Unleashing Tavon Austin will be key for Rams against Jets on SundayBy RICH HAMMOND / STAFF WRITER
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – There’s plenty going on under the helmet of Tavon Austin.
Austin, the Rams’ feisty trash-talking receiver and frequent wearer of colorful patterned socks, actually is quite quiet, introspective and realistic when it comes to his role within the Rams’ offense.
Problem is, that role is ever-changing. One week, Austin is all over the field, catching short passes and lining up in the backfield for handoffs. The next week, one must study the Rams’ pre-snap formation to make sure he’s still on the field. Austin’s talent will be needed Sunday against the New York Jets.
“Teams are not crazy,” Austin said this week. “They definitely know what they’re doing, and they know the guys they want to take out of the game.”
One of them is Austin, per evidence provided during the first eight games of this season. Austin, the Rams’ big-play receiver, has totaled only 37 receptions for 316 yards and two touchdowns.
That’s a problem for a Rams offense that also hasn’t been able to run the ball consistently this season. In order to get Todd Gurley going, the Rams need to back off defenses with some big pass plays. In previous years, Austin would provide them. This year, it’s been a hit-or-miss proposition.
Read Complete Article [
www.ocregister.com]
