(KMOV) -- One of the key challenges Jim Haslett noted to change is how the Rams handle adversity. He needed only four minutes and fifteen seconds into his first quarter as head coach for his team to be tested.

(AP Photo/Luis M. Alvarez)

St. Louis Rams head coach Jim Haslett yells during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2008, in Landover, Md. The Rams won 19-17.

On just the Rams second play of the game, Steven Jackson fumbled at his own four yard line to lead to a quick Clinton Portis touchdown for Washington.

However, the Rams did not fold. While their second drive ended with a 46 yard punt from Donnie Jones, the Rams defense stepped up with a big play when Ricky Manning Jr. stormed in from the blind side for a third down sack forcing the Redskins to punt.

The offense then put together enough plays, highlighted by a 17 yard pass to Donnie Avery, to get Josh Brown in range for a 51 yard field goal—that bounced off the left upright and thru to cut the score to 7-3 with just over three minutes left in the first quarter.

Manning was involved in the next big answer for the Rams—swarming with Corey Chavous and other defenders to strip Chris Cooley for a fumble at the Rams own 28 yard line.

End of 1^st Qtr:   WAS 7   STL 3

Notes:  Ron Bartell was banged up after colliding with Chavous defending a pass along the sidelines. Bartell was holding his right arm close to his side, Jon Wade replaced him afterwards but Bartell later returned.

Donnie Avery was also banged up after his 17 yard reception, but returned to action.

The Rams opened the 2^nd quarter by lofting a screen to Jackson for a fifteen yard gain, but stalled and Jones came in for his second punt of the game.

After allowing a 13 yard run to Ladell Betts and a 17 yard reception by Antwan Randle El, the Rams defense stiffened to force a 3^rd and 12. Betts took a screen, but Jason Craft only lowered a shoulder and Betts bumped off to go 11 plus.

Washington went for it on 4^th and inches—strong wall by the Rams defense, but chains showed Portis made it by the nose of the ball.

However, the Rams did get the ball back when Campbell was unable to handle the snap and Chris Long dove in for the fumble recovery.

First and 10 Rams at their own 49 yard line with just under 9:00 to go in the half.

St. Louis again failed to capitalize on the Washington turnover, key play coming on 3^rd and 2 as Joe Klopfenstein dropped a pass to the numbers from Bulger.

The Redskins also failed on their next possession, but the Rams lost Manning—who was helped to the side after hurting his right leg on a blitz.

Two minute offense by Washington relied heavy on Portis rushing, but Chris Cooley hauled in a 27 yard catch with :26 left to put the Redskins at the Rams 16.

Then it happened. The Rams perseverance was rewarded.

Campbell’s pass was deflected at the line to left guard Pete Kendall, who made the catch, but fumbled on the tackle by Pisa Tinoisamoa. OJ Otogwe picked up the loose ball and went 85 yards for the St. Louis touchdown and first lead of the game.

End of 1^st Half: STL 10  WAS 7

Notes:

-82 yards of offense for the Rams, but three turnovers by Washington.

-The Rams stayed with the run, despite Jackson not having much real estate up the middle. A concerted effort was made to keep Torry Holt involved in the offense.

-Rams secondary is depleted, starting the day with only four CBs on the roster and Manning was carted to the locker room. Bartell appears to be okay after being banged up early. Expect Chavous to play some corner if needed, and Todd Johnson to step in at safety.

Check back for more after the game…