(2 of 2)
Charge! Under previous coaches, the Rams were noted for their wide-open offense and sievelike defense. Allen installed an uncomplicated ball-control offense, similar to Green Bay's, backed up by a brutal defense that relies heavily on the charge of the "Fearsome Four-some"—Ends "Deacon" Jones and Lamar Lundy, Tackles Merlin Olsen and Roger Brown. Between them, they weigh a total of 1,096 Ibs. Last season the Fearsome Foursome flattened opposing quarterbacks 43 times; this year they have already accomplished the feat 27 times—tops in the league.
Allen's biggest contribution to the Rams' success is probably his nononsense approach to the game. Although he has never been known to criticize a player in front of teammates or to make a scene on the sidelines, Allen can be tough when he wants to. He slapped a $500 fine on one Ram player who showed up five minutes late for practice; any player who exceeds his prescribed weight at the regular Thursday weigh-in is automatically fined $100 per pound.
Allen's own dedication to the game is so complete that he often forgets to eat and has to get vitamin injections from the Rams' doctor. During the season, he practically survives on ice cream, which he eats, says his wife, "because he doesn't have to chew it. Chewing would take his mind off football."