The Rams will get their season going against the Seahawks at noon on Sunday. Here are three keys to victory for St. Louis over the two-time defending NFC Champions.
1) Contain the ground game with Lynch and Wilson
The Seahawks were No. 1 last year in yards rushing and yards-per-carry, so their ground-game prowess is obvious. It’s a difficult task, but the Rams will have to keep both Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch in check.
When it comes to Wilson, that has to do with keeping what head coach Jeff Fisher called “rush integrity.” That means players on the defensive line must stay in their lanes and their gaps, and not allow Wilson to get a clear path to make plays with his feet.
As for Lynch, defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said on Friday the Rams will have to make sure they are tackling him low. The running back is so strong that he can shed tacklers with ease if they attempt to bring him down around the shoulders. If the defense can accomplish both of those tasks, it will help put the offense in position to be successful.
2) Be stout on the offensive line
It’s no secret St. Louis is a team that would like to run the ball well. In order to do so, the offensive line will be instrumental in establishing the ground game early.
It is a young group on the starting offensive line, which is made up of three new starters. From left to right,Greg Robinson
, Jamon Brown , Tim Barnes , Rodger Saffold , and Rob Havenstein make up the unit -- and only Robinson and Saffold were starters for the Rams last year. Barnes has four games of starting experience coming from 2013, while Brown and Havenstein are rookies.
Still, throughout the process of getting the line together, Fisher has expressed full confidence in not only the first-years, but also the veterans on the line. If the unit can get a good push on the Seahawks’ defensive line early and often, the Rams will be in good shape.
3) Get a big play on special teams
Keep in mind “big play” doesn’t necessarily mean “trick play.” The Rams have one of the best special teams units in the league even aside from what they can do with trickery.
For instance,Johnny Hekker can reverse the field with a strong punt. Greg Zuerlein expands field-goal range with the power he can generate. Benny Cunningham finished No. 1 in the NFC in kick return average in 2014. And Tavon Austin is one of the most dynamic punt returners in the league, as he’s shown on multiple occasions in the past.
If the Rams can use those elements of special teams to their advantage, that will certainly help the process of coming away with a win to begin 2015.
1) Contain the ground game with Lynch and Wilson
The Seahawks were No. 1 last year in yards rushing and yards-per-carry, so their ground-game prowess is obvious. It’s a difficult task, but the Rams will have to keep both Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch in check.
When it comes to Wilson, that has to do with keeping what head coach Jeff Fisher called “rush integrity.” That means players on the defensive line must stay in their lanes and their gaps, and not allow Wilson to get a clear path to make plays with his feet.
As for Lynch, defensive coordinator Gregg Williams said on Friday the Rams will have to make sure they are tackling him low. The running back is so strong that he can shed tacklers with ease if they attempt to bring him down around the shoulders. If the defense can accomplish both of those tasks, it will help put the offense in position to be successful.
2) Be stout on the offensive line
It’s no secret St. Louis is a team that would like to run the ball well. In order to do so, the offensive line will be instrumental in establishing the ground game early.
It is a young group on the starting offensive line, which is made up of three new starters. From left to right,
Still, throughout the process of getting the line together, Fisher has expressed full confidence in not only the first-years, but also the veterans on the line. If the unit can get a good push on the Seahawks’ defensive line early and often, the Rams will be in good shape.
3) Get a big play on special teams
Keep in mind “big play” doesn’t necessarily mean “trick play.” The Rams have one of the best special teams units in the league even aside from what they can do with trickery.
For instance,
If the Rams can use those elements of special teams to their advantage, that will certainly help the process of coming away with a win to begin 2015.
The Rams will take on the Seahawks to open the 2015 season at the Edward Jones Dome. Here are five players to keep an eye on in the year’s first contest.
1)Nick Foles - No. 5
It’s the first time the quarterback will play in a regular season game for the Rams, and that’s reason enough to watch him. Tight endJared Cook said Friday that over the course of the preseason, he came away impressed with Foles’ ability to keep plays alive with his feet.
“His timing in the pocket and the way he moves in the pocket is something that is pretty special, that you don’t see a lot with quarterbacks his size or his build,” Cook said. “I’m just excited to get out there and work with him on live reps this Sunday. It’s going to be fun.”
Foles has clearly established a strong rapport on and off the field with his receivers, and it should be nice to see that translate to the start of the “Real 16.”
2)Aaron Donald - No. 99
The 2014 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year was in midseason form in the third exhibition contest against the Colts when he stuffed three consecutive running plays. Fellow defensive tackleMichael Brockers said he’s noticed just how much better Donald has gotten playing inside.
“I’ve seen him improve his game so far, which is crazy, because he did so much last year,” Brockers said. “He is getting better and that is very scary for this season.”
Donald tallied 9.0 sacks and 17 tackles for loss in his rookie season. And if that’s not enough, it’s also Donald jersey rally towel giveaway day at the Edward Jones Dome. You don’t want to miss it.
3)Benny Cunningham - No. 36
WithTodd Gurley out and Tre Mason likely a game-time decision for Sunday’s game, Cunningham could get the bulk of the carries against the Seahawks. Head coach Jeff Fisher said on Friday the Rams should be fine in the backfield with Cunningham, Isaiah Pead , and Chase Reynolds .
“He’s had a really good week. His production speaks for itself,” Fisher said of Cunningham. “If Tre can’t go, Benny will go. Isaiah will go. Chase will go. We’ll be in good shape.”
Cunningham will also return kickoffs for the Rams. He finished first in the NFC last year in kick return average with 27.5 yards per return.
4)Robert Quinn - No. 94
Quinn has had his share of success against the Seahawks, racking up 8.0 sacks in his eight games against the club. On the whole, the Rams defense has sacked Russell Wilson 25 times in the six games the quarterback has played dating back to 2012. Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams has emphasized getting off to a fast start all throughout OTAs and training camp. Quinn and the rest of the Rams’ pass rush can see to the fulfillment of that goal on Sunday.
5)Tavon Austin - No. 11
Going back to the end of last season, Fisher has said it’s a priority to get Austin the ball in space. He once again made the point in this week’s edition of Fisher Up Front, where the head coach said he’s heard from different people around the league that Austin is regarded as one of the team’s biggest threats on offense.
Austin flashed a bit of that big-play potential with two screen plays in the preseason -- one against the Raiders and another against the Chiefs. He can impact the game in so many different ways offensively and on special teams, and it should be intriguing to see how he fares on Sunday afternoon.
1)
It’s the first time the quarterback will play in a regular season game for the Rams, and that’s reason enough to watch him. Tight end
“His timing in the pocket and the way he moves in the pocket is something that is pretty special, that you don’t see a lot with quarterbacks his size or his build,” Cook said. “I’m just excited to get out there and work with him on live reps this Sunday. It’s going to be fun.”
Foles has clearly established a strong rapport on and off the field with his receivers, and it should be nice to see that translate to the start of the “Real 16.”
2)
The 2014 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year was in midseason form in the third exhibition contest against the Colts when he stuffed three consecutive running plays. Fellow defensive tackle
“I’ve seen him improve his game so far, which is crazy, because he did so much last year,” Brockers said. “He is getting better and that is very scary for this season.”
Donald tallied 9.0 sacks and 17 tackles for loss in his rookie season. And if that’s not enough, it’s also Donald jersey rally towel giveaway day at the Edward Jones Dome. You don’t want to miss it.
3)
With
“He’s had a really good week. His production speaks for itself,” Fisher said of Cunningham. “If Tre can’t go, Benny will go. Isaiah will go. Chase will go. We’ll be in good shape.”
Cunningham will also return kickoffs for the Rams. He finished first in the NFC last year in kick return average with 27.5 yards per return.
4)
Quinn has had his share of success against the Seahawks, racking up 8.0 sacks in his eight games against the club. On the whole, the Rams defense has sacked Russell Wilson 25 times in the six games the quarterback has played dating back to 2012. Defensive coordinator Gregg Williams has emphasized getting off to a fast start all throughout OTAs and training camp. Quinn and the rest of the Rams’ pass rush can see to the fulfillment of that goal on Sunday.
5)
Going back to the end of last season, Fisher has said it’s a priority to get Austin the ball in space. He once again made the point in this week’s edition of Fisher Up Front, where the head coach said he’s heard from different people around the league that Austin is regarded as one of the team’s biggest threats on offense.
Austin flashed a bit of that big-play potential with two screen plays in the preseason -- one against the Raiders and another against the Chiefs. He can impact the game in so many different ways offensively and on special teams, and it should be intriguing to see how he fares on Sunday afternoon.
ST LOUIS -- The St. Louis Rams kick off the 2015 season at home Sunday versus the Seattle Seahawks at 12 p.m. CT. Tickets remain and can be purchased by clicking here, by calling 314-RAMS-TIX or at the Edward Jones Dome box office starting at 9 a.m. on Sunday. The game, which is sponsored by Edward Jones, will air on KTVI-FOX 2 in St. Louis. The game will also be broadcast on 101 ESPN. Below are some of the highlights taking place at Sunday’s game. For more information about the Rams game day experience, click here.
All fans in attendance will receive an Aaron Donald jersey rally towel. After being drafted in the first round of the 2014 Draft, Donald became the first Rams rookie to make the Pro Bowl since Jerome Bettis in 1993. Donald was also named the 2014 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year by the Associated Press and the Pro Football Writers of America, and made the NFL Network’s list of Top 100 players after finishing second among all NFL defensive tackles in sacks last season.
Rams to Honor 9-11 Hero
Fourteen years ago, our nation suffered an unspeakable tragedy when terrorists brought down the World Trade Center twin towers on 9-11. During the first quarter of Sunday’s game, the Rams will recognize an American hero, Port Authority Police Officer, Will Jimeno, who along with Sergeant John McLoughlin, was trapped under the rubble from the twin towers for 13 hours before being rescued. Jimeno and McLoughlin were the only two people to survive from under the World Trade Center after both towers fell. Their heroism and fight to stay alive was later portrayed in the movie, “World Trade Center.”
Fourteen years ago, our nation suffered an unspeakable tragedy when terrorists brought down the World Trade Center twin towers on 9-11. During the first quarter of Sunday’s game, the Rams will recognize an American hero, Port Authority Police Officer, Will Jimeno, who along with Sergeant John McLoughlin, was trapped under the rubble from the twin towers for 13 hours before being rescued. Jimeno and McLoughlin were the only two people to survive from under the World Trade Center after both towers fell. Their heroism and fight to stay alive was later portrayed in the movie, “World Trade Center.”
Rams to Recognize Wounded Warrior
In the second quarter, the Rams will recognize Brandonn Mixon during this week’s Soldier Salute presented by Boeing. Mixon, who grew up in Lees Summit, Mo., was deployed to Afghanistan with the 82nd Airborne brigade after September of 2011. Mixon was hurt in a helicopter accident. After rehabilitation Mion was medically retired and is now working with the Wounded Warrior Project providing services for disabled veterans.
In the second quarter, the Rams will recognize Brandonn Mixon during this week’s Soldier Salute presented by Boeing. Mixon, who grew up in Lees Summit, Mo., was deployed to Afghanistan with the 82nd Airborne brigade after September of 2011. Mixon was hurt in a helicopter accident. After rehabilitation Mion was medically retired and is now working with the Wounded Warrior Project providing services for disabled veterans.
Rams to Welcome Orlando Pace
During the third quarter, the team will recognize Rams legend and Super Bowl XXXIV Champion, Orlando Pace. Selected by the Rams with the first overall pick in the 1997 NFL Draft, Pace played for the Rams for 12 years and was a five-time All Pro and seven-time Pro Bowl selection. The cornerstone of the Rams offensive line, Pace blocked for three straight NFL Most Valuable Players: Kurt Warner in 1999 and 2001 and Marshall Faulk in 2000.
During the third quarter, the team will recognize Rams legend and Super Bowl XXXIV Champion, Orlando Pace. Selected by the Rams with the first overall pick in the 1997 NFL Draft, Pace played for the Rams for 12 years and was a five-time All Pro and seven-time Pro Bowl selection. The cornerstone of the Rams offensive line, Pace blocked for three straight NFL Most Valuable Players: Kurt Warner in 1999 and 2001 and Marshall Faulk in 2000.
Official Bud Light Tailgate Party at Baer Park
The Bud Light Tailgate Party at Baer Park is located on Broadway directly across from the Edward Jones Dome. Every 2015 home game will feature one of St. Louis’ top bands beginning this Sunday at 9 a.m. when Chingy, Murphy Lee and Huey take the stage. Fans can also enjoy appearances from Rams Cheerleaders and reduced pricing on food and beverages. Baer Park will also feature a mobile team store where Rams merchandise will be available for purchase, including NFL-approved all-clear Rams Tote bags.
The Bud Light Tailgate Party at Baer Park is located on Broadway directly across from the Edward Jones Dome. Every 2015 home game will feature one of St. Louis’ top bands beginning this Sunday at 9 a.m. when Chingy, Murphy Lee and Huey take the stage. Fans can also enjoy appearances from Rams Cheerleaders and reduced pricing on food and beverages. Baer Park will also feature a mobile team store where Rams merchandise will be available for purchase, including NFL-approved all-clear Rams Tote bags.
Rams Debut New Tailgate Areas
In 2015, the Rams will debut two new all-inclusive tailgate areas. The Touchdown Tailgate, located in the sundial on the south side of Baer Park, will feature unlimited food and drink, live entertainment and Rams Cheerleader appearances. The all-new Vivid Seats VIP Hospitality Tent, located in the parking lot directly south of Baer Park, will feature an all-inclusive tailgate brunch menu and beverage station provided by Gamlin Whiskey House and special guest appearances from select Rams personalities.
In 2015, the Rams will debut two new all-inclusive tailgate areas. The Touchdown Tailgate, located in the sundial on the south side of Baer Park, will feature unlimited food and drink, live entertainment and Rams Cheerleader appearances. The all-new Vivid Seats VIP Hospitality Tent, located in the parking lot directly south of Baer Park, will feature an all-inclusive tailgate brunch menu and beverage station provided by Gamlin Whiskey House and special guest appearances from select Rams personalities.
The Fun Continues in the Bud Light Party Zone and Budweiser Biergarten
Fans looking to enter the Edward Jones Dome early can enjoy the Bud Light Party Zone – the largest sports bar in St. Louis, which is available to all ticket holders. For early admittance to the Bud Light Party Zone and the Budweiser Biergarten, which is located outside of section 102, fans can enter gate C beginning at 10 a.m. All gates will open at 10:30 a.m.
Merchandise Specials for Sunday’s GameFans looking to enter the Edward Jones Dome early can enjoy the Bud Light Party Zone – the largest sports bar in St. Louis, which is available to all ticket holders. For early admittance to the Bud Light Party Zone and the Budweiser Biergarten, which is located outside of section 102, fans can enter gate C beginning at 10 a.m. All gates will open at 10:30 a.m.
- Rams fans will receive 50% off a hat of their choice when they purchase any jersey at regular price.
- Season Ticket Members will receive 15% off merchandise by showing their team-issued Season Ticket Member lanyard from Edward Jones.
- Rams Extra Points Credit Card holders receive 20% when using their card.
- AAA members receive a 15% discount in the Rams Team Store, located in Section 152.
Enhanced and Expanded Concession Offerings
In a continued effort to provide fans with an exceptional game day experience, the Rams and Delaware North have worked together on several new offerings including one of the lowest priced beers in the NFL at $5, a Kids Meal that includes a hot dog, juice, yogurt and toy for just $5 and signature menu items from popular local restaurants including Sugarfire Smoke House, Gamlin Whiskey House, The Peacemaker, and local supplier G&W hot dogs in several areas throughout the building. Sportservice will continue to partner with former Rams linebacker Will Witherspoon’s Shire Gate Farm to serve grass-fed ground beef burgers. Additionally, the Rams and Delaware North are excited to announce a comprehensive partnership with Tim Horton’s and will serve their premium hot chocolate and coffee throughout the Edward Jones Dome.
In a continued effort to provide fans with an exceptional game day experience, the Rams and Delaware North have worked together on several new offerings including one of the lowest priced beers in the NFL at $5, a Kids Meal that includes a hot dog, juice, yogurt and toy for just $5 and signature menu items from popular local restaurants including Sugarfire Smoke House, Gamlin Whiskey House, The Peacemaker, and local supplier G&W hot dogs in several areas throughout the building. Sportservice will continue to partner with former Rams linebacker Will Witherspoon’s Shire Gate Farm to serve grass-fed ground beef burgers. Additionally, the Rams and Delaware North are excited to announce a comprehensive partnership with Tim Horton’s and will serve their premium hot chocolate and coffee throughout the Edward Jones Dome.
Pointstreak 50/50 Game Day Raffle
The Rams Foundation is teaming up with Pointstreak 50/50 to deploy an innovative electronic 50/50 raffle system that will help raise charitable funds for non-profits in the bi-state region. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets until the 3rd quarter, with a winner announced in the 4th quarter. One lucky fan will win half of the game’s net proceeds with the remaining balance going to the Rams Foundation to support local charities.
The Rams Foundation is teaming up with Pointstreak 50/50 to deploy an innovative electronic 50/50 raffle system that will help raise charitable funds for non-profits in the bi-state region. Fans will have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets until the 3rd quarter, with a winner announced in the 4th quarter. One lucky fan will win half of the game’s net proceeds with the remaining balance going to the Rams Foundation to support local charities.
A Record-Number of Season Tickets for Local Charities and Schools
A record-number 38 Rams have purchased season tickets for local charities and school groups to attend 2015 Rams home games. Players participating in the “Rams All Community Team” ticket donation program include:Tavon Austin , Akeem Ayers , Stedman Bailey , Mark Barron , Daren Bates , Kenny Britt ,Michael Brockers , Jamon Brown , Jared Cook , Aaron Donald, Nick Fairley , Nick Foles ,Chris Givens , Todd Gurley , Corey Harkey, William Hayes , Johnny Hekker , Janoris Jenkins ,Lamarcus Joyner , Case Keenum , Lance Kendricks , James Laurinaitis , Chris Long ,Tre Mason , T.J. McDonald , Rodney McLeod , Jake McQuaide , Alec Ogletree , Brian Quick ,Robert Quinn , Greg Robinson , Rodger Saffold , Eugene Sims , and Greg Zuerlein . Head coach Jeff Fisher, general manager Les Snead, chief operating officer/executive vice president of football operations Kevin Demoff and former Rams great Isaac Bruce are also participating in the program.
NFL Bag PolicyA record-number 38 Rams have purchased season tickets for local charities and school groups to attend 2015 Rams home games. Players participating in the “Rams All Community Team” ticket donation program include:
To provide a safer environment for the public and expedite fan entry into stadiums, the National Football League will again implement the league-wide bag policy that limits the size and type of bags that may be brought into all NFL stadiums, including the Edward Jones Dome. While the NFL strongly encourages fans to not bring any type of bags, outlined below are the bags or packages that are permissible:
- Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12.”
- One-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
- Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand with or without a handle or strap, no larger than 4.5” x 6.5.”
- An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection.
Approved bags may be purchased at www.nflshop.com/allclear or at the team store on game days. For additional information regarding the NFL bag policy and prohibited items, please visit www.nfl.com/allclear orwww.stlouisrams.com/edward-jones-dome/game-day-info.html.
Portion of Broadway to Close for 2015 Rams Games Prior to Kickoff- Cole Street between 7th and Broadway will close 4 hours prior to kickoff.
- Convention Plaza between 7th and Broadway will close 4 hours prior to kickoff.
- Broadway Exit off I-70 Expressway Lanes will close 2 hours and 15 minutes prior to kickoff
- Broadway Exit off I-44 Westbound will close 2 hours and 15 minutes prior to kickoff.
- Broadway along the Edward Jones Dome will close 2 hours prior to kickoff.
Please note: The process to begin closing the Broadway exits off I-70 Eastbound Expressway and I-44 Westbound will begin upwards to two and half hours prior to game time to ensure that the Broadway exits are closed by two hours and 15 minutes prior to kickoff. For more information on road closures, drop-off along Broadway for guests with disabilities and parking north of the Edward Jones Dome, please visit: http://www.stlouisrams.com/edward-jones-dome/driving-directions.html.
