Joe: The only time SF got a pass rush was when we were in obvious passing downs. So the OL play wasn't as bad as it seemed IMO. I saw that we played Carriker at DE quit a bit and he seemed to do well. If we go to a 3-4, like Bernie mentioned, with Carriker, Ryan, Wroten/Adeyanju on the line, what would our LB crew look like? Would Little be game for the move to OLB and would Pisa be able to rush the passer? If not, what are his cap salaries for the remainder of his contract?

Jim Thomas: I haven't looked at the tape yet. I hope to tonight. But the o-line play apparently was bad enough that a change will take place this week on the right side. At this stage in his career, it would be tough to expect Little to make a smooth transition to OLB. Particularly when it came to coverage responsibilities. Also, DE James Hall would be somewhat lost in the 3-4. He's probably not big enough to man the outside end position. The Rams would need at least a couple of more LBs to play the 3-4 on a full-time basis. And under that system, I would assume you'd move Witherspoon outside. Who then are the inside backers? Pisa? Chillar (he's unrestricted after this season)? There's a lot. As to your last question, Pisa is playing well and will not be cut.

RESPECT: Hey Jim,

Ok, we win 2 games, this is a good thing. hopefully the people come out and support our guys during the last 2 home games because their gonna need it (i got 1 ticket). Playoff talk is far-fetched, but, not improbable, yet, in the NFC West im still not sold on Seattle and Arizona. I know its premature but lets escape from reality for a second and say- the Rams run the table and Seattle ends up 6-9 with Arizona and the Rams @ 7-8. this would mean that the Rams split with 9ners, 'Hawks, and hopefully the Birds= 6 conference wins. if the Hawks win 8 games they win automatically with more conference w's, if the birds win just 7 by week 16 as do the Rams, this lead to a showdown in the desert, Mark against Kurt for the division title. can you write it up any better than that?

Jim Thomas: Sorry to rain on your parade, but I think it's more likely that the Seahawks beat the Rams this Sunday, thus eliminating the Rams from NFC West title consideration _ on Nov. 25!!! _ than the Rams and Arizona both battling for the division title at 7-8 on Dec. 30. Seattle doesn't have a team on its remaining schedule that currently has a winning record. On the other hand, they have four games remaining on the road, where they are only 1-3 this season. I thought a key in Seattle coming back to the Rams in the standings was a loss at home to Chicago this past Sunday, and that didn't happen.

Black Nailed: With Aaron Walker out for the year, the Rams need a new tight end. So my question is,

What about Boo Williams?

Jim Thomas: Actually, Klopfenstein has been doing OK as a blocking tight end these past two games without Walker. As for Boo Williams, I don't think he's in the league any more.

P.S. _ Are you an auto mechanic.

Mike: Does Steussie's return move Barron back to the right side or does Steussie take over for Leckey? If Romberg returns it would seem best to have Steussie play tackle. With a healthy Jackson and a repaired Oline this Sunday's game against the 'Hawks could turn into a shootout. Wishful thinking?

Jim Thomas: I think Barron stays on the left side. As for Steussie, I think he plays right guard, unless both McCollum and Romberg are healthy. In that case, maybe McCollum goes to guard with Steussie at right tackle. We'll see how they line up at practice Wednesday.
Seattle seems like they're picking up momentum. Obviously, the Rams are going to have to score more than 13 points _ probably double that _ to win this one.

Billy C: I am encouraged to see John (Shaw) fired up . Glad hes awake now . John is a smart man who is good when he gets mad . Hes just not mad often enough / stay mad John . Be proactive . Believe me some coaches will be gone next season / possibly half . If Scott keeps that fire burning and the players with him , he will be here in 08 . If he leads like at New Orleans , I want him with us .
The draft (what draft) has been a bust for us . Yes we got some good players but face it , most of our picks were not good (Im being kind) . Only 4 Pro Bowlers players draften since we left LA for SL . Of the 2000 to 2003 drafts only 2 guys are still here on the tean (come on) . Hire a GM from outside / let Jay take care of negotiating contracts & the cap . We are not a 2&8 team / ya our record is but We are not .
We are going to make changes We are going to improve Management & Coaching . Keep Ike / he has 2 or 3 solid years left in him . But more than yards & TDs , the Reverend "Is The Rams" Ike is all the class you could ever ask for and the best role model for all our guys . So please Do Not Let Him Go . Fans believe me there will be BIG changes comming . Dont give up on Us /its time to go to work . Believe...... Billy C Old School Ram Fan

Jim Thomas: Well, Shaw should be fired up. Even with the injuries, this team should be better than 2-8. And if the sight of thousands of empty seats in the Edward Jones Dome isn't a wakeup call, I don't know what is.
There's no doubt strong drafting should be the backbone of any team, but I think the Rams needs to make some strong free-agent moves as well. And I was disappointed that Shaw seemed to downplay free agency in his interview with Bernie.