 42 games at Wylie and accumulated 6,783 yards and 48 touchdowns passing, On top of those lofty statistics he also racked up the rushing yards with 2,000 and 41 rushing touchdowns. He led his school to their only state championship in their history. While he seemed to be the total package at his school's standards he was just one of a million at the position.
The Texas QB was rated a two-star QB prospect by Scout.com and Rivals.com. The uncertainty about Keenum showed as only the local Texas teams seemed to even take a look at Keenum or maybe they were the only ones who even knew about him. He received interest from University of Texas El Paso, Baylor, North Texas and Houston. He ended up committing to Houston which was surprisingly the only school out of the bunch to offer Keenum a scholarship.
During his freshman year in 2006 Keenum had to take a backseat behind former NFL starter in his own right -- Kevin Kolb. Due to belief in Keenum, the coaches didn't want to waste anytime and decided to redshirt the freshman.
Kolb went on to the NFL to be drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles and that left a QB competition tied up between the redshirt Freshman Keenum and the Sophomore Blake Joseph who had been waiting in the wings a year before him. Keenum ended up winning the battle due to his superior pocket presence and accuracy even despite the fact he was completely outmatched by Joseph's athleticism and his superior arm strength.
In 2008 the next year Keenum would get into his groove throwing for over 5,000 yards in what was just the second time a Houston QB had accomplished such a feat. The guy before him? Not Kolb believe it or not it was David Klingler from the early 1990's. Keenum would also go on to lead the Cougars to their first bowl game win since 1980, he would also end up winning Conference USA Player of the Year.
The next season Keenum would continue throwing for a massive tally of yards. Unfortunately though come season's end the loss in the bowl game didn't really help his season. Keenum's Junior season ended up ending in horrible fashion, a torn ACL.
Keenum was granted another year of eligibility by the NCAA and he led his team to their best season going undefeated and then unfortunately losing in the conference championship game to an Austin Davis led Southern Mississippi squad. Sure, Keenum wanted the championship but his time with Houston wasn't over yet. He led Houston to a bowl game victory over Penn State in the Ticket City Bowl.
After his historic college career came to a close, Keenum signed with his hometown team in the form of the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent. Keenum was brought onto the practice squad but shortly after was promoted to the active roster. He would go on to start for the Texans in 2013 in relief for injured QB Matt Schaub and benched T.J. Yates. Head coach at the time Gary Kubiak was a big fan of Keenum.
The next season Kubiak was out and in was former Penn State coach Bill O'Brien. The Texans made a move to acquire the former Arkansas Razorback Ryan Mallett via a trade with the Patriots. Due to this acquisition Keenum was left as the odd man out and was waived, the Rams ended up claiming him off waivers. A couple months after the Rams made a trade for former first-round pick safety Mark Barron and to make room, Keenum was cut.
Read more...
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-...from-two-star-HS-prospect-to-Rams-starting-QB
August 25, 2016 | By: Jake Ellenbogen
Imagine growing up in one state, going to college in that same state and then playing football in the NFL for that state. Not common right? Well, that would be Case Keenum's football life in a nutshell.
Keenum was born in Brownwood, Texas. He stayed there as long as he could. He attended Wylie high school in Abilene, Texas. He started 42 games at Wylie and accumulated 6,783 yards and 48 touchdowns passing, On top of those lofty statistics he also racked up the rushing yards with 2,000 and 41 rushing touchdowns. He led his school to their only state championship in their history. While he seemed to be the total package at his school's standards he was just one of a million at the position.
The Texas QB was rated a two-star QB prospect by Scout.com and Rivals.com. The uncertainty about Keenum showed as only the local Texas teams seemed to even take a look at Keenum or maybe they were the only ones who even knew about him. He received interest from University of Texas El Paso, Baylor, North Texas and Houston. He ended up committing to Houston which was surprisingly the only school out of the bunch to offer Keenum a scholarship.
During his freshman year in 2006 Keenum had to take a backseat behind former NFL starter in his own right -- Kevin Kolb. Due to belief in Keenum, the coaches didn't want to waste anytime and decided to redshirt the freshman.
Kolb went on to the NFL to be drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles and that left a QB competition tied up between the redshirt Freshman Keenum and the Sophomore Blake Joseph who had been waiting in the wings a year before him. Keenum ended up winning the battle due to his superior pocket presence and accuracy even despite the fact he was completely outmatched by Joseph's athleticism and his superior arm strength.
In 2008 the next year Keenum would get into his groove throwing for over 5,000 yards in what was just the second time a Houston QB had accomplished such a feat. The guy before him? Not Kolb believe it or not it was David Klingler from the early 1990's. Keenum would also go on to lead the Cougars to their first bowl game win since 1980, he would also end up winning Conference USA Player of the Year.
The next season Keenum would continue throwing for a massive tally of yards. Unfortunately though come season's end the loss in the bowl game didn't really help his season. Keenum's Junior season ended up ending in horrible fashion, a torn ACL.
Keenum was granted another year of eligibility by the NCAA and he led his team to their best season going undefeated and then unfortunately losing in the conference championship game to an Austin Davis led Southern Mississippi squad. Sure, Keenum wanted the championship but his time with Houston wasn't over yet. He led Houston to a bowl game victory over Penn State in the Ticket City Bowl.
After his historic college career came to a close, Keenum signed with his hometown team in the form of the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent. Keenum was brought onto the practice squad but shortly after was promoted to the active roster. He would go on to start for the Texans in 2013 in relief for injured QB Matt Schaub and benched T.J. Yates. Head coach at the time Gary Kubiak was a big fan of Keenum.
The next season Kubiak was out and in was former Penn State coach Bill O'Brien. The Texans made a move to acquire the former Arkansas Razorback Ryan Mallett via a trade with the Patriots. Due to this acquisition Keenum was left as the odd man out and was waived, the Rams ended up claiming him off waivers. A couple months after the Rams made a trade for former first-round pick safety Mark Barron and to make room, Keenum was cut.
Read more...
Where are they now?: Rams castoff edition
- By JKBOGEN
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 4 Replies
Where are they now?: Rams castoff edition
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-post/2016/08/25/Where-are-they-now-Rams-castoff-edition
August 25, 2016 | By: Jake Ellenbogen
Many players have come and gone with the Rams but it's always interesting to see former players who were drafted by the Rams and what they do next. Surprisingly as mediocre as the Rams have been, teams like the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers covet our former players. Here is what our active ex-Rams are up to in the NFL.
Quarterback
Sam Bradford (2010 1st-Overall Pick) - Unfortunately Bradford turned out to be quite the bust due to the amount of injuries. The Rams traded him for recently released QB Nick Foles and a second-round pick that was used in the haul for the trade up to select Jared Goff. Bradford has been a solid quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles and was re-signed for another two years.
Ryan Fitzpatrick (2005 7th-Round Pick)- We know about "Fitzmagic" and what he brings to the table. The former Harvard grad drafted by the Rams, has had a solid career and currently starts for the New York Jets. He has thrown 48 touchdowns and only 23 interceptions over the last two seasons.
Garrett Gilbert (2014 6th-Round Pick) - Gilbert didn't make the roster for the opening season and has since gone on to win a super bowl with the Patriots. No, he had no part in winning that and is a free agent right now.
Running back
Isaiah Pead (2012 2nd-Round Pick)- Highly touted Cincinnati back Pead turned out to not be the heir to Steven Jackson like we all had hoped. Pead stuck on the roster for seemingly the fact he was picked so high. Eventually Pead would be let go and after being let go by the Steelers it appears Pead may have found a home in Miami. He has gone for 98 yards on 14 carries and even has shown some flexibility in the passing game making a catch for 30 yards in the first two preseason games. It appears Pead and the Rams have moved on and it's a little uplifting after his injuries and criticism in St. Louis, Pead looks to finally be nearing a roster spot in which he fully earned.
Daryl Richardson (2012 7th-Round Pick) - In that same draft Pead was taken in. Richardson stole Pead's thunder and outplayed him all the way through camp and into the regular season. Richardson was waived by the Rams in 2014 which started his three-team ricochet until finally staying with a team. The Steelers are liking what they are seeing out of Richardson and he could end up making the final roster.
Zac Stacy (2013 5th-Round Pick) - Stacy came off quite the rookie season almost eclipsing 1,000 yards on the ground. That shortly after went away as the Rams drafted Tre Mason who is just about gone from the Rams in the third-round of the next season's draft. After Stacy would end up tweeting "yikes" as the response to the Rams drafting Todd Gurley at no. 10 overall in the 2015 draft and Stacy was then dealt in that very draft for a seventh-round pick. Stacy has since been fighting for carries with the Jets but to no avail and he was recently cut by the Jets. Stacy still remains a free agent.
Wide Receiver
Chris Givens (2012 4th-Round Pick) - The field stretching speedster was traded last year in somewhat of a puzzling trade to say the least. He has the most receiving yards of any Jeff Fisher/Les Snead era WR they drafted. Givens signed with the Eagles this offseason which reunites him with old Rams teammate Sam Bradford. Givens is expected to be the team's slot receiver or fourth receiver.
Greg Salas (2011 4th-Round Pick) - Salas was never really given much of a chance to prove himself ended up getting traded to the Patriots his rookie season. After that he basically bounced around to multiple teams and suffered some season ending injuries along the way. The Buffalo Bills seem to have given Salas a home and they just extended his contract this offseason. Salas is looking at possibly becoming the starting slot receiver for the Bills.
Tight End
Michael Hoomanawanui (2010 5th-Round Pick) - Hoomanawanui looked like a solid tight end and flashed some potential at times but health was his downfall. He seemed to always be hurt. He was cut and shortly after he was picked up by the Patriots in which he went on to win a Super Bowl. The Patriots trading Hommanawanui to the New Orleans Saints for DT Akiem Hicks. He is mainly used at FB and as a blocking TE rather than the pass catcher he was presumed to be coming out of Illinois.
Offensive line
John Greco (2008 3rd-Round Pick) - Greco spent three years in St. Louis before being traded for a conditional 2012 draft pick. Greco ended up playing very well for the Cleveland Browns and has been there since the trade. He is a borderline pro bowl candidate every year.
Richie Incognito (2005 3rd-Round Pick) - He's the former training camp bully turned top five guard in the league. Incognito was drafted by the Rams. He had some serious talent but he was released because he couldn't control his anger, leading the penalties to fly. Incognito got picked up by the Buffalo Bills then was waived and became a Miami Dolphin then after that stint he took a year off to go back to the Bills and rank as the no.2 overall offensive guard in the league by Pro Football Focus.
Barrett Jones (2013 4th-Round Pick) - He bounced around some teams before joining the Eagles, the team he is on now. Is on the team's roster bubble at the moment.
Mitchell Van Dyk (2014 7th-Round Pick) - The Rams took a shot on the OL out of Portland State. They ended up cutting him the same year he was drafted. He went on to be picked up by the Steelers and now he is on the Indianapolis Colts roster.
Read more...
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-post/2016/08/25/Where-are-they-now-Rams-castoff-edition
August 25, 2016 | By: Jake Ellenbogen
Many players have come and gone with the Rams but it's always interesting to see former players who were drafted by the Rams and what they do next. Surprisingly as mediocre as the Rams have been, teams like the New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers covet our former players. Here is what our active ex-Rams are up to in the NFL.
Quarterback
Sam Bradford (2010 1st-Overall Pick) - Unfortunately Bradford turned out to be quite the bust due to the amount of injuries. The Rams traded him for recently released QB Nick Foles and a second-round pick that was used in the haul for the trade up to select Jared Goff. Bradford has been a solid quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles and was re-signed for another two years.
Ryan Fitzpatrick (2005 7th-Round Pick)- We know about "Fitzmagic" and what he brings to the table. The former Harvard grad drafted by the Rams, has had a solid career and currently starts for the New York Jets. He has thrown 48 touchdowns and only 23 interceptions over the last two seasons.
Garrett Gilbert (2014 6th-Round Pick) - Gilbert didn't make the roster for the opening season and has since gone on to win a super bowl with the Patriots. No, he had no part in winning that and is a free agent right now.
Running back
Isaiah Pead (2012 2nd-Round Pick)- Highly touted Cincinnati back Pead turned out to not be the heir to Steven Jackson like we all had hoped. Pead stuck on the roster for seemingly the fact he was picked so high. Eventually Pead would be let go and after being let go by the Steelers it appears Pead may have found a home in Miami. He has gone for 98 yards on 14 carries and even has shown some flexibility in the passing game making a catch for 30 yards in the first two preseason games. It appears Pead and the Rams have moved on and it's a little uplifting after his injuries and criticism in St. Louis, Pead looks to finally be nearing a roster spot in which he fully earned.
Daryl Richardson (2012 7th-Round Pick) - In that same draft Pead was taken in. Richardson stole Pead's thunder and outplayed him all the way through camp and into the regular season. Richardson was waived by the Rams in 2014 which started his three-team ricochet until finally staying with a team. The Steelers are liking what they are seeing out of Richardson and he could end up making the final roster.
Zac Stacy (2013 5th-Round Pick) - Stacy came off quite the rookie season almost eclipsing 1,000 yards on the ground. That shortly after went away as the Rams drafted Tre Mason who is just about gone from the Rams in the third-round of the next season's draft. After Stacy would end up tweeting "yikes" as the response to the Rams drafting Todd Gurley at no. 10 overall in the 2015 draft and Stacy was then dealt in that very draft for a seventh-round pick. Stacy has since been fighting for carries with the Jets but to no avail and he was recently cut by the Jets. Stacy still remains a free agent.
Wide Receiver
Chris Givens (2012 4th-Round Pick) - The field stretching speedster was traded last year in somewhat of a puzzling trade to say the least. He has the most receiving yards of any Jeff Fisher/Les Snead era WR they drafted. Givens signed with the Eagles this offseason which reunites him with old Rams teammate Sam Bradford. Givens is expected to be the team's slot receiver or fourth receiver.
Greg Salas (2011 4th-Round Pick) - Salas was never really given much of a chance to prove himself ended up getting traded to the Patriots his rookie season. After that he basically bounced around to multiple teams and suffered some season ending injuries along the way. The Buffalo Bills seem to have given Salas a home and they just extended his contract this offseason. Salas is looking at possibly becoming the starting slot receiver for the Bills.
Tight End
Michael Hoomanawanui (2010 5th-Round Pick) - Hoomanawanui looked like a solid tight end and flashed some potential at times but health was his downfall. He seemed to always be hurt. He was cut and shortly after he was picked up by the Patriots in which he went on to win a Super Bowl. The Patriots trading Hommanawanui to the New Orleans Saints for DT Akiem Hicks. He is mainly used at FB and as a blocking TE rather than the pass catcher he was presumed to be coming out of Illinois.
Offensive line
John Greco (2008 3rd-Round Pick) - Greco spent three years in St. Louis before being traded for a conditional 2012 draft pick. Greco ended up playing very well for the Cleveland Browns and has been there since the trade. He is a borderline pro bowl candidate every year.
Richie Incognito (2005 3rd-Round Pick) - He's the former training camp bully turned top five guard in the league. Incognito was drafted by the Rams. He had some serious talent but he was released because he couldn't control his anger, leading the penalties to fly. Incognito got picked up by the Buffalo Bills then was waived and became a Miami Dolphin then after that stint he took a year off to go back to the Bills and rank as the no.2 overall offensive guard in the league by Pro Football Focus.
Barrett Jones (2013 4th-Round Pick) - He bounced around some teams before joining the Eagles, the team he is on now. Is on the team's roster bubble at the moment.
Mitchell Van Dyk (2014 7th-Round Pick) - The Rams took a shot on the OL out of Portland State. They ended up cutting him the same year he was drafted. He went on to be picked up by the Steelers and now he is on the Indianapolis Colts roster.
Read more...
Nine possible surprise cuts the Rams would need to look at
- By JKBOGEN
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 18 Replies
Nine possible surprise cuts the Rams would need to look at
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-...-surprise-cuts-the-Rams-would-need-to-look-at
August 22, 2016 | By: Jake Ellenbogen
It's that time again. . .Players are about to be released from their teams and join new teams which could help out. Sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes for a player to reach their potential. Here are 12 players that I believe could be handed their walking papers. If this is the case the Rams would need to take a look.
JaCorey Shepherd, Cornerback, Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles were about to name their late round rookie JaCorey Shepherd the nickel corner. Well unfortunately the former Kansas star ended up colliding into teammate Darren Sproles in camp and he tore his ACL which would end his rookie season before it started. Now he is trying to come back and still hasn't been able to suit up in preseason so with a different coaching staff and not the one that originally drafted him. This could be the end of Shepherd in an eagles uniform.
The Rams are in dire need of finding talent at the CB position whether they want to admit it or not. The 23-year-old corner has the talent to be in the nickel spot which the Rams could look to bolster if Joyner and company continues to struggle.
Dee Milliner, Cornerback, New York Jets
The former first-round pick is treading in deep water and it's only a matter until he drowns. Milliner self proclaimed himself the best corner in the league and he has yet to show that he is a solid corner in the league yet. I think the Jets could end up cutting him. While you hear all the positive stuff in the world about Milliner in camp, you just don't see it on the field and thats a problem.
Again, the Rams are in need of talent at the CB position. While Milliner has struggled again a change of scenery could help him and especially playing more zone which is what Gregg Williams' defense does.
Marquess Wilson, Wide receiver, Chicago Bears
Interesting name here and I don't expect many to recognize it. Marquess Wilson is a 6-foot-4 206 pound wide receiver. He has been trying to come back from a fractured foot injury but the problem is guys are impressing during his time on the shelf. So Wilson figures to be cut.
Mike Groh is used to coaching this guy, Wilson is only 23 years old and with the size he has and being familiar with Groh. Wilson could pay off in a big way. This move would really signal the end of Brian Quick if it came after the final roster was decided.
Pierre Garcon, Wide receiver, Washington Redskins
A veteran possession receiver who is going downhill and being less a part of the offense in Washington.
Garcon could come in and be the no. 2 wide receiver alongside Kenny Britt. I don't think he's a guaranteed cut nor do I think Garcon would be a game changer but at this point he would be useful for a Rams team that are lacking big play wide receivers who can actually be a weapon instead of a liability with unreliable hands.
Brandon Coleman, Wide receiver, New Orleans Saints
Perhaps one of my favorite WRs just based off his size. I watched him at Rutgers he's 6-foot-6 220 pounds. He was a projected third-round pick by Mel Kiper on draft night back in the 2014 NFL draft. He is only 24-years-old and with his size and the way he flashed potential last season he could be a red-zone specialist if need be.
The Rams might be better off with trying Coleman out since none of the WRs vying for a spot have really done anything to stand out in game besides Nelson Spruce.
Read more...
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-...-surprise-cuts-the-Rams-would-need-to-look-at
August 22, 2016 | By: Jake Ellenbogen
It's that time again. . .Players are about to be released from their teams and join new teams which could help out. Sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes for a player to reach their potential. Here are 12 players that I believe could be handed their walking papers. If this is the case the Rams would need to take a look.
JaCorey Shepherd, Cornerback, Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles were about to name their late round rookie JaCorey Shepherd the nickel corner. Well unfortunately the former Kansas star ended up colliding into teammate Darren Sproles in camp and he tore his ACL which would end his rookie season before it started. Now he is trying to come back and still hasn't been able to suit up in preseason so with a different coaching staff and not the one that originally drafted him. This could be the end of Shepherd in an eagles uniform.
The Rams are in dire need of finding talent at the CB position whether they want to admit it or not. The 23-year-old corner has the talent to be in the nickel spot which the Rams could look to bolster if Joyner and company continues to struggle.
Dee Milliner, Cornerback, New York Jets
The former first-round pick is treading in deep water and it's only a matter until he drowns. Milliner self proclaimed himself the best corner in the league and he has yet to show that he is a solid corner in the league yet. I think the Jets could end up cutting him. While you hear all the positive stuff in the world about Milliner in camp, you just don't see it on the field and thats a problem.
Again, the Rams are in need of talent at the CB position. While Milliner has struggled again a change of scenery could help him and especially playing more zone which is what Gregg Williams' defense does.
Marquess Wilson, Wide receiver, Chicago Bears
Interesting name here and I don't expect many to recognize it. Marquess Wilson is a 6-foot-4 206 pound wide receiver. He has been trying to come back from a fractured foot injury but the problem is guys are impressing during his time on the shelf. So Wilson figures to be cut.
Mike Groh is used to coaching this guy, Wilson is only 23 years old and with the size he has and being familiar with Groh. Wilson could pay off in a big way. This move would really signal the end of Brian Quick if it came after the final roster was decided.
Pierre Garcon, Wide receiver, Washington Redskins
A veteran possession receiver who is going downhill and being less a part of the offense in Washington.
Garcon could come in and be the no. 2 wide receiver alongside Kenny Britt. I don't think he's a guaranteed cut nor do I think Garcon would be a game changer but at this point he would be useful for a Rams team that are lacking big play wide receivers who can actually be a weapon instead of a liability with unreliable hands.
Brandon Coleman, Wide receiver, New Orleans Saints
Perhaps one of my favorite WRs just based off his size. I watched him at Rutgers he's 6-foot-6 220 pounds. He was a projected third-round pick by Mel Kiper on draft night back in the 2014 NFL draft. He is only 24-years-old and with his size and the way he flashed potential last season he could be a red-zone specialist if need be.
The Rams might be better off with trying Coleman out since none of the WRs vying for a spot have really done anything to stand out in game besides Nelson Spruce.
Read more...
-
Poll
Los Angeles Rams Fantasy football preview
- By JKBOGEN
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 0 Replies
Los Angeles Rams Fantasy football preview
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-post/2016/08/18/Los-Angeles-Rams-Fantasy-football-preview
August 18, 2016 | By : Jake Ellenbogen
The L.A. Rams open up the regular season September 12th, and if you play fantasy football here is a look at the Rams from a fantasy football perspective.
Must-have Rams
Todd Gurley, RB - Well there is not much to say that has already said about the former Georgia product. The only debate fantasy wise is this, "Should you draft Todd Gurley number one overall?". I have the answer for you and the answer is yes and here's why:
Rams D/ST - Every year the Rams have a formidable defense and especially fantasy. The Rams have the best defensive line in all of football that should get you sack after sack. Hard-hitting players such as linebacker/safety Mark Barron, new starting safety Maurice Alexander and safety T.J. McDonald should force some fumbles during this season. Ball hawk shutdown corner Trumaine Johnson is coming off a breakout season in which he had seven interceptions. All in all this unit should net you a top five fantasy defense if they perform to their fullest.
Average draft position: 2nd-to-last round
Tavon Austin, WR - Austin has not been the most reliable fantasy option but he did enjoy a season in which he had ten total touchdowns. He also is looking at the same offensive coordinator Rob Boras calling the shots as well as respected new-comer former Bears WR coach now turned rams passing game coordinator and WR coach -- Mike Groh. Austin should end up having the rookie no. 1 overall pick throwing to him too so this could be the season Austin finally catches 100+ balls and flirts with 800-1,000 yards. If he does that he could be a highly coveted fantasy player.
Average draft position: 9th round
Tyler Higbee, TE - Make this pick towards the end of the draft and no one will know what you just did. Tyler Higbee might already be the best receiving option on the Rams. With a rookie quarterback in Jared Goff and an offense with heavy emphasis on tight ends Higbee could shine early on. He already has looked good in camp don't miss out on him when he becomes a waiver-wire steal halfway through the year. You are the only one who will think of drafting him so pull the trigger.
Average draft position: Undrafted
Rams to monitor
Jared Goff, QB - I personally would avoid him at all costs but maybe that's because I am superstitious and don't like having Rams QB's. Anyway Goff is a guy to monitor he most likely won't have a ROY season. However if he does explode be ready to scoop him up in free agency. I could see any scenario with Goff the issue is that rookie quarterbacks are often times hit-or-miss.
Read more...
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-post/2016/08/18/Los-Angeles-Rams-Fantasy-football-preview
August 18, 2016 | By : Jake Ellenbogen
The L.A. Rams open up the regular season September 12th, and if you play fantasy football here is a look at the Rams from a fantasy football perspective.
Must-have Rams
Todd Gurley, RB - Well there is not much to say that has already said about the former Georgia product. The only debate fantasy wise is this, "Should you draft Todd Gurley number one overall?". I have the answer for you and the answer is yes and here's why:
- He's the number one back on the team by a country mile
- He is going into the 2016 season fully healthy unlike last year
- Gurley is the obvious focal point of the Ram offense
- He is only going to improve with better QB play and that play can only go up from here
- The Rams will use Gurley in the passing game much more often
- If you are tied between Gurley and Peterson then your tie-breaker should be who you would rather root for. Well if you are a Rams fan then that is a no-brainer
Rams D/ST - Every year the Rams have a formidable defense and especially fantasy. The Rams have the best defensive line in all of football that should get you sack after sack. Hard-hitting players such as linebacker/safety Mark Barron, new starting safety Maurice Alexander and safety T.J. McDonald should force some fumbles during this season. Ball hawk shutdown corner Trumaine Johnson is coming off a breakout season in which he had seven interceptions. All in all this unit should net you a top five fantasy defense if they perform to their fullest.
Average draft position: 2nd-to-last round
Tavon Austin, WR - Austin has not been the most reliable fantasy option but he did enjoy a season in which he had ten total touchdowns. He also is looking at the same offensive coordinator Rob Boras calling the shots as well as respected new-comer former Bears WR coach now turned rams passing game coordinator and WR coach -- Mike Groh. Austin should end up having the rookie no. 1 overall pick throwing to him too so this could be the season Austin finally catches 100+ balls and flirts with 800-1,000 yards. If he does that he could be a highly coveted fantasy player.
Average draft position: 9th round
Tyler Higbee, TE - Make this pick towards the end of the draft and no one will know what you just did. Tyler Higbee might already be the best receiving option on the Rams. With a rookie quarterback in Jared Goff and an offense with heavy emphasis on tight ends Higbee could shine early on. He already has looked good in camp don't miss out on him when he becomes a waiver-wire steal halfway through the year. You are the only one who will think of drafting him so pull the trigger.
Average draft position: Undrafted
Rams to monitor
Jared Goff, QB - I personally would avoid him at all costs but maybe that's because I am superstitious and don't like having Rams QB's. Anyway Goff is a guy to monitor he most likely won't have a ROY season. However if he does explode be ready to scoop him up in free agency. I could see any scenario with Goff the issue is that rookie quarterbacks are often times hit-or-miss.
Read more...
-
Poll
Rams 53-man roster predictions: Preseason week two edition
- By JKBOGEN
- RAMS / NFL TALK
- 28 Replies
Rams 53-man roster predictions: Preseason week two edition
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-...roster-predictions-Preseason-week-two-edition
August 18, 2016 | By: Jake Ellenbogen
The Rams made it through week one of the preseason and now they will play their last game in L.A. until week two of the regular season against the Seattle Seahawks. After this game it will be time to cut the roster down to 75. Here is the updated regular season week one roster prediction as of preseason week two.
1.QB1: Jared Goff
2.QB2: Case Keenum
3.QB3: Sean Mannion
4.RB1: Todd Gurley
5.RB2: Benny Cunningham
6.RB3: Malcolm Brown
7.RB4: Chase Reynolds
8.WR1: Kenny Britt
9.WR2: Tavon Austin
10.WR3: Pharoh Cooper
11.WR4: Bradley Marquez
12.WR5: Nelson Spruce
13.WR6: Duke Williams
14.TE1: Lance Kendricks
15.TE2: Tyler Higbee
16.TE3: Cory Harkey
17.TE4: Temarrick Hemingway
18.LT1: Greg Robinson
19.LT2: Darrell Williams
20.LG1: Rodger Saffold
21.LG2: Garrett Reynolds
22.C1: Tim Barnes
23.C2: Eric Kush
24.RG1: Jamon Brown
25.RG2: Cody Wichmann
26.RT: Rob Havenstein
27.DE1: Robert Quinn
28.DE2: William Hayes
29.DE3: Eugene Sims
30.DE4: Quinton Coples
31.DE5: Ethan Westbrooks
32.DE6: Matt Longacre
33.DT1: Aaron Donald
34.DT2: Michael Brockers
35.DT3: Dominique Easley
36.MLB: Alec Ogletree
37.OLB1: Mark Barron
38.OLB2: Akeem Ayers
39.OLB3: Cameron Lynch
40.OLB4: Bryce Hager
41.CB1: Trumaine Johnson
42.CB2: LaMarcus Joyner
43.CB3: E.J. Gaines
44.CB4: Coty Sensabaugh
45.CB5: Marcus Roberson
46.CB6: Mike Jordan
47.FS1: Mo Alexander
48.FS2: Cody Davis
49.FS3: Christian Bryant
50.SS1: T.J. McDonald
51.K: Greg Zuerlein
52.P: Johnny Hekker
53.LS: Jake McQuaide
Notable roster cuts:
Aaron Green, Running back - This is only going to get tougher as the preseason moves along. Green has already looked like a back worth keeping.
Brian Quick, Wide receiver - Still don't see him making the roster. The emergence of guys like Nelson Spruce and hopefully Duke Williams will be too much for Quick to overcome.
Mike Thomas, Wide receiver - Thomas had a couple of drops week one or the preseason and as of right now Nelson Spruce poured on some pressure for the 6th round pick out of Southern Miss. We will see if Thomas can bounce back, if not he could be looking at practice squad stint at best.
Read more...
http://www.downtownrams.com/single-...roster-predictions-Preseason-week-two-edition
August 18, 2016 | By: Jake Ellenbogen
The Rams made it through week one of the preseason and now they will play their last game in L.A. until week two of the regular season against the Seattle Seahawks. After this game it will be time to cut the roster down to 75. Here is the updated regular season week one roster prediction as of preseason week two.
1.QB1: Jared Goff
2.QB2: Case Keenum
3.QB3: Sean Mannion
4.RB1: Todd Gurley
5.RB2: Benny Cunningham
6.RB3: Malcolm Brown
7.RB4: Chase Reynolds
8.WR1: Kenny Britt
9.WR2: Tavon Austin
10.WR3: Pharoh Cooper
11.WR4: Bradley Marquez
12.WR5: Nelson Spruce
13.WR6: Duke Williams
14.TE1: Lance Kendricks
15.TE2: Tyler Higbee
16.TE3: Cory Harkey
17.TE4: Temarrick Hemingway
18.LT1: Greg Robinson
19.LT2: Darrell Williams
20.LG1: Rodger Saffold
21.LG2: Garrett Reynolds
22.C1: Tim Barnes
23.C2: Eric Kush
24.RG1: Jamon Brown
25.RG2: Cody Wichmann
26.RT: Rob Havenstein
27.DE1: Robert Quinn
28.DE2: William Hayes
29.DE3: Eugene Sims
30.DE4: Quinton Coples
31.DE5: Ethan Westbrooks
32.DE6: Matt Longacre
33.DT1: Aaron Donald
34.DT2: Michael Brockers
35.DT3: Dominique Easley
36.MLB: Alec Ogletree
37.OLB1: Mark Barron
38.OLB2: Akeem Ayers
39.OLB3: Cameron Lynch
40.OLB4: Bryce Hager
41.CB1: Trumaine Johnson
42.CB2: LaMarcus Joyner
43.CB3: E.J. Gaines
44.CB4: Coty Sensabaugh
45.CB5: Marcus Roberson
46.CB6: Mike Jordan
47.FS1: Mo Alexander
48.FS2: Cody Davis
49.FS3: Christian Bryant
50.SS1: T.J. McDonald
51.K: Greg Zuerlein
52.P: Johnny Hekker
53.LS: Jake McQuaide
Notable roster cuts:
Aaron Green, Running back - This is only going to get tougher as the preseason moves along. Green has already looked like a back worth keeping.
Brian Quick, Wide receiver - Still don't see him making the roster. The emergence of guys like Nelson Spruce and hopefully Duke Williams will be too much for Quick to overcome.
Mike Thomas, Wide receiver - Thomas had a couple of drops week one or the preseason and as of right now Nelson Spruce poured on some pressure for the 6th round pick out of Southern Miss. We will see if Thomas can bounce back, if not he could be looking at practice squad stint at best.
Read more...