Dman: Jim,

It was interesting to see Linehan's defending himself against the media regarding second half collapses. However, his inept conservative pattern is obvious throughout the season and I can even get my kids to predict that once a lead is built it won't last. In my opinion, the second half of a football game is the most critical where successful adjustments are the difference betweens wins/losses.

Do you think executive management will overlook this just because they have won 3 of 4 games and the team has had so many injuries? Do you think Linehan will be given another year? I am hoping for a change rather sooner than later to perhaps Haslett who has done a good job in reviving the D.

Jim Thomas: I think the second-half meltdowns will be factored into any evaluation process. As I've mentioned earlier today in this chat, by feeling AT THIS MOMENT is that Linehan stays.

Rich: What would the cap hit be if the Rams cut Pisa? When he plays he's effective, but he simply can't stay healthy. Draft can play the WLB.

Jim Thomas: Pisa will not be cut.

Michael: Jim. I'm from Columbus OH and know Pittman well. He is a runner that takes time to warm up. It will take a half of pounding before he starts to breakout and wear down a team. This is not likely his role with the Rams. Does he have a future on this team?

Jim Thomas: For the last four games, Pittman has been the top backup to S. Jackson, spelilng him at times during each game. As long as Jackson is healthy that will be Pittman's role with the team. They like him; he's already under contract with the Rams for next year. He needs to make the most out of his limited role each game to have a future in St. Louis.

Jonas: Getting back to the tomb-like atmosphere at the Dome, do you think St. Louisans (specifically, the people who pay money to go to the games) would be open to an outdoor stadium in the future? If so, how long would we have to wait to possibly see this happen? Football is meant to be played outdoors... I have been to Tropicana Field and noticed a whole lot of similarities with the EJD.

Jim Thomas: Unless there's a massive remodeling _ i.e. a retractable roof _ it won't happen for the life of the dome, which is only 12 years old. So I think any realistic talk of an outdoor stadium is at least 20 years away (again, unless they go to a retractable, which could cost a couple of hundred million bucks, I would think.

bash-on: I got to watch DE Chris Long, Virginia, in the season opener against the Wyoming Cowboys, (Powder River Let 'er Buck), and was not very much impressed. He was going up against a sophmore tackle and had very little impact on the game. Is it hype or is he really an elite player?

Bash-On Regardless

Jim Thomas: I haven't really studied him. But he certainly seems to be highly rated in the early draft ratings.