Cole, Chesterfield: Do you think the Rams just overlooked the Browns in preparation for their bye week? I hear they are will be using it to convert their playbooks to Braile so that Linehan can read it. Any injury projections?

Jim Thomas: Hah, hah.
Romberg says he's playing against New Orleans.
S. Jackson, I would say is questionable.
It looks like Incognito's out for the season.
Dante Hall is getting better, but he's still probably doubtful for the Saints.

Jingles: Jim-


How much of Detroit's success this year do you think Martz is responsible for?

Jim Thomas: I haven't followed Detroit closely, but I would say a lot. He's a demanding perfectionist, and I'm sure he's raised the bar in terms of what's expected out of that offense. If the Lions make the playoffs, I would think Martz gets some consideration for any head-coaching openings.

Ima Ramfan: Many of your responses appear to defend Shaw, Frontiere et al. What is your honest opinion of the Rams front office and ownership as compared to, say, the Patriots and how much blame do you lay at their feet?

Jim Thomas: Let me get this straight, just because I'm not part of the pack mentality that wants to fire everyone, everywhere immediately, I'm defending Shaw, Zygmunt, or Frontiere. Sorry, I'm not a fan. And because I'm not a fan, that means I'm not necessarily going to tell you want you want to hear all the time.
Ultimately, Rams management gets the blame, because they're the ones who hired Linehan. And they're the ones who control the purse strings in free agency.

Bryan: What about Al Saunders as head coach? He has some ties to the Rams, coach during the '99 superbowl season. He has head coaching experience. He can have an exciting offense. Why not?

Jim Thomas: I like the idea of Saunders as a head coach. He is one of the game's most underrated offensive coaches and I'm surprised he hasn't been given another chance to be a head coach. But I don't think Rams management is keen on him, because I asked about him during the Linehan coach search. Exactly why this is the case, I'm not sure.

Amy: How is Marc Bulger, I haven't heard anything. Is he gonna be able to go for the Saints game?

~Amy

Jim Thomas: Bulger has a badly bruised thumb. He did nothing in practice today. But should be fine for N.O.