Transformation under Haslett continues in St. Louis

By Jeff Dickinson  |   Monday, October 20, 2008  |  Comments( 3 )

St. Louis Rams
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Anyone who doubted that Jim Haslett had helped to change the mindset of the St. Louis Rams is skeptical no longer after the team’s convincing win over the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.

After falling behind 7-0 against the Cowboys, the Rams went on to score 34 straight points to coast to a 34-14 victory.

Commentary: In the Rams’ two wins, they have scored 53 points. In the team’s four losses with former coach Scott Linehan running the show, St. Louis had scored a total of 43 points.

Haslett is coaching the same players Linehan did. That should point to evidence that the reason for the team’s recent success is because of the difference Haslett has made in the locker room.

Several key St. Louis players didn’t hide their displeasure with Linehan and his approach to running the team. Quarterback Marc Bulger and running back Steven Jackson were two players who were less than happy to be playing (in Bulger’s case, to be sitting) for Linehan.

Against the Cowboys, Bulger was efficient and Jackson was spectacular. Bulger completed 14 of 19 passes for 173 yards and Jackson ran roughshod over Dallas for 160 yards and three touchdowns.

The Rams are still only 2-4 on the season, but there is much more reason to hope for a respectable record now. St. Louis travels to New England this week, but the Patriots are no longer unbeatable under Matt Cassel's leadership. A victory against the Patriots is very possible for the Rams -- who have knocked off playoff contenders in Washington and Dallas.

Fan Pulse: Fans are excited about the attitude change that Haslett has brought about. Fans realize that Haslett is the type of coach who won’t tolerate a lack of effort, but he will also motivate players in the right way.

Fantasy Impact: Jackson owners in fantasy leagues all over the country are probably ready to send Haslett flowers for getting their man back as the main focus of the Rams’ offense. Bulger is also rising up the fantasy charts with his improved play. He is available in many fantasy leagues because of his terrible start over the first four games of the season.

Injury Report: Defensive end Adam Carriker left the Dallas game with an ankle injury, but X-rays were negative. Wide receiver Derek Stanley had to be taken to the hospital after he suffered a concussion on a special teams play. Stanley was admitted for observation.
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About Jeff Dickinson

I have been writing and editing professionally for 18 years. I spent the first three years of my career as a sportswriter for a daily newspaper in Alabama and got to cover sports and get paid for it! It was great until I got married and then it wasn't too much fun being away from my wife every ...
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