The Rams beat writer goes one-on-one with readers from 1-2 p.m. Tuesday in a live chat.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008 01:00 PM CDT
djjr11854: Jim,
I actually have a couple of questions for you. First what in your opinion can be done about this porous defense? I used to think that Haslett was a very good defensive coach. Is it just because he doesn't have the right players? Secondly what possibly coaches are available if the Rosenblooms do decide to fire Linehan? I've read names like Cowher, Ditka, Singletary, etc. I think that's exactly what this teams needs is a fiery take no nonsense kind of coach.
And as always thanks for your time and energy to keep the long distant fans in the loop.
Jim Thomas: Well, he should have the right players. Eight of the 11 defensive starters against the New York Giants were players brought in since Linehan became head coach. You can't blame the personnel on Martz. As for possible new head coaches, I don't know if fiery so much is the end-all, be-all. They need to find someone with clear leadership ability. For example, I don't think anyone would call Tony Dungy or Lovie Smith fiery, but they definitely know how to lead the ship.
S. Monkey: Hi JT,
I know, I know, Bennett is a bad signing, FIRE LINEHAN, what's up with Tye Hill, does Carriker have a position, is Bulger shell shocked, etc.
While we won't go 0-16, another 3-13 repeat year is not out of the question. What do you see as a two to three year roadmap for our franchise to become competitive again?
Jim Thomas: Draft well. Prevent your core players from leaving via free agnency. Have strong leadership at the top.
bfulton: As always, thanks for the chats. Will anyone besides Linehan be put on notice? Is Shaw, Zygmunt or even Devaney on notice, too?
Jim Thomas: Don't know for sure. But I think Rosenbloom has gotten everyone's attention here at Rams Park.
Tom: Hi Jim,
Who do you real is in jeopardy of losing there starting job as per Linehan press conference? I would think no one is safe at this point.
Thanks, Tom
Jim Thomas: You know, we'll see later in the week. I've frequently heard coaches over the years at Rams Park say they're considering making changes in the lineup, and then things usually stay the same.
skeletor_rulez_80: Mr Thomas
If their is a coaching change, what is the percentage chance that Henry Ellard is given a chance to turn things around. Would he want to take the next step? As a former player and close to the Rosenbloom family, could he earn the respect of the players and get fire back into this team?
thank you
Ram fan since 1993
Aaron
Swansea IL
Jim Thomas: I know Ellard is highly respected by the wide receivers. He has a lot of street cred because of what he accomplished in the league. But I have no idea if Ellard could lead an entire time, motivate a team, deal with the press, etc. It's also unusual, although it does happen from time to time, to see a non-coordinator promoted to head coach. I don't know if Ellard is interested in becoming a head coach.