The St. Louis Rams had a disappointing 2013 season and didn’t get a sniff of playoff action. This is obvious to anyone who has watched games and glimpsed stats. As with anything that ends far from expectations, there comes a time when a team and its staff must reflect on what went wrong. Changes must be made to the Rams if they wish to see their fortunes improve next season.
Less Injury-Prone Starting Quarterback
One writer attempted to tread carefully in referencing the starting quarterback problem suffered by the Rams this season. He gave credit to Kellen Clemens, who performed about as ably as a back-up quarterback could under the circumstances. He was even instrumental in wins over tough opponents such as the Indianapolis Colts. He also gave credit to the man he was replacing, Sam Bradford. Bradford, who showed a great deal of promise prior to his injury, has not been doubted for his ability to do great things. However, a player who spends more time needing effective rehab to treat effective injuries than actually playing becomes a liability.
No matter how good a player is when they are playing, they are an investment. What happens should Bradford be out yet again next season? It’s been noted he has been healthy for a total of two seasons out of the last five. Sentiment must be put aside in terms of business. It’s not enough to consider back-up options for the quarterback; it may be necessary to weigh both positions moving forward.
Give More Thought To An Effective Running Game
This post-season has not been the quarterback-led shootout that some anticipate. Of the teams that made it to the playoffs, the most success has been had by sides that had more rushing yards. A good running game has been the standard late this season and was the case last season as well.
As strategies evolve, the Rams’ commitment to their run game may put them in an ideal position in the future – provided they make smart drafting and starting decisions. They aren’t quite at the same level of other offensive sides, but if they continue to build in the same model as effective offenses, there is a good reason to be optimistic.
Making The Most Of The Senior Bowl
The Senior Bowl has represented a great opportunity for the Rams to get a hold of promising talent. Back in 2012, the team grabbed up cornerback Janoris Jenkins, running back Isaiah Pead, and receiver Brian Quick. The college all-star games have been a great way to effectively scout talent at the collegiate level and give the Rams a heads up regarding promising young talents.
They’ll need to look a bit more carefully as the roster for this year has been negatively impacted by injuries in addition to talented players who have opted out of the competition altogether.
The Rams are fortunate as they don’t have the building process that certain other struggling sides will require this upcoming season. But mediocrity is its own hellish existence, and no doubt steps are being taken to see that the Rams get closer to the formidable side they have the potential to become.
Scott Huntington is a writer, reporter, blogger, and long-time sports fan. Follow Scott at @SMHuntington
