Rams win defensive duel

The defense that many thought that would propel the St. Louis Rams this season showed up on the road as the Rams beat the San Francisco 49ers 13-10. The maligned Rams defense came to life, harassing 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and hitting him repeatedly. A Rams defense that has only six sacks in their first seven games exploded for eight sacks and recovered a couple of fumbles. 

The win put the Rams at 3-5 with another road game this weekend against NFC West division leader Arizona Cardinals, whose record sits at 7-1. 

But, back to the win against the 49ers. The game had that rugged type of feel to it, which plays right into the hands of Coach Jeff Fisher and defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. The 49ers went 3 for 12 on third down conversions and the run game was neutralized. Frank Gore, who has amassed over 1,200 career yards versus the Rams, was held in check with only 49 rushing yards on 14 attempts. 

With the 49ers marching downfield late in the fourth quarter and practically standing on the goaline, they decided not to give their running back the ball. Was I surprised about that? Yes. That last possession the 49ers had the Rams on their heels. I had that feeling the Rams will find another way to lose. And it almost became a reality with the 49ers within striking distance of winning the game. Maybe, the 49ers were too overconfident. 

The Rams defense pitched a shutout in the second half of the game. This game was something that this defense can learn and build from. Gregg Williams called a great game and this victory might very well be the one most remembered by the right to tip my cap to them as well. 

This team never gives up and they play hard. But, can they be consistently good instead of ragged? 

For more Rams Roundup please subscribe to youtube.com/stlamerican video.