PRO FOOTBALL : DAILY REPORT : RAMS : The 8-17 Syndrome Has Returned

Before John Robinson took over as coach of the Rams in 1983, the team was widely considered to be one of the worst in the NFL, having gone 8-17 in the previous two seasons--1982 was strike-shortened--after going to the playoffs in 1980 and the Super Bowl in 1979.

Robinson is credited with turning the franchise around, taking it to six playoff berths in his first seven seasons.

But how far have the Rams fallen?

Since appearing in the NFC Championship game after the 1989 season, the Rams are 8-17.

Robinson said guard Bern Brostek is fully recovered from the ankle injury that has sidelined him for most of the last six weeks and should play against the Kansas City Chiefs at either guard position.

Robinson also said the Rams would like to use left guard Tom Newberry, who started the season at center but was switched to guard when Brostek was injured, more at center before the season ends.