The Rams, 2-0 in the pre-season, are generating excitement for their first season back in Los Angeles.
They were supposed to be showcasing a quarterback drafted No. 1 a few months ago.
It is perfectly clear Jared Goff is not ready. But the running game is.
Goff has shown that he may be the franchise quarterback of the future.
The future is now, though, for running backs Todd Gurley, Benny Cunningham and Malcolm Brown. Last Saturday in the 21-20 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, Brown gained 68 yards on 12 carries, Cunningham had 38 yards on four carries and Gurley carried the ball four times for 20 yards. All three are ready for the season.
“The offense is going to start with the running game,” said Coach Jeff Fisher. “We have three guys capable of pushing the ball down the field. This will help us when we get into the red zone.”
Brown, listed as the third-string running back, was impressive against the Chiefs. Not only did he gain 68 yards on the ground, but he caught the winning to pass from Goff in the fourth quarter on a 10-yard play. “All about confidence,” said a happy Brown after the game. “When you play in this league, you realize early that you have to have confidence.”
The 5-11, 225-pound Brown, in his second NFL year, played at the University of Texas.
“From last year to this is completely different,” said Brown. “I am just trusting our coaching staff and trusting the offensive line to do their job. I am trying to come into the games with a chip on my shoulder and stay confident.”
Brown is excited to be playing with Gurley and Cunningham. “You get to learn from the other backs,” said Brown. “We are all family, and we are bonding.
“When everyone accomplishes good things it’s a great feeling.”
Brown is also happy that the Rams are 2-0 even if it’s only the pre-season. “It’s great to win and have our fans out here,” said Brown. “It’s great for this team to get off to a fast start and build some confidence. This is my second year but in my mind I am still trying to prove myself.”
The Rams travel to Denver Saturday to play the defending Super Bowl champion Broncos at 6 p.m.
Mr. Finley may be contacted at sfinley50@aol.com
