Rams likely to add Westbrook; is that a good thing?
by Ryan Van Bibber on Aug 14, 2010 5:19 PM CDT
in St. Louis Rams news
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PrintIt sounds like Brian Westbrook will be the latest former Eagles player to join the St. Louis Rams. Westbrook gives the Rams experience behind Steven Jackson, who has dealt with injuries in the recent past and is someone the Rams would like to keep around for as long as possible.
Westbrook, given his familiarity with the offense and desire to play, will also be getting a few more carries on weekly basis than a true backup. Westbrook could get as many as 10-12 carries per game, or, to put it another way, he'll be taking the ball out of Steven Jackson's hands on some of those carries. To me, that's a move that has pros and cons.
On the plus side, saving wear and tear on Jackson is a good thing. Westbrook keeps SJ39 from having to bear the brunt of the abuse in the run game. The former Eagle also knows the system and adds another dimension to the Rams attack.
On the negative side of the ledger, Jackson's the best offensive weapon the Rams have. Why take the ball out of his hands any more than you have to? I realize the team won't be as one dimensional as the team last year, thanks to a certain rookie QB, but when Jackson's on the field, defenses pay attention. They have to. Thoughts?
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i doubt they will actually take the ball out of sjax's hands
remember the few times in a game when sjax would be involved in nearly every play and consequently had to come to the sidelines for a play or two and one of our weak backups would come in to stumble their way to a 2 yard gain? well i think westbrook will simply assume that role. and maybe he might take a FEW snaps away from jackson but in the long term that is great because he will probably play longer and finish out the season strong. besides westbrook aint too shabby. dont expect him to bust through the trenches for a big gain but i think he is still a valuable weapon for screens.
Oh hell no.
This is a move that HAD to be made. If it works out well, he will extend S-Jax’s career. If it’s handled well, it’ll make Steven’s carries more effective because he’ll be giving 100% on every carry. He does that anyway, but tired legs can’t be 100% effective.
"I was just letting the shots fly. You know, I don't leave any bullets in the chamber."
"Everything negative- pressure, challenges- is all an opportunity for me to rise."
" 'So what if I hit the wall?"
(Reporter): 'Why?'
'Because I'll run right through it."
-Kobe Bryant
I think Jackson will still get >25 carries every game.
He’ll still be the guy, the main offensive weapon, but he won’t be overworked like he has been, but his numbers will still be great and he’ll remain the best tailback in the NFC.
"I turn around and I’ve got Cueto kicking me in the back with his spikes. It’s super unprofessional. I don’t know where he learned how to fight."
-Chris Carpenter commenting on a bench-clearing fight with the Reds, 8/10/10
Agreed. I think if anything, given the breathers he will get...
…each of his carries will be more effective. Not only that, our offensive playcalling isn’t as predictable. The second Steven Jackson took a breather, the other team’s DC sent in the defensive backs because there was no way we’d run the ball anyway. That was sad because our receivers sucked as they were so extra DBs didn’t help.
This calms my anger over no RB drafted in our draft. I will be completely calm once I see Westbrook produce.
"I was just letting the shots fly. You know, I don't leave any bullets in the chamber."
"Everything negative- pressure, challenges- is all an opportunity for me to rise."
" 'So what if I hit the wall?"
(Reporter): 'Why?'
'Because I'll run right through it."
-Kobe Bryant
perfect fit
for a 3rd down back. not to take anything away from sjax but everyone knows westbrook has some of the best hands in the league as a back. also, like you said, his veteran presence and familiarity with the offense will also help so our 3rd down situations aren’t too bad now for sammy boy. anyway, ONE MORE HOUR!
Unleash King Sam #8
Saints
He needs to go to a contender. It would be a nice pick up for us if we are playoff bound. If i was westbrook i would head to the saints. Westbrook is one concussion away from retirement.
I sure hope
we get Westbrook, he has great hands and a great 3rd down back. Making this move would take a work load off of Jackson.
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