Hot Rams fizzle out in Foxborough

The St. Louis Rams come into town this week. They have been hot winning their last two games. The defense has played much better in those two games. There was only one way to go for the defensive unit. New coach Jim Haslett is known for his defensive schemes. The running game certainly helps the defense. Keeping the clock running and the D off the field. But this week, multi purpose back Steven Jackson is out with a quad injury. This is a major boost for New England. Especially now that Rodney Harrison is out for the season. Jackson's absence is a huge hit to the Rams. This will put more pressure on the passing game which Jackson is also a big part of. St. Louis tries to gets him the ball in many different ways by lining him up all over the field. The Patriots should be able to take advantage of a weakened Rams offense. If they can score early and get pressure on Marc Bulger, New England has a chance to win big again this week. Kevin Faulk will need to be a key player for the offense. Will we see more of BenJarvis Green-Ellis after a nice performance late against Denver? He ran with purpose. With Sammy Morris out this week we need some running backs to fill in and run like Green-Ellis did last week. It will only open things up for Matt Cassel in the passing game. Even in a shortened week I think the Pats roll 27-10 at home improving their record to 5 and 2 heading into a make or break stretch of games against the Colts, Bills, Jets, Miami and Steelers. All AFC Conference teams with playoffs hopes, At least for now. They really need to win 3 of 5 to help themselves out. The middle three would be the best scenario for the team against division opponents. I really think the Patriots are playoff bound. Each week Cassel becomes more comfortable and confident. Hopefully New England can find some luck with injuries. They have been a big issue this season.