Berlin Shows Poise

Aug/11/08 05:29 PM Filed in: Brock Berlin
BrockBerlin
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Rams quarterback Brock Berlin was confident and controlled against the Tennessee Titans as he battles quarterback Bruce Gradkowski for the third roster spot.

“It was great to finally play in some live action,” Berlin said. “I felt comfortable out there, and we moved the chains well. Obviously, we didn’t score as many points as we’d like. I felt comfortable out there.”

Berlin entered the game about midway through the second quarter. Before the end of the first half, Berlin had led the Rams to their only touchdown drive against the Titans.

On Berlin’s second possession, the Rams had a first down at their own 49-yard-line. Berlin pump faked to the left and launched a perfect strike to wide receiver Dane Looker down the right sideline. Looker was pulled down from behind at the three-yard-line after a 47-yard gain, and a horse collar penalty was assessed.

Running back Antonio Pittman took a Berlin handoff two yards into the end zone on the next play.

“We had a little play set up for that, and it worked out,” Berlin said. “Dane ran an excellent route. He set the whole thing up. He did a good job. I just had to get it out there to him.”

Berlin finished the second half and played the entire third quarter. He completed 11 of 14 passes for 139 yards and a 108.0 quarterback rating. He connected on his first eight pass attempts before a spike to stop the clock at the end of the first half. 

“Brock I thought played great,” quarterback Marc Bulger said. “Our offense was struggling, and he went in there and gave us a little spark. He’s been doing it all camp, and I think he’ll continue to do that.”

Berlin and Gradkowski have spent training camp battling for the third quarterback spot. Gradkowski took over for Berlin in the fourth quarter, but played only one series against the Titans. He completed two of five pass attempts for six yards.

It’s too early to call the battle between Berlin and Gradkowski, but Berlin certainly helped his cause with his play against the Titans Saturday.

“For me, to finally get in there and play some live football and to be able to put some drives together, and get in a groove, it felt really good,” Berlin said. “I’m just thankful for the opportunity.”

(stlouisrams.com)