Johnny: So does this game conclude that the Rams don't go with a QB in the 1st round? I would still take one in round 2. We need to groom someone behind Bulger. We've all seen what Marc can do when he's healthy, but how often do we see him healthy? We should prolly go with an offensive lineman in round one, but that's so boring. I would go WR assuming Bruce retires after this year.

Jim Thomas: Johnny--Rams do need to groom a backup QB _ and perhaps even a QB of the future. But I just think there are more pressing needs elsewhere to use a pick on a QB in Rounds 1-3.

John: Jim, thanks again for giving your time to this forum.

The one thing that was a true positive out of New Orleans, besides the obvious victory, was giving the game ball to Coach Linehan. I have not been much of a fan of his, but have always felt he has been hamstrung in a system not totally his own. He has tried to fit his ideas with a cast that does not quite fit the mold. I think the team is beginning a turn around, and Linehan's disposition and ability to keep the team together indicates strength of character. There has been no finger pointing and quit with this group of players. The proof will be in the finish, but there are indications that the team. in spite of really brutal circumstances has stood together.

I think Jackson, Bulger, Holt and the leaders on defense deserve a lot of credit for not folding the lawn chairs on this season and this team. The 49ers certainly have given every vibe they are through with this year and the current coaching staff. The way the League seems to work, with so many injuries to so many key players, luck is a huge factor along with character on how well an organization does. I'm actually hopeful for much better days in the very near future for the Rams. We didn't as many wins this year as we all would have preferred, but this was still a team in transition missing a few pieces to challenge the upper echelon. Next year could be a lot of fun!

Jim Thomas: I too was struck by Bulger's gestures, particularly since there has been some friction between the two this season. As much as anything, I think what Bulger did reveals that there is a human side to all this. Bulger and the rest of the players may not think Linehan is the next Lombardi, but I think they realize that they've been part of the problem as well, they can see what Linehan has gone through on a personal effort, and they appreciate that he _ as Bulger mentioned _ has treated them like men. Let's see if this leads to something.

Tim: you gonna answer any questions from someone whos not dave in atlanta?

Jim Thomas: Yeah, what's with this Dave from Atlanta. What's gotten into him today?

Louis: Jim, why do you respond to someone like "Dave in Atlanta"? I have e-mailed you every week and you won't even respond to my serious questions.

Where do you see Isaac Bruce next year?

Jim Thomas: Louis--It's nice to know you care. I try to get to as many questions as possible every week. And this week I have a little more time. As for Isaac Bruce, I say it's 50-50 that he's back in St. Louis next year. And if he's not back, I'm sure he'll be somewhere where they need a highly competitive veteran receiver. Just a guess. . .but I'll say wherever Mike Martz is in '08 _ that is if Isaac decides he wants to keep playing, which seems to be the case.

Johnny: Jim,
It seemed like Pittman was getting a decent amount of carries, and well deserved. Has he moved ahead of Leonard on the Depth Chart?

Jim Thomas: Looks that way _ ahead of Leonard and Minor. But I think all along, the Rams wanted Leonard more at FB, and they're finally getting a chance to see how that works now.