The St. Louis Rams Dos and Don’ts: Atlanta Falcons

Since 1990, only 22 NFL teams (11.5 percent) have made the playoffs after starting 0-2. Expect the Atlanta Falcon players and fans to be extra hungry against an unpredictable, yet talented St. Louis Rams. Former Rams running back Steven Jackson, sailed off to the Falcons in hope of one day reaching the Superbowl. Imagine what will be going through his mind if the Rams pulled of a highly possible upset, to see the Rams advance to 2-0, while the Falcons drop to 0-2. This is what the Rams have to do if they are to start the season strong, this week against the Atlanta Falcons.

DOs

• Must rush the passer. After reviewing the Falcons and Saints game, it was evident that the Falcons offensive line was struggling against an average Saints front seven. Quarterback Matt Ryan dropped back only 42 times, but was highly pressured 52 percent of the time (18 quarterback hurries plus four quarterback hits on 42 dropbacks). Saints defense also managed to get three sacks. The NFL world knows how talented the Rams front seven is, so it is very possible for the Rams to put Matt Ryan under pressure over 50 percent of the time. If they can get those sorts of numbers, Rams will win.

• Stop Steven Jackson. For all of the Ram fans sake, we couldn’t watch our beloved Jackson run all over a franchise that he served so well in. Lets be honest, no one likes seeing their ex partner doing really well, same goes for Jackson this week.

• WIN! – If the Rams go 2-0, it will be the first time since 2001 season, which later led them to the Superbowl… Just saying.

DONT’s

• Do not play off zone coverage on defense. This killed the Rams last week against the Arizona Cardinals, allowing Carson Palmer to complete a massive 50 percent of their third down conversions. Matt Ryan and the Falcons offense will pick the Rams apart if this style of defensive play calling continues.

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