Quick Takeaways from Rams vs Titans

Week 2 of the Rams preseason had its moments. Both good and bad. Here are some quick takeaways from the game.

1. Brandon Washington and Demetrius Rhaney should be nowhere near the first team offense

Tickle me surprised when these two trotted out with the first team offense manning the center and left guard spots. They should not have been out there for multiple reasons. Mainly, you want to protect Nick Foles the best you can because, and I’m sure I speak for every Rams fan, I am tired of watching backup QBs. While Foles wasn’t sacked he certainly did not have a clean pocket. Tre Mason also had nowhere to run. Barrett Jones and Andrew Donnal performed well with the second line group, give them starting reps. Rhaney and Washington are backups at best and it showed.

2. Case Keenum making his case for the backup job

While it was a pretty uneventful game on St. Louis’ side of things, Case Keenum had a solid showing. He got rid of the ball, made good decisions, and dropped an 80-yard dime to Chris Givens. Overall it was a good enough performance to make Keenum the favorite for the backup job.

3. Trey Watts and Malcolm Brown got game

These two young men stood out the most. Both had great games, providing a spark to the offense. Trey Watts, who is suspended the first four games of 2015, showcased great vision and agility gaining 53 yards on six carries. I tabbed Malcolm Brown as a player to watch Sunday night and he did not disappoint. Brown ran with purpose, rushing for 23 yards on four carries. They got it down in the air too with Brown posting 4-78 yards and a big man TD, watch here, while Watts caught 3-46 yards.

4. Lamarcus Joyner coming into his own

Aug 23, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; St. Louis Rams cornerback Lamarcus Joyner (20) breaks up a pass intended for Tennessee Titans wide receiver Kendall Wright (13) during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Joyner may be primarily a nickel corner, but he is growing into a pretty good one. He had a strong showing against Tennessee, making tackles and breaking up a couple of passes. Joyner’s development is a pleasant sign for St. Louis as it cushions the blow of losing EJ Gaines a bit more.

5. Jeff Fisher is still a popular guy in Nashville

After spending 16 years with the Oilers/Titans franchise, Jeff Fisher obviously holds a place of significance in Nashville. As head coach, he led the Titans to a Super Bowl appearance and two AFC Championship games. Sunday night was Fisher’s first time back in Nashville as a coach since 2010, so the Titans honored him before the game with a video montage and a standing ovation. Rams reporter Dani Klupenger posted footage of the pregame festivities.

Congrats Coach