RAMS FACE BUCCANEERS IN FIRST ROAD CONTEST OF 2007

Date: September 23, 2007 | Kickoff: Noon, CT | Site: Raymond James Stadium (65,908) – Tampa, Fla.

Game Release | Injury Report

Game Preview

The Rams travel to Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla. this week to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who evened their record last week at 1-1 after a 31-14 victory over the Saints. The game will be the first road contest for the Rams in 2007.

The contest will feature two of the most tenured wide receivers in the NFL in Tampa Bay’s Joey Galloway and the Rams’ Isaac Bruce. Galloway is playing in his 13th season after entering the NFL in 1995 out of Ohio State and Bruce is in his 14th season, entering the league in 1994 out of Memphis. Bruce ranks second among active receivers with 898 receptions and Galloway ranks 11th with 621 receptions. Bruce ranks second among active players with 13,541 receiving yards, while Galloway stands sixth with 9,765 receiving yards. Bruce and Galloway rank fourth and fifth in career touchdown passes among active players, as Bruce has 80 touchdowns and Galloway has 73.

The Rams lead the all-time series against Tampa Bay, 11-6, including an 11-6 victory in the 1999 NFC Championship that sent the Rams to Super Bowl XXXIV where the team defeated the Tennessee Titans, 23-16. The last time the Rams and Bucanners played was during the 2004 season, when the Rams defeated the Bucs, 28-21 in St. Louis.

Tale of the Tape

2007 Regular Season	St. Louis	Tampa Bay
Record	0-2	1-1
Divisional Standings	4th	1st(t)
Points Per Game	14.5	18.5
Total Off. (NFL rank)	315.0 (18)	307.0 (23)
Rush Off. (NFL rank)	68.5 (28)	88.5 (25)
Pass Off. (NFL rank)	246.5 (9)	218.5 (15)
Points Allowed	22.0	17.0
Total Def. (NFL rank)	286.5 (10)	343.0 (21)
Rush Def. (NFL rank)	137.5 (25)	119.0 (20)
Pass Def. (NFL rank)	149.0 (4)	224.0 (20)
Time of Possession Avg.	28:51	28:14
Sacks Made/Yards	4/29	4/34
Punt Return Avg. (NFL rank)	2.6 (29)	8.1 (11)
Kickoff Return Avg. (NFL Avg.)	25.0 (11)	21.7 (20)
Punt Coverage (NFL rank)	6.6 (15)	12.6 (27)
Kickoff Coverage (NFL rank)	20.6 (8)	14.0 (1)
Punts/Avg.	9/44.0	11/43.9
Interceptions By/Yards	0/0	1/0

Head to Head

I. Bruce vs. J. Galloway	M. Bulger vs. J. Garcia
11 Receptions 9 165 Receiving Yards 207 0 Touchdowns 2	46 Pass Attempts 29 83 Pass Completions  43 535 Passing Yards 444

WHAT TO LOOK FOR THIS WEEK

• WR Isaac Bruce (79) needs two receiving touchdowns to pass Art Powell for 17th place on the NFL’s alltime touchdown receptions list.

• WR Isaac Bruce (13,692) needs six yards from scrimmage to pass Andre Reed for 22nd place on the NFL's all-time scrimmage yards list.

• QB Marc Bulger (96) needs three touchdown passes to pass Bob Waterfield for fifth place on the Rams' all-time career touchdown completions list.

• K Jeff Wilkins (348) extending his streak of consecutive PAT, the second longest streak in NFL history.

• WR Torry Holt (10,822) 34 yards to pass Gary Clark for 20th place on the NFL's all-time receiving yards list.

• RB Steven Jackson (3,365) needs 43 rushing yards to pass Les Josephson (3,407) for sixth place on the Rams' all-time rushing list, while 129 yards would put him ahead of Dan Towler (3,493) and into fifth place.

A WIN OVER THE BUCCANEERS WOULD:

• Give the Rams a 1-2 record in the 2007 season.

• Give Rams’ coach Scott Linehan a 1-0 career record against Tampa Bay.

• Improve the Rams’ all-time record vs. Tampa Bay to 12-6.

• Give the Rams’ franchise 499 regular season victories.

1st Quarter  No Score 2nd Quarter Bucs - 0:03 - M. Bryant 27 yd. FG 3rd Quarter Bucs - 10:48 - C. Williams 7 yd. run (M. Bryant kick) 4th Quarter Rams - 11:31 - J. Wilkins 26 yd. FG Bucs - 7:56 - E. Graham 8yd. run (M. Bryant kick) Bucs - 5:07 - E. Graham 28 yd. run (M. Bryant kick)

Game Center   |  Box Score  |  Play-by-Play  |  Drive Chart  | Photos Game Story   By Nick Wagoner Senior Writer   TAMPA , Fla.-   The Rams dropped their third straight game to open the season Sunday as Tampa Bay kept them out of the end zone and made big plays on defense on its way to a 24-3 win at Raymond James Stadium.   The loss moves the Rams to 0-3 for the first time since 2002 and Tampa Bay improves to 2-1 with the victory.   Fourth Quarter Safety Oshiomogho Atogwe came up with a big play for the Rams when they needed it most, stripping Williams and coming up with it at Tampa ’s 33. The Rams’ best field position of the day finally led to some points as Wilkins converted from 25 yards out to make it 10-3 Tampa Bay with 11:31 to play. St. Louis got to Tampa ’s 10, but couldn’t punch it in once again as a pair of runs and an incompletion brought Wilkins on. Guard Mark Setterstrom was taken off the field on a cart after the field goal. The initial diagnosis was a left knee sprain for Setterstrom and he will not return. Milford Brown will take his place. Needing a stop in a one possession game, the Rams defense had its worst drive of the day as Tampa Bay moved 80 yards on just six plays for an 8-yard touchdown run by Earnest Graham. The extra point made it 17-3 Tampa Bay with 7:56 to go. After a quick three and out, the Bucs scored again after a long punt return and Grahams scored again, this time from 28 yards out to make it 24-3 Tampa Bay with five minutes to go. Linebacker Barrett Ruud intercepted Bulger on the second play of the ensuing possession, giving Tampa good field position once again.   Third Quarter The Rams didn’t get near the start they wanted to the second half when they allowed a 36-yard kickoff return that gave Tampa excellent field position at its 47 to open the half. Tampa wasted no time covering the 53 yards when running back Cadillac Williams scored from 7 yards out. Bryant’s extra point made it 10-0 Tampa with 10:41 to go in the quarter. The Rams had two golden opportunities get away in the quarter on drives that could have tied the game. Bulger was intercepted in the end zone to kill one drive and Wilkins missed again, this time from 43 yards out to end the quarter.   Second Quarter The Rams continued to pound Jackson with a little Brian Leonard sprinkled into the mix. Controlling the ball and the clock for most of the quarter, the Rams got into Tampa territory with about three minutes to go in the half. On fourth-and-1 at Tampa ’s 27, Leonard picked up the yard to keep the Rams alive. After taking a couple of shots to the end zone that just missed, the Rams settled for a 42-yard field goal attempt from Jeff Wilkins. Wilkins surprisingly missed the kick wide left at the two minute warning. Thus, a 16-play drive came up empty. Bruce took a blow to the head on the first play of the drive and went to the locker room. His return is questionable. Tampa took over at its 32 with two minutes to go in the half. The Bucs promptly moved into St. Louis territory and Bryant attempted a 27-yard field goal as time expired in the half. Bryant connected, giving Tampa a 3-0 lead at halftime.   First Quarter A relatively uneventful first quarter saw the Rams and Bucs exchange punts while St. Louis tried its hardest to establish Steven Jackson in the running game. The Rams picked up a pair of first downs on their opening drive, but stalled at their 48. The Bucs’ first possession was slightly more successful as they moved into St. Louis territory before Matt Bryant missed a 54-yard field goal short. The Rams tried some trickery, having Dante Hall in the end zone to catch the field goal. Hall caught the kick in the end zone and attempted to bring it out. He came close to breaking it for a long return, but was brought down at the Rams’ 33. The Rams moved the ball a bit on their second possession as Isaac Bruce made a pair of catches, the second of which made him the seventh receiver in league history to record 900 receptions. Punter Donnie Jones then booted a 42-yard field goal that took a perfect sideways hop and went out of bounds at Tampa ’s 1. The defense did its job, coming up with a three and out and setting up the Rams at their 46 to open their third drive. Jackson finished the quarter with nine carries and 33 yards and the Rams will open the second quarter with the ball at Tampa ’s 42.   Pregame Notes -         Greetings from Raymond James Stadium where it is undoubtedly hot and oppressively humid. The rain seems like it will stay away long enough to have a dry game of tackle football today. -         As for personnel, there are no real surprises on the inactive list or in the starting lineup. Guard Richie Incognito is out this week as he continues to recover from a high ankle sprain. -         Linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa is not quite back to health as he also recovers from an ankle sprain and is inactive today. He was scheduled to be a captain for the coin toss, but Will Witherspoon will replace him. -         The rest of the inactives include Marques Hagans (third quarterback), cornerback Tye Hill (back), running back Antonio Pittman (coach’s decision), defensive tackle Louis Leonard (coach’s decision), tackle Brandon Gorin (coach’s decision) and tight end Aaron Walker (coach’s decision). -         Adam Goldberg will start at right tackle with Claude Terrell at right guard. Chris Draft starts at weak side linebacker in Tinoisamoa’s place with Lenny Walls at corner in Hill’s spot. -         For the Bucs, some notable names are inactive. Linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, quarterback Chris Simms, safety Will Allen, defensive end Patrick Chukwurah and defensive tackle Ryan Sims will not suit up. -         In the house today are a pair of starters from the team that beat these Buccaneers in the 1999 NFC Championship game. Safety Keith Lyle and guard Tom Nütten are in the house to take in today’s game. -         Lyle is working in the business sector in the area. -         Isaac Bruce and Todd Johnson have groups of over 50 people in the building for the game today.

FOX 2 - KTVI

KTVI, FOX 2 will once again be “The Home of the Rams” in 2007 for the St. Louis Rams. FOX 2 Sports Director Martin Kilcoyne teams with former Rams player D’Marco Farr for play-by-play coverage. Sideline coverage will be handled by FOX 2’s Randi Naughton.  Prior to each game, Martin Kilcoyne will be joined by the St. Louis Post Dispatch’s Bryan Burwell, FOX 2’s Rob Desir and FOX 2’s Maurice Drummond for Rams Gameday pregame show, bringing viewers in-depth analysis,  player profiles and the latest inside scoop on every Rams game.

Rams Radio Broadcast Team

Steve Savard, Jim Hanifan and Malcom Briggs

Steve Savard - Play-by-Play
2007 will be Steve's 10th year on the Rams' broadcast team and his 8th season as play-by-play man. A native of St. Louis, Steve Savard has called play-by-play for more St. Louis Rams' games than any other broadcaster. Steve is the Emmy Award winning Sports Director for News 4, KMOV-TV in St. Louis. Prior to his broadcast career, Steve was in training camp with the Dallas Cowboys for 2 seasons before a neck injury ended his career in 1987. He also attended Northwest Missouri State University where he was a two-time MIAA Conference First Team Linebacker. Steve is also the co-host of The Coach Scott Linehan Show on Rams Radio.

Jim Hanifan - Color Analyst
Arguably the finest offensive line coach in the history of professional football, Jim Hanifan joined Rams Radio after 31 seasons as an NFL Assistant and Head Coach. Jim served as Head Coach for The Big Red for 6 seasons starting in 1980 and has won two Super Bowls, with the Washington Redskins in 1991 and the St. Louis Rams in 1999. In 2003, he released a book co-written with Rob Rains titled Beyond Xs and Os: My 30 Years in the NFL. In addition to his color analyst duties, Jim will also have his own show on Rams Rush Hour at 7:00pm.
 
Malcolm Briggs - Sideline Reporter and Pregame Host
Malcolm has been the sideline for Rams Radio for 8 seasons now. Malcolm is an expert at investigating gameday situations, and is skilled in getting the player perspective. Malcolm attended Kansas State University where he called play-by-play for football, baseball and basketball. Malcolm also serves as the co-host of The Steven Jackson Show.
 
D'Marco Farr - Pregame Analyst
D'Marco Farr played defensive tackle for 7 seasons in the NFL with the St. Louis Rams. Farr's football career started at the University of Washington, where he won a National Championship in 1991. His NFL highlights include playing one year with the Los Angeles Rams before the team moved to St. Louis, representing the NFC in the Pro Bowl in 2000 and culminated with a World Championship in 2000. Upon his retirement from football in 2001, Farr made a successful career switch into broadcasting. He was a regular on Fox Sports Net's hit show "The Best Damn Sports Show, Period." from 2001 to 2003.

Scott Warmann – Studio Anchor
A St Louis native, Scott is heading into his 4th season on the Rams Radio Broadcast.  His first year was the championship season in 1999.  He has spent the last couple of seasons as the studio host.  Scott has also served as the studio host for the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament telecast the last couple of years on Fox Sports Net.  And he is heading into his seventh season as a member of the Gateway Football Conference broadcast team.

Doug Vaughn - Pregame & Postgame Analyst
Doug Vaughn returned to his hometown of St. Louis to join KMOV Channel 4 as a Sports Anchor and Reporter in 1988. Vaughn anchors the 5, 6 and 10 p.m. sportscasts on Fridays, and the 5:30 and 10:30 p.m. sportscasts on Sundays. He is also a Reporter for the 5, 6 and 10 p.m. sportscasts, Monday through Wednesday, and is the main Reporter on News 4's "Sports Sunday," a 60-minute show that highlights local and national sports news. A lover of all sports, Vaughn excelled in baseball and played for two years at St. Louis Community College at Meramec before transferring to the University of Missouri-Columbia during his junior year. Now his baseball is limited to coaching little league teams. Vaughn is a graduate from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism.

Rams Rush Hour

Mon-Fri, 7pm-8pm
Your source for Rams Information!
Monday - Coach Scott Linehan Show
Tuesday - Rams Talk
Wednesday - Rams Talk
Thursday - Steven Jackson Show
Friday - Jim Hanifan

Rams Radio Network
In addition to the St. Louis Flagship Station, Rams Radio 103.3 KLOU,
The Rams Radio Network reaches four states and includes:

Illinois
Effingham - 98.9 WHQQ FM
Mt. Vernon - 940 WMIX AM
Quincy - 930 WTAD AM
Salem - 100.1 WJBD FM
Springfield - 96.7 WCVS FM
Staunton - 105.3 WAOX FM

Iowa
Broomfield, IA - 106.9 KDMU FM

Missouri
Branson - 106.3 KRZK FM
Cape Girardeau - 1550 AM KAPE
Columbia - 1580 AM KTGR
Dexter - 1590 AM KDEX
Dexter - 102.3 KDEX FM
Farmington - 800 AM KREI
Houston - 99.3 KUNQ FM
Jefferson City - 950 AM KWOS
Joplin - 105.3 KJML FM
Lake Ozark - 93.5 KMYK FM
Louisiana - 102.1 KJFM FM
Memphis - KMEM FM
Monett - 95.9 KKBL FM
Salem - 92.9 KKID FM
Sikeston - 107.1 KBHI FM
Springfield - 1400 KGMY AM
St. Louis - 550 AM KTRS
Washington - 104.5 KSLQ FM

Nevada
Las Vegas - 1400 KSHP AM

Start 'Em or Sit 'Em

By Michael Fabiano  |  NFL.com
Fantasy Editor 
 

Note: Sleeper alert focuses on players who aren't considered regular starters but have favorable matchups and could produce at a high level. Owners beware focuses on prominent players with unfavorable matchups who could fail to meet statistical expectations.

START OF THE WEEK
 
LaMont Jordan, RB, Oakland: Jordan has been one of the best draft values in all of fantasy football this season. He is on pace to finish with 72 receptions, 1,800-plus rushing yards and eight touchdowns. Chances are he won't reach those totals, but the numbers prove what a steal he has been based on his preseason value. He could be a gametime decision due to a sore back, but he's a tremendous starter if active headed into this week against Cleveland. The Browns have surrendered an average of 39.5 points and 171.5 rushing yards per game, so look for Jordan to produce nice numbers.

QUARTERBACKS: START 'EM
 
Matt Hasselbeck, Seattle: Fantasy football isn't rocket science, so when a defense surrenders 51 points, five passing touchdowns and 554 yards of total offense, a huge red bullseye appears on its back the following week. That's the logic behind the selection of Hasselbeck, who faces a Cincinnati defense that was blasted by Derek Anderson and the Cleveland Browns last week. The Bengals have allowed an average of 35.5 points and 267.5 passing yards per game, so look for Seattle to exploit that obvious weakness with a lot of Hasselbeck. In fact, a stat line that includes 250-plus yards and multiple touchdowns is in the cards.

Vince Young, Tennessee: Young hasn't had a tremendous start to the regular season, but he should post his best stat line of the season in front of a national audience in Week 3. The versatile quarterback heads to New Orleans to face the Saints on Monday Night Football, and he'll be motivated to produce solid numbers. Young should be able to accomplish that goal, as the Saints defense has allowed an average of 36.0 points and 391.0 total yards in losses to Indianapolis and Tampa Bay. In what will be the first time Young and Reggie Bush are on the same field since the 2006 Rose Bowl, look for Young to score a pile of fantasy points.

More quarterbacks with favorable matchups: Derek Anderson at Oakland, Drew Brees vs. Tennessee, Tom Brady vs. Buffalo, Rex Grossman vs. Dallas, Donovan McNabb vs. Detroit.

Sleeper alert: Jason Campbell vs. N.Y. Giants.

QUARTERBACKS: SIT 'EM
 
Matt Schaub, Houston: As much as I like Schaub this season, the loss of Andre Johnson is far too much for him to overcome and still record solid totals. Johnson sprained his knee in last week's win over Carolina, and it looks like he will miss Week 3 due to the ailment. In his absence, the Texans will be forced to utilize Kevin Walter, Andre' Davis, Jerome Mathis and rookie Jacoby Jones. While Jones is talented, none of the four will scare an Indianapolis defense that has allowed a mere 15.0 points and 179.5 passing yards per game. That's bad news for Schaub, who will face a formidable unit without his most reliable (and legitimate) option.

David Garrard, Jacksonville: Garrard has developed into a viable option for fantasy owners in his first full season as the starter in Jacksonville. The former East Carolina standout ranks 10th among quarterbacks in fantasy points and is on pace to throw for over 3,800 yards. However, this week's matchup on the road in Denver makes him a serious risk. The Broncos, who field an unreal cornerback tandem of Champ Bailey and Dre' Bly, have allowed an average of just 62.5 passing yards (no, that's not a misprint) per game. The Jaguars will instead look to exploit Denver's run defense, which has allowed an average of 156.0 yards per game, so Garrard should be reserved.

More quarterbacks with unfavorable matchups: Jay Cutler vs. Jacksonville, Jeff Garcia vs. St. Louis, J.P. Losman at New England, Steve McNair vs. Arizona, Alex Smith at Pittsburgh.

Owners beware: Matt Leinart at Baltimore.

RUNNING BACKS: START 'EM
 
Brian Westbrook, Philadelphia: Westbrook has missed practice time this week after having an MRI on his knee, but NFL Network analyst Adam Schefter reports the Eagles don't believe the ailment is serious. Barring setbacks, the versatile runner out of Villanova should be considered a fabulous fantasy option in Week 3. Westbrook faces a Detroit defense that has surrendered an average of 344.0 total yards per game, and he'll be the focal point of an offensive attack that will utilize him both as a runner and receiver out of the backfield. Fantasy owners should add Correll Buckhalter as insurance, but for now Westbrook is a nice option.

More running backs with favorable matchups: Thomas Jones vs. Miami, Jamal Lewis at Oakland, Laurence Maroney vs. Buffalo, Clinton Portis vs. N.Y. Giants, Cadillac Williams vs. St. Louis.

Sleeper alert: Derrick Ward at Washington.

RUNNING BACKS: SIT 'EM
 
Marshawn Lynch, Buffalo: As much as I love Lynch -- I think he'll become a tremendous fantasy runner as the season rolls on -- he has had a difficult start due to some harden defensive opponents. He opened the season with contests against Denver and Pittsburgh, and now he'll have to face New England at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defense has been close to impenetrable, as it has allowed an average of just 14.0 points and an NFL-low 56.0 rushing yards per game. That's bad news for Lynch, who will find it hard to run in an offense that has not established a pass attack. Unless you're in a PPR league, Lynch should be on the fantasy sidelines.

Julius Jones, Dallas: When a running back faces the Chicago defense, he's destined to be on our list of players to sit. Chicago held LaDainian Tomlinson and Larry Johnson, two of the top runners in the NFL, to a combined 80 rushing yards, an awful 2.4 yards-per-carry average and no rushing touchdowns in the first two weeks. That doesn't bode well for Jones, who isn't even the best back on his own team. Marion Barber is a far more viable fantasy option than Jones, who loses goal-line work and lacks the explosion Barber possesses. With such a scenario destined to continue this week against the Bears, Jones should be reserved if at all possible.

More running backs with unfavorable matchups: Tatum Bell at Philadelphia, Warrick Dunn vs. Carolina, Frank Gore at Pittsburgh, Edgerrin James at Baltimore, Deuce McAllister vs. Tennessee.

Owners beware: Larry Johnson vs. Minnesota.

WIDE RECEIVERS: START 'EM
 
Laveranues Coles, N.Y. Jets: Maybe he likes playing the most popular team from the state where he attended college. Maybe he doesn't like teal and orange. Whatever the reason, Coles has owned the Miami Dolphins throughout his career. He has recorded a total of nine touchdowns against the Fish, and his success at the Meadowlands has been immense. In fact, Coles has posted 24 receptions, 386 yards and an impressive six touchdowns in five career contests on the field shared by the Giants and Jets. Coles, who has scored three times in his past two home games against the Dolphins, will also have Chad Pennington back under center and is a terrific fantasy option.

Bernard Berrian, Chicago: Berrian has had a nice start to the season -- he's on pace to record 80 receptions and 1,184 yards (both would be career bests) -- and he'll have a chance to fatten his numbers this week against Dallas. The Cowboys might be undefeated, but their pass defense has been dreadful. In fact, the Polks have surrendered an average of 303.0 receiving yards per game -- only the New York Giants have allowed more -- so look for Bears offensive coordinator Ron Turner to take some chances downfield and target Berrian. The potential return of CB Terence Newman would hurt Berrian's value a bit, but overall he's a nice choice.

More wide receivers with favorable matchups: Deion Branch vs. Cincinnati, Chris Chambers at N.Y. Jets, Marques Colston vs. Tennessee, Braylon Edwards at Oakland, Santana Moss vs. N.Y. Giants.

Sleeper alert: Ronald Curry vs. Cleveland.

WIDE RECEIVERS: SIT 'EM
 
Darrell Jackson, San Francisco: The Niners acquired Jackson in the offseason to improve their porous pass attack. Well, the move hasn't accomplished that mission after two weeks. In fact, the team is next to last in passing offense with an awful average of just 99.5 yards per game. That doesn't bode well for Jackson, who must now face a Pittsburgh defense that has allowed an average of just 5.0 points and 186.0 receiving yards. Another reason to reserve Jackson -- he missed portions of practice this week with an injured back. He is expected to start for head coach Mike Nolan, but Jackson's stat line will be far less than stellar.

Vincent Jackson, San Diego: Jackson was producing like former San Diego wideout Charlie Joiner in the preseason, but his regular season numbers have been more like that of Charlie Brown. He has just seven receptions, and he hasn't scored a touchdown. His poor level of production should continue in Green Bay, where he'll face one of the best cover cornerbacks in the league in Al Harris. The Packers have one of the more underrated defenses -- they've allowed an average of just 13.0 points per game in wins over Philadelphia and the New York Giants -- so Jackson could be hard pressed to make an impact at Lambeau Field.

More wide receivers with unfavorable matchups: Mark Clayton vs. Arizona, Joey Galloway vs. St. Louis, Joe Horn vs. Carolina, Brandon Marshall vs. Jacksonville, Hines Ward vs. San Francisco.

Owners beware: Lee Evans at New England.

TIGHT ENDS: START 'EM
 
Chris Cooley, Washington: Cooley has just three receptions for 35 yards, but at least one of those catches went for a touchdown. He'll have a chance to reverse his fortunes this week at FedEx Field, where he'll face a Giants defense that has been small in statistical stature. No team has allowed more receiving yards per game than the G-Men, who have surrendered an average of 315.5. What's more, the Giants have allowed 14 receptions for 171 yards and three touchdowns to tight ends in losses to Dallas and Green Bay. All of these numbers and nuggets point to Cooley having a solid performance for fantasy owners.

Owen Daniels, Houston: Daniels followed up a one-catch, 14-yard stinker in the regular-season opener against Kansas City with a solid five-reception, 58-yard performance last week in a win over Carolina. With stud wide receiver Andre Johnson expected to be sidelined this week with an injured knee, Daniels should be able to at least duplicate that sort of stat line against AFC South rival Indianapolis. Texans head coach Gary Kubiak will no doubt look to incorporate Daniels into a much more prominent role in the pass attack against the Colts, who have surrendered nine receptions to tight ends after two weeks. Consider Owens a viable fantasy starter.

More tight ends with favorable matchups: Alge Crumpler vs. Carolina, Tony Gonzalez vs. Minnesota, Marcus Pollard vs. Cincinnati, Kellen Winslow at Oakland.

Sleeper alert: Bo Scaife at New Orleans.

TIGHT ENDS: SIT 'EM
 
Randy McMichael, St. Louis: McMichael seems to have done a Houdini act in his first two contests with St. Louis. The veteran out of Georgia has just four receptions for 64 yards with no touchdowns, and now he'll have to face what looks like an improved Tampa Bay defense in Week 3. The Buccaneers have surrendered two receiving touchdowns, and neither of those scores went to tight ends. The presence of athletic LB Barrett Ruud and an experienced veteran like LB Derrick Brooks makes the Bucs much more formidable in the middle of the field, so McMichael could find it hard to make much noise. Unless you're desperate, he's not a recommended option.

Daniel Graham, Denver: Graham signed a lucrative $30 million deal with the Broncos in the offseason, but all that cash has not equated into solid numbers on the field. He has just four catches for 33 yards, and he's still looking for his first touchdown with his new team. That probably won't happen this week against Jacksonville, which boasts one of the most formidable pass defenses in the NFL. The Jaguars have allowed an average of just 139.0 receiving yards per game, and they're the lone team not to allow a receiving touchdown. As a result, Graham is better off left on the bench in all fantasy football formats.

More tight end with unfavorable matchups: Marcedes Lewis at Denver, Visanthe Shiancoe at Kansas City, Alex Smith vs. St. Louis, Jason Witten at Chicago.

Owners beware: Vernon Davis at Pittsburgh.

KICKERS: START 'EM
 
Stephen Gostkowski, New England: Gostkowski hasn't had a great start to 2007 -- he's tied with three other kickers for 15th in fantasy points and has not made a field goal longer than 24 yards -- but he's still an attractive starter this week against Buffalo. No defense has surrendered more field-goal conversions than the Bills, who have given up seven field goals after two weeks. The Patriots should be able to move the football at will against a Bills defense that has been riddled with injuries, so look for Gostkowski to see his share of opportunities and produce a nice stat line in this AFC East battle.

Shayne Graham, Cincinnati: An injured hip made Graham a bit of a risk in the first week of the season, but he's back to 100 percent and remains one of the more prominent kickers in fantasy football. He connected on one field goal and six extra points in last week's 51-45 shootout in Cleveland, and all signs point towards another scoreboard special in Seattle. The Bengals rank third in scoring offense and the Seahawks are tied with three other teams for the fifth-most field goals allowed, so Graham should see several chances to produce in this inter-conference contest.

More kickers with favorable matchups: Josh Brown vs. Cincinnati, Robbie Gould vs. Dallas, Jason Hanson at Philadelphia, Jeff Reed vs. San Francisco.

Sleeper alert: Phil Dawson at Oakland.

KICKERS: SIT 'EM
 
Olindo Mare, New Orleans: Mare was considered a nice sleeper in the preseason, but the former Miami kicker has been anything but in New Orleans. He has missed two of three field-goal attempts, and his longest conversion came from just 34 yards. Mare doesn't have a terrible matchup this week against a Tennessee defense that has allowed an average of two field goals per game, but the fact that he's been so inaccurate makes Mare a serious risk. There are a lot of viable kickers on the waiver wire at this point in the season, so fantasy owners would be wise to pass on Mare for another option.

Joe Nedney, San Francisco: Unlike Mare, Nedney has connected on 100 percent of his field-goal attempts and remains an accurate kicker. However, this week's contest in Pittsburgh against the Steelers makes him far less attractive. The Steelers have allowed a miniscule average of 5.0 points per game under the guidance of head coach and defensive wizard Mike Tomlin, and they've surrendered just one field goal and one extra point. Nedney will be a useful option for fantasy owners when the opponent is less formidable than the Steel Curtain, but for this week he should be reserved.

More kickers with unfavorable matchups: John Carney at Denver, Nick Folk at Chicago, Rian Lindell at New England, Ryan Longwell at Kansas City.

Owners beware: Nate Kaeding at Green Bay.

DEFENSES: START 'EM
 
Minnesota defense: The Vikings have the top defense in fantasy football after two weeks with an impressive 56 points. They've recorded three touchdowns, 10 sacks and five interceptions overall, and this week's game in Kansas City bodes well for their chances of continued success. The Chiefs offense has averaged a miniscule 6.5 points and has a mere 500 total yards overall. Minnesota ranks sixth in the NFL against the run, so it could be another bad week for Larry Johnson as well.

New England defense: The Patriots have been incredible on offense, but their defense has been pretty stout as well. They've allowed an average of 14.0 points per game and recorded eight sacks, two interceptions, four forced fumbles and two touchdowns. The sort of success should continue against Buffalo, which has averaged an awful 8.5 points and 96.5 passing yards per game. Don't be shocked if the P-Men hold the Bills to under 14 points in this AFC East contest.

More defenses with favorable matchups: Carolina defense at Atlanta, Dallas defense at Chicago, Denver defense vs. Jacksonville, Indianapolis defense at Houston.

Sleeper alert: Tampa Bay defense vs. St. Louis.

DEFENSES: SIT 'EM
 
Houston defense: The Texans have been a real surprise on defense this season. In fact, DE Mario Williams and his crew have the second-most points in fantasy football and are now a viable option in most leagues. However, this week's game against Indianapolis makes them far less attractive. The Colts offense is averaging 31.5 points per game, and Peyton Manning could be on the field quite a bit as the Texans will struggle to move the football on offense with Andre Johnson out of action.

San Francisco defense: Several offseason moves, none more prominent than the addition of CB Nate Clements, has made the 49ers a more formidable defensive unit. But with a contest against Pittsburgh on the horizon, San Francisco will be better off left on the sidelines. The Steelers have averaged 30.0 points per game in wins over Cleveland and Buffalo, and their offense could be on the field often unless Alex Smith can reverse his fortunes and move the Niners offense at Heinz Field.

More defenses with unfavorable matchups: Buffalo defense at New England, Green Bay defense vs. San Diego, Miami defense at N.Y. Jets, Seattle defense vs. Cincinnati.

Owners beware: Philadelphia defense vs. Detroit.

Rams Tailgate
Bear Park Across from the Dome!
3 Hours Before EVERY Rams Home Game!

Sponsored by Sun Rentals & Pepsi

GO METRO AND ZIP2 THE DOME!

Avoid street closures, parking and
traffic and Zip2 the Rams Tailgate Party
and the Game with Metro!

A Metro One-Day Pass only costs $4.50
and can be used all day! Or, One-Ride
Tickets on MetroLink only cost $2.00!

Use TripFinder at www.metrostlouis.org
and find the most convenient route using
MetroBus and MetroLink.

Giveaway:

• Pepsi Product coupons 

Halftime: Roger Wehrli Ring of Fame

In-Game Promotion:

• Schnuck's/Pepsi Parachute Drop - This promotion occurs at seven Rams home games during the season. Two participants attempt to catch falling parachutes in grocery carts to win up to $500 in Schnuck’s gift cards!
  
• Great Clips Coin Toss Captain - To win the opportunity to be an honorary coin toss captain, you must be between the ages of 8-13.  Each week, one lucky young Rams fan is selected to join the team captains during the coin toss before the game. Register at your local St. Louis area Great Clips location between August 17 and September 28th.
  
• Dobbs Tire Punt Stunt - Two contestants will be selected for four (4) Rams home games to try to catch punts on the field! You could win up to $500 in Dobbs Tire and Auto Centers certificates! Click here to enter online or by visiting one of the 38 Dobbs Tire and Auto Centers locations nearest you.
  
• Dodge Carry the Colors -Do you want to be the next extraordinary fan to carry the Rams’ colors at an upcoming home game? Thanks to your Missouri/Illinois Dodge dealers, you can lead the team out with the Rams flag, be a part of player introductions, and receive an official Rams Polo shirt and two tickets to the game.
  
• United Van Lines Move of the Game - Fans at upcoming St. Louis Rams home football games will have the chance to upgrade their seats through the “Move of the Game,” sponsored by United Van Lines, one of nation’s largest transportation companies. The Move of the Game randomly picks a lucky fan and a guest sitting in upper-level seats and transports them to two seats in the lower level near the 50-yard line. The fan and guest are shown on the Jumbotron once they are seated to watch the rest of the game from their new premium vantage point.

Dobbs Tire Punt Stunt Two contestants will be selected for four (4) Rams home games to try to catch punts on the field! You could win up to $500 in Dobbs Tire and Auto Centers certificates! Click here to enter online or by visiting one of the 38 Dobbs Tire and Auto Centers locations nearest you.

Schnuck's/Pepsi Parachute Drop This promotion occurs at seven Rams home games during the season. Two participants attempt to catch falling parachutes in grocery carts to win up to $500 in Schnuck’s gift cards! Click here to register!

Great Clips Coin Toss Captain To win the opportunity to be an honorary coin toss captain, you must be between the ages of 8-13. Each week, one lucky young Rams fan is selected to join the team captains during the coin toss before the game. Register at your local St. Louis area Great Clips location between August 17 and September 28th.

Johnsonville Griller of the Game Rams Fans- Do you think you are the Grill Master at your Rams tailgate? A Representative of the Rams will be taking pictures prior to each Rams home game of fans grilling with their Johnsonville products and uploading them on stlouisrams.com. One winner will be picked each week as the Johnsonville Griller of the Game and can win prizes including Schnucks gift certificates, autographed Rams merchandise, Johnsonville Brats for a year and more! Flavor up your grill with Johnsonville!” Click here to view the "Griller of the Game."

Dodge Carry The Colors Do you want to be the next extraordinary fan to carry the Rams’ colors at an upcoming home game? Thanks to your Missouri/Illinois Dodge dealers, you can register online to lead the team out with the Rams flag, be a part of player introductions, and receive an official Rams Polo shirt and two tickets to the game. Click here to register!

Buffalo Wild Wings Home Team Challenge So you think you know football? Sign up now for the Rams Buffalo Wild Wings Home Team Challenge, a free online weekly fantasy football game. Here's your challenge: Run your own team of pro football players. Draft your favorite NFL players each week and receive points based on their performances in games. Set lineups and compete against your friends and other Rams fans. Sign up now for the Rams Buffalo Wild Wings Home Team Challenge.

Taco Bell Tailgater of the Game You’re invited to the Taco Bell Pre-Game Tailgate Party at Baer Park at the Edward Jones Dome before every Rams home game. Just stop by any St. Louis Taco Bell and pick up an official invitation. The first 250 people to the Taco Bell Tailgate with an invitation get a FREE Taco Bell/Rams T-shirt, and a chance to be recognized as the Taco Bell Tailgater of the Game…with lots of great prizes. There’s even a drawing for 4 tickets to a Rams home game at every Taco Bell Tailgate party.

St. Louis Rams 2007 Medallion Collection Celebrate your favorite team this season with the officially licensed St. Louis Rams 2007 Medallion Collection! On Sunday, September 9th, get your FREE Rams Medallion Album ONLY with the coupon in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Starting Monday, September 10th through October 4th, buy the St. Louis Post-Dispatch each day and get your next Rams medallion. Take the medallion coupon to a participating newspaper retailer and get your new medallion for just $2.99 plus tax.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car “We’ll Pick You Up” “Enter the Enterprise Rent-A-Car “We’ll Pick You Up” Rams fan promotion and you could win the first grand prize package of 2 tickets to the Green Bay Game on Dec. 16, 2007, 2 pre-game field passes, 2 authentic Rams jerseys and a FREE enterprise rental. The second grand prize package includes two (2) tickets to the Pittsburgh game on December 20, two (2) pre-game field passes, two (2) authentic Rams jerseys and a Free enterprise Rental. Winners will be picked up at their home before the game and returned after the game by a sedan service. Click here to register now.”

CofmanTownsley Power Play of the Week CofmanTownsley is proud to sponsor the Rams Power Play of the Week! Our hometown team is an important asset to our community, and we're honored to be a part of the team's outstanding athletic tradition. We wish the Rams the best of luck this year! Visit us for more information.

Win Rams Tickets Helping Local Families Sign up for Dollar More at ameren.com for a chance to win a trip to Phoenix to see the Rams battle the Arizona Cardinals on December 30, 2007. The winner and a guest will fly with the Rams on the team charter and enjoy overnight accommodations during their stay. Ten Dollar More participants will win two tickets to the Rams vs. Atlanta Falcons game on December 2, 2007. Sign up now.

Thomas Construction 2007 Home Improvement Sweepstakes! Enter now for your chance to win a whole house of REPLACEMENT WINDOWS, maintenance-free SIDING, a DECKor a beautiful SUNROOM. How about a free KITCHEN design andremodel or a new BATHROOM upgrade at no cost. Could you usestate of the art ROOFING or FENCING? Thomas Construction is giving allthis away and more! 107 lucky homeowners will win. Click here and enter now. You might be our next winner!!!

2007 ST. LOUIS RAMS GAMEDAY INFORMATION

ADA ACCESSIBILITY
The Edward Jones Dome is barrier-free for guests with disabilities. Drop-off and pick-up for guests with disabilities should be made at the Broadway Central Entrance or at the Courtyard Entrance (located at 7th Street & Convention Plaza, near Entry A). All entrances, doorways, elevators, restrooms, and telephones are accessible.

AGE LIMIT
Children two years or older must have a valid ticket for entry. Children under the age of two are admitted free provided they sit on an adult’s lap as long as doing so does not disturb or obstruct the view of others nearby.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONSUMPTION
Guests at the Edward Jones Dome are encouraged to drink responsibly. The alcohol policies are listed below:

• The legal drinking age in Missouri is 21. Proper identification is required to purchase alcoholic beverages.
• The dome reserves the right to deny the sale of alcohol to anyone.
• Alcoholic beverages purchased during an event must be consumed or discarded prior to leaving the dome, even if leaving the dome to smoke.
• The purchase limit may be reduced and sales may be discontinued at any time at the discretion of dome management.
• Guests passing alcohol to minors will be ejected and subject to arrest.
• Noticeably intoxicated guests will not be allowed to enter the Dome.

ASSISTIVE LISTENING AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS DEVICES
Guests with hearing impairments may obtain a listening device from any Guest Service Center or tune their own portable headset FM receiver to FM 89.1 to pick-up the house sound system. TDD equipment is available at public telephones located at Sections 113/114.

ATM MACHINES
For your convenience, ATM machines are provided by National City Bank and are located inside the Edward Jones Dome at Concourse Level Sections 117 & 145, and Terrace Level Sections 417 & 445.

BAG INSPECTION POLICY

• All bags are subject to inspection.
• Bags that are permitted include small bags such as purses and diaper bags (if the guest has a child with them). Management reserves the right to allow other bags based on the guest’s special needs on a case-by-case basis.
• Guests who arrive with large bags will be instructed to return the bag to their vehicle. Large bags will not be “claim-checked” at the gates. If the guest arrives with a large bag and did not drive to the dome, the guest will not be permitted to bring the bag into the event and the bag will not be claim-checked. Guests may dispose of the bag at an outside trash receptacle.
• Please call the America’s Center at (314) 342-5036 with questions regarding the bag inspection policy.

BANNERS & SIGNS
Banners can be hung only by rope, string or plastic ties and cannot obstruct the view of other fans or any permanent dome or sponsorship signs. Banners must avoid being profane, commercial, political or non-football related. Signs cannot be constructed of wood or metal material. The Rams reserve the right to remove any banner or sign that is deemed inappropriate. Removed banners will be claim-checked at the nearest Guest Service Center, and returned at the end of the game.

CAMERAS & VIDEO RECORDERS
Still camera photography is permitted with lenses of reasonable length that do not obstruct the view of other fans. Digital cameras are permitted as long as they do not record video. The use of tripods is not permitted. Video recording of any game action is strictly prohibited by the National Football League. Fans observed filming the game will have their video camera confiscated.

EJECTION
Any of the following will be cause for ejection from Rams football games without refund, arrest, and/or revocation of future ticket privileges:

• Abuse of intoxicants
• Profane or abusive language or obscene gestures
• Fighting, taunting, or threatening remarks or gestures
• Offensive or disorderly conduct
• Actions that may harm or endanger others
• Smoking inside the dome
• Possession or use of drugs
• Bringing prohibited items into the dome
• Throwing any object (including throwing any object from an escalator)
• Excessive standing that obstructs the view of others seated in the area
• Standing or sitting in the aisles
• Refusing to present a ticket stub when asked by dome personnel
• Sitting in a location other than your ticketed seat
• Standing on chairs and/or defacing or damaging any equipment
• Entering or attempting to enter the field level or playing field
• Wearing any apparel with profane or abusive language or picture
• Failure to follow the instructions of dome personnel
• Indecent exposure or undressing
• Displays of affection not appropriate in a public setting
• Attempting to solicit or distribute literature or other materials on the premises
• Entering the dome with invalid tickets or credentials
• Any disruption to the progress of the game
• Any other conduct or action deemed inappropriate by management

ELEVATORS
Public elevators for use by guests with disabilities are located at the Broadway Central Entrance and Courtyard Entrance (located at 7th Street & Convention Plaza, near Entry A). Guests with Club and Suite tickets should use the elevators located on the west side of the building by entering at the Courtyard entrance.

EMERGENCY
In the event of an emergency, guests can be reached by contacting the America’s Center at (314) 342-5036.  Caller must provide the individual’s name and exact seat location (section, row & seat). Public address announcements will only be made to locate a guest in an extreme emergency.

EVACUATION
Edward Jones Dome guest services staff are trained to handle any emergency situation that arises. During pre-game, a video will be shown on the scoreboard detailing the evacuation procedure. Should an evacuation become necessary, please make sure you are aware of the exits nearest your seat and be prepared to follow the instructions of the dome staff.

FIRST AID
Four fully-equipped and professionally staffed First Aid Rooms are located in the dome at Sections 110, 126, 410 & 426. Contact the nearest Guest Services Host who will summon help or guide you to the most convenient First Aid Room.

GATE OPENING
On game days all gates will open 90 minutes prior to kickoff. Please arrive early to enjoy all aspects of the game.

GROUP DOME TOURS
Group tours of the Edward Jones Dome are available. Please call (314) 342-5036 for more information.

LOST & FOUND
Lost and found items may be turned in at any Guest Service Center, and if found, retrieved after the event at the Guest Service Center located on the Concourse Level near Section 117 or by calling the America’s Center administrative offices at (314) 342-5036 the next business day. Lost items will only be held for ten days.

LOST CHILDREN/PARENTS
Guests are encouraged to instruct children in their group to find a dome staff member if they become lost or separated from their group. Lost children will be taken to the nearest Guest Service Center. Parents looking for a lost child should follow the same procedure. Tag-A-Kid Program: Children may receive bright, fun arm bracelets from guest services displaying their seat location to prevent becoming lost in a crowd.

PARKING AT THE EDWARD JONES DOME
More than 30,000 parking spaces are available within a 10-minute walk of the Edward Jones Dome. There is also parking for up to 100 busses near the Dome.

PAT DOWNS
You and your belongings may be searched upon entry to the Edward Jones Dome. By tendering a ticket and entering the dome, you consent to such searches and waive any related claims that you might have against the NFL, its member clubs, their affiliates, the Edward Jones Dome or their agents. If you elect not to consent to the searches, you will be denied entry into the dome.

PROHIBITED ITEMS
For your safety and the continuity of the game on the field, the following items are prohibited in the Edward Jones Dome:

• Large bags 
• Food not dispensed by dome concessionaires**
• Beverages**
• Bottles, cans, coolers, containers, thermoses
• Video cameras
• Strollers
• Glitter or confetti
• Peanuts in the shell
• Projectiles (i.e. Frisbees, footballs or beach balls)
• Poles or sticks of any kind
• Laser devices
• Animals or pets (not including service animals)
• Artificial noisemakers of any kind (i.e. cowbells or air horns)
• Illegal drugs or substances
• Fireworks, candles, flares, balloons
• Firearms, knives, missiles and weapons of any kind
• Mace and pepper gas
• Any item that could obstruct a guest’s view of the field
• Any other item deemed dangerous or inappropriate by management

** Exceptions may be made for those with medical requirements or special needs.

RADIOS AND TELEVISONS
Radios and televisions are permitted provided they do not interfere with the enjoyment of the game by other patrons. Please use headsets so as not to disturb other guests.

RADIO BROADCASTS
All games can be heard live on Rams Radio 103.3 FM KLOU. Games may also be heard on 550 AM KTRS.

RE-ENTRY
During Rams football games, guests may leave and re-enter the building through the available main entries. Guests leaving the dome are not permitted to take alcoholic beverages outside. Guests will receive a hand-stamp with their game ticket that will allow them to re-enter the dome.

SECURITY
Security measures may be increased based on direction from the NFL, orders from St. Louis Police or government, as well as the current federal terror threat level. These procedures will include but are not limited to a more thorough search of persons and property as well as a pat down.

SERVICE ANIMALS
Service animals, or those in training, for guests with disabilities are welcome in all areas of the dome. No other animal or pet is permitted in the dome.

SMOKING
The Edward Jones Dome is a non-smoking facility. During Rams football games, guests may leave and re-enter the building through the available main entries to smoke outdoors. Guests leaving the dome to smoke are not permitted to take alcoholic beverages outside. Guests will receive a hand-stamp with their game ticket that will allow them to re-enter the dome.

STANDING ROOM ONLY
Every ticket has a seat assignment. Please note that there are no standing room only tickets. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping the sightlines clear for all fans.

TELEVISON BROADCASTS
Preseason games will air on selected networks, local or national, depending on the game date. Rams regular season games are controlled by the NFL’s national network partners (CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network).

UMBRELLAS
Umbrellas are permitted inside the Edward Jones Dome if they are small enough to be stored under your seat during the game.

WILL CALL WINDOWS
Will Call windows open three hours prior to kickoff and close after halftime. Will Call is located at the main ticket office on the East side of the Edward Jones Dome at the Broadway Central Entrance (between entries B & C). Rams season ticket holders wanting to leave tickets for pick-up should do so at Will Call. The season ticket holder must clearly record the name of the person picking up the tickets and also indicate his or her name along with a phone number (preferably mobile phone) on the ticket envelope. Will Call tickets can be claimed only by the person whose name appears on the ticket envelope. Valid photo I.D. is required.