My initial thought about this blog was to take the approach that we shouldn’t be too fired up about the Rams win over Washington, that they made a ton of mistakes and that this win alone doesn’t necessarily bode well for the future.
Then I started thinking about it. It had been 706 days since the Rams last home win. The 30-16 win over Washington was the first home victory since 101 ESPN has been the voice of the Rams. In their last 699 days, the Rams had enjoyed the thrill of victory ONCE.
So this IS something to be fired up about. Sam Bradford had the weight of the offense placed on his shoulders, and performed brilliantly. After Steven Jackson’s injury, the rookie went 6-9 for 45 yards to close out the first half, with mistakes by others and a blocked field goal spoiling the effort.
The Rams scored on four of five second half possessions, with a touchdown and three field goals. Bradford went 17-26 for 191 yards, with no TD’s or interceptions after Jackson’s injury…a passer rating of 87.2.
Backup running back Kenneth Darby REALLY WAS a backup running back – gaining 49 yards on 14 carries with a touchdown. The offensive line allowed only one sack of Bradford, and very few hits.
The second half defense was incredible. After allowing a 56 yard pass to Santana Moss on the first play of the half, the Rams allowed just 47 yards with the game in doubt the rest of the way. Overall, the Rams allowed just 96 second half yards…including three 3-and-outs in a row.
In the second half, the Rams played winning football. Great football. They dealt with and overcame adversity. There’s something to build on. Seattle is coming to town next week, and the Rams MAY be playing for first place in the NFC West.
Why not be fired up?