The NFL preseason schedule was released today and, as long as an NFL lockout doesn't wipe it out, the St. Louis Rams will play in Canton, Ohio, as they kick things off against the Chicago Bears in the Hall of Fame Game on Sunday, August 7.
The Hall of Fame game is named, of course, because the Pro Football Hall of Fame will enshrine it's 2011 inductees on Saturday, August 6 in Canton. On that day, two former Rams -- Marshall Faulk of the St. Louis version and Les Richter of Los Angeles -- will have their busts unveiled.
"It's an honor to play in Canton and pay tribute to the careers of our own Marshall Faulk and Les Richter, as well as the other outstanding individuals who are being inducted into the Hall of Fame this year," Rams Head Coach Steve Spagnuolo said in a press release. "What a great NFL event to be a part of and a tremendous experience for our team. We are excited to kickoff the 2011 season by competing against our preseason slate of opponents as well as participating in the Hall of Fame game."
Along with the preseason opener, the Rams will play the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans at home while traveling to face the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars on the road.
Specific dates and times for the final four preseason contests will be announced at a later date.
ST. LOUIS RAMS 2011 PRESEASON OPPONENTS
Hall of Fame Game (Sun., Aug. 7) - Chicago Bears at Canton, Ohio
Week 1 (Aug. 11-15)- Indianapolis Colts
Week 2 (Aug. 18-22)- Tennessee Titans
Week 3 (Aug. 25-29) - @ Kansas City Chiefs
Week 4 (Sept. 1-2)- @ Jacksonville Jaguars