As the NFL pre season enters its third week, fans are beginning to think about how the regular season will shape up. Although some so called experts will spend a great deal of time trying to convince us otherwise, it’s just too early to tell what’s in store, as NFL teams readily admit they haven’t yet implemented game plans for most pre-season games and most starters for the regular season have not played enough downs in the pre-season to add up to a full game, yet commentators insist on making wild speculations. If there is a sport that has its fans hoodwinked by what is reported, it has to be the NFL.
If you are wondering what’s in store for the Rams, here are a few observations: If they cannot block, there is no way to blame Sam Bradford or Jeff Fisher for running the ball too much in a pass oriented league. The offensive line is key this season and you have to really wonder how it will play out, as there are so many new players lacking any real experience. Line play is also in higher demand more now than ever before. Looking at the draft and where offensive tackles are placed, it’s normally before the highly touted and exposed running backs and quarterbacks. This game is about blocking and protection. If the Rams cannot excel in this area then it’s on to Blues hockey or something else that will keep our minds occupied, as this season will once again end up being a disappointment. One can only hope the off season training programs have proved fruitful, but as it stands now, we will have to wait until we start playing for keeps.
Defensively, the Rams like to boast about their vaunted pass rush. Some have even bought into the notion that they are reminiscent of the fabled, “Fearsome Foursome” from the team’s days in Los Angeles. At this point you have to wonder if there’s really anything of substance behind making such a comparison, as there is not one potential Hall of Famer on this line as we speak. In an era that has seen passing at an all time high, it should only be fitting that the sack totals should be up as there are more opportunities to get to the passer. With that being said, getting to the passer these days is a must and this is a definite strong suit for the Rams. The question is who else can play on defense so this team can improve? We have seen some players play hard on bad teams. Can they be better for good teams, or should I say playoff teams, because this is what it all comes down to? Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams knows what he is doing and he just needs the parts to be better. He may have the players, but they need polish. Stay tuned as, hopefully, he will fix it one way or the other.
So, this brings us to the upcoming game three of the pre season where everyone begins to take things more seriously with respect to having a game plan and playing time of the regulars. Remember the Rams are playing against the Cleveland Browns, a team that is also trying to find their way into the mix and who have their own set of problems, especially as to who will play quarterback. It will be the smallest of sample sizes of just what the Rams have for 2014 but the same can be said for most teams who are trying to turn the corner. The Rams will be a team that you have to watch if only because they have assembled a smart coaching staff and a few above average players. If they can coach up the rest and stay healthy, then it could be an entertaining season. My suggestion is stay tuned, stay patient and stay real on what you see and not what you have been told.
Double Standard??
I found it interesting that the University of Oklahoma suspended its number one prize recruit for the whole season for allegedly roughing up a woman. The player has not been convicted of the crime, but Oklahoma’s message is clear that the allegation and arrest is enough evidence for them. It is interesting that this player is done for the year while a similar situation existed with Baltimore Raven Ray Rice and the reprimand he got for giving his wife a going over was sitting out two games. I’m glad to see someone set an example the NFL can perhaps go by in the future.
Must watch TV
If you miss one of the NFL games this season then Keith Obermann on ESPN 2 is must watch TV. It is thoughtful in subject matter, brutally honest on issues and mildly funny if you get his humor. Make no mistake, Keith Obermann has been around and has worn out his welcome in some places, but this landing spot seems to be ideal for him and what he is all about. He’s clearly one of the most intelligent, smartest writers and the wittiest person on TV with respect to sports and in some other areas. He may come a quirk or two that may not have everyone all in, but if you want a change of pace from the run of the mill reporting on sports or a break from Sportscenter, Keith Obermann is a suggested alternative.
Richard “Onion” Horton
It was sad for me to hear the news that local radio veteran Richard “Onion” Horton is going through the stages of dementia, a progressively debilitating disorder with no cure. Onion opened the doors for people like me to get in this business. He and Morris Henderson were the first to ask, “Why not?” when it came to media equality and other issues in sports that required a view that was not white. Horton was his own man and never regretted a word he said when it came to exposing some for what they were and righting a wrong. With that came criticism that he could handle with the best of them. Stay tuned for more from me on the great Richard Horton.
