After traveling to the West Coast for a preseason game with the Oakland Raiders, the Rams proceeded south to Oxnard for a joint practice with the Dallas Cowboys on August 17 and 18. Signaling hopes that the Rams would return to Los Angeles, Rams fans greatly outnumbered Cowboy rooters, even though the Cowboys have had their training camp in Oxnard for many years. Could 2016 be the year LA finally gets an NFL team? Will it be the Rams, the team I have followed since my father started taking me to the coliseum in 1955?
The enthusiasm for the return took many forms. The sign above is the most obvious, as was the prevalence of Ram's jerseys and banners. But the biggest surprise was the cheering for the large poster of Rams owner Stan Kroenke.
The Rams started with stretching. In the center below is #79, Rob Havenstein, the rookie starting right tackle. His run blocking was sound, but his pass protection was porous. Big improvement needed, if Nick Foles is to survive the season intact.
Speaking of Nick Foles, I knew he was tall (6' 5"), but did not realize that he is so solidly built. Sean Mannion, is the same height, but willowy in comparison. Nick is number 5. The other quarterbacks are #9, Austin Davis, #17 Case Keenum, and #14 Sean Mannion. Nick had a good delivery and accuracy. The drop off from him to the others is noticeable. Are you listening Havenstein?
Rams performed a number of standard drills.
The Rams receivers were solid, particularly going one on one against Dallas cornerbacks.
Lance Kendricks about to haul one in.
A one-handed catch by rookie free agent tight end Brad Smelley
Tavon Austin goes up for a tough catch.
Stedman Bailey tracking the ball,
and bringing it in.
Brian Quick looked fast and elusive. Yellow cap to indicate he is not to be tackled because he is returning from an injury.
Kenny Britt made great moves on Dallas cornerbacks. Looks to be in midseason form.
The practice would not be complete without, Greg Zeurlein kicking a long field goal. He split the uprights from 65 yards out.
Major improvement is expected from Jeff Fisher's team.
