Steven Jackson's fantasy football stock plummets ahead of Week 4

It's Week 4, and Steven Jackson is still looking for his first Steven Jackson game.

NFL Schedule 2012 Week 4: Rams host Seahawks in divisional battle

The St. Louis Rams will look to recover from a 23-6 loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 3 when they host their divisional foes, the Seattle Seahawks, in Week 4 on Sunday.

Seattle (2-1) defeated the Green Bay Packers on Monday night on a controversial last-second pass from Russell Wilson to Golden Tate that was ruled a touchdown.

The Rams (1-2), on the other hand, couldn't get anything going in Chicago, mustering only 160 total yards of offense. Quarterback Sam Bradford threw an interception for a touchdown to Bears safety Major Wright in the fourth that put the game out of reach.

As for the rest of the NFC West division, the undefeated Arizona Cardinals host the Miami Dolphins (1-2) late Sunday afternoon, while the San Francisco 49ers (2-1), coming off of an upset loss in Minnesota to the Vikings, head to New York to face the Jets (2-1).

The entire schedule can be seen here, and the full Week 4 schedule is as follows:

St. Louis Rams Avoid Brian Quick Again On Sunday

The St. Louis Rams selected Brian Quick No. 33 overall in the 2012 NFL draft and so far the highly-touted wide receiver has yet to make an impact three games into the season.

Quick was once again inactive on Sunday, a 23-6 loss to the Chicago Bears, the second time he hasn't dressed in three games, and the rookie was targeted just once in Week 2. Jim Thomas of STL Today caught up with coach Jeff Fisher to see if the mystery could be solved as to why Quick isn't playing:

"The other guys," coach Jeff Fisher said. "You're not going to keep seven guys up. You keep six; sometimes you keep five. We've got (Chris) Givens handling some of the returns and it's just one of those things. (Quick)'s going to be a good player."

So is Quick just not ready for much of an NFL role at this point?

"The other guys are still ahead of him, yes," Fisher said.

Givens has caught two passes for nine yards so far this season but has been targeted multiple times on deep passes and appears to be a bigger part of the offense than Quick at this point. Givens is also a bigger part of special teams, a big reason Quick hasn't been dressing.

Stay with the SB Nation NFL Hub for all the NFL news and updates you need. For more on the Rams, go to Turf Show Times. Bears news and commentary is available at Windy City Gridiron.

Steven Jackson Injury: Rams RB Is Ineffective In Return From Groin Injury

Though he could only churn out a measly 29 rushing yards on 11 carries, St. Louis Rams tailback Steven Jackson told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that he feels good physically following Sunday's 23-6 loss to the Bears.

Jackson, who was curiously benched in Week 2 and then forced to sit out the entire week of practice with a groin injury, opened the Chicago game as the team's unquestioned starter at running back despite concerns to the contrary. "I gave them confidence that I could go and lead this team emotionally and be the starter at running back," Jackson said late Sunday.

"I felt that I wasn't going to further injure myself and make myself more susceptible to missing games," he said. "Came out of this clean. I just wish that I could've been more productive and helped my team win."

There may only be a handful of running backs in the NFL these days who can shoulder the same type of offensive load that Jackson can, but it's starting to become evident that his 29-year-old body is catching up to him. Injuries aside, Jackson has toted the rock 20 times over his last two games compared to 21 attempts in Week 1, which is quite telling.

And with the emergence of rookie Daryl Richardson as a change-of-pace back in the team's offense, Jackson's days as a 350-carry workhorse might be dwindling rather quickly. Even though it's obvious that Jackson is still the No. 1 guy for the time being, it will be interesting to see how often he practices heading into Week 4.

Be sure to stay with this StoryStream for more on Jackson's groin injury, and head over to Turf Show Times for more Rams coverage. Also visit SB Nation's NFL hub for more news from around the league.

Rams Vs. Bears 2012: St. Louis Gave Up Running Game Too Quickly

There was quite a lot that went wrong for the St. Louis Rams in their 23-6 loss to the Chicago Bears on Sunday. The offense wasn't clicking, the defense couldn't stop the Bears enough to keep the score close down the homestretch, and the playcalling seemed to go out of whack near the end of the game as the Rams seemingly gave up on running the ball. Steven Jackson wasn't having his best day, picking up only 29 yards on 11 carries as he returned from a groin injury.

Rams blog Turf Show Times was confused as to why the Rams gave up the run so easily, especially since it had provided them with an early score to keep the game competitive:

The Rams' most successful drive of the game was a 10-play, 39-yard possession in the third quarter, one that ended with a 46-yard field goal to maintain a competitive game at 10-6. Take away the kick, and four of the nine plays were on the ground with Steven Jackson carrying the ball four times for 17 yards.

And notice the sequencing of it too. The drive started with two short runs that set up a 9-yard pass to Chris Givens. They ran it two more times, with Jackson rushing for 13 yards on the first play after Givens' catch, his best run of the game. Those two runs set up a 12-yard pass to Mulligan, the tight end.

Stay with the SB Nation NFL Hub for all the NFL news and updates you need. For more on the Rams, go to Turf Show Times. Bears news and commentary is available at Windy City Gridiron.

NFL Injury Reports: No Big Injuries For Rams Against Bears

Despite the negatives of their bad loss to the Chicago Bears, the St. Louis Rams can at least say that they came out of Week 3 action with a minimal amount of injuries.

Steven Jackson was the biggest injury story of the day, but the news on him was that he was on the field, not off. Jackson had missed practices for the entire week prior to the game with a groin problem. Though he was ineffective at best -- he picked up only 29 yards on 11 carries throughout the day -- he didn't seem to aggravate anything and will probably be back for Week 4 unless something goes wrong.

Only Matthew Conrath, Matthew Daniels and Rodger Saffold are listed as out currently on the Rams injury report.

Stay with the SB Nation NFL Hub for all the NFL news and updates you need. For more on the Rams, go to Turf Show Times. Bears news and commentary is available at Windy City Gridiron.

Should St. Louis Rams Fans Worry About Steven Jackson Yet?

Rams Vs. Bears Final Score: St. Louis Struggles To 23-6 Loss

The Bears defense clamped down late as Chicago pulled away from the Rams, defeating St. Louis 23-6. Chicago pressured Bradford all day, ending up with six total sacks. Defensive back Major Wright intercepted Sam Bradford and returned it to the house for the game's final TD.

Bradford threw two picks while Bears QB Jay Cutler was intercepted once. Neither quarterback was able to surpass 200 yards passing; Cutler ending with 183 yards while Bradford had 152.

Both kickers combined for five field goals. Greg Zuerlein had a pair for the St. Louis while Robbie Gould booted three kicks through the uprights.

Fantasy Studs/Duds: Those who started Michael Bush in place of injured fantasy stud Matt Forte were rewarded with a TD and 55 rushing yards. Sam Bradford followed up a career day in Week 2 with a subpar Sunday, completing 18 passes for 152 yards and two INTs. Jay Cutler didn't fare much better, throwing for 183 passing yards and a INT.

Odds/Gambling: Those betting on the Bears won as Chicago won by two scores. For more information on odds and gambling today, click here.

Injury Info: Steven Jackson played today despite not practicing the past week. He was relatively quiet on the day, gaining 29 yards off 11 carries.

Next Up: The Rams will host the Seahawks next Sunday while Chicago will face the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football.

This story was originally published on SBNation.com

Stay with the SB Nation NFL Hub for all the NFL news and updates you need. For more on the Rams, go to Turf Show Times. Bears news and commentary is available at Windy City Gridiron.

Rams Vs. Bears: Sam Bradford Interception Returned For Devastating Chicago Touchdown, Bears Lead 20-6

The St. Louis Rams were in it Week 3 against the Chicago Bears in spite of their various offensive struggles, but a fourth-quarter interception-turned-Pick-6 on Sam Bradford might have just broken it wide open. The Bears lead 20-6 with fewer than 10 minutes to go in the fourth quarter, as three-and-a-third quarters of failing to protect Bradford finally produce negative consequences.

Bradford's season will still look impressive to date, but Week 3 has been a game to forget so far. Bradford ended the drive 14-for-29 for just 134 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception. Being sacked five times will create a certain impatience, and the Bears' Pick 6 came, predictably, on a hurried short-game attempt that ended up in traffic.

The Bears are a tough defensive team, but the Rams' offense has struggled in all areas Sunday—pass protection, running, and even playmaking, with some ugly crops early from Brandon Gibson costing the Rams possible touchdown drives. The Rams' defense was able to match them play-for-play for most of the game, but the Rams' offense is going to have to outscore the Bears' defense if they want to stay in this game.

Rams Vs. Bears: Greg Zuerlein Keeps St. Louis Close, Rams Trail 10-6

The St. Louis Rams have struggled to keep their offense on the field in Week 3 against the Chicago Bears, thanks in large part to their offensive line's struggles to keep Sam Bradford (12-for-24, 115 yards) upright. But they've gotten within 60 yards of the uprights twice, and Greg Zuerlein is keeping the score close—after a 46-yard field goal, the Rams trail the Bears 10-6.

Zuerlein is the Rams' only offensive asset having his usual game; Steven Jackson has nine carries for 27 yards, and Danny Amendola has three receptions for 41 yards. Rookie Greg Zuerlein, on the other hand, has 46 and 56-yard field goals, and has yet to miss in his NFL career.

Jay Cutler's struggles on the Bears side have kept the Rams in this game; Chris Long and Cortland Finnegan have been disrupting him at the line and downfield, and—well, the Chicago Bears don't always need hep to struggle on offense. If the Rams can stop Michael Bush a few times, for once, they're still absolutely in this game.

Rams Vs. Bears Score Update: St. Louis Trails Chicago 10-3 At Half

Greg Zuerlein kicked a 56-yard field goal at the end of the second quarter to put the Rams on the board Sunday. They trail Chicago 10-3 at half

Michael Bush has been very efficient in his replacement role for injured rusher Matt Forte. The Chicago back ran in a 3-yard touchdown to add to the Bears' lead. Bush had 49 yards on 14 attempts through the first two quarters.

Jay Cutler has been up and down thus far, completing 10-of-19 passes for 95 yards and an interception.

Steven Jackson has had a quiet day after getting the nod to play after not practicing all week. The St. Louis veteran has just seven yards on four attempts.

Stay with the SB Nation NFL Hub for all the NFL news and updates you need. For more on the Rams, go to Turf Show Times. Bears news and commentary is available at Windy City Gridiron.

Rams Vs. Bears Score: Michael Bush Touchdown Caps Long Chicago Drive; Bears Lead 10-0

Michael Bush and the Chicago Bears got the memo: The St. Louis Rams can't stop the run. Matt Forte may be out, but it hasn't mattered; Bush has 14 rushes for 49 yards and a touchdown, and has continually broken up the Rams' attempts to get Jay Cutler and company off the field. As a result, the Rams' offense has barely gotten onto the field.

The Rams' new secondary, especially free agent Cortland Finnegan, has proven more than up to the challenge of wiping out the passing game in all three weeks. But if their defensive line, still without big rookie DT Michael Brockers, can't get backups like Michael Bush and the Detroit Lions' Kevin Smith down behind the line of scrimmage on occasion, Sam Bradford will never get onto the field.

After a Greg Zuerlein field goal—a new career high of 56 yards—the Rams trail 10-3. Given just how long the Bears have been on the field in the first half, that's more or less a best-case scenario going into halftime. In the third quarter the Rams will have to make some kind of adjustment to stay in front of the Bears' running game.

Rams Vs. Bears Score Update: St. Louis Trails 3-0 After First Quarter

Robbie Gould nailed a 54-yard field goal to put the Chicago Bears on the board as they lead the St. Louis Rams, 3-0, after the first quarter in the Windy City Sunday.

Both defenses have come out strong in the first 15 minutes. Cortland Finnegan intercepted Jay Cutler on the second-to-last play of the quarter after Chicago was marching down the field. Finnegan returned the ball 32 yards before a series of fumbles by both teams ended up being overturned, leaving the Rams with possesion. St. Louis went three-and-out, their drive ending in a Chicago sack.

Rams QB Sam Bradford has three completions for 18 yards so far on the day. Cutler has completed just 4-of-11 pass attempts.

The Bears will start the second quarter with posession.

Stay with the SB Nation NFL Hub for all the NFL news and updates you need. For more on the Rams, go to Turf Show Times. Bears news and commentary is available at Windy City Gridiron.

Rams Vs. Bears: Cortland Finnegan Intercepts Jay Cutler To Continue Hot Start

So far it's clear the St. Louis Rams have gotten their money's worth with Cortland Finnegan. The free-agent cornerback picked off Jay Cutler at the end of the first quarter vs. the Chicago Bears on Sunday, his third interception in three games, and ran it back over midfield before a series of almost-fumbles that the replacement referees found... overly difficult to comprehend. (After a challlenge, the replacement refs agreed that it was "St. Louie" ball.)

For Jay Cutler, it's the struggling quarterback's sixth interception in three games, and it stopped dead all the momentum the Bears had built up in a long offensive drive that starred Michael Bush, whom the Rams have been unable to stop so far. (They trail by a score of 3-0 at the end of the first quarter.)

Through three weeks it's clear that the Rams' run defense is a weakness. But if their pass defense continues to be this strong, I'm not sure anybody's going to notice. For more Rams vs. Bears updates, and questions about the replacement referees' pronunciation, stay tuned to SB Nation St. Louis and our Rams-Bears storystream.

Rams Vs. Bears: Steven Jackson Starts At RB In Week 3

Steven Jackson injury and, more conspiratorially, benching concerns dominated the St. Louis Rams' Week 3 practices, with Jackson spending missing practice all week with a groin injury some fans believed didn't exist, but in the first quarter of the Rams' game vs. the Chicago Bears Steven Jackson was the unequivocal starter, taking three carries for four yards (and a crucial third-down conversion) on the Rams' first offensive drive.

We heard a lot about Daryl Richardson last week, and about Isaiah Pead all offseason, but for now it's clear that the Rams still believe in Steven Jackson as the center of their offense, let alone their running game. Expect him to get the bulk of the carries unless or until he's too hurt to go, although Richardson has no doubt earned himself some carries as the complementary back Jackson has never really had.

So fantasy football owners, Rams fans who are hoping Jackson proves to be ageless, and people who just don't want the Rams to overreact after one good regular season game from Daryl Richardson, take heart: If the first quarter is any indication, the Rams will be going to Steven Jackson like they have for the last seven years or so against the Chicago Bears on Sunday.

Rams Vs. Bears, NFL Inactives: Brian Quick Out Vs. Chicago

The biggest news from the inactive list for Sunday's game between St. Louis and Chicago is who was left off: Rams halfback Steven Jackson is listed as active and will play against the Bears. Jackson missed practice this week with an injured groin, and was doubtful as of Sunday morning. Nevertheless, the veteran running back will play.

Rams wide receiver Brian Quick is listed as inactive, as are defensive tackles Michael Brockers and Matt Cornrath, quarterback Austin Davis, halfback Terrance Ganaway, offensive lineman Rodger Saffold, and safety Matthew Daniels.

As reported earlier in the week, Bears starting halfback Matt Forte will be inactive with an injured ankle. Also missing for the Bears will be offensive linemen Edwin Williams and Jonathan Scott, wide receiver Dane Sanzenbacher, defensive tackles Matt Toeaina and Nate Collins, and defensive end Cheta Ozougwu.

The Rams and Bears kick off at 1:00 p.m. ET Sunday. Television coverage is available on Fox.

Stay with the SB Nation NFL Hub for all the NFL news and updates you need. For more on the Rams, go to Turf Show Times. Bears news and commentary is available at Windy City Gridiron.

This post originally appeared on SBNation.com.

Steven Jackson Will Be Active For Rams Vs. Bears

Rams running back Steven Jackson will play Sunday against the Chicago Bears. Jackson sat out practice all week with a groin injury. According to Stacey Dales of NFL Network, Jackson went through pregame warmups and will play:

Just confirmed - Steven Jackson WILL play - after testing out groin on field - true gametime decision!

— StaceyDales (@StaceyDales) September 23, 2012

Earlier this week, Rams coach Jeff Fisher told reporters that Daryl Richardson would be the Rams' featured running back until Jackson could get healthy. There is no indication from the team how many carries Jackson or Richardson could receive today.

Jackson has appeared in the Rams' two previous games, running 30 times for 111 yards. He has yet to score a touchdown in 2012. The Rams and Bears kick off at 1 p.m. Eastern at Soldier Field. Television coverage is available on FOX.

For more on the Rams, head over to the SB Nation blog Turf Show Times. For more fantasy info, check out the SB Nation Fantasy War Room 4-8:30 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday. And check out SB Nation's own Fantasy Football game, Pick 6!

This story was originally published on SBNation.com.

Daryl Richardson Leads St. Louis Rams' Rushing Mix If Steven Jackson Can't Go

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson is listed as questionable entering Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears, after injuring his groin last weekend against the Washington Redskins. If Jackson cannot play on Sunday, it appears rookie Daryl Richardson will spearhead the St. Louis rushing attack. Via Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch:

A strong training camp and preseason made Richardson the surprise winner of the backup job ahead of second-round pick Pead. After rushing for 103 yards on 17 carries in his first two NFL games, Richardson appears to have earned the full trust of Fisher - to the point that Fisher says the game plan won't have to be adjusted if Richardson starts.

Without Jackson, fellow rookies Isaiah Pead and Terrance Ganaway would also be expected to see some work out of the backfield for St. Louis.

For more on the Rams, be sure to visit Turf Show Times. Additional coverage on the Bears can be found at Windy City Gridiron, while SB Nation's NFL hub is the place to go for news and analysis from around the league.

Darian Stewart Injury: St. Louis Rams Safety Could Return On Special Teams

The St. Louis Rams expect to have second-year safety Darian Stewart back on Sunday for their game against the Chicago Bears, though Stewart will mostly be used on special teams in the game. Via Turf Show Times:

"There was too much practice time and game time missed," head coach Jeff Fisher said of the safety's reduced role. He returns to the lineup this week, and will likely be active in place of an injured Matt Daniels.

"Matt will be out for the game," Fisher said. "So with that being said, yes, Stewart has a chance to be able to take his place on special teams."

Stewart missed much of training camp and the preseason battling injuries, and had fallen down the Rams depth chart.

In other injury news, Rams running back Steven Jackson is still questionable for Sunday's contest, while Bears running back Matt Forte has already been ruled out of the game.

For more on the Rams, be sure to visit Turf Show Times. Additional coverage on the Bears can be found at Windy City Gridiron, while SB Nation's NFL hub is the place to go for news and analysis from around the league.

"Nobody Cares About The St. Louis Rams" Is An Eerily Prescient Song From 1999

Rams Vs. Bears 2012: Game Preview, Kickoff Time, TV Schedule And More

When the Chicago Bears host the St. Louis Rams on Sunday at Soldier Field, they'll be looking to flex their offensive muscles after being dominated by the Green Bay Packers defense. Chicago put up 10 points in Week 2 while leaving quarterback Jay Cutler hanging out to dry and will be facing a St. Louis defense that has allowed an average of 27.5 points in their first two games.

It was St. Louis' offense that won them their game in Week 2 against the Washington Redskins, with Sam Bradford putting up one of the best performances since being drafted by the Rams. Chicago's defense has been slightly more stout over the past few years than Washington's, which could pose problems for more Bradford heroics, especially with the offensive line in front of him banged up.

Game Date/Time: Sunday, Sept. 23, Noon CT

Location: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL

TV: FOX

TV Distribution: The506.com Week 3

For more on the Rams, be sure to visit Turf Show Times. Additional coverage on the Bears can be found at Windy City Gridiron, while SB Nation's NFL hub is the place to go for news and analysis from around the league.

Steven Jackson Injury: St. Louis Rams' Star Remains Questionable Saturday

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson did not practice Friday and remains questionable for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears with a groin injury, Dan O'Neill of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

O'Neill's story on the matter focuses more on the unknown quantities that are the three backs behind Jackson on the Rams' roster. All three are rookies: Daryl Richardson, Isaiah Pead and Terrance Ganaway.

Only Richardson has yet to receive an NFL handoff; he had 15 carries for 83 yards in Week 2 against the Washington Redskins, the game in which Jackson suffered the groin injury. Richardson was a seventh-round draft pick out of Abilene Christian.

Pead, a second-round draftee from the Cincinnati Bearcats, has two kickoff returns but has not touched the ball from scrimmage. Ganaway was drafted in the sixth round by the New York Jets, but the Jets waived him on Aug. 31, and the Rams claimed him off waivers the next day.

Bears running back Matt Forte was ruled out for Sunday's game with an ankle injury. The Bears will look to backup veteran Michael Bush to carry the load Sunday.

The Rams kick off against Chicago on Sunday at noon CT on Fox.

For all the latest Rams news, check out Turf Show Times, and for your Bears updates, head to Windy City Gridiron. And be sure to get all your football updates at our NFL hub.

Matt Forte Injury: Chicago Bears Lose Running Back Vs. Rams

Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte is out for Sunday's game against the St. Louis Rams with an ankle injury, and veteran backup Michael Bush will move into the role of primary rusher.

Forte sprained his ankle during the the third quarter of the Bears' Week 2 game against the Green Bay Packers. Through the first two weeks of the season, Forte had rushed for 111 yards and one touchdown.

Still, Ryan Van Bibber of Turf Show Times thinks this will be the trickiest test for the Rams' rushing defense so far this season:

After Thursday's practice, [Rams] head coach Jeff Fisher said that his team was preparing as though the Bears would have Forte, but they were also keenly aware of what Bush could do on his own. It's clear after watching the Rams' first two games that preparation for each opponent is intense.

This will be the stiffest test so far for the Rams' run defense, a unit allowing more yards per carry than any other team in the league so far this season. You can imagine that does not sit well with Fisher's belief in sound fundamentals. It also might have something to do with the two teams they played so far this season.

Bush, the 28-year-old veteran from the University of Louisville, has 26 carries for 96 yards and two touchdowns in his first season with the Bears. He spent the first four seasons of his career with the Oakland Raiders.

The Rams kick off against Chicago on Sunday at noon CT on Fox.

For all the latest Rams news, check out Turf Show Times, and for your Bears updates, head to Windy City Gridiron. And be sure to get all your football updates at our NFL hub.

Rams Vs. Bears: Devin Hester Will Be On Greg Zuerlein, Johnny Hekker's Mind Sunday

Rams Vs. Bears Injury Report: Steven Jackson Listed As Questionable

After missing an entire week of practice with a groin injury, St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson is listed as questionable for Sunday's Week 3 matchup with the Chicago Bears, according to an announcement made by the team on Friday morning.

Jackson said he felt tightness in the second quarter of the Rams Week 2 game against the Washington Redskins, and left the game shortly thereafter. There was speculation that he might have been benched by head coach Jeff Fisher, but his absence from practice all week would suggest otherwise. Fullback Britt Miller (thigh) and offensive tackle Wayne Hunter (ankle) are also listed as questionable for Week 3.

Defensive tackle Matt Conrath (knee), safety Matt Daniels (hamstring) and offensive tackle Rodger Saffold (knee) are out for Sunday's game, while defensive tackle Michael Brockers is listed as doubtful as he continues to rehab a high ankle sprain.

Kickoff is scheduled for noon CT at Soldier Field and the game will be televised on Fox.

For more on the St. Louis Rams, join the discussion at Turf Show Times. For more on the Chicago Bears, check out Windy City Gridiron. For all of your NFL needs, keep an eye on SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Rams' Janoris Jenkins, Robert Quinn, Quinn Ojinnaka Fined For Hits Vs. Redskins

Jenkins, Quinn, and Ojinnaka were fined a total of $31,500 by the NFL.

Steven Jackson Injury: Rams Running Back Questionable Against Bears

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chicago Bears, according to the team. Jackson will be a game-time decision as he continues to work through an injured groin.

Jackson suffered the injury during the team's 31-28 win over the Redskins, not practicing on Wednesday or Thursday. Jackson stated that he is hopeful to play against the Bears in Week 3.

The injury created a fair amount of speculation this past week when Jackson did not re-enter the game following an unsportsmanlike penalty, which occurred following a touchdown in the first half. The veteran was apparently pulled from the game following the penalty, although head coach Jeff Fisher stated he came out because of the injury and not because of the player being benched.

If Jackson cannot play, expect Daryl Richardson to get the majority of the snaps at running back.

For more on the St. Louis Rams, join the discussion at Turf Show Times. For all of your NFL needs, keep an eye on SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

Michael Brockers Injury: Rams DT Out Of Walking Boot

St. Louis defensive tackle Michael Brockers is closer to playing his first NFL game for the Rams, according to Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

Brockers was out of his walking boot on Friday, getting in some on-the-field work as he continues to rehab his the high-ankle sprain on his right leg.

The first round draft pick for the Rams was injured in the preseason against the Baltimore Ravens, when an illegal block by offensive lineman Ramon Harewood caught Brockers below the knees. Harewood was fined $8,000 for the play.

Brockers was drafted No. 14 overall in the 2012 draft out of LSU and was considered to be the top defensive tackle in the draft. Already ruled out against the Chicago Bears in Week 3, Brockers has missed the first two games of the season for the Rams.

The Rams are set to kick off in Chicago at 12 p.m. CT, with television coverage on Fox.

For all of your Rams coverage, head over to Turf Show Times. If you want a look at the Bears, Windy City Gridiron has it all.

NFL Picks, Week 3: Rams Picked To Upend Bears, Improve To 2-1

The St. Louis Rams are showing some signs of life. They played the Lions tough on the road in Week 1 and took down the Redskins last week. Maybe all of the Jeff Fisher hype was for good reason?

Peter King sure thinks that Fisher has things going in the right direction. He may not be all in on the Rams yet, but he's a believer and he's picking them to beat the Bears 23-20 this weekend.

Let me just say that I think Jeff Fisher and his staff are doing a heck of a job -- and I think the Bears are in trouble with that offensive line and without Matt Forte.

The Bears' offensive line has been horrendous through two weeks, allowing nine sacks and 14 QB hits. The Rams can spend the entire game in the Chicago backfield, which has to make the St. Louis faithful happy after getting so used to watching Sam Bradford get pummeled.

For all of your Rams coverage, head over to Turf Show Times. If you want a look at the Bears, Windy City Gridiron has it all.

Matt Forte Doesn't Practice Thursday; Status Unclear Vs. Rams

Bears running back Matt Forte did not practice Thursday, escalating the possibility he won't be available for Chicago in their Week 3 game versus the Rams.

Forte injured his ankle in the Bears' 23-10 loss at Green Bay in Week 2, but it's been reported it's not a high ankle sprain.

His absence would put another dent into a struggling Bears offense. It would, however, give back-up Michael Bush a chance to shine. Bush leads the Bears with two touchdowns and 26 attempts so far this season, and has 26 career starts in his time in Oakland when he backed up Darren McFadden.

The Rams are 10-point underdogs heading into the game even with the possibility of Forte being absent.

For all the latest Rams news, check out Turf Show Times, and for your Bears updates, head to Windy City Gridiron. And be sure to get all your football updates at our NFL hub.

Steven Jackson Injury: St. Louis Rams' Running Back Misses Second Straight Practice

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson missed his second straight practice on Thursday after he suffered a groin injury during the team's 31-28 win against the Redskins on Sunday. Despite the injury, Jackson remains hopeful that he'll be ready to play in the Rams' Week 3 matchup with the Chicago Bears, according to a report from the team.

There was speculation earlier this week that the oft-injured Jackson might have been benched rather than injured last Sunday. The ninth-year veteran back was pulled from the game in the first half after an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Head coach Jeff Fisher said Jackson was pulled because of a groin injury, not because of the penalty. Cue: benching speculation.

Should Jackson be unable to play against the Bears, it's likely that Daryl Richardson would see most of the action at running back for the Rams.

Kickoff for Sunday's game is slated for noon CT and will be televised on FOX.

For more on the St. Louis Rams, join the discussion at Turf Show Times. For all of your NFL needs, keep an eye on SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.

NFL Odds Week 3: Rams Vs. Bears

The St. Louis Rams are anywhere from seven- to nine-point underdogs to the Chicago Bears in their Week 3 matchup, according to OddsShark.com. That's down from 10 points, which is where the line opened earlier in the week.

Bettors everywhere are likely being swayed by a combination of the Bears' blowout loss to the Green Bay Packers and the Rams' big win over the Washington Redskins in Week 2. However, there is a reason for the opening spread being so significant; the Rams are 1-10 straight up in their last 11 road games, while going 2-9 against the spread.

It's hard to tell how far apart these two teams are this early into the season, but the Bears seem to have a much better defense on paper. Depending on which Jay Cutler shows up, they could have the edge on offense, as well. The status of Rams running back Steven Jackson should affect the line as the week wears on, as well.

For more on the Rams, be sure to visit Turf Show Times. Additional coverage on the Bears can be found at Windy City Gridiron, while SB Nation's NFL hub is the place to go for news and analysis from around the league.

St. Louis Rams Injuries: Rokevious Watkins Placed On IR As Austin Pettis Returns

The injury spat for the St. Louis Rams' offensive line continued when they sent rookie guard Rokevious Watkins to injured reserve. Watkins made the starting lineup for the Rams against the Detroit Lions after playing his way onto the team in training camp.

His injury is just one of many for the Rams already. The team is almost at the point where just one more injury there could prove catastrophic:

Two games into the season, the Rams already have some issues with depth on the offensive line. Wells is out until at least Week 7. Rodger Saffold will stay on the 53-man roster, but cannot play for at least a month. So far, the backups have done an outstanding job for the Rams. That was clear on Sunday against the Redskins. The problem is that the Rams have sustained all the injuries they can really withstand to the offensive line before it really gets to be a problem.

Following Watkins' move to injured reserve, the Rams will be bringing back wide receiver Austin Pettis following the completion of his four-game suspension.

For more on the St. Louis Rams, check out Turf Show Times. More on the NFL can be found over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

Steven Jackson Injury: St. Louis Rams Running Back OK For Week 3

After being benched in the second half of the St. Louis Rams' win over the Washington Redskins, people assumed that Steven Jackson was being punished for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Later, it turned out that he had been pulled from the game because of a hamstring injury, which kept him out for the entire rest of the game.

Fortunately for the Rams, Jackson appears to be fine. At least, he is according to an MRI that he had on his groin. Jackson seemed to indicate in an interview that everything should be OK when Week 3 rolls around.

"Got an MRI this morning," Jackson said. "Everything came back as positive as it can be."

It's not clear whether he will be starting in Week 3, but at the very least we can probably expect to see him on the field for the Rams.

For more on the St. Louis Rams, check out Turf Show Times. More on the NFL can be found over at SB Nation's NFL hub.

2012 NFL Schedule: Rams Look To Upset Bears In Week 3

The St. Louis Rams beat the NFL's new darling in Week 2 when they topped Robert Griffin III and the Washington Redskins at home. A win over the playoff-hopeful Chicago Bears on the road in Week 3 could open even more eyes around the NFL on Sunday.

The noon game, televised on FOX, pits two 1-1 teams looking to avoid starting with an early losing record. The Bears could be without star running back Matt Forte, which would certainly be a boon for a perpetually rebuilding Rams looking to pull the road upset and give the Jeff Fisher Era a good start.

Around the rest of the the NFC West, the San Francisco 49ers look to start 3-0 when they travel to play the Minnesota Vikings at noon Sunday, the surprising Arizona Cardinals host the Philadelphia Eagles in battle of 2-0 teams at 3:05 p.m. on Sunday, and the Seattle Seahawks host Monday Night Football against the Green Bay Packers at 7:30 p.m.

Here's the rest of the Week 3 slate. All times are CT:

Thursday, Sept. 20

• Giants vs. Panthers, 7:20 p.m., NFL Network

Sunday, Sept. 23

• 49ers vs. Vikings, noon, FOX

• Lions vs. Titans, noon, FOX

• Rams vs. Bears, noon, FOX

• Buccaneers vs. Cowboys, noon, FOX

• Bengals vs. Redskins, noon, CBS

• Jaguars vs. Colts, noon, CBS

• Chiefs vs. Saints, noon, CBS

• Jets vs. Dolphins, noon, CBS

• Bills vs. Browns, noon, CBS

• Eagles vs. Cardinals, 3:05 p.m., FOX

• Falcons vs. Chargers, 3:05 p.m., FOX

• Texans vs. Broncos, 3:25 p.m., CBS

• Steelers vs. Raiders, 3:25 p.m., CBS

• Patriots vs. Ravens, 7:20 p.m., NBC

Monday, Sept. 24

• Packers vs. Seahawks, 7:30 p.m., ESPN

Matt Forte Injury Could Offset St. Louis Rams' Weak Run Defense Vs. Chicago Bears

Matt Forte's injury might make him unable to go in the St. Louis Rams' road matchup vs. the Chicago Bears. That's probably the only way the Rams will stop him.