By Brett Grassmuck
Staff Writer

MEQUON, Wis. - Tackle John Greco, the Rams third-round pick, is getting schooled on and off the field by veteran tackle Orlando Pace.

On the field, Pace is there to help Greco get used to playing in the NFL. Off the field, Pace is dominating the rookie in games of horse on the basketball court after practice.

“It’s a little friendly competition,” Greco said. “It just kind of knocks some of the soreness out of you after practice.”

After his first full week of an NFL training camp Greco is starting to settle in, even though he’s been given the task of learning a new position. Greco, who played tackle in college at Toledo, began his NFL as a bookend for the offensive line, but as of late has seen more time at guard.

“It’s a different position, but knowing tackle means that you pretty much know guard,” Greco said. “I’m trying to concentrate on that and learn one position.”

Rams coach Scott Linehan said he has been impressed with the rookie’s versatility, but Greco’s final position is yet to be determined.

“He’s had so far a really a real solid camp,” Linehan said. “He’s making a few mistakes out there, but he is getting better every practice.”

With a couple offensive linemen banged up, Greco has had a chance to work with the first unit, mostly working in at guard.

“That’s when you get a chance to look at the position where if you were in a game you may be uncertain,” Linehan said. “These are good reps to work with the ones.”

Greco has been solid during his first week of camp, holding his own during one-on-one pass rush drills and during team periods. The rookie is just trying to take it all in and hold his own.

“When I’m out there, there are going to be some mistakes made,” Greco said. “This is a new system for me, and I’m trying to take it one step at a time, listen to my coaches and work hard.”

Aside from getting used to playing a new position on the offensive line, Greco also has to get used to a new look. He, along with all his rookie teammates, is sporting a brand new mustache.

“It started this morning when about half the rookies had them,” Greco said. “I guess all of us have to have them now. I’m just trying to make it look decent.”

STRIPED SIDELINES: Rams players had to be on their best behavior today as an NFL officiating crew took part in Thursday afternoon’s workout.

Back judge Steve Freeman and his crew, umpire Jim Quirk, head linesman Steve Stelljes and side judge David Wyant, patrolled the sidelines during the Rams team drills.

A crew of referees will visit each team and take part in a few of their practices during training camp. This helps the players get re-acclimated to what refs will or won’t call during games.

The officiating crew will meet with the team and the media tomorrow to discuss rule changes and points of emphasis for the upcoming season.

INJURY REPORT: Several Rams were still too banged up to take part in Thursday’s afternoon practice, but a pair of injured Rams returned to action.

Cornerback Tye Hill and wide receiver Drew Bennett were back on the field in full pads Thursday afternoon. Hill had been nursing a sore quadriceps while Bennett was battling a sore knee.

“I feel a little better,” Hill said. “Yesterday it felt like it was bothering me a bit and today it felt like camp legs. I can push through a little pain. If I can run, that’s all I need to do.”

Ten other Rams, defensive end Victor Adeyanju (finger), safety Oshiomogho Atogwe (hamstring), wide receiver Donnie Avery (pelvic bone), tight end Anthony Becht (hamstring), cornerback Fakhir Brown (shoulder), linebacker Chris Draft (back), linebacker Vince Hall (hamstring), tight end Joe Klopfenstein (back), cornerback David Macklin (hamstring) and guard Mark Setterstrom (knee), were held out of Thursday’s practice due to injury.