Rams' Third Down Struggles Top Jeff Fisher's List Of Things To Improve

Head coach Jeff Fisher wrapped up the shortest press conference in the history of the St. Louis Rams. Ok, we have no way of verifying that, but he took to the podium and got down to business on Monday afternoon. As expected, Fisher made it clear not to read too much into the preseason results, the score board itself. Nevertheless, he cited plenty of things for the team to work on in practice.

Fisher was pleased with the run blocking. The yards per carry don't really reflect that, but the Rams did run the ball well, especially Steven Jackson. A lighter, faster SJ39 averaged 4.3 yards per carry. Isaiah Pead had his moments, but he looked like a rookie struggling with life under the bright lights, a common phenomenon for rookies and something that is easily addressed.

The coach was mostly complementary of Sam Bradford too, describing him as accurate and decisive. Fisher also noted that the playbook was very limited on both sides of the ball, something that did not give the quarterback an opportunity to show everything fans would have liked to see. More than anything, it's a reminder that this team has to walk before it run ... or run before it can throw if you prefer.

As for the scoreboard, that had more to do with the team's third down struggles. Two penalties killed the first team offense on third down, a delay of game and a false start. The Rams converted just 5-of-13 third down attempts and 1-of-3 fourth downs. On the other side, the defense allowed the Colts to convert 11-of-15 third downs.

He went on to praise special teams play, particularly the punter, Johnny Hekker who put both punts inside the 20 and averaged more than 55 yards.

There should be plenty to watch for next week when the Rams take on the Chiefs.