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The Rams are 2-0. That's likely in spite of a lot, considering that both games were won well after the starters had taken the bench. Overall, I think the trend is up (two victories will do that to you), but the Rams really need to shake off a lot of rust.
The team never was fast out of the gates though, so who knows.
The Quick Five
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Brian Quick, WR
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2 REC, 27 YARDS |
At this point, I'm not sure Quick will make the roster. He hasn't brought anything to the table during the preseason and there isn't any evidence to suggest he deserves time with the starters. The Rams receivers are lackluster, but Quick is more of a culprit than a victim. At this point, the team likely needs to move on, but with Spruce out and Marquez now injured, they'll likely be keeping a few players out of necessity rather than talent. |
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EJ Gaines, CB |
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| 4 TKL (3 SOLO) |
It was so good to see Gaines back on the field, having not played meaningful football for almost two years. The secondary as a whole struggled, but Gaines played about as well as you'd expect. His solid defense in the red-zone was especially welcome. Watch his play time next week to see if he can overtake Coty Sensabaugh. |
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Greg Robinson, OT
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Robinson still has a long way to go, but the offensive line as a whole has been impressive so far. The Rams have easily been able to run the ball (with just about anyone) which bodes well for Todd Gurley and company. Robinson graded out positive in both run blocking and pass protection according to PFF. That hasn't happened that often in the past, so kudos to GRob. |
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Matt Longacre, DE
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| 1 TKL |
Longacre has certainly come a long way. At times, he straight up mauled Eric Fisher, a former #1 overall pick by the Chiefs. If he continues his incredible play, the team is likely looking at their long-term replacement for William Hayes. Currently, it would already be a shocker if he didn't get any time during the regular season. |
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Malcolm Brown, RB |
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12 ATT, 68 RUSH YARDS 2 REC, 17 YARDS, TD |
No depth player was more impressive than Malcolm Brown. Physical all night, he had his way with the Chiefs defense. Not only did he bust out a few big runs, but he also made a spectacular reception from Jared Goff for the go-ahead score. He and Benny Cunningham are easily the two primary backups to Todd Gurley, but the Rams typically come into the season with a heavy group of RBs, so there's probably at least another spot to be had. |
Assorted Thoughts
- The Rams have quite a bit of depth on the defensive line. Cam Thomas played well and Quinton Coples improved after a shaky start. Hopefully if Ian Seau doesn't make the roster, he can join the practice squad.
- The wide receiver race is wide open because nobody is very good.
- Jared Goff played well, all things considered. He looks shaky and unsure of himself, but he continues to improve the longer he is on the field. I don't think he'll start the first game of the season unless he drastically improves, but he's trending up (slowly).
- How's that culture change going Jeff?
"We were the least penalized team in the preseason this weekend. It’s been a point of emphasis for us; we have to continue with it. And, as I mentioned, it’s a culture change and we just have got to keep the penalties down."