Rams Finally Went To Work.
By Rams Nation's Don Ackerman
What a great game! To me, this game is the first building block for a successful
season. After faltering in each game this season, the Rams put it together Sunday.
Before the game, a Raider fan asked me if the Rams could win. I told him that
this was going to be their first win in an 11 game winning streak which will
lead to the playoffs and a Super Bowl. He did not believe me, "You really
think the Rams can win today?"
"Yes, I do." I explained that the Rams have the pieces but they have
not put it together. I talked about how the Raiders have been playing exceptionally
well and no one can do that week after week after week after week. Well, he
did not believe me and when I saw him in the tailgating lot after the game,
he had nothing to say to me.
First, hats off to the D! Well done, boys! Enjoy the feeling and remember it
for next week versus Seattle.
Second, hats off to Marc Bulger. Though he held onto the ball too long on a
couple of occasions (and he paid for it!!), he stepped in and played like I
thought Jamie Martin would last week. Do me a favor and read Jamie
Martin, MVP! Why Not? and replace any reference to Jamie Martin with Marc
Bulger. Okay, I'm getting a little ahead of myself but I'm stoked after this
great win. Many didn't believe in Bulger.
Third, hats off to the Saint Louis Quarterback
Club and the Rampagers! Together, they made this an awesome Bash. Thanks,
guys! We picked a great game to see. Last year, we watched the Rams make Dolphin
soup and this year, we shut down the previously undefeated Raiders. What a great
feeling!! After 4 disappointing losses, I missed and love this feeling! Though
I'm hoarse after yelling for 3 plus hours (but not as hoarse as Gary, aka GAP.
At the end of the game, him talking sounded like nails being drug across ceramic
floor - way to cheer Gary!!), I'm buzzing after a wonderful victory.
It all started with the Raiders first opportunity to score. Thankfully, they
went for it on 4th and 1. I say thankfully because that play gives our D a challenge
and a chance to shine. They held, and the Raider fans behind me fell, and kept,
silent.
Creating a complete game, the Rams O rose to the occasion and scored on a 9-play,
97-yard touchdown drive. How sweet it was to watch Bulger hit the target and
watch the Rams march down the field. Also, on offense I must say, "Welcome
back, Bruce!" We missed you. Bruce put together a crucial big game with
5 receptions for 70 yards with 1 touchdown. I bet no one expected the Rams to
have a good game passing the ball but they did.
Finally, props to Marshall. With the game in hand in the fourth quarter, Darren
(DaddoRam) called for Marshall left and Marshall right to finish it. Little
did we know it would be in the same play! When he reversed the field for a 40-yard
run, I went from "We Believe" to "We Know."
Well, we're on the road back to Minnesota now and I'm gonna sit back and enjoy
this win. Bring on Seattle!!
Ram on,
Don