by Sports Xchange

--DE Chris Long, who missed practice Wednesday because of a sore knee, participated on a limited basis Thursday, and appears on course to play Sunday against Arizona.

--DE Leonard Little (knee) was limited for the second day of practice this week, but is expected to be able to play Sunday against the Cardinals.

--DE James Hall (back) has been limited in practice Wednesday and Thursday, but is expected to play Sunday against Arizona.

--DT Clifton Ryan, who was limited in practice Wednesday because of a hyperextended toe, fully participated Thursday.

GAME PLAN: As it was against New Orleans, the Rams have to control the ball on the ground in an attempt to limit the damage of the Cardinals' offense. But, points have to be the result, too. The 23 points the Rams scored against the Saints was a season high.

Defensively, it is a known that Arizona will accumulate yards. The key will be limiting the big plays.

MATCHUPS TO WATCH: Rams CBs Ron Bartell, Quincy Butler and Justin King vs. Cardinals WRs Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin and Steve Breaston. The Rams will have their hands full with all Arizona's receivers.

Rams RB Steven Jackson vs. Cardinals run defense. Arizona has allowed just 101 yards a game rushing with just four games in which their opponent had at least 100 yards. However, they did allow 270 to Carolina in Week 7 and 164 to Seattle this past Sunday.

INJURY IMPACT: The Rams have some injuries, although not major, at defensive end. Every end except Victor Adeyanju had injury issues that affected practice Wednesday. Chris Long did not practice, Leonard Little and James Hall were limited and C.J. Ah You left practice because of a knee injury.