Injuries, snap counts catching up to Rams' defense

Since Week 10, the Rams are 30th in yards allowed per game (421.2) and 29th in points allowed per game (27.8). AP Photo/Gary LandersEARTH CITY, Mo. -- Through the first nine weeks of the NFL season, it looked like the St. Louis Rams defense would finally deliver the type of statistical performance that would meet the vast potential of their heavy investments on that side of the ball.

It was a group that still ferociously rushed the passer but now had the sticky coverage, crisp tackling and consistent run-stuffing to realize the lofty expectations thrust upon it both inside and outside the organization.

But as the season wears on, the Rams defense appears to be wearing down. And, really, it's…