Steven Jackson, A Student And Teacher Of The Game

Steven Jackson has been the unprecedented  leader of the St. Louis Rams for nearly a decade. He is the old man among young boys, on what is currently the NFL’s youngest roster. Jackson is a student and a teacher of the game, exemplifying how to play the running back position through his actions on the field, as well as through his willingness to take a step back and analyze his eventual predecessors as they take  some much needed snaps during practice and in the exhibition games.

Here are some quotes from his post-practice press conference with the media after the jump…

Jackson on his role in the offense under OC Marty Schottenheimer:

• “Hopefully, you know, we can continue to grow as an offense. The guys on the outside develop, open it up so we can actually have more favorable boxes against the running game. But, I’m definitely going to get my opportunities, as well as Isaiah [Pead], and just continue to lead by example, that’s starting with the work ethic week in and week out”

On the offensive line situation:

• “You would like to have your starters start meshing in the preseason so they can get some footage and some game time underneath themselves, but we just got to take it one game at a time. Most importantly is health, and we got to make sure Wells is read to go for Detroit. Right now at right tackle, I’m assuming it will play itself out over the next two or three weeks”

On Coach Fisher’s reputation for “loving” the running back and the running game:

• “I’m expecting a heavy workload, I’m ready to go. That’s why I came in so eager and wanting to prove that I can do what I know [Coach Fisher] can do with other running backs. I want to be part of that elite group. All I can do is just be who I have been over the years and continue to try and just lead by example for my younger guys, especially with Isaiah now coming in to help me, just show him how to be a pro.”

On when the other running backs are on the field:

• “I’m very honed in on whats going on with the young guys. Believe it or not, after every series they ask me what I think, so I have to pay attention. But, you know, I actually learn from those young guys too as well. The more I can teach them, the more I can show them what I think is, you know, what can help. What I think may be flawed actually brings attention to myself to make sure I am working on the same thing and that I’m leading, not just preaching, but actually doing these things, so not only are they trying to work on it themselves, but seeing me do it routinely”