Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
The Rams played their best half of football this season when they pulled out to a 21-0 lead against the Dallas at before halftime. Unfortunately, NFL games have four quarters and the Rams were outscored 24-10 in the second half before falling 34-31 to the Cowboys. Let’s revisit our five keys to victory:
1.) Stuff Demarco Murray
The Rams did a great job against Murray in the first half, as they built their lead. The second half was a different story, as Murray gashed St. Louis on the ground and through the air. Several times he found a way to squirt through for positive yardage after being pinned in the backfield. He finished the day with 24 carries, 131 total yards and a touchdown.
2.) Get after Tony Romo
Though the Rams generated pressure at times, Romo avoided it easily. He stepped up in the pocket and sidestepped defenders while keeping his eyes downfield. The defensive line did force him to throw to WR Dez Bryant that resulted in a pick-six for CB Janoris Jenkins. Romo finished with a QB rating of 116.8.
3.) Stedman Bailey must contribute
WR Tavon Austin did not play, as expected. Stedman Bailey did nothing in his first action of the season. He had zero catches on the day.
4.) Keep the running game rolling
RB’s Zac Stacy, Benny Cunningham and Trey Watts were a solid committee on Sunday. The group finished with 120 yards on 26 carries. Stacy also had five catches for 54 yards. Watts got his first action of the season and looked good running the ball. RB Tre Mason was not activated for the game.
5.) Brian Shottenheimer must open up the offense
The Rams put up more points against Dallas (34) than their last two games combined (25). QB Austin Davis threw 42 times and ended up with 327 yards and three touchdowns. His best hookup in the game was a 51 yard bomb over the top of the defense to WR Brian Quick in the second quarter. The Rams put up points but their defense couldn’t bear down in the second half and Davis threw a critical pick-six that changed the momentum of the game.
Check back after the bye week for our Keys to Victory when the Rams take on the Philadelphia Eagles.