December 9, 2003

RAMS CLINCH PLAYOFF BERTH WITH WIN OVER BROWNS

The St. Louis Rams defeated the Cleveland Browns 26-20 in Cleveland Monday night to improve to 10-3 and clinch a playoff berth.  The loss eliminated the Browns from playoff contention.

Rams QB MARC BULGER threw for 223 yards and connected on a 16-yard touchdown pass to WR ISAAC BRUCE just before halftime to give the Rams a 23-7 lead they would not relinquish.  RB MARSHALL FAULK carried 24 times for 102 yards and added six receptions for 43 yards.

St. Louis’ defense and special teams were both instrumental in the victory.  CB AENEAS WILLIAMS had two interceptions in a 64-second span late in the first half, the first of which he returned 42 yards for a touchdown and the second of which set up Bruce’s touchdown.  JEFF WILKINS kicked four field goals on the night as the Rams won their fifth straight.

Browns QBs KELLY HOLCOMB and TIM COUCH each threw a touchdown pass and RB JAMEL WHITE carried 16 times for 101 yards and one touchdown in the losing effort.