Rams Focus on 27-10 Win
By Rams Nation's Don Ackerman
In 2000, the Rams stumbled after winning the championship. Looking back, maybe
the Rams' wildcard entry was too much and let the Rams think that they could
beat anyone on any given Sunday. After the disappointing loss to New Orleans
(who in turn was slapped around by the Minnesota Vikings), the Rams went to
the Super Bowl after the 2001 campaign. Since that Super loss to the New England Patriots and the disastrous 2002 season, the Rams are seemingly understanding
that winning in the NFL isn't easy.
Now, it's playoff crunch time and the Rams are focused. I've watched and listened
to interviews all week and through the weekend. The Rams were focused on the
Cincinnati Bengals. There were not looking ahead. They want to win each week
and know it's no forgone conclusion that they will be going to Houston. I thought
all of this before the first snap in the Bengals game. Now, after a solid 27-10
win, I'm certain the Rams are focused.
You could see it with each score: the Rams celebrated the touchdown or field
goal but it was tempered. You could see they were enjoying winning but you could
see that beating the Bengals was something they were driving towards. The Rams
played methodical ball.
I'm sure many Rams fans were concerned when Marc Bulger threw an interception
on the Rams' first possession. Attempting a long bomb (a 34-yard attempt) to
the open Mike Furrey, Bulger probably just had a bad throw and it was picked
off. After that mistake, the Rams played great football. I can only see that
the whole Rams teams is focused on winning each play in each game.
I'll be interested to read the post-game interviews to see if they agree.
Next Up: A Visit to Ford Field and the Detroit Lions
Big question: Does Saint Louis look past Detroit? I don't think so even if
the Philadelphia Eagles lose to San Francisco (currently the score is 21-14
Philly). I believe the Rams know each victory is important in the chase for
home field. Detroit has to be desperate for a win. With a 4-11 record, every
player is playing for their job. What better way than to beat the Rams? I think
the Rams keep their focus but the scrappy Lions may be desperate.
Ram on,
Don
Don, the Rams Nation columnist can be contacted at Don@RamsNation.org.