Rams Pull Together for Win over Tampa

Preseason Pick: WIN 26-23, 3rd in NFC West (5-10)
Actual Results: WIN 28-13, 3rd in NFC West (7-7-1)

The Rams are understandably downtrodden and disappointed, having lost their playoff hopes last week and officially losing all hope for the playoffs when the Vikings upset Houston. Despite all this, the Rams came out with one of their more dominating performances in the second half of the season, beating the Bucs in convincing fashion. Offense, defense, and special teams all contributed in an uplifting win that sets up nicely for next season, and more importantly, the season finale.

The offense came out firing on all cylinders, with Steven Jackson continuing to run like a madman and Sam Bradford performing well. An 83-yard touchdown pass from Bradford to Lance Kendricks early in the second half was the key moment of the offense this day. The O-line also continues to impress as it has all season long.

Defensively, the Rams were huge. A four interception effort (led by rookies Trumaine Johnson and Janoris Jenkins) contributed to a high quality day by the Rams defensive unit. The D-line was also impressive in two key fourth down stops. The Rams have been dominant all year on the defensive front, as evidenced by their second place in the league in sacks.

Overall, the Rams were very impressive, albeit slowing down in the second half. Continuity is key for the Rams, and they continue to push for a win. Playing too conservative has led to defeat in the past, and the Rams must not get back to that old habit. An interesting note I'd like to make, by the way, is that the Rams have been healthy throughout the year, for the most part. This has been a contrast to previous years where serious injuries have affected the Rams. Could a .500 season be an indication of the Rams only when mostly healthy? Only time will tell.

LOOKING AHEAD: Next week, the Rams visit Seattle at the friendly confines of CenturyLink Field. The Seahawks have been rolling opponents as they try to impersonate the great 1950 Los Angeles Rams. Despite the Seahawks' impressive performance against the Niners last week, the Rams should be able to give them at least some sort of a fight, due to their health. I still see a blowout in the midst, as the Rams have traditionally struggled against the Seahawks on the road. Despite that, a 7 win season is a vast improvement for a Rams team that looks to be a dangerous contender in the years to come.