Rams live to fight another day

Updated: December 28, 2004, 9:29 AM ET
By Michele Tafoya | ABC Sports, for Insider

The Rams had to beat Philadelphia on Monday night in order to keep any hope of a postseason appearance alive. Thanks to Philadelphia playing its scrubs for most of the game, the Rams won 20-7 and still has a shot at the playoffs.

The game resembled a preseason contest. Eagles QB Donovan McNabb played one quarter, and Brian Westbrook didn't play at all. The Eagles seemed content to score one touchdown, a pass from McNabb to WR Freddie Mitchell. After that, the Birds did nothing.

This game raises the question: Do you sit your starters and save them for the playoffs, or do you play your starters and risk injuries?

Philadelphia FB/RB Thomas Tapeh dislocated his hip with 28 seconds remaining in the game. That development would support the notion that a team doesn't want to risk injury with the playoffs looming.

But other than their opening drive, Philly looked awful, begging the question, "Can the Birds turn it back on again come playoff time?"


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