Rams Week Three Win Did Not Come Without Injuries
The Rams came out of their Thursday night game with a victory over the San Francisco 49ers. It was a big game for the Rams, they proved that they were capable of winning games that they were supposed to win. However, the win did not come without negatives. Four notable Rams starters were injured during the game. Wide receivers Sammy Watkins and Tavon Austin are both now in the concussion protocol. Safety and slot corner Lamarcus Joyner has a hamstring injury. Rams starting center John Sullivan also went down with a groin injury.
Sammy Watkins (Concussion)
Watkins had a great performance on Thursday, erupting for over 100 yards and two touchdowns. On his second touchdown catch Watkins took a hard hit to the helmet, the spotter that works for the league told the Rams training staff to evaluate Watkins for a possible concussion. Watkins was taken to the tent on the team sideline and then back to the locker room, he tested positive and has now been placed in the concussion protocol. Luckily for the Rams, they have a long week this week. The 10 days off will allow Watkins time to hopefully get rid of his symptoms and be cleared by an independent neurologist so that he will be able to return to play against Dallas next Sunday.
Tavon Austin (Concussion)
Austin struggled on Thursday night, muffing a punt and not contributing much in the passing game. Austin also took a hard hit to the head and had to see the Rams training staff, also testing positive for a concussion. Austin also stands to benefit from the long week for the Rams, giving him more time than usual to get cleared by an independent neurologist and get back to the field in time for the next matchup.
Lamarcus Joyner (Hamstring)
Joyner went down with a strained hamstring in the second quarter of Thursday’s game and was unable to return to action. Joyner has been one of the best safeties in the league for the Rams this season, benefiting greatly from his position change under Wade Phillips. Joyner also provides cornerback depth for the Rams in nickel and dime packages, shifting to slot corner in those situations. Joyner’s strain is not serious and he is currently listed as day-to-day. Given the Rams extended week and Joyner’s status it is likely a safe bet that he will take the field against the Cowboys.
John Sullivan (Groin)
Sullivan went down quite early in the third quarter and was forced to give way to Austin Blythe for the rest of the game. Sullivan plays a vital role on the Rams offensive line, getting everyone lined up and making calls from the center position. Austin Blythe held his own after taking over, but struggled on the goal line. Sullivan is undoubtedly a key part of the Rams early success and is currently listed as day-to-day. Much like Joyner, he will likely be a safe bet to play against the Cowboys next Sunday given the extended week.
Outlook
After a great win on Thursday night the Rams face the largest injury report they have had all season. Luckily for them they are looking at their longest week of preparation of the season outside of their bye week. This will likely give Joyner and Sullivan ample time to rest and recover. Hopefully Austin and Watkins will also be able clear the concussion protocol, which can always be a complicated task in today’s NFL.
– Andrew Kelly is the Managing Editor for cover32.com/Rams and covers the Los Angeles Rams. He also writes national content for cover32. Like and follow on Follow @Andrew_K47 Follow @cover32_LAR
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