PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Running Back Still a Question

Russell White and Tim Lester continue to practice as the Rams’ starting running backs, while Jerome Bettis and Cleveland Gary stand on the sidelines.

Bettis, who has difficulty breathing because of a bruised sternum, ran after practice and reported improvement. Gary jogged briefly, but was unable to join the rest of the team for the post-practice run.

So who starts against the New York Giants?

Coach Chuck Knox: “I don’t know. I really don’t.”

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Cornerback Steve Israel, who was warned a week ago by the NFL, was fined $1,500 for wearing his socks too low during games.

According to uniform and equipment rules, which are posted in the locker room, a player must wear socks that extend from the shoe to the bottom of the football pants.

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The Rams were advised this week that their offensive line is doing a better job than statistics indicate.

Elias Sports Bureau, which reviews all plays, said that Steeler nose tackle Joel Steed should not have been credited with a four-yard sack on the Rams’ opening play of the third quarter. Elias said quarterback Jim Everett should be tagged with a four-yard rushing loss.

The Ram offensive line, then, has given up only one sack in two games--matching Indianapolis for the NFL’s best mark.