Here is proof that Rams defense has turned the corner that you've demanded

(4) - Rookie Omar Speights proves his run-stuffing ability

The coaching staff was very reluctant to even discuss the merits of giving undrafted LSU rookie inside linebacker Omar Speights a shot in this defense. Despite Speight's very impressive performance in preseason, the decision was made to start veteran ILBs Troy Reeder and Christian Rozeboom.

And the matter seemed to be decided, much to the chagrin of Rams fans, myself included. I don't know why, but I seem to lobby for the throwback defenders. The best inside linebacker is one who fears nothing, who sheds blockers and attacks the holes to meet runners head on. That is football worth watching. And yet, the coaching staff doesn't appreciate that type of linebacker.

Perhaps that is why the team doubled down on passive, pass coverage types. What I mean is that the team started both Reeder and Rozeboom, both possessing similar skillsets and presence on the defense. In 372 defensive snaps, Troy Reeder missed six tackles. In 318 defensive snaps, Christian Rozeboom missed six tackles.

In 22 defensive snaps, Omar Speights made every tackle.

If not for the injury to Reeder, we would remain in the dark about Speights proficiency. But he made a huge impact against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 8. And I expect that as long as he is on the football field, the Rams run defense will be significantly better.