Ted: Gordo, first off why did the nfl and the schedule makers make it so easy for the patriots to get off to such a easy start. Yet we knew the rams schedule would be somewhat tough before the dates were released but they got us on the gontlet schedule the first 8 weeks of the season. Also have u heard anything about who the rams are really keying in on for the draft on sunday. thanks Gordo

Jeff Gordon: The NFL did the Rams no favor with this schedule. That is a poor start waiting to happen, regardless of how well Linehan prepares the team.

As for the draft, Dorsey or Chris Long are the obvious choices if Jake Long is gone. The only thing that changes that is a really attractive trade.

Catman: Hey Gordo,
I enjoy reading your articles! What do you think the Cardinals will do to infuse some more offense into their lineup? Izturis and Glaus have been painfully ineffective at the plate as starters and our youngsters are inconsistent. It is apparent that TLR isn't a big fan of Branden Ryan due to his immature antics. Do you foresee a trade to boost our offense once Mulder and Carp return?
THANKS!

Jeff Gordon: Yes, the Cards will shop for an impact offensive player as the veteran pitchers return. Don't write off Glaus yet, but your skepticism of Izturis' bat is well-founded. Ryan could earn his way back into good favor by adding some offensive lapse and subtracting some of his excitement-related mishaps.

Tackleberry: I think someone needs to send the following message to Troy Glaus: RELAX! Glaus is in a very low pressure situation, yet he seems to be pressing early. I think this fanbase was pretty excited to get anything of substance in exchange for Rolen, so the fact that Glaus also has the potential to put up good numbers is just icing on the cake. I think if he just plays his game and realizes that this is Albert's team, he'll be fine.

Jeff Gordon: Good point. Rolen's early injury made Glaus' situation here even better. If he can hit .260 with 30 homers and 100 RBI, he would be a big offensive upgrade over Rolen. If he is competent in the field, too, then fans will support him.

Tackleberry: A lot of people talk up Mario Manningham for the Rams in the 2nd round, but his running mate in Ann Arbor Adrian Arrington is another guy that the Rams should look at in the later rounds. Arrington is 6'5 and has great hands, he could provide the Rams with a solid redzone target. He also is not afraid to go over the middle (so that would give us one guy on the current roster).

Jeff Gordon: The Rams won't spend a premium pick on a big receiver, since they still must recoup their Bennett investment. But picking a big target later makes sense.

HEG: Gordo the cardinals must face reality & bring up Ryan and in the near future get ready to trade for a power right hand hitting outfielder & also they must address the pinch hitting situation; what is your take on these comments????

Jeff Gordon: Yes, Ryan needs to be here when he is ready. Swapping him for Washington strengthens the team.

Long-term, having a power-hitting RH OF to play with Rasmus and Ankiel makes sense. Could Ludwick be that guy? That might be a reach, but he will get plenty of at bats while Mozeliak surveys the trade landscape and ponders how to spend his pitching surplus.