(KMOV)-- I like the trade by the Rams to bring in Mark Clayton. He could end up being the Rams number one or number two receiver. How much impact he has this week in the opener is unknown. That may depend on how fast he can learn the offense and if Sam Bradford is comfortable with him.
Clayton gives the Rams a deep threat which is missing. Think of him as Donnie Avery’s replacement. He averaged better than 14 yards per catch in three of his five seasons in Baltimore. That’s better production that the Rams have gotten from any receiver since Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce were here. That should help back a safety off the line of scrimmage which should help Steven Jackson and the running game. When you hear the term “eight guys in the box” it means that the strong safety is playing close to the line of scrimmage in an attempt to shut down the running game. The Rams saw a steady dose and eight and even nine guys in the box last season because the ability to attack vertically in the passing game wasn’t there.
Taking a couple of days off, so I’ll offer this now: the season opener Sunday is a winnable game. Really is. Couldn’t honestly say that last season. I think the key is how well the Rams offensive line plays. If they protect Bradford, I think the Rams can outscore the Cardinals who will sorely miss Kurt Warner and Anquan Boldin. To score points, the Rams will have to keep defensive tackle Darnell Dockett and safety Adrian Wilson from wreaking havoc. They are two of the best at their positons in the entire NFL.
D’Marco Farr and I will have the call at 3:15 on 101ESPN with pregame starting at noon. And we’ll have the complete game story plus post game reaction on Sports Sunday.
