PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : RAMS : Shurmur Returns to Anaheim Sunday

At least one Ram defensive player says it will be a little strange at Anaheim Stadium Sunday when the Rams are playing the Phoenix Cardinals, the team that now employs their former defensive coordinator, Fritz Shurmur. Shurmur was fired in January after nine seasons--eight as coordinator--with the Rams, and his 3-4 defense was junked in favor of Jeff Fisher’s 4-3 attack scheme.

“I think it’s going to be kind of funny,” cornerback Jerry Gray said. “I guess it’s kind of like a sentimental thing. I was here for six years with him, and he always went to bat for me. During the game I’ll probably hear his voice and he’ll be hollering at somebody else, and I’ll look over.”

Tailback Cleveland Gary is still slowed by a slight hamstring injury, and Coach John Robinson said it looks as if fullback Robert Delpino will split equal time with Gary at tailback Sunday.

Rookie right linebacker Roman Phifer probably won’t start against the Cardinals because he has a hip pointer but will play on passing downs. Brett Faryniarz will probably start in Phifer’s place. Fred Strickland starts on the left side.

No. 1 pick Todd Lyght again aggravated his sore right hamstring during practice Thursday but said that he will be able to play Sunday. Lyght is expected to see spot action on passing downs and play on special teams.

Robinson said that Robert Jenkins will start at left tackle as Gerald Perry works his way back into playing shape and that Joe Milinichik will start at right guard, with Duval Love getting some work there. Tom Newberry will play most of the game at center.