Defense Against Run Proven Ram-Tough

With a front four averaging only 276 pounds, run defense was the biggest question mark for the Rams beginning the season. But after six games, the Rams have yielded only two rushing touchdowns, no team has rushed for more than 94 yards against them, and no opposing runner has gained more than 52 yards.

Before Monday’s 13-9 loss to the Steelers, Atlanta Coach Dan Reeves had a closed-door meeting with Chris Chandler, telling the quarterback he needed to finish a game. Chandler missed three of six games because of a right hamstring injury. He also left two games when he aggravated the injury and left another contest because of flu.

Carolina is only two games into the experiment to get running back Tshimanga Biakabutuka the ball more, and already he has been slowed by injuries to his groin, hip and right ankle.