Turf Show Times - 2015 Week 5: St. Louis Rams At Green Bay Packershttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/51333/tst-fav.png2015-10-16T12:15:02-05:00http://www.turfshowtimes.com/rss/stream/92339482015-10-16T12:15:02-05:002015-10-16T12:15:02-05:00Week 5 Rams HC Jeff Fisher Fan Approval Poll
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<figcaption>Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>It's time yet again to rate Jeff Fisher.</p> <p>Since this is a bye week, there is no hurry for you to express your love, hate, affection, dislike and other feelings towards Head Coach Jeff Fisher. But the time has finally come.</p>
<p>After the schedule was released, a 2-3 record was almost inevitable through the first five games. Some surprises did happen along the away: getting destroyed by Washington and beating Arizona in Phoenix are the two that jump out. I’m not too surprised by the outcome of the other three games: Seattle at home is always a close, tough game; <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> are a good team; <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> are…well, they’re still undefeated.</p>
<p>Heading into the bye week, how would you rate Jeff Fisher’s coaching performance? Remember: think of everything from the preseason until now, with a heavier emphasis on the last contest versus Green Bay.</p>
<p><b>Usual rankings:</b></p>
<p><b>1-Fire him</b></p>
<p><b>10-He invented sliced bread</b></p>
<p>The schedule from here out gets a little easier, for at least for the next couple games with home matchups versus beatable opponents in the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Browns</a> and the division rival <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a>.</p>
<p>We’ll be back to review Jeff Fisher’s performance after the Browns’ game, hopefully with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a> sitting at .500.</p>
<p>#HornsUp</p>
https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/16/9552617/st-louis-rams-jeff-fisher-hot-seat-fan-approvalSergey6062015-10-13T11:10:46-05:002015-10-13T11:10:46-05:00RB Todd Gurley Up For Week 5 Rookie Award
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<figcaption>Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Rams' starlet is up for the weekly rookie award for the second week in a row.</p> <p>A week ago, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a> RB <span>Just Todd Gurley</span> was <a target="_blank" href="http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/6/9462219/st-louis-rams-arizona-cardinals-todd-gurley-weekly-award">up for the Week 4 FedEx Ground Player Of The Week Award as well as the Week 4 Pepsi Rookie Of The Week Award</a>. While he <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nfl.com/voting/players-air-and-ground/2015/REG/4?campaign=tw-nf-sf13840894-sf13840894">lost the award for the best running back performance</a>, he did <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nfl.com/voting/rookies/2015/REG/4?module=HP11_content_stream_voting_pepsi#playerId:0ap3000000549940">pick up the rookie of the week accolade</a>.</p>
<p>Now for Week 5, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nfl.com/voting/rookies/2015/REG/5?campaign=tw-nf-sf14069159-sf14069159">he's been nominated for the Pepsi Rookie Of The Week for the second week in a row</a>.</p>
<p>The competition?</p>
<ul>
<li>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Green Bay Packers</a> CB <span>Quinten Rollins</span>: Rams fans saw this one for themselves as Rollins had two interceptions, one of which he took to the house in the Packers' 24-10 win.</li>
<li>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/">Seattle Seahawks</a> RB <span>Thomas Rawls</span>: Rawls exploded for 169 yards and a touchdown on 23 rushes in Marshawn Lynch's absence in the Seahawks' 24-27 overtime loss to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/">Cincinnati Bengals</a>.</li>
<li>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bucsnation.com/">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> QB <span>Jameis Winston</span>: A bit of a stretch here. Winston was efficient going 13 for 19 for 209 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions in the Bucs' close win over the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigcatcountry.com/">Jacksonville Jaguars</a>, 38-31.</li>
<li>
<a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/">Arizona Cardinals</a> RB <span>David Johnson</span>: Another stretch pick. Johnson had just three rushes for 6 yards...though fantasy owners certainly took notice as two of those runs went for touchdowns.</li>
</ul>
<p>So he's certainly got a shot coming off of his 159-yard, 30-rush workhorse effort. The lack of a touchdown and the fact the Rams lost don't help his candidacy.</p>
<p>Gurley didn't make the cut for <a href="http://www.nfl.com/voting/players-air-and-ground/2015/REG/5" target="_blank">the Week 5 FedEx Ground Player of the Week Award</a> with Rawls in the mix with <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> RB <span>Devonta Freeman</span> (27 rushes, 153 yards, 1 TD, 25-19 OT win over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington</a>) and Bucs RB <span>Doug Martin</span>(24 rushes, 123 yards, 2 TDs, 38-31 win over Jags) the three candidates there.</p>
<p>So <a href="http://www.nfl.com/voting/rookies/2015/REG/5?campaign=tw-nf-sf14069159-sf14069159" target="_blank">go vote for JTG</a>. Dude toted the rock 30 times. It's the least you could do.</p>
https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/13/9520761/st-louis-rams-green-bay-packers-todd-gurley-weekly-awards3k2015-10-13T10:00:05-05:002015-10-13T10:00:05-05:00Rams-Packers: Snap Counts, Playing Time
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<figcaption>Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Injuries to Chris Long, Rodger Saffold and Kenny Britt rearranged the playing time as did the emergence of Todd Gurley as a workhorse running back. Here's how the playing time settled out.</p> <h4>Offense</h4>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span>Greg Robinson</span></td>
<td>T</td>
<td>71</td>
<td>100.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Rob Havenstein</span></td>
<td>T</td>
<td>71</td>
<td>100.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Jamon Brown</span></td>
<td>G</td>
<td>71</td>
<td>100.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Nick Foles</span></td>
<td>QB</td>
<td>71</td>
<td>100.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Tim Barnes</span></td>
<td>C</td>
<td>70</td>
<td>98.59%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Tavon Austin</span></td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>55</td>
<td>77.46%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Jared Cook</span></td>
<td>TE</td>
<td>54</td>
<td>76.06%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Kenny Britt</span></td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>53</td>
<td>74.65%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Garrett Reynolds</span></td>
<td>G</td>
<td>52</td>
<td>73.24%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Todd Gurley</span></td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>45</td>
<td>63.38%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Stedman Bailey</span></td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>44</td>
<td>61.97%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Lance Kendricks</span></td>
<td>TE</td>
<td>39</td>
<td>54.93%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Cory Harkey</span></td>
<td>TE</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>28.17%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Benny Cunningham</span></td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>28.17%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Brian Quick</span></td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>28.17%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Rodger Saffold</span></td>
<td>T</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>26.76%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Tre Mason</span></td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>7.04%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Demetrius Rhaney</span></td>
<td>C</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>1.41%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The totals skew things a bit, as the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams" class="sbn-auto-link">Rams</a>' 71 offensive snaps was the highest of the season and by quite a bit; the previous high was 60 from the Week 1 win over the <a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Seahawks</a>. So Tavon Austin's 55 plays was a season high, his 77.46% work rate was a season low.</p>
<p>A big week for Stedman Bailey with only his second game over a 60% rate, the other being Week 2.</p>
<p>And Tre Mason is barely seeing the field anymore. Benny's the clear #2 behind Todd Gurley.</p>
<h4>Defense</h4>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span>T.J. McDonald</span></td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>62</td>
<td>100.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Rodney McLeod</span></td>
<td>FS</td>
<td>62</td>
<td>100.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Janoris Jenkins</span></td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>62</td>
<td>100.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Trumaine Johnson</span></td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>62</td>
<td>100.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>James Laurinaitis</span></td>
<td>LB</td>
<td>62</td>
<td>100.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Lamarcus Joyner</span></td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>53</td>
<td>85.48%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Aaron Donald</span></td>
<td>DT</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>80.65%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Mark Barron</span></td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>80.65%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>William Hayes</span></td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>43</td>
<td>69.35%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Robert Quinn</span></td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>39</td>
<td>62.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Michael Brockers</span></td>
<td>DT</td>
<td>38</td>
<td>61.29%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Eugene Sims</span></td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>29</td>
<td>46.77%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Nick Fairley</span></td>
<td>DT</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>43.55%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Akeem Ayers</span></td>
<td>LB</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>32.26%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Chris Long</span></td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>24.19%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Daren Bates</span></td>
<td>LB</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>12.90%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>While the Rams' offense saw the most work of the season on Sunday, the defense saw its lightest workload with just 62 snaps.</p>
<p>With OLB Alec Ogletree <a target="_blank" href="http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/4/9452611/st-louis-rams-at-arizona-cardinals-olb-alec-ogletree-will-require">out for a while</a>, CB Lamarcus Joyner and S Mark Barron were the two major recipients of his playing time share. Joyner hit a season-high 85.47% (previous high: Week 4 @ Arizona, 74.32%) while Barron came in at 80.65% (previous high: Week 4 @ Arizona, 70.27%).</p>
<p>With Ethan Westbrooks <a target="_blank" href="http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/11/9497275/st-louis-rams-green-bay-packers-inactives">among the inactives</a> and the Chris Long <a target="_blank" href="http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/12/9515041/st-louis-rams-news-chris-long-injury">injury as well</a>, it was perhaps surprising to see DE Robert Quinn hit a season-low work rate. That meant increased time for the recently returning DE Eugene Sims (season high 46.77%), DE Williiam Hayes (season high 69.35%) and DT Nick Fairley (season high 43.55%).</p>
<h4>Special Teams</h4>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><span>Daren Bates</span></td>
<td>LB</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>84.62%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Cody Davis</span></td>
<td>FS</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>84.62%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Cory Harkey</span></td>
<td>TE</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>57.69%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Benny Cunningham</span></td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>57.69%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Chase Reynolds</span></td>
<td>RB</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>57.69%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Bryce Hager</span></td>
<td>LB</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>57.69%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Cameron Lynch</span></td>
<td>LB</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>57.69%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Bradley Marquez</span></td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>57.69%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Demetrius Rhaney</span></td>
<td>C</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>38.46%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Jake McQuaide</span></td>
<td>LS</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>38.46%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Johnny Hekker</span></td>
<td>P</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>38.46%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>T.J. McDonald</span></td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>30.77%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Rodney McLeod</span></td>
<td>FS</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>30.77%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Greg Zuerlein</span></td>
<td>K</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>30.77%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Andrew Donnal</span></td>
<td>T</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>30.77%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Christian Bryant</span></td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>30.77%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Garrett Reynolds</span></td>
<td>G</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>26.92%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stedman Bailey</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>26.92%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Janoris Jenkins</td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>26.92%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Trumaine Johnson</td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>26.92%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aaron Donald</td>
<td>DT</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>26.92%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>William Hayes</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>26.92%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Robert Quinn</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>26.92%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Brockers</td>
<td>DT</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>26.92%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Greg Robinson</td>
<td>T</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>19.23%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rob Havenstein</td>
<td>T</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>19.23%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jamon Brown</td>
<td>G</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>19.23%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lance Kendricks</td>
<td>TE</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>19.23%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tavon Austin</td>
<td>WR</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>15.38%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eugene Sims</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>15.38%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mark Barron</td>
<td>SS</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>11.54%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Chris Long</td>
<td>DE</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>11.54%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Lamarcus Joyner</td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>2</td>
<td>7.69%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><span>Marcus Roberson</span></td>
<td>CB</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>3.85%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Chase Reynolds came right back in. And Christian Bryant certainly occupies a soft spot for the coaches.</p>
https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/13/9518981/st-louis-rams-green-bay-packers-recap-snap-counts-playing-time3k2015-10-12T19:43:38-05:002015-10-12T19:43:38-05:00Rams HC Fisher Monday Press Conference Transcript
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<figcaption>Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Here's what Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher had to say at his post-game press conference today.</p> <p><strong>(Opening Remarks)</strong><br> "First off, let me address <span>Chris</span>’s (<span>Long</span>) situation. We got good news – it’s not an ACL or MCL, so that’s good. We got good news. We feared the worst last night. Don’t know if he’s going to be available this week, for a couple weeks but the bye week comes at a good time. We’ll kind of go week to week on him. Don’t have any more information on <span>Rodger</span> (<span>Saffold</span>). We still have to do more tests, but right now he would probably be questionable for Cleveland. I thought <span>Garrett</span> (<span>Reynolds</span>) came in and played well for him. We’ve got depth there. We’ve got <span>Andrew</span> (<span>Donnal</span>), we’ve got <span>Cody</span> (<span>Wichmann</span>), and so we have a young group, so we’ll just kind of see where that goes as far as Rodger is concerned. Disappointed. It was the non…it was the other shoulder, the surgically repaired shoulder was his left, this is his right. The same thing that he had an issue with in the preseason. We’re hopeful we’ll get good news tomorrow. Beyond that, I think we’re in pretty good shape from an injury standpoint.<br> </p>
<div class="pullquote">As we talked as a staff: it’s first down offense, it’s second down offense and it’s third down offense. <span>- St. Louis Rams Head Coach Jeff Fisher</span>
</div>
<p><br> "Game-wise, I don’t think anybody – realistically speaking, outside this building – thought we had much of a chance to go into Lambeau and win based on the way they were playing. The difference is, is the people in the building - the players and the coaches felt like we had a good chance, if we played well. I think anybody that goes into Lambeau – the way they are playing right now – and turns the ball over four times, lucky not to give 40 or 50 points against that offense and that defense. Unfortunately for us, we turned it over twice inside the 10-yard line and we gave up a couple touchdown passes. But, there were some good things. Our issues right now are related to the passing game and getting off to a quicker start. As we talked as a staff: it’s first down offense, it’s second down offense and it’s third down offense. Like I’ve been saying, our first and second down offense has to get better. We need to get chunks, we need to create first downs and create opportunities. We were five-for-18 on third down in this game, and 18 third down attempts is not good. We have to bring that number down. We have a lot of stuff to work on. There were some good things, obviously, the run game was good against a good defensive front. It was good to see us settle in and get the ball going on the ground. Interceptions – four of them were unfortunate. They’re not all necessarily related to the quarterback, except he gets the blame for them. A receiver runs a wrong route, we have a protection problem, we have somebody slip, so everyone around <span>Nick</span> (<span>Foles</span>) has to play better, so we can play better in the passing game. Looking forward to the week. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday will be productive for us. We’re going to rest some people and we’re going to push some people. We’re going to work on some things."<br> <br> <strong>(On if Long’s injury is a sprain)</strong><br> "No, it’s not a sprain. It’s a little bit more than a sprain, I’ll give you more details, but it’s not ligament related. It’s technically a hyper-extension, but there’s some pain things he has to deal with over the next few weeks."<br> <br> <strong>(On if there is a concern that Saffold’s injury will require surgery because he dealt with it during the preseason as well)</strong><br> "That’s why we’re doing more tests, yes."<br> <br> <strong>(On some people being born with loose shoulder sockets and if that could be related to Saffold’s shoulder injury)</strong><br> "He’s a heavy lifter. He’s really strong, so I wouldn’t classify it as that. But, unfortunately, sometimes these things happen. Sometimes the shoulder will sublux either direction – forward or backward – when it usually goes out backward, then there’s some labral tear issues, so that’s what we’re looking at."<br> <br> <strong>(On if that’s why they added depth along the O-line)</strong><br> "That’s why we brought Garrett (Reynolds) in. That’s why we drafted Cody (Wichmann) and why we drafted Andrew (Donnal), and why we have <span>Darrell</span> (<span>Williams</span>) here. In the event that Rodger can’t go, the concern is, who steps in at tackle, in case there’s an issue. We know Garrett can step in, he’s played right tackle. I also have confidence in Darrell Williams being able to play left."<br> <br> <strong>(On TE </strong><span><b>Jared Cook</b></span><strong> stopping on the interception and if he should’ve kept going)</strong><br> "No."<br> <br> <strong>(On if Cook was sitting in a zone)</strong><br> "Yes. And that was the issue, that was when (OL) Rodger (Saffold) got hurt. That’s why he got the pressure. If Rodger doesn’t get hurt on the play and go down and put (T) <span>Rob</span> (<span>Havenstein</span>) in a tough situation on the ‘E-T game’ and we don’t get the penetration, then (QB) Nick (Foles) can step up and throw the comeback for a first down. That’s how close those things… that’s what happens in those situations."<br> <br> <strong>(On if Saffold got hurt when <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Packers</a> DE </strong><span><b>Datone Jones</b></span><strong> was splitting him and Havenstein)</strong><br> "Yes. So, when you talk about quarterback play, so many other things that are related to that. Now, in retrospect Nick said, ‘I should’ve taken the sack.’ He was hoping to step up and make that throw. Then he felt the pressure. Then he tried to get it to Cook. He didn’t see the outside defender."<br> <br> <strong>(On if T <span>Greg Robinson</span> got hurt the play before Foles threw the first interception and if he doesn’t get hurt then maybe the turnover doesn’t happen)</strong><br> "Were you in the offensive staff room today when we were grading the tape? That’s what I just described as far as they’re unfortunate, but you can’t put them all on the quarterback. In our meeting, our message today was everybody has to help the quarterback – everybody. And we will. And he’ll take charge, too."<br> <br> <strong>(On what he saw on the two red zone interceptions)</strong><br> "Basically, one was a tipped pass. It was no different than (LB) <span>James</span>’ (<span>Laurinaitis</span>) interception. Those things happen. Just unfortunate that they happen, they were contributing to the loss."<br> <br> <strong>(On if RB </strong><span><b>Todd Gurley</b></span><strong>’s 30 carries was more than he would have liked and if he would’ve liked to get RB </strong><span><b>Tre Mason</b></span><strong> in more)</strong><br> "We wanted to get Tre in more, it just didn’t happen. He will play more. I think 30 carries a game down the stretch is probably a little much for (Gurley). He’ll probably be one of those guys that get some rest this week."<br> <br> <strong>(On if there is a sweet spot for the number of carries for a guy like Gurley coming off of an injury)</strong><br> "No. 150 yards over the last two weeks is the sweet spot for me."<br> <br> <strong>(On if the number of carries was based on Gurley being the hot hand)</strong><br> "He feels good. Yeah, he feels good. In rushing offense, often times it takes a little to adjust to what the defense is doing based on formations and motions and things like that. I thought our offensive staff did a really good job the last couple of weeks adjusting and then identifying the runs that had a chance."<br> <br> <strong>(On the pass protection being good in the first few weeks and if there’s any reason why they seem to be widespread)</strong><br> "Well, we gave up three sacks. He had time, but we had too many hits. I’m going to credit their front. When (Packers LB) <span>Clay</span> (<span>Matthews</span>)… I mean, Clay is really disruptive regardless of where he comes from. They pressure the back, they pressure the A-gap with him, they rush him on the edge. Then you’ve got (LB <span>Julius</span>) <span>Peppers</span> and the rest of the group that can collapse the pocket pretty quickly, especially when it’s hard to hear. It’s one of those hard things that you go through on the road."<br> <br> <strong>(On if the offensive line is where he’d like them to be at this point of the season)</strong><br> "They’re way ahead of where I thought they’d be in the run game. I think we have some work to do in the pass game. Just in subtle techniques. It’s not a matter of having mental errors and things like that. They know what to do. The group has to work together. When (OL) Garrett (Reynolds) went in, it was kind of almost a settling factor in there. The guys almost seemed to settle down when Garrett went in there. That’s not a negative towards Rodger, but it just settled down for us, so we’ll see where it goes."<br> <br> <strong>(On how C <span>Tim Barnes</span> is doing)</strong><br> "Tim’s doing fine. He’s one of those guys that will probably get a break this week too. He’s played a lot of snaps. We played odd fronts and he’s had a big man line up on him for the last month. Timmy needs a little rest."<br> <br> <strong>(On playing more press coverage and if he liked how it turned out)</strong><br> "Yes, with the exception of two plays. But, when you’re playing (Packers QB) <span>Aaron</span> (<span>Rodgers</span>), he’s going to find somebody. We had a slip and then we had a technique error on the pick, but beyond that we challenged them and that was our philosophy, was to go in and challenge them. Make them hold the football knowing that the risk, the downside of that is that once you recognize it, which he does, then he can escape and he ended up being their leading rusher. I’d probably rather have Aaron running the football than throwing it. I don’t think it was a contributing factor, but it just shows you how good he is."<br> <br> <strong>(On how much RB Todd Gurley’s emergence helps the young offensive line with run blocking)</strong><br> "Well, yeah, I mean, Todd’s an outstanding back. (RB) Tre (Mason) could potentially be doing the same things. But, it helps. But we’ve still…we have to tie our run game now and do a better job of tying our run game to the passing game so we can make some plays down the field."<br> <br> <strong>(On the defense getting three turnovers off of Packers QB Aaron Rodgers)</strong><br> "They expected to. They said, ‘Let’s be the first team that goes in there and gets that first pick.’ I mean, you know with Aaron that you have to make a great play on the ball, which (CB) <span>Trumaine</span> (<span>Johnson</span>) did, or you have to get your hand on the ball and someone needs to catch the deflection. Then of course (DE) <span>Rob</span> (<span>Quinn</span>) had a great rush. They didn’t chip on him and Rob got a great take off and got the ball out."<br> <br> <strong>(On waiving RB </strong><span><b>Trey Watts</b></span><strong>)</strong><br> "Yeah, his exemption expired this afternoon. So, we’ll release him and we have every intention to bring him back to practice squad tomorrow."<br> <br> <strong>(On if he’s going to keep LB </strong><span><b>Alec Ogletree</b></span><strong> on the roster for another week)</strong><br> "Yes."<br> <br> <strong>(On if the short-term IR- Designation period begins when the player is injured or when the team makes the decision)</strong><br> "Until we start it. Correct."<br> <br> <strong>(On if the time clock of making the decision to move Ogletree to IR has begun)</strong><br> "No, until we start it."<br> <br> <strong>(On if waiting to make a decision on Ogletree buys him a little time) </strong><br> "Yes."<br> <br> <strong>(On if Ogleetree is any better)</strong><br> "Yeah, I mean, he’s better than he was a week ago, yeah. But he’s not close to playing."<br> <br> <strong>(On the reasoning behind waiting to decide to move Ogletree to IR or not)</strong><br> "He’s got a significant injury and he’s going to miss some time. So, we have a feel for how long the injury and when the return to practice and return to play date is. We’re going to wait to see if we need to use that designation for somebody else. That make sense? Okay."<br> <br> <strong>(On the situation going on at USC)</strong><br> "Yeah, I mean, we all are hopeful that Steve (Sarkisian) gets his life back together and gets things in order. It’s unfortunate. Sometimes the personal things affect the business. We all have to respect (USC Athletic Director) Pat Haden and (Senior Associate Athletic Director of Football) J.K. McKay and the decision that they’ve made and hope that they’re moving in the right direction and that ‘Sark’ can get things back together so he can get back on the sideline."<br> <br> <strong>(On what he thinks about the hits that QB Nick Foles took on Sunday)</strong><br> "Yes. One that I disagree with."<br> <br> <strong>(On the hit Foles took from Packers LB Clay Matthews)</strong><br> "Clay hit him with the crown of his helmet, right in the chest. But again, it goes back to the referee is the one who’s going to make that call and he doesn’t see the front of the quarterback because he’s to the throwing hand. So, (Referee) Brad (Allen) couldn’t see it. So, I clearly think it was roughing because of the crown of the helmet to the chest. But from his perspective, he couldn’t see the contact. So, it was kind of one of those things that happens. Sometimes you get those calls. Sometimes they’re right and sometimes they’re wrong."<br> <br> <strong>(On how Matthews came up the middle and sacked Foles)</strong><br> "We made a mistake. We had some issues with the coach to quarterback device and we should’ve been in shotgun. It was a screen pass. So, the ball comes out."</p>
https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/12/9515747/st-louis-rams-green-bay-packers-jeff-fisher3k2015-10-12T13:00:04-05:002015-10-12T13:00:04-05:00Man Crush Monday: Free Stedman Bailey
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<p>The Rams have plenty of high profile stars, but it was the lesser known (Nationally at least) that shined in Green Bay</p> <p>Another week, another misleading box score for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a>. They outgained the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> by a dozen yards and finally won the time of possession battle, but <span>Nick Foles</span>' horrid play undermined an otherwise outstanding game. That's the nature of the NFL though. You can have a dominant run game and defense, but you need everyone to play well.</p>
<p>That being said...there were some performances worth noting yesterday. You will more than likely notice the absence of Just Todd Gurley, who was again dominant. But I wanted to focus on the individuals who I think deserve more credit than they get on this team.</p>
<h3><span>Stedman Bailey</span></h3>
<p>Let me start by saying that I haven't always been a fan of Stedman. But he's always made the most of the opportunities and has earned a larger role in the offense. Yes 68 of his 73 yards yesterday came on a single play, but that accounted for over 50% of the Rams passing offense. That simultaneously tells you that the Rams passing offense was horrid and that Stedman was able to provide a spark.</p>
<p>He consistently gets 1st downs (67% of his completions have moved the chains this season), has some of the most reliable hands on the roster, and is a very capable possession receiver. But for one reason or another Jeff Fisher always bumps Bailey down the depth chart.</p>
<p>Memo to Fisher: It's time to put aside your connections from your days in Tennessee and free Stedman Bailey.<a target="_blank" href="http://espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/152712/stedman-bailey-finding-his-stride"> Let the man play</a>.</p>
<h3><span>Trumaine Johnson</span></h3>
<p>Tru had another impressive pick yesterday (sort-of). But there's no sense talking semantics here. He's playing for a contract and he's only making himself more desireable - and expensive - as he continues to play well. He's the lesser known of the Rams starting CBs, but he's also the more consistent. And the one I'd prefer them to keep if push comes to shove.</p>
<h3>Gregg Williams<br>
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<p>Williams isn't necessarily an unknown around the NFL like the two players are, but he's certainly working his magic with this Defense. It's not every day that a Defense forces <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> to turn the ball over 3 times. Or holds him to under 250 yards passing. But that's exactly what his defense did yesterday. And he deserves some credit for righting the ship after an couple of bumps in the road.</p>
https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/12/7257877/rams-packers-recap-stedman-bailey-trumaine-johnson-gregg-williams-underratedSean Wilkinson2015-10-12T12:58:01-05:002015-10-12T12:58:01-05:00Rams-Packers: Recap Perspectives
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<p>Heading into the Week 6 bye at 2-3, the Rams are looking at the soft spot in their 2015 schedule. Will they be able to take advantage?</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams" class="sbn-auto-link">St. Louis Rams</a> fell to the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Green Bay Packers</a> in Wisconsin yesterday, 10-24. <a href="http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/11/9500095/st-louis-rams-green-bay-packers-recap-box-score-summary" target="_blank">Despite another stellar performance from rookie RB </a><span>Just Todd Gurley</span><a href="http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/11/9500095/st-louis-rams-green-bay-packers-recap-box-score-summary" target="_blank">, the Rams struggled to put together any consistent offensive push</a>. Now headed into their bye week, the Rams get an extra week to prepare for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> and to heal up. They need it.</p>
<h4>Injuries</h4>
<p>The Rams got bit by the injury bug yesterday with DE Chris Long, G <span>Rodger Saffold</span> and WR Kenny Britt picking up injuries, though Britt was able to finish the game. And with some notable names <a href="http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/9/9489109/st-louis-rams-green-bay-packers-injury-report" target="_blank">on the injury report</a> and <a href="http://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/11/9497275/st-louis-rams-green-bay-packers-inactives" target="_blank">among the inactives</a>, the Rams are perhaps fortunate to hit the bye week this week.</p>
<h4>Performance Issues</h4>
<p>Well, the offense certainly has plenty. The run blocking was slow to develop, though by the second quarter it was at least sufficient to help JTG get going. The ultimate problem was that the Rams struggled to get anything else out of the offense. The pass blocking was poor, and that's perhaps being nice. It wasn't helped by playcalling that often left too few Rams blockers for Packers rushers. The wideouts struggled to create space when QB Nick Foles did have time. And as the game wore on and he struggled to find his targets in space on time, bad decisions and pressured throws added up to four interceptions. It was a comprehensive failure between the QB, his targets, his line and the coaching staff that's been all too familiar with an all too familiar result to boot.</p>
<h4>Standings</h4>
<p>Things are starting to shape up now that we're in the second quarter of the season. The Rams are now 2-3 in a somewhat underperforming NFC West. The <a href="https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Arizona Cardinals</a> lead the way at 4-1 after a comfortable win over the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Detroit Lions</a>. The <a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Seattle Seahawks</a> are at 2-3 along with the Rams and coming off of a disheartening 27-24 loss in which the <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cincinnati Bengals</a> scored 17 fourth quarter points to force and eventually win in overtime. And the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">San Francisco 49ers</a> have dropped to 1-4 with their fourth-straight loss, a tough 30-27 job against the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Giants</a> that saw a last second TD from QB Eli Manning to TE Larry Donnell do in the Niners.</p>
<p>Of course, there's a huge glut of seven 2-3 teams in the NFC West, so playoffs are still well too far down the road. You do, though, have a top tier of front runners with two 5-0 teams and two four-win teams out in front.</p>
<h4>Schedule</h4>
<p>Obviously, the bye stretches things out. The Rams get a very friendly four-game run thereafter with home games against the Browns and 49ers leading to a visit to Minnesota before coming home to take on the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Bears</a>. So while the loss to the Packers is disappointing, the opportunity ahead is a much bigger offer.</p>
<p>So now it's a week of a rest leading to a week of preparation against Cleveland for what the Rams have on tap. Time to rest up.</p>
https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/12/9509841/st-louis-rams-green-bay-packers-recap-summary3k2015-10-12T11:00:06-05:002015-10-12T11:00:06-05:00UPDATED: Rams vs Packers Notes and Recap
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<p>I woke up this morning hungry, but probably not as hungry as the Rams....</p> <p>Let's cut straight to the point, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a> let one get away. Against Washington they were flat out beat down in all facets. That was not the case against Green Bay. The Rams were the better team for three quarters. After a loss like that, they have to be hungry to get back on the field.</p>
<p>The Rams finished with more first downs, more yards, a better time of possession, and more plays ran. They held the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> to 86 rush yards on 26 attempts. They forced <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> to turn the ball over three times, two of which were interceptions at Lambeau Field.</p>
<p>There's no question about it, this game should have been a blow out and a shock to the world, but that can't happen with four turnovers, which was the difference in the game.</p>
<ul>
<li><span>Every rookie that comes out the gates blazing in their first season, can pretty much always expect to have that game at some point that reminds him that he is a rookie. That was the case for Frank Cignetti yesterday. Cignetti has called some really good games so far this season, but yesterday will probably end up going down as one of his worst called games of the year. Coming into the game the plan was run the ball and keep Rodgers off the field. He eventually got to that point, but it took far too long. In my pre-game prediction I noted that the screen game will come in handy big time in this game. This is because of the blitzing the Packers do. Cignetti did nothing to adjust to the blitz all game. The Packers were blitzing on roughly 80% of the snaps. Like the old saying goes, if it ain't broke don't fix it. There's two ways to neutralize the pass rush, one is running the ball, the other is quick passes. No quick pass carves up a blitz like a halfback screen. He didn't use this approach at all. Instead he had Foles drop back 33 times and look for intermidiate to deep shots off playaction. Stupid move rookie. This was a learning experience game, and his head certainly shouldn't be called for by a pack of angry fans. One thing I was happy to see, was the touch pass to Tavon. I have been waiting for this to be called since he was drafted. That play was a staple in the offense while he was at West Virginia and I always wondered why Schotty never tried using him some of the ways they did there. Glad to see Cig is doing just that.</span></li>
<li><span><span>Nick Foles</span> was absolutely horrible. Now I know what most people are thinking, well the line didn't block. There's no doubt the line had a rough day, but it wasn't as bad as it appears. When you go back and watch again, you see guys getting beat, but all of that pressure was not on them. The Packers were using the same blitz on the majority of the plays. They were sending seven guys more times than not. <span>Clay Matthews</span> was usually the seventh, and he came on a delay time and time again. As a quarterback it is also your responsibility to get the protection right, and to know where the free man is coming from. You then have two choices, audible or throw it to your hot. Foles did neither all day. He stood there and let the same blitz affect him over and over. He also consistently held the ball, and had his worst game from a pocket awareness stand point all season. Though from all stand points this was still his worst game. Three of his four interceptions was completely on his shoulders and as I said pre-game this is a very underrated secondary that will capitalize on your mistakes. The pick for six was on Cook. As I point out so often, he runs half ass routes, Foles threw to where he was going, but Cook inexplicably stopped running for no reason and the ball fell into the corners hands. The other three was completely on Foles. And while that one went for a pick six, it was not the most costly. The two picks in the end zone and on the five yard line was the actual difference in the game. Though with the run game cranked the way it was Cig probably should have never thrown it. A classic case of over thinking it. Those were horrible and completely unexplainable. What hurts the most is the interception thrown to <span>Lance Kendricks</span> should have gone to Tavon. Using the same route in the red zone he used to score his first touchdown vs Arizona last week, Austin was once again wide open in the middle of the field at the one yard line for a walk in touchdown. And pressure is no excuse, as this was one of the times he had time to go through his reads. To be honest, this was one of the top 3 worst games I have seen from a Rams QB since the 09 season. </span></li>
<li><span>The offensive line can't be blamed completely for the pressure. But that in no way means they had a good day. First off, I have been long past my limits for patience with Rodger Saffold. If he can't stay healthy find someone who can. I feel zero sympathy for him. Some people just don't have the body to handle the NFL. He appears to be one of them, so as I said when they resigned him, why waste the money? That's money that could have been spent on another veteran, a better veteran (because he's only average), and a healthy veteran. <span>Greg Robinson</span> looked like a lost kid. I saw some horrible technique and the inability to think quickly and react even faster. His most bone head play occurred on a blitz by Clay Matthews. He had blitz help from <span>Benny Cunningham</span> coming off the edge. For whatever reason he kick stepped deep and wide as if he had no help and the rusher was speed rushing to the outside. This left a gaping hole to the inside. Every linemen in the world is taught two things, never get beat inside, and never let someone cross your face unblocked. On a single play he had both happen to him. He might need to go back to guard, where he's not on an island and has to think so much. The mental side of the game is destroying him. <span>Rob Havenstein</span> was the best linemen the Rams had yesterday. He has in fact improved every week, and this was easily his best game. He was the one linemen that took care of business all game. Even my favorite guy <span>Jamon Brown</span> got put on his ass, twice. It was a rough day at the office. However the line showed up to run block and opened some gaping holes. Two of which should have gone for touchdowns. One on a Gurley run, and the other on a <span>Tre Mason</span> run, but both backs missed the holes. They'll kick themselves in film this week. </span></li>
<li><span>Speaking of <span>Todd Gurley</span>, how about this guy? I'm willing to bet right about now Jeff Fisher is asking himself "had I played him the way I am now against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a>, would we had won?" It just has to have crossed his mind at least once. Gurley missed two big holes by my count and that's fine, you're a rookie you're not expected to be perfect as the game hasn't completely slowed down for you yet. But I'll be damned if he isn't as close to perfect as a rookie can be. Again he was indeed <i>perfect </i>in blitz pick up for the second week in a row. Still some of the worst technique you can possibly have, but he's so big and so strong, those technicalities that normally would result in the guy getting beat and giving up a sack, are just stalemates. At this point Gurley has to be viewed as an every down threat, and needs to touch the ball 25 times a game. As the game goes he just gets better and better kind of like <span>Steven Jackson</span> used to do. On a side note, Rams fans should really take a moment to appreciate the run on running backs they have had decade after decade. It's the running back capital of the world. </span></li>
<li><span><span>Tavon Austin</span> was missed badly on two throws. The under-throw where he was streaking down the numbers. He had the corner beat by 2-3 yards. This was the perfect let it rip and watch him pull away position. Should have been a 70+ yard touchdown. But Foles under threw him by 2-3 yards putting it right in the corners bread basket. Should have been pick number five, but Tavon did a great job breaking it up. The other miss was the aforementioned route in the red zone. Austin now has five touchdowns through five games and he is still in pace for 16 for the year. He has evolved to the point where his impact on the game can not be ignored. Though I'm still waiting for 10 touches a game. If the Rams gave the ball to Tavon 10 times and Gurley 25 times every week, I get the feeling this could be a top 10 scoring offense. </span></li>
<li><span><span>Stedman Bailey</span> as I have said since the day his name was called at the draft, he needs to be starting. He routinely beats his man and has by far the best hands. Enough said.</span></li>
<li><span><span>Jared Cook</span>, cut his ass....</span></li>
<li><span>The defensive line lost for the first time yesterday. People can say all they want that Aaron Rodgers is just good at getting it out quick, which is true, but I saw several occasions where he did not. I saw multiple times one on one match ups and Rodgers held the ball, but the line couldn't get off blocks. There was also no discipline. One of the reasons I listed in my prediction for the Packers winning was I questioned if the team was disciplined enough to take away Rodgers greatest weapon. His legs. I said he's a master at using them to pick up third downs and keep the drive going. You have to keep him in the pocket. This did not happen often enough. He was their leading rusher picking up 39 of the biggest yards in the game. <span>Robert Quinn</span> used his trademark tomahawk chop to come up with yet another forced fumble and sack. And Michael Brockers made the best read of anyone all day slipping the block and doing what needed to be done on his sack, which was he took away his legs. Rodgers was setting up to take off again and Brockers read it and stayed on top of him, and got the sack. <span>Aaron Donald</span> and Brockers both did great stopping the run. But Donald was nowhere to be found in the pass game. In fact, I saw him beat pretty good in one on one situations several times. It's a friendly reminder that he is still only in year two, and as he said has room for growth to beat savvy vets. It's impressive this stands out for a second year player as it should be the norm. </span></li>
<li><span>The linebackers we're impressive. <span>Mark Barron</span> was great in his extended role. He looks like a natural fit at the traditional will backer position. I wouldn't be surprised if in free agency someone asked him to add 10-15 pounds and play there full time. <span>James Laurinaitis</span> had another great game again. He and Barron were filling lanes and checking out the backfield consistently. They allowed nothing combined. But please James, please please, I beg of thee, never ever do the Nae Nae again for a celebration. That had to have been a bet...</span></li>
<li><span>As for the secondary, well we have another hats off performance for <span>Janoris Jenkins</span>. Fans begged for it, and through five games they have received it. Jenkins has been a shut down corner. Rodgers didn't even want to attempt throwing at him. The one time he did, Jenkins was actually in position for the pick and Rodgers wisely sailed it out if bounds. There were two plays that resulted in touchdowns on the secondaries shoulders. The first was the slant route. I am still trying to figure out who this one was on. Pre-snap the receiver motions inside. <span>Trumaine Johnson</span> is over him, but when he motions inside you can see Johnson point to <span>T.J. McDonald</span> and tell him that's his guy now. But T.J. stayed with his previous cover. This left <span>Ty Montgomery</span> wide open for an easy score. Whether T.J. was supposed to go with him or not I don't know, because it was man coverage and some teams do indeed switch based off motions and some don't. The purpose of switching is to keep the defenders from running into each other when receivers are stacked like that which prevents separation. Because Johnson told him to take him I am placing the blame on McDonald. But again I can't say for sure if that was his responsibility. If it was indeed on Tru, he made up for it with another jaw dropping interception. The other touchdowns came when <span>Lamarcus Joyner</span> was simply beaten by the savvy veteran <span>James Jones</span> there's really not much to say, he was just beat. Oddly enough it was a similar situation to the first touchdown just discussed but to the opposite side of the field. Janoris had Jones but when the motion occurred he pointed to Joyner and they switched. Other than that the secondary was awesome. They displayed great tackling and actually didn't let anything deep beat them. There were two long touchdown passes but neither was a deep throw.</span></li>
</ul>
<p><font size="6"><span>Jeff Fisher has his work cut out for him. After the loss to the Steelers you could actually hear some finger pointing taking place followed by quick cover ups once they realized they let their frustration get the best of them and called out their teammates. You would hear things like "the offense got to do better" but then quickly try to add "and the special teams and defense as well".</span></font></p>
<p>Jeff Fisher has to take this down time to keep this team together. Some guys will be hungry to get back on the field after a disappointing loss, but some will have time to think. And that's where the finger pointing will begin to increase.</p>
<p>There's no denying the offense has been an Achilles heel for this team. But with Todd Gurley and Tavon Austin being legitimate threats on every play they have to be allowed to carry the weight. This teams greatest success this season at moving the ball, has come when it's in their hands.</p>
<p>The defense is playing like it's January and the offense is playing like it's August (3k eluded to this). But right now the offense needs to make like squashed tomatoes and catch up....</p>
<p> </p>
<p>UPDATE:</p>
<p>The initial Packers touchdown has been confirmed by Trumaine Johnson as his own fault. Coach Fisher has also confirmed this.</p>
<p><b>*******EDIT*******</b></p>
<p>The link to an example video of defenders subliminally calling out the offense did not attach. <a href="http://www.stlouisrams.com/videos/videos/One-On-One-with-Janoris-Jenkins/ce40484e-cbd2-4f2d-be34-954e5fb2d2ea">Here is the link itself</a>.</p>
https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/12/9505481/rams-vs-packers-notes-and-recapmisone2015-10-12T09:22:43-05:002015-10-12T09:22:43-05:00Rams Choke Vs. Packers: Q5 Recap
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<p>The Rams kept blowing chances to take another huge road win. In the end, it was just one...or two...or three...too many.</p> <p>Ouch. The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/st-louis-rams">Rams</a> loss to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> was one of the most painful of the season, largely because they SHOULD have won it. Multiple missed field goals? A pick six? A goal line interception? All these things contributed to a brutal road loss against the Green Bay Packers.</p>
<p>While Aaron Rodgers was relatively comfy in the pocket all game, <span>Nick Foles</span> was harassed constantly and he played poorly against it. The Rams offense moved the ball well, but couldn't punch in any points. As if that is a surprise.</p>
<p>When Aaron Rodgers gifts you three turnovers, you can't squander them.</p>
<p>The Rams did and payed the price.</p>
<p> </p>
<h3></h3>
<h3>OOH WATCH ME</h3>
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<span>Jared Cook</span> Wasteful Spending Watch</h3>
<p>Jared Cook received a game check for $312,500 for one catch, eight yards and multiple drops.</p>
<p> </p>
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<p><b>Nick Foles, QB</b></p>
<p>Foles likely had his worst game as a professional against the Packers. He did not have a good touch on the ball throughout the game and threw multiple interceptions when pressured. It's not all his fault - the offensive line needs to do a much better job protecting him - but he was brought in to not makes mistakes like we saw against Green Bay.</p>
<p>His throw behind <span>Lance Kendricks</span> (which resulted in one of his interceptions) effectively ended the game for the Rams.</p>
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<p><b><span>Todd Gurley</span>, RB</b></p>
<p>Outside of <span>Tavon Austin</span>, Gurley has been the one bright spot for the Rams. They leaned heavily on him against Green Bay while Foles was struggling and he delivered. He already leads all rookies in rush yards after a three week break to start the season.</p>
<p>It's incredibly unlikely to think he can keep up this pace, but throughout a sixteen game season, he'd end up with nearly 2,500 yards. That's...a lot.</p>
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<p><b>Jared Cook, TE</b></p>
<p>Jared Cook had a great game. JUST KIDDING! He was worthless.</p>
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<p><b><span>Trumaine Johnson</span>, CB</b></p>
<p>Both Jenkins and Johnson are in contract years and they have done a good job of boosting their bargaining power. Trumaine had a questionable interception, but an interception none-the-less. He nearly had another last week and can easily beat his career high with just one more.</p>
<p>He's shown great anticipation in short passing situations, which should help when the opponents try to neutralize the Rams pass rushing with quick throws.</p>
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<p><b><span>Stedman Bailey</span>, WR</b></p>
<p>Bailey has easily earned more snaps and given the struggles of almost every receiver, I'm not sure why he hasn't gotten more. He was punished for breaking the team rules a few weeks ago - maybe something is going on behind the scenes we don't know about?</p>
<p>Regardless, he's one of the only sure-handed wideouts the team has outside of Tavon Austin.</p>
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<h3>This is the End</h3>
<ul>
<li><span>Johnny Hekker had an incredibly impressive fourth down conversion, but the Rams couldn't capitalize on offense.</span></li>
<li><span><span>Greg Robinson</span> continues to struggle as a pass protector.</span></li>
<li><span><span>Jamon Brown</span> and <span>Rob Havenstein</span> have been improving quickly on the Rams offensive line. <span>Garrett Reynolds</span> struggled when inserted to replace the injured <span>Rodger Saffold</span>.</span></li>
<li><span><span>Greg Zuerlein</span> struggled to hit field goals. One was blocked and he missed two others. They were deep shots (one would have been a 63 yarder), but you have to wonder what would have happened if he had made them.</span></li>
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https://www.turfshowtimes.com/2015/10/12/9499073/rams-vs-packers-todd-gurley-aaron-rodgers-recap-quick-fiveEric Nagel