Rams open 2015 with 34-31 OT win against Seattle

Sep 13, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald (99) celebrates with teammates after sacking Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (not pictured) during the second half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

The defense was on point all afternoon to the tune of six sacks and an interception. The front four of St. Louis had Russell Wilson’s number for a majority of the afternoon. Robert Quinn and Aaron Donald dominated the line for two sacks a piece. Michael Brockers and Chris Long were also a huge part of why running back Marshawn Lynch was held to under 75 rushing yards and out of the end zone completely.

Trumaine Johnson, starting in place of the injured E.J. Gaines, picked off Wilson in the first half. Unfortunately, Johnson would leave the game prior to halftime where he was evaluated for a concussion. He did not return. Marcus Roberson filled in for the injured Johnson and played very well. He had text book coverage on Seahawks tight end Jimmy Graham most of the second half, including a broken up pass in the end zone. Graham was extremely ineffective in the first half, but would end the day with six catches for 51-yards and a touchdown.

The Rams have a lot of positives they can take away from this game. Foles appears to be the real deal and could be the leader St. Louis has been searching for. Cunningham proved to be more than a suitable replacement for the injured Tre Mason as the team eagerly awaits rookie running back Todd Gurley, and while Cook was still the leading receiver on the day, Austin, Bailey and Britt were heavily involved in the passing game. St. Louis converted on third down 54 percent of the time, and only needed 55 plays to reach 352 total yards of offense. Seattle would need 79 plays to reach 343 yards of total offense.

Losing the turnover battle usually results in a loss in the NFL, but the Rams held pat and showed some character after two fumbles from Nick Foles and one more late in the game from Isaiah Pead that almost put the game out of reach for the Rams. Seattle was resilient and made adjustments as the game progressed, but obviously lacked that intimidating factor on defense they have possessed in past years. The addition of Graham at tight end was less than impressive and will take time to develop.

Week 2 will see the Rams travel to the East coast to play the Washington Redskins (0-1). The Redskins should prove to be an easier out for St. Louis after they failed to score more than ten points Sunday in a loss to the Miami Dolphins (1-0).