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Head coach Jeff Fisher wanted to give some of his players more reps with the starters, and it looks like those pesky soft tissue injuries are going to help things. The St. Louis Rams could be without a few key starters including Brandon Gibson and Rodger Saffold, says Jim Thomas of the Post-Dispatch.
Saffold has been sitting much of the last week with soreness in his leg. Quinn Ojinnaka will likely take his place on the left side, and Bryan Mattison figures to start at left guard. Jason Smith is playing, but Barry Richardson will be starting ahead of him.
The younger wide receivers should see plenty of looks from Sam Bradford. Danario Alexander is not expected to play, says Thomas. Brandon Gibson could be on the shelf as well after missing this week in practice. Steve Smith and Danny Amendola are unlikely to get a full workout, which means Brian Quick and Chris Givens could be the go-to guys for the Rams. Greg Salas and Austin Pettis will also be under scrutiny as they make their case for a spot on the roster.
Missing a game will do nothing to help Alexander get a shot at the final roster. We all know his talent is there, but his chances for developing into a full-time NFL receiver are seriously compromised by his inability to play or practice.
UPDATE: JT confirms the scratches.
WR Danario Alexander (hamstring) and DT Trevor Laws (knee) are official pre-game scratches for Rams.
— Jim Thomas (@jthom1) August 12, 2012
Also not in uniform today for Rams: C Scott Wells (knee), S Darian Stewart (hamstring), WR Brandon Gibson, and CB Bradley Fletcher.
— Jim Thomas (@jthom1) August 12, 2012