For the second consecutive season, quarterback Marc Bulger struggled to get anything going in the passing game. In his defense, though, he spent as much time in 2008 on his back, running for his life, and, consequently, on the trainer's table as he did standing back in the pocket.
So it's no surprise that perhaps the biggest key for the St. Louis Rams in 2009 is how well they protect Bulger. And Bulger needs to do a little bouncing back of his own. His accuracy and decision-making have been suspect the past couple seasons. As has been his confidence.
But then again, most quarterbacks tend to lose their swagger when carrying 300-pound defensive linemen around on their backs.