#rams camp

[thedailyhorn]

Only nine more days until the Rams kickoff their first preseason game against the New Orleans Saints! Keep calm guys, I know I'm getting pretty excited too!

[thedailyhorn]

The Key to Brian Quicks' Emergence in the NFL

We all know that old song and dance that Brian Quick hasn't lived up to expectations in the first two seasons of his young NFL career. The Terrell Owens comparisons bestowed upon him by some of the Rams' brass was a bit premature. In fact, it is difficult for a young receiver to find his footing in the NFL, especially for a young receiver out of a "small" school. There are of course the exceptions to that rule, but Brian Quick has not been that exception. It has been tough for Quick to fit the bill of being selected at the top of the second round in 2012, but entering his 3rd season, Quick could be poised to "break out."

The question is, what makes 2014 the season that Quick will finally put it all together? Well for one, experience, experience, experience. Brian Quick has plugged his way through two treacherous seasons in which he has only racked up a less than stellar 29 receptions for 458 yards and 4 touchdowns. Not exactly the numbers that any one was hoping for, but Quick has had a chance to learn the game and show flashes of his T.O. comparisons. 

As you can see, Quick has the potential to stretch the field. If you couldn't tell by Quick's numbers, he averages a whopping 15.8 yards per catch! Quick's name is suiting for his ability to make plays down the field. To go along with his speed, Quick has a 6'3" and 218 frame that allows him to make plays like this.

Quick is still learning to use his body, and the Rams have brought in, dare I say it, a mentor to help Quick understand how to use his body better.

The main key to Brian Quick's success in the NFL is the St. Louis Rams' biggest off-season acquisition in Kenny Britt. Britt shares a similar body type as Quick measuring at 6'3" and 223 pounds, but Kenny Britt knows how to use his frame to beat defenders. Not only has Britt been brought in to teach Quick the ins and outs of a big receiver in the NFL, but Britt is Quick's main competition as the "big" receiver on the team. Kenny Britt brings in a style of play that many hoped to see out of Quick, the ability to make big plays down field with speed and boxing out opponents.

As you can see in the image above, Kenny Britt uses his size to keep the defender away from the ball and score the touchdown. There are many early examples of Britt's talent, but injuries and off-the-field issues have derailed a once promising career. Now Kenny Britt has the chance to revitalize his career in St. Louis and bring up a young and promising receiver in Brian Quick. We are only three days into camp so far, and it is evident that these two are going to be on the field together quite often.

Interesting Kenny Britt & Brian Quick been getting most all first-team reps at WR. Tavon slot/RB. Chris Givens running mostly with 2s. #Rams

— Nick Mensio (@NickMensio) July 28, 2014

Britt and Quick once again.everywhere together. Quick made a great catch and Britt pounded his back #ramscamp

— Jim Fadler (@jimiramsboy) July 28, 2014

2. Britt may be influencing Brian Quick. Made an outstanding catch in the end zone where he jumped inside the CB. Perfect box-out technique.

— RamsHerd (@RamsHerd) July 28, 2014

Interesting Kenny Britt & Brian Quick been getting most all first-team reps at WR. Tavon slot/RB. Chris Givens running mostly with 2s. #Rams

— Nick Mensio (@NickMensio) July 28, 2014

Even though it is early, it seems that the Quick-Britt combo could very well become dynamic for the Rams this season. The addition and tutoring of Kenny Britt is already helping Brian Quick make strides as an NFL pro. It is still early in training camp, but the impressions of Quick are already good, not to mention the endorsement from Shotty in OTAs as being "the most improved player."

Year three for Quick could be his "make or break" year with the Rams, especially if Kenny Britt returns to his early career form. However, the added competition and mentor from Kenny Britt should be enough of a push to allow Brian Quick to tap into that "T.O." potential in 2014. If Quick and Britt continue to play well into the regular season, then the Rams could have a potent receiving core and offensive attack.

Oh and just so everyone is clear on one thing...

Fun fact: Brian Quick’s nickname is “Quickie.” Now you know. #RamsCamp

— Daniel Doelling (@Daniel_Doelling) July 27, 2014