Rams defensive coordinator Gregg Williams faces old team in Saints

St. Louis Rams defensive end Robert Quinn smiles at the start of practice during NFL football training camp at Edward Jones Dome Saturday, Aug. 2, 2014, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson) (The Associated Press)

St. Louis Rams quarterback Sam Bradford throws during NFL football training camp at Edward Jones Dome, Saturday, Aug. 2, 2014, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson) (The Associated Press)

Alec Ogletree ended fellow linebacker James Laurinaitis' four-year run as the St. Louis Rams' leading tackler in his rookie season.

Like the rest of the defense, there's no resting on that accomplishment.

Everybody is getting pushed and prodded to do more by new coordinator Gregg Williams. No doubt, many of them are hearing that distinctive, incessant barking from the sideline in their sleep.

The preseason opener against New Orleans could mean more than a typical exhibition for Williams, who served a one-year suspension for his involvement in the Saints' bounty scandal.

Saints coach Sean Payton has downplayed the angle. But it's highly unlikely he'll subject quarterback Drew Brees to Williams' aggressive tactics — even in the preseason.

Brees also is nursing a left oblique injury.

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