Bernie on Rams' Win

FROM BERNIE MIKLASZ:

Obviously, this is the Rams' biggest win under head coach Steve Spagnuolo. I realize the Chargers aren't playing up to their talent level, but after last week's debacle in Detroit the Rams had a choice to make: rise up or fade away.

And they rallied with great passion. The Chargers were shocked by the Rams' aggression and didn't have an early answer for it.

Damaged by the loss of Antonio Gates and Malcom Floyd to in-game injuries the Chargers recovered and tried to make a game of it in the second half but the Rams kept their composure.

I would have liked to have seen the Rams offense attack more in the second half; you can't sit on a 14-point lead with two quarters to play. And the overly cautious approach nearly cost this team a well-earned win.

But Sam Bradford, who was calm and in command all day, led his team on a crucial 4th-quarter drive for a FG that gave the Rams' a 10-pt lead.

Rookie WR Danario Alexander provided inspiration and big-play skills. I wish the Rams would have targeted him more. But the Pat Shurmur offense had some good ideas; the distribution was excellent with nine different Rams catching passes.

And Steven Jackson had some terrific power runs, including a 9-yard romp on third and 6 near the two-minute warning when the Rams had to keep the ball and drain some clock. Moments later Jax put the Chargers away with a 13-yard run.

The Rams defense had some problems in the second half but let's be reasonable here: you just can't keep the Chargers down for four quarters. The seven sacks of Philip Rivers caused plenty disruption.

It got a little unnerving late in the game but the Rams held on for a 20-17 win. They're 3-3. And could be 5-1. The team made a positive statement Sunday. Outstanding win.