The Rams have already pulled an upset by tying the unbeaten Saints, 14-14, through two quarters at the Edward Jones Dome.
Looking at the Rams' schedule before the season, I had them going 0-7 before beating the Lions and upsetting the Saints. Mostly I was trying to find more than a couple victories over the course of the season. I thought the Rams would be improved, but as I went through their schedule game by game, likely victories were hard to anticipate.
The Saints are a good finishing team. They trailed the Panthers last week. They will probably win this game against the Rams.
But the way Steven Jackson is running -- he has 100 yards at halftime -- the Rams can be dangerous as long as their passing game improves. Receiver Donnie Avery clearly needed the bye week to fight through some nagging injuries. His touchdown reception early in the game was important because it established a threat through the air.
Oshiomogho Atogwe's interception off Drew Brees was also a very good sign for the Rams. Atogwe has been a turnover machine for the Rams until this season. If he starts making plays, the Rams will have a better chance to build some momentum in the second half of the season.