stacy3424: Hey Jim, ummmmm I'm just wondering if the Rams would consider trying to trade Bulger to Tennesse, plus give up a 3rd round pick in the next draft, for a 1st round pick from them. What do you or the readers think, would Tennesse bite on this right now?

Jim Thomas: I don't think the Rams are in position to trade Bulger before the trade deadline, which I believe is Oct. 20, because of cap ramifications in his contract. After the season is amother matter.

tim: Hi Jim,

How bad is the Offense Line as where is their running game? And where is their short passing game?

How bad is the Defensive Line as there is no push to pressure the quarterback and is the Linebackers contributing to that?

How much power did Devaney have in the 2008 draft? Even though the Rams said he controlled the draft choices, I don't think he had the final say as Zygmunt(attorney) was still there.


I really don't understand all these posters getting really upset for the Rams not winning every game. Don't they realize that this team had to be gutted out both financially and player wise. Starting from the bottom up. To me it will take at least a couple of more years.

And some people on this board I remember were saying if the Rams drafted DeShawn Jackson that he was too skinny. Being hit once and he's done for the season. Where are they now?

Jim Thomas: The offensive line has done a decent job run blocking; Steven Jackson is tied for fourth in the league in rushing.
The defensive line had been a big disappointment until Sunday against San Francisco, when it accounted for three of the team's four sacks and gots lots of pressure on Shaun Hill.
Devaney ran the '08 draft. I think he liked Chris Long all the way.

rams1263: Give me a break! Nice return to start the game and a stupid penalty to bring it back! Once the return man breaks containment, what can you hope to accomplish by holding someone? Just step away, this team has enough issues without stupid penalties, now an illegal substitution, that is nothing but coaching!

Jim Thomas: And the penalty was on a guy, Anthony Smith, who basically had waited a month for a chance to play. He had been on the pregame inactive list the first three games. So that holding penalty on the Amendola return was his first play as a Ram!

rams1263: This is pathetic, Brown misses a chippy field goal again, this team is self destructing before our eyes! How can you put this kind of pressure on an undermaned defense?

Jim Thomas: I wouldn't call a 51-yard field goal into a stiff wind a chippy field goal. But I agree with your second point.

ramsfan1974: Hey Jim,

What is your opinion about the offence stretching the field? I have not seen a pass thrown more then 20 yards the whole season. You can see the other teams zeroeing on Jackson. Why has the Defense shut down on their blitzs? They did so well in pre-season. I think Spags is heading in the right direction with this team. I am not sure of the conservative play calling. What do you think? Thanks for your input . Look forward to reading your column on Tuesday, great job.

Jim Thomas: I think they should try more downfield shots. They've got to stretch the defense out, and there's ways to get the ball deep downfield without taking 7-step drops. (Favre's last TD pass _ I think it was his last _ was a good example of that Monday night against Green Bay.)
I think the defense was more active on the blitz against San Fran.

Roanoke: The talent on offense is not good (except for Jackson), yet there's no excuse for such low scoring. This falls on the coaching, particularly Shurmur. His players are mistake prone, do not execute plays well, and are being asked to succeed with a very poor gameplan. Shurmur's play calls are as bad as anything Linehan was criticized for in prior years. Defenses find the Rams' offense predictable, and only need protect a small part of the field. When the Rams go an entire game without getting into the redzone, that says it all about Shurmur's schemes. Time for some change in the coaching ranks. If Spags doesn't do something soon, all his positive defensive contributions will count for nothing. He is afterall the coach of both sides of the ball. Time for him to take some action.

Jim Thomas: I don't think you change coaches after four games.

Roanoke: Based on where we are today (0-4), how would you revise your win / loss projection for the Rams this season? Clearly a 5-win season is asking a bit much now. Does 2-14 sound about right?

Jim Thomas: Geez, where do the two wins come from if you're only scoring six points a game?

Distantfan: Jim, like so many Ram fans, I'm in total distress. I cannot believe we have pinned our hopes on a new coach, studied the draft, and hung on each and every tidbit of news out of Ram Park, only to be treated to this sloppy mess. I honestly believe 25 guys with a keg could make a better showing than what I've seen the last two weeks.
The only thing I can take away from these games, I've been able to show my wife what makes a losing football team. After Jackson (the best player on the rams) failed to step forward or even fall forward for one yard when the Rams were driving, I said "this is what makes a team bad". On the next play, when Brooks wasn't blocked and followed the blocker to the runner for 1 yard loss, I said "that's what makes a bad football team".
If I were Spagnola, I would step down and admit that I was over my head. Then the ownership can concentrate on Devaney. Oh yeah, it's time to start pointing out the fact that this guy hasn't even come close to a good judge of talent.
This is completely SICK!!!

Jim Thomas: The most disturbing part of the situation to me are the mistakes. Mistake after mistake after mistake. The Rams aren't going to have a chance unless they tighten up. It's distrubing because the Spagnuolo regime seemingly was so detail-oriented in training camp. Parts of that San Francisco game were so sloppy it reminded me of say, the second half of a preseason game in August rather than the first game of the regular season.

CierraRam: Hi Jim!

I was just thinking about this and wanted to ask you your opinion. Do you think Mike Martz could have gotten more to a lot more results with this group of offensive skill players the Rams started week one with? I had mixed feelings when Jim Haslett mentioned that he would hire Martz if he got the HC job. Now I kinda wish Martz was the OC. Why? Because he attacks opponets regardless of the talent that he has. Also, I really couldnt ask for a better QB teacher than he. I would think Null would really benefit if that were the case. Thanx Jim

Cierra

Jim Thomas: I think you need to look only to what Martz did in Detroit and San Francisco. He brought both of those offenses to respectability with limited talent at the skill position overall.

bfulton: I am a little stunned that, with 2 first rounders and 2 top-of-the-market free agents, the Oline is this bad. Is it the talent or the coaching?

Jim Thomas: I expected more, to be sure, but Jason Smith has been out there for less than 6 quarters. Too early to pass judgement.

DBQIA: Does Greco have the makings of an everyday starting right tackle?

Jim Thomas: You know, he was a highly-accomplished tackle on the college level. The knock on him as a pro was that his arms weren't long enough at the NFL level to be an every-day starting tackle. But he never really got a chance under Linehan. He was moved immediately to guard and that was it. (Until his stint at left tackle Sunday in place of Barron.) I'd like to see him get more work at tackle.

lujack2800: Hi Jim, If the Rams go 7-0, 8-0 are whatever do you think Spags should put in Null just to fine out if he can play at this level. Drafting a QB in this years draft and not knowing what you have in Null I think would be a big mistake. What if Null out shines the new QB in preseason but starts over Null because of the paycheck. (See Bulger this year). Beside if they know alittle more about Null and he looks good then they can draft other needs.

Thanks, Lujack

Jim Thomas: I think it would've been nice to Null for a series or two in San Francisco once the game got out of hand. No reflection on Boller, just give the rookie a little seasoning.

Rams8180: Do you think the Rams are going to keep Barron around after this season or are they just going to let him walk? If they do let him walk does that mean Smith gets bumped to LT? Finally who could the Rams replace Barron with?

Jim Thomas: I think that would definitely be the plan if Barron goes. Smith would go to left tackle. And who knows about right tackle. Goldberg? Greco? A draft pick? A free agent.

David: 1. What can you pinpoint as the Rams's most glaring weaknesses? Is it the O-line, QB, depth, WR's, special teams, coaching, front office? I'm confused as to what the Rams need to shore up, as it just seems like one big mess to me.

2. Rank 'em (offensive play callers): Rhome, Fairchild, Linehan, Olson, Saunders, Shurmur
(special teams coaches): Pasquale, April, Stock, Ligashesky, Roberts, McMahon
(head coaches): Brooks, Martz, Vitt, Linehan, Haslett, Spagnuolo

3. Pick 'em: Alex Barron or John St. Clair
The Rams of the last few years, or the Rams of the '90's (minus '99, of course)

4. And a sidebar: did the NFL let TE's wear numbers in the 40's now regardless of whether there are numbers in the 80's available? Or are Bajema and Fells listed as potential FB's for NFL numbering purposes?

Sorry for the massive requests. I'm really curious as to what your opinion of the state of the Rams is right now (and the numbering thing as well).

Jim Thomas: 1.) Help at the skill positions, particularly wide receiver. The Rams have one offensive threat right now in Jackson. They need at least two.

2.) I'll just name the top ones on both your categories here.
Too early to tell on Shurmur. Olson was good, and underrated when he took over the final six games of '06. In '07, he had the title of coordinator, but Linehan was very involved in game-planning and even game-dayplay-calling.
--easily April at the top
3.) Still Barron.

4.) Easiest answer of the them all. The St. Louis Rams of the '90s, never won fewer than four games. The recent Rams haven't won more than 3 since 2006.

Brock Landers: JIm: Thanks for hanging with us all through this football "waterloo". It's well documented that the Rams lack talent and depth. Because of that, their margin for error to be competitive is small. what is becoming bothersome to me is the mistakes, the stupid mistakes: 12 men on the field, blocks in the block, punts hitting players in the leg, lining up offsides, Samkon Gado making his bebut on 3rd and short, and on and on and on.

I'm beginning to think this coaching staff is somewhat incompetent. Especially on offense and special teams. These are the kind of mistakes sophomores make. In high school! what is going on out at Rams Park? Can this staff coach these guys tot he their potential (low ceiling)?

the season is 1/4 over and I see NOTHING that makes me think this staff is competent except thedefense plays hard, and doesn't make a ton of mistakes.

Thanks,

Brock

Jim Thomas: "Incompetent" is way too strong a word to use after four games. But there does appear to be some on-the-job training going on.

virginiatom: I don't know why Devany gets a pass in his role with the Rams. His two drafts have been mediocre at best, especially considering the high position we drafted. His free agent signings have been mediocre as well, with Butler doing well when he was healthy, but Brown, Bell, Boller, McMichaels, and Kearny, looking worse by the week. Why hasn't he been brought to task or held accountable by the media for this?

Jim Thomas: I said this last week, and I'll say it again. One year, plus four games is way too early to judge Devaney. He's had only four games as the GM. Granted the '08 draft could be a lot more productive, but you've got to wait two to three years I think before you start passing judgment. McMichaels by the way wasn't a player brought in by Devaney.

keithv: JT, do you know if all three bids will keep the Rams in St. Louis for the long haul? Also, is Chip looking over the bids and a prerequisite is that whoever buys the Rams must keep them in St. Louis?

Jim Thomas: There were a lot of holes in the Casserly report. No. 1, Friday wasn't any kind of deadline. No. 2, I'm pretty sure there are more than 3 bidders. No. 3, the franchise will sell for more than $700 million to $750 million. I believe some of the bidders are highly interested in keeping the team in St. Louis; otherrs not so much.

carriger: Jim , I've asked this of Gordo , now I am going to ask it of you.Why won't the front office suck it up and (re)hire a proven OC (not a QB coach like we currently have)like Mike Martz?I understand he was a hard head,ego problem,etc.Bottom line...he scored points,alot of them.In fact I believe if it wasn't for Lovie Smith leaving for the Bears job Mike might still be here.Gordo said "the NFL has caught up to Martz".In desperate times like this,Mad Mike sure is looking good.Please eleaborate on the topic.Thanx!

Jim Thomas: The Rams aren't going to change coordinators four games into the season.

cardsnumber7: Hi Jim,
1. Rank our offensive line individually on how you feel they have done this year?

2. Please tell me Bulger has more than a 50% chance of playing this Sunday vs. Minnesota

3. Keenan Burton, I like him what is your view on him?

Thanks
Todd W.

Jim Thomas: 1.) I think Brown has been the most consistent. The others have had ups and downs.
2.) We'll know more on Wednesday, but I'm saying 60-40 that Bulger doesn't plya.
3.) Burton has very good hands and can make the tough catch. I don't know that he gets consistent separation.

Brian from South Florida: Jim,

Thanks for taking my question. With Barron's benching and the fact that he is a free-agent next year, what do you think the chances are that the Rams try to trade him. At this point it doesn't make any sense to just let him go for nothing, Smith is waiting in the wings and needs to play on that side, the Rams need to be proactive. It's obvious that he is not here for the long term. Green Bay looks like they could use some heathly lineman...

Thanks,
Brian

Jim Thomas: Interesting point, particularly with respect to Green Bay. But only two weeks remain before the trade deadline. And there are next to no other options at tackle. As silly as it may sound at 0-4, this staff is still trying to win games.

SoulardX: Jim, where's Stan? Today's story made no mention of him. Yet, if Kroenke keeps his 40% stake, Rush/Checketts (or Roski or the unknown Limeys) have to come up with "only" $480 million of the $800 million purchase price. Seems like a bargain for an NFL team.

Jim Thomas: My sense is that Kroenke stays put with his 40 percent. And yes, $480 million is a lot easier to handle than $800 million.

Jerome Cox: Hi Jim,

Is Ram D improved? If So, in what ways is it improved?

jerry

Jim Thomas: They are at least respectable against the run; Laurinaitis has made a difference here. They're not making a ton of mistakes, unlike their counterparts on offense. Still giving up too many big plays. But they're better in the red zone. By the numbers, the Rams had given up 147 points through four games last year compared to 108 through four games this year. Last year, the Rams ranked 31st in yards allowed (or total defense) through four games; this year, they are 19th in total defense through four games.

Tackleberry: Jim,

Joe Theisman was on local radio this morning discussing the Rams and his comments were 'they need to get a quarter back and some good linemen.' Good linemen? Did this team not just draft a starting tackle #2 overall, sign a free agent center, and are one year removed from paying a starting guard big bucks? Not to mention our "passionate" other guard who is sometimes referred to as the team's best linemen. I'm not saying Theisman is wrong, I guess I'm asking when did our offensive line become the defensive line Part II? As in, this team has zero ability to scout talent either at the college or professional level. When will the Rams scouting department get blown up and get some new blood in here?

Jim Thomas: I don't know how much more money or draft picks you can throw at one unit.
As for Part II, the Rams already have blown up the scouting department. Five of their eight scouts are in their third year or less with the club.

ballhawk32: Jim:
Do you fly with the team? If so, what was the pulse of the team on the way home?? If not, can you explain the tone of the locker room after the game.

Jim Thomas: Don't fly with the team. From the locker room, I think the resolve remains. The veterans, obviously, are embarrassed about the product. But they're still buying in. Will that still be the case if 0-4 mushrooms to 0-9 or whatever? That I can't answer.

jon drummond: Hi Jim,

Thanks for taking our questions. It's definitely a struggle to keep tuning in each week to see how bad the embarrassment will be, but even if we don't win, I still at least hope to see some measure of improvement.

With Robinson out, I find it frustrating that the team keeps on bringing in no-name, inexperienced wide receivers from Div. III schools when there are veterans out there who could definitely put out one more season of decent play. I know that Marvin Harrison and Amani Toomer are not spring chickens, and Jerry Porter has some character issues, but what have Courtney Taylor and Larry Beavers done in this league that they are worthy of a visit, but Harrison and Toomer aren't at least given a workout. It's like everyone at the P-D says- the Rams receivers don't scare anybody, so lets bring in ones who do when our decent ones get hurt.

Jim Thomas: I hear what you're saying, but 1.) the Rams have made it pretty clear they're not interested in bringing in players who's best football is behind them; and 2.) If Harrison, Toomer, and Porter were the answer, why are they still out of work?

hambone: Do you think that the Donovan McNabb controversy and Rush Limbaugh's controversial personality will hurt the chances of himself and Dave Checketts landing the Rams franchise?

Jim Thomas: Interesting question. And how does it affect luring free agents? But I'm not even sure that the Checketts-Limbaugh group is the leader at this point.

Moleebo: JT,

How much does the NFL have to say in who owns a team? Could they try and block Limabaugh from being an owner because he is seen as a controversial figure?

What are the other owners and NFL attitude towards St. Louis? Do they like having a team in St. Louis or would they prefer the frachise be moved to a bigger market?

Jim Thomas: Ultimately, the league must approve the ownership group, and it takes a 3/4ths majority vote (24 votes) to approve a new owner. My sense is that Limbaugh will not be the controlling owner (i.e. the majority owner). Maybe his controversial nature would be more of an issue if he were.
As I mentioned in an earlier post, my sense is that some of the bidders are very interested in keeping the team in St. Louis _ Checketts-Limbaugh obviously being in that group _ and some aren't necesarily that interested.

Youngblood fan 4ever: Jim,

Last Sunday's game was a tough one to stomach. I hate the 49ers almost as much as I love the Rams.
I thought the best coaching decision during the game was when Spags benched Barron. I was hoping that it would be a season changing decsion (a come to Jesus moment where it would wake up all of the knuckleheads on the team). I was disappointed that Coach came out after the game almost in an apologetic manner. Then I got to thinking after watching the Monday night game, maybe the worst punishment Spags can inflict on Barron is to let him face up against Jared Allen this weekend. Your thoughts?

Also, I know that this team has a lot of rebuilding to do...living in Colorado, the same was said i.r.t. the Broncos. Their defense was horrid last year and look at the turn-around there. Everyone has thrown away their pitchforks and torches to carry McDaniels on their shoulders. I don't see a whole lot of talent, yet they are over achieving. Are the Rams players still buying into what this coaching staff is trying to sell?

Thanks for the time you put into this chat. It is very medicinal, letting us fans vent.

Jim Thomas: Allen was unbelievable last night, wasn't he?

TulsaRam: Jim, I know it is wayyyy to early to judge Spags, but I do have a question. I have always felt that the best coaches are the focused ones where winning comes before everything, loyalty, popularity, etc. (e.g. - Parcell’s, Bellicheck, etc.). Spags keeps preaching these four pillers. Do you think he is the kind of coach that will keep giving players (Barron, Incognito, etc.) and coaches (i.e. - Shurmer) continuous chances, or is he nasty enough to fire players and coaches that don’t produce? I remember Chuck Knox bragging about how he had never fired a coach; I felt like responding that’s why he also never won a super bowl.

Jim Thomas: I think the track record is pretty clear. Look at all the players that are gone. Pace, Pisa, Torry, Trent Green, Chavous, Bennett. More recently, Draft, Derek Stanley, Tye Hill. Regardless of whether you believe in Spags' approach with Incognito or Barron, I don't think I can recall a "St. Louis" Rams season where two players have been benched in the middle of a game.

NYC Rams Fan: Hi Jim

I was just curious as to whether you thought that new ownership would have a better chance at rebuilding this team. It seems that Chip Rosenbloom has the desire to rebuild, and everyone seems to like the people he's put in place to do that (Devaney, Spagnuolo, etc.). So will new ownership have any practical effect on how quickly the Rams get back to competing and contending? Or do you think the time line for success would be, at best, the same?

Jim Thomas: Great question. Don't know the answer. But consider this: A new owner may want a new coach, new GM, new scouting dept., new everything.

COGzilla: Thanks as always for your time.
The offense is a wreck and is in need of serious talent.
With that said, I have actually been impressed with the D for the most part.They fly to the ball and play with a lot of hunger.I would feel safe in saying they are on the field more than any defense in the league.
Am i being overly optimistic in saying they can be an outstanding unit very soon with a couple of additions?

Jim Thomas: As I mentioned before, the defense has improved noticeably from this point last season. But they've got to start creating turnovers again. And the overall problem is, the offense is noticeably worse than it was at this point last year.

RamsGrump: If new ownership assumes control of the Ram's are they obligated in any way to honor the contracts of the current coaching staff ??

Jim Thomas: If you're asking can they fire them? Sure. But unlike players, coaching contracts are guaranteed, so they may have to pay off a lot of contracts if they want to clean house _ again!

LEFTSTL: A drug addict owning an NFL team. Sounds like a mini-series on HBO.

Jim Thomas: As we say here in Earth City. . . .Never a dull day a 1 Rams Way.

Dan: Jim,

I may have a different take on Sunday's game than others. I thought that the Rams needed just one thing to go their way early in the game. Just one. Had they got a break, I think that game would have been totally different. So many times they seemed to be on the brink, but they couldn't get over the hump. And once things started going against them - mostly of their own doing, it steamrolled - "Here we go again ..."

Jim Thomas: You do have to wonder, how would the game have been different if Amendola's return to the 3-yard line stands? Or if Quincy Butler either A.) Gets out of the way of the punt; or B.) falls on it in the end zone.

Ramhntr: Jim-

I attended the 49er game at Candlestick last Sunday and was able to get a diiferent look at the Rams-different from the typical TV coverage. I was actually impressed with the improvement and play of the defense-they are just on the field for too many plays and eventually wear down. My concern is the obvious-the inept play of the offense. Play after play the 9ers loaded the box with 8-9 defenders-daring Boller and his receivers to beat them thru the air. I consistently watched on passing plays and tried to focus on the receivers and their ability to create separation-only Avery seemed to get open on a few plays. Coupled with below average protection-this leaves Boller, Bulger (I don't care who you start) in a bad situation. Teams do not have to double team our receiving corps and can game plan on stopping S Jax (who played with emotion all afternoon).

Jim Thomas: Good observations. Given all the tight shots that seem to be in vogue on TV, you don't really get a sense of such things _ whether receivers are getting separation, etc. _ unless you're at the game.

blanked again: Thanks for your patience with us Jim!

24 points in 4 games is truly "offensive" performance. What can the Rams do to put some points on the board? We don't seem to ever stretch the field with a mild attempt at a moderate or long pass and the defenses are merely loading 8-9 in the box. Coach Shurmur needs to become a bit more imaginative in his offense to help keep the dedicated rams fans behind this rebuilding movement. I'm also wondering if the QB is given the freedom too call an audible in this offense to adjust to the apparent defense they are facing. Seems to be a lost art for Rams QBs.

Jim Thomas: If the Rams really are going to stick with this move-the-chains approach on offense, they simply have to minimize mistakes. Not just penalties and turnovers, but running the right routes, using the right blocking techniques, the whole gamut. A move-the-chains type philosophy counts on a lot of eight, 10, 12-play drives, etc. All it takes is one or two mistakes to scuttle those drives.

Haile Selassie I: Just HOW LONG does it take to figure out which bid for the Rams will give the "Family" the MOST $ ? Doesn't Shaw know how to count?

You took the 5th last week when asked about the sale, so at least we knew "something" was happening... Thank you for that.

How much longer will our team be held Hostage by the "Family" ? The torture has got to stop. Please tell us that the sale will happen before we have to go through another yr of dead $.

Jim Thomas: At the moment, my sense is the the sale will be sooner than originally anticipated. (I thought 2 to 4 years originally, I think it will happen within the next 12 months now, maybe sooner.) But it takes time to investigate these bidders. It's not like they're buying a house or a car or a pair of shoes.

Glen: JT,
Excellent Rams coverage as usual.
I have the following two questions:
1)With Boller being more of a mobile quarterback, shouldn't the game plan against the Vikings involve a shotgun formation and several roll out formations?
2)Can this offense, even with a shortage of wideout talent, attempt to throw the ball down the field? Running double reverses and off tackle on third and nine will not win in this league.

Jim Thomas: 1.) I think the Rams have been doing some of that already.
2.) I think we'd all like to see more attempts to stretch the defense.

USAF Ram fan in Az: Jim, thanks again for the chats. Must tell you I am more frustrated with the "so called" fans, then with this team. I see heart in this team. There is no quit in this defense. This is a young team. I am tired of the "bust" label being thrown on Long and even J. Smith. Give these guys a chance. Long will benefit from Spags. I think they should sit Bell. Move Barron to RT, and put Smith and Greco on the Left side. I did think that formation penalty on Barron was a tad suspect. It would be nice to catch a break, maybe a bounce go our way. too much to ask? Lastly, it seems Spags is coaching like he knows this is a rebuilding year and just trying to get a feel for the players. Give these guys something to play for, like going for it on 4th and 1. Thanks again.

Jim Thomas: Good points, but sooner or later there has to be some payoff _ like a win or two.

HomeRunHomer: Thanks Jim.

I saw something in the RAMS vs Packers game that I have never seen before. When the RAMS were going for their 2nd PAT one of the Packers defenders line up right across from C. Massey. One of the officials went up to the player and smacked him on his rear-end and got him to move over prior to the snap of the football and therefore no penalty was called.
Do the refs make a point of moving players around?
If so why didn’t they smack Barron to move him into the correct place on the line of scrimmage? Or did they say something to Barron and he just ignored them?
It sure doesn’t look good to see a ref move players around for a team, especially to the paranoid, conspiracy theorist knowing that the ref are out to get their team.

Jim Thomas: What you're describing with Green Bay sure sounds unusual.
Usually players on the flank of a formation (normally it's wide receivers) will extend their arm towards the side judge (I guess it's the side judge) in essence asking for confirmation if they're lined up right. I believe Barron did this.

germano bissoli: Dear Jim
thinking that a Rams resurrection will necessary start from a new management (first) and a new Qb (second) who, among the candidates, you would choice?
Brgds - Germano (Verona, Italy)

Jim Thomas: New management could come with new ownership. A new quarterback most likely would come through the draft. But as to who that QB would be, who knows at this point?

Rich: Greetings Jim,

Are there any players on the Rams radar at this point?

I realize it is getting to the point one could close their eyes, turn around three times, and point to a random spot on the depth chart that needs fortifying and be right 9 times out of 10.

However, if I had to pick a spot, I would say WR and DB.

Thanks for these chats.

Jim Thomas: I think this might be the first week this season where there are no players added to the active roster. I think there might be a practice squad move or two made today. No doubt WR is an area of need. The lack of experience at CB is hurting the team at times as well, although the coverage there hasn't been a disaster. Looking to next year, I'd say a pass-rushing DE is a must as well as a bona fide No. 2 running back.

thirteen28: Jim,

Why is it so difficult for this team to play smart, disciplined football?

Fans realize that the Rams have a lot of talent issues on the roster right now. However, even untalented players can play smart, disciplined football.

Yes, the Rams would still probably lose more than they would win if they minimized their mistakes week in and week out, since most (if not all) other NFL teams this year are more talented. But instead of making the other teams beat us, week in and week out the Rams beat themselves instead.

Why can't the coaches get the Rams to play smart? Why can't they get them to play with discipline?

Jim Thomas: Couldn't agree with you more. I know we're only four games in, but at the end of the day this comes back to coaching.

HomeRunHomer: The most disappointing thing to me about this team is all the mental errors that they commit each and every game that just seems to kills them. I really thought that they would be more disciplined under Coach Spags. However it appears that nothing is changing in their mental toughness that would help eliminate the bone headed mistakes.
My question is; do the Rams have a sports psychologist on staff to help the players mentally prepare for the game and increase their concentration during the game?

Thanks for your time.

Jim Thomas: Do you mean, like the guy in The Natural? "Losing is a disease, like. . . ."

They used to have such a guy around, during the Martz days (Remember Max Q) but I'm not aware that they have one now.

Schwab78: How much of the roster must turn over for there to be improvement because it seems to me that even excellent coaching can't solve this situation.

Thanks,
Dan

Jim Thomas: They've already turned it over about 60 percent from opening day in 2008. Doesn't seem like it's doing much good right now.

Ultrafish: What odds do you give the Ranms for an "ufeated season/"

I say its 50 /50

The key will be losign to Jacksonville and Detroit.

But honestly Jim-if you were just a football fan and didn't have free tickets would you pay $75 to see the Rams play inside on a beautiful fall afternoon with all of the TV timeouts? At least at hoem you can use the bathroom without waiting in line

Jim Thomas: Tough one there. Maybe I'd come and watch Brett Favre, or Peyton Manning, or Drew Brees.

truax: Limbaugh-Checketts is one potentially good bidding team. Two questions:

1. Did someone in the NFL really say (as reported) that "the league wants the team kept in St. Louis"?
2. Do you have any information about the other bidders for the team? They may have different intentions, and if the NFL likes an ownership group (or is afraid of them, see Al Davis), they're likely to allow anything.

Thanks!

Jim Thomas: 1.) Yes, I believe it was Casserly's report on CBS. But the league really has no say in the matter as long as the lease agreement is intact.
2.) I'm pleading the fifth on this one.

Tom Smith: How would you rate Devaney as a manager of personnel? WOuld he rate in the top, middle or bottom third of NFL GM's. Long term continued success begins with the Parcels and Belichicks of the league. Spagnuolo must really regret accepting this position as his first as head coach.

Jim Thomas: Obviously there are things that look good at this point (James Butler, Laurent Robinson _ although both hurt _ Laurinaitis). And things that don't look so good at this point (production from Avery and lack of sacks from Long), but I'm not going to rate Devaney four games into his first season as GM.

312ramfan: Is there anyway the Rams don't draft a qb with the first overall pick in 2010 draft?

Jim Thomas: Good question. What if you believe the next Reggie White is there for the taking at DE?

whowadat: Hey JT,

Thanks for taking the time. What do you make of this bid by RL/DC and Chip's apparent response to it where he nows appear to be back pedaling about whether or not the Rams are actually for sale ?

I once looked into buying a house and the owner asked me questions about my religion, its very weird being vetted by an owner when you have cash in your hand. Needless to say I didn't buy the house.

Jim Thomas: My sense is that if Chip doesn't like the offer, he'll hang onto the team, at least for the short term.

Sec130: Jim, question on the ownership bids:

Charlie Casserly reported that NFL told the three prospective ownership groups that they wanted the Rams to remain in STL. I didn't get the same message from your article on Checketts/Limbaugh. Any additional insight into this?

Jim Thomas: For one, it's more than three groups. For another, I think some are less interested in keeping the team in St. Louis than others.

davulture24: After all the excuses and the "rebuilding year", bottom line is that we are 0-4 with shutout losses to Seattle and SF, both of which had numerous questions going into the season. Losing is understandable this year, but putting up goose eggs against questionable teams!?! Enough with the "we're getting better"! Is there any chance of a serious change in coaching or starters or are we just in for a very long, Detriot-like season? 1st pick here we come!

Jim Thomas: The canoe is in the river floating down the stream. There's not a lot of radical changes you can do to improve the ride at this point, particularly given the team's cap situation.

Mark Shaffer: Are the Rosenblooms aware of the back-lash the franchize would feel if the team is sold to someone as controversial as Limbaugh?

Jim Thomas: Not sure.

RamsfanKevin: Jim,

How do you see the NFC west shaping up this year? Do you think Arizona can overtake San Fran this year?

Can Matt Leinert be the answer at quarterback for the Rams in the future, and what do you think it would cost us to get him for 2010? I don't believe he has been given a fair chance in Arizona...and can be a franchise quarterback. We could then use our 1st rounder on WR...and have
a quarterback ready to go at day one 2010.

RamsfanKevin

Jim Thomas: San Francisco plays very good defense, but I wonder if they have enough offense to win over the long haul.
Leinart doesn't do much for me.

david: Jim,

I love the idea of Checketts in ownership, seeing what he did for the Blues. I have no idea what to think of Limbaugh (loathe the man and his mouth) except that maybe he has the deep pockets, the loyalty to keep the Rams in St. Louis, and will not try to micromanage them, instead sticking to his radio. I haven't read anyone's take on Limbaugh as a potential owner. What do you think?

Jim Thomas: Never mind what I think? In a sport where perhaps two-thirds of the players are black, how would they feel about it?

Larry: Jim...if Russ Limbaugh buys into the Rams, will the Rams only run to the right?

Jim Thomas: Yeah, and you think the offense is predictable now?

reason001: Could you have used an older picture of Limbaugh? Please (sigh).

Jim Thomas: I have nothing to do with pictures.

Whitey: Jim,
In what week does flex scheduling come into effect? Because the 1-6 Lions versus the 0-7 Rams is made for Monday Night Football on November 2nd. Make Jaws, Tirico, and Gruden really work hard, rather than expose their Farve Man Crush all night!

Whitey

Jim Thomas: Very funny. You have to wait until Week 11 for flex scheduling.

MIKE: Jim, do you know how the Checketts-Limbaugh bid compares to the other bidders? How does Charlie Casserly gets all of this great info and Chris Mortonsen from ESPN didn't know about the bid.

Jim Thomas: Casserly was wrong about the Friday deadline, the number of bidders, and the potential sale price of the team. He was right on Limbaugh buying the team, then again, Limbaugh works for CBS. . .and so does Casserly.

tc: Hi Jim,

Were you honestly expecting the Rams to be THIS bad? I actually miss the June Henley days. Do they practice this bad? Are they 'tight'? I have never seen such unimaginative offence, now I wasn't expecting them to return to the GSoT days, but come on. I wish it were possible to wager on what play they are going to call next.. 1st down - run, 2nd down - run, 3rd down - incomplete 5 yard pass and punt.

If there are 8 men in the box, doesn't that have to mean that there is one-on-one coverage somewhere? Surely a quick pass would work well, no?

Ugh.

Jim Thomas: No I wasn't.

bigmatth67: Jim

How long will we have to wait until we know who will be purchasing the rams?

Jim Thomas: Better question: Which will come first, the sale of the team or a Rams victory?

murdoch: Jim,

Did you notice the Jimmy Kennedy sighting last night? He had a sack for the Vikings.

Any chance the Rams pull a shocker on Sunday? Vikings played an emotional game on nat'l tv last night against a good team and have a short week. Sometimes lopsided games on paper like this one end up being shockers on any given Sunday.

Jim Thomas: Yeah, I saw Kennedy. Pretty amazing, huh?
For the Rams to pull a shocker, they're going to have to top 20 points. I don't know how that happens, not against that defense.

Mike Martz Fan: Jim , can you compare-statistically- the offense between the first 4 games this year versus last year? thanx

Jim Thomas: Actually, it's closer than I thought. The Rams were 30th last year in total offense (yards per game) after four games last year, and their 30th this year. They're actually average a few more yards per game this year (251.3 to 246.8). The Rams had scored 43 points four games into '08; they've scored 24 this year.

With that I must go. Thanks for the questions. See you all next week.