Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando
The Rams came in 26th in our latest power rankings, but I voted them 19th -- the highest ranking they received from any of our 10 panelists.
The Rams were a mess last season amid an almost unfathomable number of injuries to their offensive line. They used 18 combinations on their offensive line in 2007. The thinking here is that St. Louis won't be nearly so unlucky that way this season, giving the Rams a better shot at keeping quarterback Marc Bulger healthy.
My No. 19 ranking might be high if left tackle Orlando Pace suffers another injury. With Pace, the Rams have one of the two or three best left tackles in the game. With Pace, Bulger becomes one of the two best quarterbacks in the division. With Pace, Steve Jackson probably re-emerges as an elite back. Jackson is arguably the most dynamic running back in the division, although there's a lot to like about the 49ers' Frank Gore, too.
The Rams' offensive implosion last season offset and overshadowed defensive improvements. Depth at linebacker is a concern, but a little more potency on offense -- led by new coordinator Al Saunders -- should make life easier for the Rams' defense. Early reports suggest the Rams will get more from defensive end Leonard Little. Newly signed first-round choice Chris Long should help, too.
Earlier: Rams spring checkup
Sando joined ESPN.com in 2007 after nine seasons covering the Seattle Seahawks for the Tacoma (Wash.) News Tribune. He lives in the Seattle-Tacoma area with his wife and two sons.
