With veteran Bruce Irvin still battling a hamstring injury that he suffered in the preseason, Miller's emergence couldn't have come at a better time.

For most of the spring and summer, the Alabama product was trying to find his footing. Then defensive coordinator Eric Washington noticed a big change just ahead of the season opener.

"Lately, he has really stepped up," Washington said of Miller before that Rams game. "I really like just the look in his eye. He looks more confident and his play is more decisive."

Here's what Miller had to say when asked for his interpretation of Washington's remarks:

"I had to get my feet underneath me. It took a little bit of time. I was a step behind, I felt like," said Miller, who was banged up during OTAs. "Once I was feeling better and I got some preseason experience, I just started to get the gears rolling. I think that's what (Washington) started to see. Confidence was coming. I was able to figure out what works for me and what I need to work on. I'm the type of person where once I get a good understanding, I start to capitalize.

"Athletically I have the ability – they wouldn't have brought me here if I didn't. Sometimes you just have to get through that mental barrier."

About that sack dance

Miller was never able to really celebrate sacks in college. Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban wouldn't allow it.

But Miller, an avid fisherman, has already developed a signature celebration in the NFL.

"It must have been in the back of my head, but I just did it, kind of second nature," Miller said. "Because if I'm not playing football I'm probably fishing.