It was clear that today’s practice in shells was a concerted effort to improve. The offense and defense came together for pass protection/pass rush 1-on-1’s in a high-energy period that featured several back-and-forth battles. LT Jake Long and DE Robert Quinn continued to test their speed and strength against one another, while emerging players, such as DE Gerald Rivers worked various moves and techniques.

RB Zac Stacy returned to the field after sitting out of the second preseason game, and was a key contributor to the offense on the ground and through the air. Fellow back Terrance Ganaway also saw action throughout practice as a full participant.

After earning more reps with the first team at nickel back, CB Brandon McGee kept making his claim for the starting role. Early in the team’s 11-on-11 period, McGee picked off QB Austin Davis.

Rookie WR Emory Blake was consistent the entire practice, making plays during individual to team drills.

As the offense aims to improve its third down efficiency, WRs Demetrius Fields, Austin Pettis, Brian Quick, and Raymond Radway each came up with conversions in Monday’s 11-on-11 third down period. Inside the 10-yard line, Pettis pulled in several difficult grabs while Radway cashed in with two touchdown receptions.

LB Sammy Brown, S Matt Giordano, and LB Jabara Williams remained out of practice. WR Tavon Austin, S T.J. McDonald, S Darian Stewart, and C Scott Wells also did not participate. Activated off the PUP list last week, DT Jermelle Cudjo and TE Lance Kendricks did not practice Monday and their timetable is up in the air, but improving. The team is also hoping to have RT Rodger Saffold back this week.

The Rams return to the practice field tomorrow at 4 p.m.