High Profile: Marshall Faulk

THE TOUCHDOWN MACHINE

Although the Rams lost 26-21 to the New York Giants last week, Faulk had two touchdowns, giving him 113 for his career. That places him in rare company. Only seven others have more touchdowns: John Riggins (116), Walter Payton (125), Jim Brown (126), Cris Carter (130), Marcus Allen (145), Emmitt Smith (159) and Jerry Rice (196).

THE SLOW START

To the shock of many watching last season's Super Bowl, the Rams opted not to ride Faulk in the second half against New England. It appears that philosophy has carried over to this season. Faulk, a six-time Pro Bowl player and former MVP, has only 24 carries (106 yards) through the first two games. Considering his three touchdowns and his 4.4 average, Faulk's limited carries may seem a mystery, but not to Bucs coach Jon Gruden. "Last year he got a lot of carries when the Rams had the lead, and last year they had huge leads," Gruden said. "In mixed downs, Marshall has always been a guy to carry the ball about five or six times in the first half. ... Statistics are relative to me, particularly at this time in the season."

BEST DEFENSE AGAINST HIM? THE RAMS

The Broncos' new speed-oriented defense contained Faulk in the season opener, holding him to 19 yards on 10 carries. Speed to the ball and near-perfect tackling keeps defenses in the game when facing Faulk. Truth is, the best way to stop Faulk is to hope the Rams don't call his number. "I don't understand why they're not giving it to him," Bucs defensive tackle Warren Sapp said. "You've got the greatest weapon in the game, you have to give it to him and put it in his hands."

THE LOWDOWN

An All-American at San Diego State, Faulk was selected by the Colts with the second overall pick in the 1994 draft and had an immediate impact. In his rookie season, Faulk rushed for 1,282 yards and 11 TDs, was named Offensive Rookie of the Year and selected to the Pro Bowl. He has been a premier back since. In eight seasons Faulk has been held under 1,000 yards once (587 in 1996). He was traded to the Rams before the 1999 season. In three-plus seasons with St. Louis, the New Orleans native has 4,228 yards and 40 TDs rushing, and 2,770 yards and 22 TDs receiving.