The only Rams’ touchdown Marc Bulger did not have a hand in yesterday was the most important of the game. The St. Louis quarterback threw four touchdown passes, but it was Steven Jackson’s 21-yard scamper into the endzone in overtime that was the difference in the Rams’ 37-31 win over Washington.
Bulger was practically flawless in the team’s victory, throwing for 388 yards without turning the ball over. But as good as the Rams offense was, their defense left something to be desired. Washington’s Ladell Betts, a Blue Springs, Missouri, native, carried the ball 29 times for 129 yards and two touchdowns.
All told, Washington gained 336 yards, but that total did not approach the Rams’ 579 yards of total offense. Jackson finished with 150 on the ground and 102 in the air, making him the first Ram running back since Marshall Faulk in 2001 to gain 2000 yards from scrimmage.
The Redskins blew a chance to win the game late in the fourth quarter when Betts was stripped by OJ Atogwe and Corey Chavous recovered at the Rams’ 12 yard line. St. Louis then had their own opportunity to win the game in regulation, but Jeff Wilkins missed a 41-yard field goal as time expired.
Shaun McDonald redeemed his teammate when he returned a Washington punt 33 yards to the Redskin 39 to set up St. Louis’ second possession in overtime. And from there, Jackson played the role of Santa Claus. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
Related web sites:
Rams’ Official Website
