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Ram_Ruler
What was said? Thanks in advance
Was checking in and out. So some of this is me interpreting a piece here and there. Here's what I gleaned:
On the issue of why DB Robert Rochelle isn't playing more...
Rodrigue didn't provide an answer, but indicated that this is might be part of a larger issue for both the coaching staff as well as the scouting department. She said that Rochelle was one of Morris' guys when drafted last year and that they assumed that he'd contribute more this year. But something clearly happened (not sure if it was coaching or other limitations) that has stunted his growth in their opinion. No other real elaboration on this.
On the emergence of Tutu Atwell...
Has shown he can play, but is limited scheme-wise. She seemed to indicate that he's best utilized in play-action where a DB has to honor the run a split second before thinking of laying hands on him to knock him off of his route. But, of course, in that split second, Atwell is gone. She indicated the challenge is that the Ram offense operates more in shot-gun/empty formations now where there's no play-action threat.
On the emergence of Michael Hoecht...
Believes that he's earned the right to be part of the DL rotation. DL is missing a speed rusher to compliment AD and Floyd (who's always been more of a run-stopper). Hollins wasn't it, but Hoecht has shown the ability to get home. No one had been killing it at that position and it likely shouldn't have taken an emergency to give him a shot.
Acquisition of Baker Mayfield...
McVay isn't interested in changing his offense to fit Bryce Perkins. This is why he went back to Wolford who can, at least, complete a forward pass (from time to time). With that said, Wolford has his own limitations with respect to physical abilities and availability.
This is where she believes Mayfield has a role. She doesn't believe he'll play on Thursday, but suspects that McVay will use the extra couple of days after the game to on-board Mayfield for the remainder of the season. Believes that the poor running defenses the Rams should face ending the year could help to mitigate the poor OL play so Mayfield doesn't get broke up (as much). This will be McVay evaluating Mayfield to see how he absorbs the offense and puts it into practice. Believes this will give Mayfield an opportunity to determine if this might be a spot where he could sit behind Stafford for a year or two (obviously for less money) and learn things he couldn't in Cleveland.
Any silver-linings to being out of the playoffs so early...
Unlike this past off-season where the organization had to deal with the draft, FA, and raids on coaching staff on a short calendar, they now should have time to self-scout on how they've been approaching a variety of things ranging from staffing decisions...to player evaluation...to schemes.
Sorry, bit that's I can recall at the moment.