Rams News

Rams vs. Dallas: What to watch
08/21 10:27 PM

By Jim Thomas
Of the Post-Dispatch Staff

Quarterback: Tony Banks plays the first half, and will begin the second half along with the rest of the first unit. Dick Vermeil wants to make sure he gets plenty of work. Will Furrer takes over in the third quarter, with Kurt Warner probably mopping up in the fourth. Steve Bono gets the night off for the second time in three weeks.

Offensive line: John Flannery starts at center in place of the injured Mike Gruttadauria. Is he just keeping the space warm for Gruttadauria, or will he take over the job? The Rams' first-string offensive line has not given up a sack this preseason.

Running back: Jerald Moore starts, followed by David Thompson, who has not carried or caught the ball in preseason play. Greg Hill and Robert Holcombe could follow Moore and Thompson. This is an important outing for Thompson to reassert his claim for a roster spot.

Wide receiver: Malcolm Floyd is making a strong move for the fifth receiver spot. But Johnny ``J.T.'' Thomas returns after missing the San Diego game with an elbow injury. Youngsters Donnell Baker, Tony Horne, Russell Shaw and Donald Sellers need to make something happen to earn roster spots.

Tight end: Ernie Conwell missed four days of practice because of a death in his family, so his role may be limited tonight. Backups Tyji Armstrong, Mitch Jacoby and Roland Williams can't be sure that the Rams will keep four tight ends.

Defensive line: Backup ends Grant Wistrom (pinched nerve) and Bryan Robinson (knee) are expected back in the lineup after missing the San Diego game. The Rams have registered only two sacks this preseason, and have not mounted a consistent pass rush. Does young Corey Sears have another big game in him?

Linebacker: Roman Phifer should make his preseason debut after being hobbled by knee and calf injuries in training camp. Is MLB Eric Hill finally rounding into form? An important game for bubble 'backers Jason Chorak, Charlie Clemons and London Fletcher.

Secondary: After missing the first two preseason games with a tight hamstring, free safety Keith Lyle is expected to start. Strong safety Toby Wright will see more playing time as he continues his comeback from knee surgery. An important game for roster candidates Willie Clark, Billy Jenkins Jr., Mike Scurlock and Tony Stargell.

Special teams: Thompson should return his first kickoffs of the preseason. Last week in San Diego, the Rams bobbled several kickoff returns, Jeff Wilkins missed an extra point and Rick Tuten muffed a punt snap.

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