PRO FOOTBALL : DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Ball-Control, Error-Free Offense Works Wonders

Coach John Robinson described the Rams’ performance in Monday night’s 24-3 exhibition victory over the San Diego Chargers as “efficient.”

The Rams had possession of the ball for 36 minutes 25 seconds, compared to the Chargers’ 23:35. The Rams, using a ball-control offense, didn’t turn the ball over, a marked improvement from their eight fumbles (five lost) against Atlanta Aug. 3. And the Rams’ special teams played well.

“After the (New York) Giants’ success last season, that style is more in vogue,” Robinson said. “It used to be considered boring football. It got me accused of being another Woody Hayes,” he said in reference to the late Ohio State coach.

Robinson doesn’t usually wear headsets on the sidelines, but he donned a pair during the first half of Monday’s game.

“I was just trying to cover the hole in my head,” Robinson joked.

Actually, Robinson wanted to get more involved in the Rams’ running game. Offensive coordinator Ernie Zampese calls the plays, but Robinson gave suggestions for formations.

“If it’s a third and three, I’m not going to say, ‘Let’s run’ or ‘Let’s pass,’ ” Robinson said. “If you start vetoing, then you’re going to intimidate the guy calling plays and I don’t want to do that.”

The fate of defensive tackle Doug Reed, who signed a one-year, $200,000 contract last week after a bitter dispute, is expected to be determined soon.

Robinson said Reed’s status was analyzed during a personnel meeting Monday night, and an announcement--Reed is expected to be released or traded--could come today. The team is expected to cut seven or eight players today.

Robinson said the Rams suffered no serious injuries in Monday’s victory, which marked the Rams’ first triumph since defeating Cleveland Dec. 2. . . . Reserve quarterback Mike Pagel, who is battling Chuck Long for the right to back up starter Jim Everett, completed five of seven passes for 44 yards in 1 1/2 quarters Monday. “They’re even,” Robinson said.