Ten Questions for the Rams in '09

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1. Can Steven Jackson stay healthy for the entire season??

The Rams have made no secret that Jackson is the cornerstone of the offense. In each of the last two seasons, #39 has missed four games--and the Rams have lost them all.

Even with missing those eight games, Jackson has still rushed for over 1000 yards in the last four seasons. Just as importantly, he has 211 receptions.

No other player on the team provides such a dual threat, and even with an impressive preseason, backup Samkon Gado is not the same type player defenses must account for.

2. Can the Rams stop the run??

Just as important as Jackson moving the ball for the offense, the Rams defense will have to show they can stop the run when they take to the field.

Last year, the Rams allowed 2475 yards on the ground-- worst in the league.

This year, a new scheme should provide more blitzing and pressure--but the stops still have to begin on the line. Adding 340lb+ Hollis Thomas should help in the rotation at tackle, as should rookie Darell Scott.

A difference should also result from the revamped LB corps of Chris Draft, James Laurinaitis, and Will Witherspoon. All three could play the middle and have the speed to swarm to the ball.

3. How soon does Jason Smith start on the offensive line??

Drafted #2 overall, big things are expected out of the Rams top pick--but how soon does that expectation become reality. There have been ups and downs as Smith is transitioning to the NFL--and the right side.

Working against Leonard Little in practice is a positive, as he goes against one of the best. However, it also shows how much the rookie still has to learn before he is trusted with protecting the quarterback.

Smith is working to improve his footwork and the veterans have been impressed with his approach and study habits. As he becomes more comfortable, Jason will be able to just react instead of thinking on plays.

The physicality and aggressiveness are there--and is especially evident in run blocking.

4. Will there be a pass rush??

Until his recent hamstring strain, Leonard Little had looked impressive in training camp and the preseason--regularly getting to the quarterback.

But as Little is now 34, his health and ability to play every down is a question. His 6 sacks tied with James Hall for the team lead last year, both need to get to the quarterback more. Chris Long needs to improve upon his total of 4 and Victor Adeyanju also needs more than just pressure from the edge.

Good news is that besides the d-line, expect a lot of blitzing from all positions in this new defensive scheme. Ken Flajole and Steve Spagnuolo will have players flying to the QB from all positions and angles.

While you want the line to produce, bottom line is keeping the quarterback under pressure and the Rams look to be improved on that front this season.

5. Who's going to catch the ball??

Donnie Avery opened a lot of eyes in his rookie year, but can he do even more this season?? A foot fracture hasn't helped, as Avery has been sidelined for much of camp. However, he's looked fast as ever in his return to practice.

Laurent Robinson has had quality--and quantity--of catches this preaseason and is showing why Billy Devanney originally drafted him in Atlanta. Keenan Burton, Ronald Curry, and Derek Stanley should round out the receiving game, which just needs to keep defenses honest in their playing of Steven Jackson.

Tim Carter could be a wildcard--as the veteran is regarded as the fastest player on the team, but has shown an inconsistency in his career to hang onto the ball.

6. Is the tight end finally going to be involved in the offense??

Randy McMichael believes the answer is yes and is all smiles. Fantasy players might do well in selecting #84 this season. Billy Bajema has surprised with his hands and offers that element besides his blocking. Also look for Daniel Fells to get some reps.

7. What about the return game??

Derek Stanley is getting more confident has he makes his return from knee surgery--starting to show more of his speed and moves on returns. Samkon Gado and Kenneth Darby are also getting some work there--as is Cord Parks. But don't rule out Donnie Avery, especially for punt returns.

8. Does Adam Carriker break out this season??

The ankle was healthy until the first scrimmage when it stuck in the turf and rolled. Carriker acknowledged it's been a setback missing so much time, but the ankle is getting stronger and he is becoming more involved in practice.

In this new scheme, Carriker is excited to be fixed at one tackle spot--instead of moving to as many as three different positions on a drive. The former top draft pick is ready to prove that he was the right selection two years ago.

9. Can Spags do it as a head coach??

His resume and reputation as d-coordinator have given him instant credibility with the team, but Steve Spagnuolo now has the chance to show he can do it as a head coach. How he manages the clock, uses his challenges, and other game issues will unfold--but thus far there appears to be no need for concern for his transition to the top.

10. Does Marc Bulger answer the critics??

A couple of years ago, he was a Pro Bowl quarterback and was rewarded with a new contract. Since then, a combination of injuries, poor blocking, and coaching changes have all affected his performance.

Gone are veteran receivers, but prior to his fractured pinky, Bulger seemed more settled in the pocket and had over 70 practices to work with Avery, Robinson, Burton, and the rest of his young receiving crew.

As noted above, a healthy Steven Jackson helps the passing game--and Marc Bulger.

Bulger has been logging extra time at Rams Park since January, going over the new scheme with Pat Shurmur and promises to be ready for the opener in Seattle.