dodgerram: Hi Jim,

what happened to Claude Wroten ? Is he still in the DT rotation ? Haven´t heard his name called in some time now.
Thanks.

Jim Thomas: Claude Wroten is a third-round draft pick playing like a seventh-rounder. He gets knocked off balance too easily, and doesn't seem all that quick coming off the ball to me. He's getting a regular turn in the rotation, seeing his most duty in 3-man fronts and in obvious passing situations. He has been a disappointment both on the field and off.

JC: Hello again, Jim.

How's Leonard Little recovering from his toe surgery? Do you think it's bad enough that the Rams will cut him rather than pay his huge roster bonus in March? And if he stays, can he be a rush LB in a 3-4 alignment?

Thanks.

Jim Thomas: I haven't seen Little since his surgery. I think what the Rams will do is re-work Little's contract so that the $7 million roster bonus he's due can be spread out over several years instead of just one for cap purposes. As for the 3-4, I don't know if Little can cover well enough to make that work, particularly after so many years as a down end. But the thought of Little and Witherspoon coming at QBs from the edge _ at the same time _ does sound appealing, doesn't it?

Cory- Parker Colorado: Jim,

All I see is the fan base and the media questioning Scott Linehans second half play calling this year. Could it be that it isn't the playcalling, but the play execution? I mean after all, the Rams are starting a lot of street free agents and backups at a lot of positions right now, especially on the offensive line. These players were conditioned in the off season to be backups and took 1/3 of the snaps that the first teamers did. Could it just be a lack of conditioning rather than the play calling?

Cory-Parker Colorado

Jim Thomas: The disparity is so great between first half and second half performance, particularly over the past five games, it's more than just one thing. I would say the play-calling has been conservative _ on both sides of the ball, not just offense _ once the Rams have gotten these double digit leads. I would say opposing defenses are adjusting on the fly to what Linehan is doing in the first half. And the same goes for opposing offenses. There's only so many ways you can blitz a quarterback. After a while, they are coping better with what Haslett is bringing. Conditioning could be a factor. And perhaps the players are easing up _ even if subconsciously _ with the lead.

James: Jim,
Even though Linehan couldn't call a good offensive game if his life depended on it, don't you believe the Rams could possibly be at .500 or a game better if they had experienced less injuries to key players? Which brings me to my question, shouldn't we blame the conditioning coach as much as the offensive cordinator. I mean if you put in a bunch of out of shape, overweight guys out against physical specimen that play in the NFL, you are going to experience a lot of injuries. Maybe the head that should roll should be the guy who lets these guys off easy on the conditioning. What do you think?

James Young

Jim Thomas: There's no doubt in my mind anyway that the strength and conditioning coaches will be under scrutiny by Linehan. But some of the injuries are so fluky, they cannot be explained away by fitness level. Orlando Pace blowing up his shoulder on a routine hand punch; Tye Hill hurting his back earlier in the season in a collision with teammate Oshiomogho Atogwe; Aaron Walker blowing out his shoulder striking a tackling dummy in practice; Frerotte hurts his shoulder on a borderline late hit; Bulger breaking his ribs; Setterstrom getting his knee squashed when about half a ton of opposining linemen fall on him funny on a PAT _ all the wind sprints and weight lifting are going to do nothing to prevent those injuries. It's just been a strange year _ injury-wise _ and one that I think defies explanation to a large degree.

Scott S: Hi Jim
Season ticket holder, since the beginning (95). How good do you think our offense would have been this year, if the Oline protected Bulger in each of their games? Do you think the head coach would have still had the same overly conservative (scared) approach?

Regarding the dome atmosphere, Wallace stated they play the same number of commercials as other venues. Obviously, he is not including all of the times they have Jim Holder make commercial type announcements, like selling swim suit calendars. All of these interruptions, including the loud music at times, prevents the crowd from creating that football atmosphere. All commercials, and announcements should only be done in between quarters, and at half time, not in-between plays and not during a change of possession. Wallace’s comments about the commercials just reiterates the fact that the Rams care more about the revenue than the football atmosphere. He said the problem is the team's record. Even though the Big Red were losers most years, there still was a decent football atmosphere at Busch, in my opinion. The crowd was given the chance to create that atmosphere. You travel on the road with the Rams, what are the other stadiums like, regarding this topic?

Jim Thomas: Two things happened in the first half of the season opener that had a dramatic impact on the season:
_ LT Orlando Pace goes does with a season-ending shoulder injury, on what really was a fluke injury.
_ Bulger took a shot to the ribs. The ribs may not have been broken until the following week against SF, but the injury originally occurred fairly early in the Carolina game.
Who knows how the season unfolds if those two things don't happen? But that's football.

In terms of stadium atmosphere, I would rate the Edward Jones Dome near the bottom. Get a mascot, get a pep band, do something. About 45,000-50,000 die-hard fans are going to be in there cheering on the Rams every week whether they're good or bad _ because it's their team. I think anything that can be done to make the atmosphere more entertaining would help the diehards get through the down times.
I always use the example of Minnesota, where the Rams played their '06 season finale. The Vikings were going nowhere. They had a lackluster offense. But the atmosphere was very good. They had the Viking mascot guy riding in a motorcyle, that incessant Viking hard, the place was much better lit than the Edward Jones Dome. They had a kiss-cam during TV timeouts, livelier music, T-shirts hurled into the stands, etc. Now sooner or later, the play begins and all the other stuff is forgotten, but it was still a better atmosphere. There are only 16 games in the NFL and each game should be an event.

Billy C: Why are all our players going down this year ? Ive seen serasons we lost guys but with Claw we were always in shape . By the way where is Chris Clawson ??? He was great. Our S&C Department (to me) is not as good as when we had Claw .
Do they pump enough ? Isaac has said some should spend more time in the weight room . Do they have a checklist for different workouts for each player (for their individual need) ? Ive watched Claw do all that over the years .
Does Dana & Brad have any individual plan for each player as per their own needs ??? Are they weighing in / then sending out for McDonalds after ??? Good question . Some of our guys are flat lately . Claw wouldnt stand for that . I guess Claw was another good one that Ram management let slip away > I dont see this team getting better or smarter . I see a sloppy slide .
Make no mistake / I was and will always be a Ram . Thats what hurts so much > If I didnt care , Id just laugh it off . But I cry for my Team .... Billy C Old School Ram Fan

Jim Thomas: I think every aspect surrounding injuries will be examined at the end of the season, whether it's offseason conditioning, what happens in the OTAs and minicamps, how much contact there is in training camp, how much veterans play in the preseason, etc. But as a mentioned in a previous post, there is a fluke element to many of these injuries.

JerseyRamFan: Hey Jim,

You know, I've been thinking. The Rams Organization should consider scrapping their "Gotta Go To Work" mantra, and change it to "Gotta Finish The Job". It seems that Steven Jackson got that memo, but I don't think the coaches did.

As much as I would like Linehan to succeed in this league, it doesn't look like he's Head Coach material. At least not yet. But, because I don't want to see the Rams Organization blow the whole thing up next year, what are the odds of Haslett taking over as Head Coach next year?

Jim Thomas: Actually, the Rams haven't used "Gotta Go To Work" since about 2001.
But I agree, they need to learn how to finish.

If a change is made, you could make a case that Haslett will be a safe choice. He knows the personnel on both sides of the ball, and they know and respect him. That alone would lessen any transition period. It would also save John Shaw the trouble of either A.) gambling on another unproven coordinator as head coach; B.) Or spending a ton of money on a veteran "name" coach.

JerseyRamFan: Jim,

Can anyone tell Linehan that the game is 60 minutes long and not 30?

Jim Thomas: Not just Linehan. Haslett and the players need to get the memo as well.

Billy C: Hi Jim / where does Isaac rank (Stats) for catches / yards / TDs : on the Ram All Time Rankings List / and / On the NFL receivers All Time Rankings List??? Do you think we will keep The Reverand for a few more years ? I know Ike has the heart and desire and Quality to play for us at least 2 or 3 more seasons / what do you think ? Id never cut him loose , hes been too good to Our Rams ..... Billy C Old School Ram Fan

Jim Thomas: Bruce is the Rams' career leader in receptions (925), reception yards 13,911, and is second in overall TDs scored (83, to Marshall Faulk's 85).
On the NFL list, Bruce ranks 7th in receptions, 5th in receptions yards, and 17th in TD catches (not overall TDs, but TD ctaches).
Bruce has one year left on his contract, and is due a $3 million base salary plus a $2 million roster bonus next season. I'm not positive, but I get the sense that Linehan plus management would like to get on with a youth movement at the WR position. So I think at the moment, it's 50-50 whether Bruce comes back. What he does over the final four games, might help influence the decision.

JerseyMo: Jim,

What happens to this team in 3rd and 4th quarters this year! Does a 14 year veteran back-up quarterback have any excuses for turnovers?

Jim Thomas: 1.) He's human.
2.) There's a reason why he's a backup.
3.) The state of the offensive line.
4.) He was hit as he threw the first interception which might have affected the trajectory.
5.) As we found out later, Frerotte shoulder was injured while throwing that first interception, and it might have affected him the rest of the game.

Coachvh: Jim, have enjoyed your work for years. I remember your great work for the Sporting News - that was you, wasn't it? What the heck happened to that once great rag?

Anyway, are you a proponent of taking the best player available, or drafting for need? And, what do you see as the Ram's most pressing need - OL, DE, or some other position?

Jim Thomas: I'm still a correspondent for TSN. The magazine is still around. The Rams have so many needs, I don't think they should be hamstrung in the early rounds. In other words, I don't think they'll have to reach for need, because there should be somebody available that grades out highly at a position where they need help.
At the moment, here's how I'd handicap the Rams top needs (keeping in mind it's a moving target that will be affected by free agency).
1.) DE--preferably a speed-rushing DE. (But Chris Long would do.)
2.) OT--Pace is a question mark, and even if he's not, the Rams need a third tackle.
3.) WR--Bruce and Holt getting no younger. A speed receiver who can get yards after the catch would be great.
4.) G-C--There are plenty of question marks on the interior, due to age and injury.

Kenny Hickerson: Jim,

I just wanted to throw in a plug for Brandon Chillar. He's been shredded over the years on these various forums, mostly because the defense was bad and he didn't dance like Ray Lewis. Now that the d-line is actually able to protect the LBs (as they should!), we see that Chillar is playing quite well against both the run and pass. Not to mention that he has good size and has been very durable, unlike a certain overpaid colleague of his. Thanks for doing the chats!

Jim Thomas: I've become a believer in Chillar. After a slow start this year, he seems to have gradually gotten more confident in his play. He does a lot of different things _ cover TEs, and backs, play the run, blitz _ and seems to be getting better. He rarely misses a tackle. He's got good size. I'm not saying he's a superstar, but he's developed into a solid player whom the Rams probably could re-sign for a modest price.

Ruben: Jim,
Thanks for taking my question. With Donahoe consulting with Shaw, do you see Kroenke giving advice? My guess is Shaw will keep Linehan, if he hires Shaw's/Donahoe's OC of choice. Why not have Kroenke involved versus Donahoe? If I was Shaw, I would hire GM, Pioli, Donahoe, ect. Then, I would fire Linehan, promote Haslett and go with coordinator of choice, Zampese, Ellard, Saunders...What would you do?

Jim Thomas: Kroenke is consulted on the bigger decisions, no doubt, but as a minority owner it's not like he's got the final say. Plus, he's got plenty of other interests outside of the Rams, in other professional sports and outside of sports.

RESPECT: Hey Jim,

its seems as if the Rams will have a bigger dilemma on their hands than expected if the "D" keeps getting better. Hasslett's been without a head coaching job for a while and despite our record, his group's been solid all year long. There should be enough head coaching vacancies to practically "give away" by the years end and i wouldnt doubt that teams already have their eye on him. is it worth losing Hasslett in favor of trying to prove to everyone that Linehan is the right guy for the job?

And though i've developed a working man's respect for Linehan for his passion and his positive stance, i really cant help but look at these last few wins as "too little too late", some wanna talk about the players and their salaries, isnt our coach supposed to be hired to- produce favorable results?

Jim Thomas: You make good points, but at this point in time _ I emphasize, at this point in time _ I get the sense Linehan will be back in '08. The last four games could change that.

Charlie Connors: Jim,

Linehan got really lucky yesterday. I just don't think he is ready to be a successful nfl coach yet. Perhaps, he needs a couple years under a proven winner. To me, he resembles his stated mentor Dennis Erickson, or Saban or Tice.

-his gameday sidelines are chaotic...Jax screams at him...Bulger rolls his eyes, Haslett acts like the Head Coach with the refs. This is not consistent with other winning coaches.

-his schemes are only effective in the first half of games. Once the Rams get through the new stuff put in for the week; the other teams know exactly what he is about to do. You ever notice that is when most of the interceptions occur?

-he doesn't have enough talent to run this system. His receivers might shock themseleves to death with Yac. and we know about the line...

-Rams Mgt is too sloppy for this coach. as a young coach, he needs guidance from them. Wrong place for that! That is why Tomlin is off to a good start, he doesn't have bs going on all around him in the front office. Furthermore, they are a consistent organization...unlike the Rams who are run from La, Ca.

-He plays decent teams here on in...

Linehan might be a successful coach someday, but it won't be here.

PS
Rams Fans should appreciate their QB's after watching the Falcon's. (2 First Round Picks and a 3rd rounder. yikes Rams Fans should appreciate their QB's after watching the Falcon's. (2 First Round Picks and a 3rd rounder)

CC

Jim Thomas: You make some good points, but I really don't sense any chaos at Rams Park, from management or otherwise. This is nothing like the soap operas of '04 and '05.

LongIslandRam: Jim,

What do you think of the Rams rookie class? I think Carricker has proven a lot in terms of work ethic, team play, conditioning and hard work. He seems to be still improving, learning to fight pressure. Leonard has been as advertised, a nice complimentary player with a lot of skills. After that? Wade's toughness seems like a real question. Ryan has had some nice plays but there must be a reason he isn't playing more. Fry can't play here?

Jim Thomas: Carriker is a keeper, and has played very well _ far better than the stats would indicate _ since about Game 3 or 4. I agree with you on Leonard _ he is as advertised. Ryan hasn't played as much recently because the Rams have played some pass-happy teams, and with the leads they've had in the past month, have forced teams to pass more than they'd like.
I'm not sure on Wade. He hasn't done much on special teams.
Fry isn't ready.

Rogurs: Be honest Jim, how secure did you feel with the Rams up 21 points at half. This is a game the Rams should have won by 2 or 3 touchdowns after the great first half they had. I guess I'm trying to understand how a team can consistantly be this bad in the second half! I'm happy we won, but it never should have been this close...

Jim Thomas: The disparity between the first and second half of recent Rams games has been mind-boggling. I will explore that subject in more depth in the P-D sometime this week. Naturally, games have ebbs and flows, but it's been ridiculous lately. Against SF, Seattle, and Atlanta, the Rams were one score away from putting those teams away, but let each of those three teams back into it, and of course, Seattle eventually won.

Mark: Seemed to me like the punter had an off day, more wobbly and shorter than normal. Was he out of sync or maybe a little hurt? I'm right in front of the sideline practice net and didn't see him kicking into it.

Jim Thomas: Interesting observation about the practice net. I'll try to check into it. Jones' work has leveled off somewhat the past two to three games, but a 45.0 gross average and a net of 40.3 _ which were his numbers against Atlanta _ are still awfully good.

Larry: Hi Jim,
I know you are a beat writer and not a fan but what is your take on winning so called meaningless games as opposed to losing and getting higher draft picks ?

Does winning the games have a positive impact ?

Jim Thomas: C'mon now. It's all about winning. No matter the record. No matter what time of year. No matter the circumstances. Especially in the NFL, where either you do it or you don't.

Todd W.: Hi Jim,
Please tell me the Rams will go after some big free agent lineman like Faneca.
Also, can you please post a story about Bulger, when you find out the results. I believe the Cinn. game is winnable. What's your take?
Thanks

Jim Thomas: I'd love to see them go after a Faneca or Lilja in free agency. I think they need to. They can't do all that needs to be done with the line in the draft.
As for Bulger, we'll try to keep you posted.
Cincy game is winnable _ if Bulger is at QB and the Rams can get another early lead. If Hill _ who has in fact underwent surgery on his thumb-wrist _ can't play, the Rams may need to score tons of points, or blitz Carson Palmer with everything they've got.

scott from so. cal: Good am Jim -

Below are a few things we should should take care of in the '08 draft and free agency period :

1. big physical wide reciever with speed
2. depth on the o line ( obviously )
3. young qb to develop
4. safety
5. defensive end

What do you think the other glaring needs are to get this team back on track ?

Jim Thomas: You've hit the top spots, I believe. I would say they need more than depth on the o-line. They may need a starter or two there.

Stew, TRF: Jim,
I enjoy reading your analysis of the Rams. I have been following this team since the George Allen days of the sixties. Your coverage is the most thorough from the L.A. Times and Orange County Register, (60's-90's) to St Louis Post Dispatch Internet writers of today.

My question is this: With all of the injuries to the team and consistent poor play in the second halftimes of all of the games could the team's conditioning program not be up to NFL standards?
Stew

Jim Thomas: Stew, thanks for the kind words.
I've referred to this in some previous posts today _ I think the conditioning program as well as everything else that goes into preparing NFL players to play will be reviewed once the season's over. But a lot of these injuries _ as I pointed out earlier _ are pure fluke.

FOLKS--I've got to make a few calls. But don't go away. I'll be back in a few.

Gabriel to Snow: Hello Jim, Kudos to the Rams Director of Fan Apathy, mission accomplished. I do realize there are several factors conspiring to create the terrible atmosphere & energy at the ED. Is there an NFL restriction on how boisterous a PA announcer can get? Can they exhort fans between plays, point out crucial moments, etc.? Thank goodness we have a road game this week. Also, when a team picks up a player from another teams practice squad, is there any compensation required? Congratulations to Ike, just quietly & professionaly doing his very best all these years. he is a quiet man, but he DOES care. I will never forget his weeping on the sidelines when he believed the Niners were finally falling to the Rams after 17 losses in a row. I am one fan who says it would be a disgrace, with consequences to team morale, if he is run out of town to save a few bucks next year. I believe he is due 3mil., but the figure is almost irrelevant. Make cuts elsewhere, treat Ike with respect, let him retire a Ram. How do you feel about it Jim? One last thing, When Haslett blew a gasket at the end of the third quarter, there was a few moments where it appeared he & Linehan were seriously at odds. I thought Scott may have jumped him because the bad language was too over the top. Haslett even resorted to calling the refs some coloful names. Loud & in their face is fine, the gutter vocabulary seems unprofessional to me. Was that the subject of their heated words, or something else? Keep fighting the good fight Jim, you do a great job.

Jim Thomas: _ Whether the Rams are winning or losing, I think we all agree that the atmosphere needs to improve at the dome.
_ There is no compensation required when you sign someone from another team's practice squad.
_ Isaac Bruce: I've gone back and forth on this one. While still thinking the Rams need to add a young speed receiver on offense--Ideally a big receiver with speed who can get YAC yards--I think Isaac has earned the right to finish out his current contract with the Rams (1 more year).
_ I don't think the sideline seen between Haslett and Linehan amounted to much. Call it heat of battle. I saw them talking together Monday at Rams Park in the hallways, and everything seemed normal.

Mark: Hey Jim,
#1 What are the odds (in your opinion from seeing or talking to Bulger and the Rams staff) of him playing Sunday? Brock Berlin? OUCH. Ironically Ryan Fitzpatrick will be on the other sideline, maybe a trade? (Just kidding)
#2 Everyone blames Linehan for the 2nd half collapses, and he does deserve a lot of it, but they have to execute. I think this team simply lacks confidence. A perfect example is the route in the second half where they split Steven Jackson out wide, and he ran a seam route. Frerotte made a nice play and SJ simply dropped it. At worst that is a first down in FG range or maybe a TD. Also, Frerotte is a career 54% passer, he is not super accurate. He missed Holt and McMichael on third down passes to kill drives. That is not Linehan's fault. Also, with a horrendous line, they can not run to chew the clock.
#3 Can you ask Linehan why they do not exploit the middle of the field very much and why so little play action? I know the running game was getting bottled up Sunday with ATL running eight in the box, but SJ does warrant some respect, huh? As always, thanks for your time.

Jim Thomas: 1.) Don't know yet about Bulger.
2.) Sure, the players have to share part of the blame in the second half. That dropped pass by Jackson would've been a 30-yard gain. Maybe more.
3.) The Rams do run their share of play-action, so I don't think that's an issue. But I agree with you that the Rams don't use the middle of the field as much as they should. (Although they did use it more often against the Falcons.)

Son_dee: Jim,

Thanks for taking the time to listen to the wild musing of us fans. Do me a favor and travel back in time with me just over two years ago. Correct me if I’m wrong, but going into our search for new head coach the general thought was that we needed a defensive minded head coach to “fix the defense” and an offensive coordinator to “tweak the offense.” Yet it was our GM, Jay Zygmunt, who not only went outside the box by suggesting an offensive minded head coach (since there were plenty of good defensive coordinators), but it was also Jay who pretty much personally lobbied for Linehan.

So despite the fact that this win wasn’t particularly resume building for Linehan, and despite the fact that I’ve lost all trust in his ability to be the head coach of a team, I’ve always had the strong feeling that Linehan will be given a third year to prove himself. He’s started the second half of the season with three wins (although against less than stellar opponents and there SHOULD have been a 4th win), then there’s the negative feedback that could be perceived from firing a rookie head coach after a second season filled with injuries. Most importantly though, I think our GM Jay Zygmunt doesn’t want egg on his face from admitting that the coach he practically selected was an complete failure.

Which leads me to my question – am I correct in this line of thinking? Doesn’t Linehan have a bit of a built in cushion this season? Not from the rash of injuries, or from Shaw saying all the right things, or for three wins out of four, but because if Linehan got canned after two seasons it would reflect VERY badly on our GM Jay Zygmunt’s ability AS a GM???

Jim Thomas: Your memory is half right. Yes, the Rams went into the search process looking for a defensive-oriented head coach. But they ended up liking the offensive candidates better (the 3 finalists were Linehan, Cam Cameron, and Ron Rivera--only Rivera among those 3 has a defensive background). In the end, Shaw felt it would be easier to hire an unproven offensive-minded head coach and couple him with a veteran defensive coordinator, than hire an unproven defensive-minded head coach prospect (like Rivera) and find a veteran offensive coordinator.
But I'm not aware that Zygmunt pushed for Linehan. In fact, I get the sense he liked Rivera a lot, and really wanted to go defense. (Although he also liked Linehan.)

Buzz: Jim,
Do ALL of Linehan's mistakes come back to haunt him? I thought the Rams might lose their remaining four games with Bulger at QB. Anyway, can Berlin be any worse than Chris Chandler? Will his Europa experience help prepare him if he needs to play? Of course, it is comforting to know that we can fall back on Todd Bouman, from that QB factory at St Cloud St. I'm not even sure you can say he knows this offense just because he played for Linehan in 02. I thought Linehan and Olson collaborated to put this explosive attack together, adding in elements of the West Coast offense. Do you smell blood in the water? Thanks.

Jim Thomas: If this is your way of saying that the Rams should have kept Ryan Fitzpatrick, I'll say: agreed. But I'm not among those who thought he was the second coming of Joe Montana. Or even Tony Romo.
Although he did have lots of mobility, which helps during times like this when the o-line is hurt and struggling, Fitzpatrick didn't play well at all in the preseason until the final game. It's not like he was dazzling in August.

Jim: Two quick questions. Will we ever look for some player not involved in Lineahan's past. I bet they are real happy they let Fitzgerald go for a 7th round pick. In all my years watching football and 38 years as a Rams fan I don't think I have ever heard of going into a season with only 2 QB's.
Thanks

Jim Thomas: You can look around the league. Hiring players your familiar with happens all the time. Coaches like to hire players they know _ it eliminates some of the guesswork. Of course, it always helps if the player you hire can actually play. I think in this case, it would help to hire someone that has worked with Linehan and has some experience running his offense.

As for 2 QBs, it may be knew to the Rams, but it's a growing trend around the league. About half the league is going with just 2 QBs. Given all the QB injuries every year, it doesn't make much sense.

Son_dee: Jim,

Speaking of our GM Jay Zyggy, there has been a lot of talk about the Rams hiring a GM in the off-season. I think a REAL GM is a good step to fixing this franchise but I’m concerned how our current front office would deal with the power change. While Rams coaches have normally been given lots of power over personally, it’s GM Jay Zymunt that runs the team. Softli is a glorified scout. And he who holds the purse in today’s NFL holds the power. So wouldn’t GM Jay Zyggy have to take a step back if we hired a GM that’s not a glorified scout?

You’ve mentioned that Tom Donahoe is a candidate and has even worked with the Rams in a small capacity this year. Do you think that GM Jay Zyggy could step into a somewhat president/CEO-ish type role since he runs the cap and is close with current president John Shaw? What I’m thinking is a situation similar to the Arthur Blank/Rich McKay situation in Atlanta where there’s a REAL GM working closely with the guy who controls the money (Zyggy).

Jim Thomas: I'm still a bit skeptical on this GM business, because the Rams have not gone this way for at least a quarter of a century. A real GM, with real GM powers? I'd have to see it to believe it.
If that happened, I think it would represent a reduction in Zygmunt's powers. I think he has more influence over player personnel (particularly in free agency) than you'd think.

Francisco Prado: Jim, as always a pleasure to discuss in your weekly fan forum of my beloved Rams. Keep up the good work. My question is how is Torry Holt's knee holding up? Is it a chronic issue? What needs to be done in the offseason to be 100% percent? Despite not being fully healthy I think he is having a pro bowl season despite not having a good offense. Also Isaac Bruce can play as long as he wants to, I love to see him retire a Ram.

Jim Thomas: Holt is learning to manage the knee. It's now common for us in the media to see him with a wrap or ice on the knee after practice. He routinely either sits out or is limited in practice on Wednesdays. This may be a case where he's reduced to bone-on-bone in the knee following cartilage surgery. It's basically what ended D'Marco Farr's career and Marshall Faulk's career. There's only so much you can do in this case. So yes, I think to a degree, the injury may be chronic. And Torry no longer is a spring chicken. Next year will be his 10th in the league.
Even so, it is relatively amazing that Torry has been able to put up the numbers he has this season. He's on pace for 96 catches and more than 1,200 yards. I too, would love to see Isaac retire as a Ram. But somehow, I don't see that happening.

joe brannan: Hi Jim, thanks again for hosting this forum. What a sad season this is for the Rams. Another home blackout and another Sunday trying to resist the urge to root against the blue and gold. Peter King wrote on SI.com that if the Rams blew the 21-0 halftime lead on Sunday, he thought Linehan would be gone. I was thinking the same thing when Atlanta got the ball back with about two minuetes to go down by five. I hate losing, but it seems to me that winning only decreases draft position and increases the chances of Linehan coming back. I am more impressed with Haslett's D every week. I have drastically changed my opinion of him and I hope he gets a shot at HC if Linehan goes. Also, good to see Ike and Torry get in the end zone in the same game; Seems like old times, weep.

Jim Thomas: If the season ended today, I believe the Rams would get the No. 5 overall pick. At "worst" they appear a lock for a top 10 pick. We'll see what these next four games bring. I'm not sure the Rams win any of them, particularly with the current QB situation in limbo.
I too, have come to appreciate the job Haslett has done in keeping the defense going. They've had their share of injuries now, too.
As for Torry and Isaac, they are truly local sports treasures. And at the risk of being overly dramatic, this may be the last year we see them both on the field for the Rams.

Team-Sport: Jim,
You said Todd Bouman "knows the Rams Offense".
My questions are:
1) What exactly is the Rams Offense? After 1-3/4 Seasons with Linehan, it's not clear to me what defines the Rams Offense.
2) How does playing for Linehan in Minnesota, in 2002, when Linehan was the Vikings OC, equate to someone being able to know the Rams Offense (such as it is) in 2007? Is it exactly the same after 5 years, with Linehan changing teams twice? Are there no wrinkles or nuances specific to the Rams, and their personnel?
3) Why hasn't Linehan already gotten Bouman on board? If this report is to be taken as glowing as it sounds, he should have already been here. Bouman has actually started 6 games in the NFL, Berlin nada. I'm really glad we didn't have to use Berlin against Atlanta. And I hope like heck we don't see him on the field in Cincinnati. And since Bouman already "knows the Rams' offense", I guess that means he'll be just "plug and play".

Jim Thomas: 1.) Very good question. What exactly is the Rams offense? I'm not sure anyone knows, at least in terms of what it stands for, it's personality, etc.
2. & 3.) By knowing the offense, it's mainly a case of the terminology and ways that plays are called. In other words, each offensive system in the NFL has its own peculiar language _ and until you know the language _ there's going to be an adjustment period. The fact that Bouman worked with Linehan will lesson the adjustment. That's all I was saying in today's P-D article. I'd hardly call that a "glowing" assessment. Perhaps you need to read more carefully.

Jeff: As a Rams fan going back to the 70's, I'd like to say what a pleasure it has been to watch Isaac Bruce over the years. His dedication, professionalism and work ethic has made it a pleasure to watch him create his hall of fame career in a Rams uniform. In these days of cell phone using, Sharpie pen driveway sitting, Ocho Nacho buffoons at wide receiver, he is a tribute to his profession!

Congratulations Ike on top five!

Jim Thomas: Couldn't agree more.
My question to you and other Rams fans. Since the Rams are retiring Faulk's jersey. What about Bruce? Holt? Warner? Pace? They were all integral parts of the Greatest Show on Turf and were named to multiple Pro Bowls.

Will: Jim- Are Ryan and Wroten deliberately getting less playing time at DT in recent weeks? Who would you say the Rams see as their two weakest players on defense?

Jim Thomas: Ryan is getting less playing time lately because the Rams have faced more pass-oriented teams and also have forced teams to pass more often because the Rams have had double-digit leads in each of their last five games. Ryan generally is out of the game in obvious passing situations.
As for Wroten, he hasn't done much of anything. And to be honest, La'Roi Glover has played very well the past few weeks _ as if he's getting his second wind _ and Eric Moore (although a DE) has played well enough to cut into the amount of overall reps available in the d-line rotation.
If you're talking about weakest players among the starters, that's a tough question. I think they feel that Chavous eventually needs to be replaced. And that Glover is nearing the end. They seem to like James Hall (who has been slowed by nagging injuries, and hasn't made a ton of plays this season.)

# 1 Rams Fan: Jim, Thanks for taking the time to answer questions!

1.Why do you think the Rams go so vanilla in the 2nd half?

2. Will the team wear any "throwback" uniforms next year?
(love to see the old blue and white!)

Jim Thomas: 1.) Linehan denied it was the case against Atlanta, but I think the team gets too conservative with the lead. With the o-line so banged up, I just don't think you can depend on the running game to chew up clock.
2.) The Rams would like to wear throwbacks (their '99 Super Bowl championship unis) in the Thursday night game against Pittsburgh Dec. 20. But you have to make those requests before the season starts. The Rams didn't do so, and so I don't think the league will let them wear their throwbacks.

Murat from PA: Dear Jim;

Why do you think that the Rams have to give up two-digit leads in second halves and try to win the game during the final 2 minutes? Is it coaching, lack of execution/focus by players?

Best regards,

Murat

Jim Thomas: All of the above Murat _ and more. Maybe their trying to keep fans from leaving early.

dave in atlanta: Is anyone more of a waste of print than me?

P.S. Please print my email so everyone can tell me directly what an idiot I am.

Jim Thomas: DIA--Believe it or not, I was beginning to wonder where you were at this week. Peace on Earth, good will towards men. Happy Hannukah and Kwaanza.

It's all good. And at the end of the day, it's just football, love it as we do.

jjg: What is your thoughts that next year while not ignoring the offense..especially if Haslett is still here in whatever capacity(DC or HC)that we continue to try to make this defense something special..ie spend and draft with a priority on our defense(its been a long time since people feared our D.)Do you think that would expedite the Rams recovery to a playoff contender instead of speading the talent around?
PS-I feel for the tigers and as a USC grad. I would like to have played them in the Rose bowl.

Jim Thomas: Good question, JIG. The Rams have expended a lot of draft picks on defense in recent years. But still, most of their money is tilted over to the offensive side of the ball. In the age of free agency, a lot of teams are tilted one way or another. (Examples--Baltimore to defense, Indy to offense in terms of expenditures.) I think the Rams need to add a playmaking DE, but also need to address needs on the o-line and WR.
Of course, if the Rams go more towards a 3-4 alignment in '08, the personnel needs change as well.

Paul: Do teams ever consider hiring a head coach to be just a head coach and not a head coach/coordinator? Why do so many teams insist that their top man on the field have two jobs when each one of the jobs is more than enough work for one person?

Jim Thomas: It's about 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. Had to take a break to handle newspaper chores.
According to research done by the San Diego Union Tribune at the start of the season, 10 NFL head coaches call their own plays on offense. So most head coaches don't call plays. I would think it would have to be very draining over the long haul to both call plays and handle the CEO-leadership duties of a head coach. I know it took its toll on Mike Martz over his tenure in St. Louis.

Jack Cramond: Jim,

I guess we have sunk to new lows when ESPN barely showes any ram highlights even if we win. I live in Charlotte, NC so I have to endure the Panthers. Do you believe that there will be any positive changes to the rams for the 08 season. I don't think that they can win anymore games in 07, but a 3-13 record does not guarantee changes. What is your gut feeling. Will they change coaches ?? Will upper management retire ( I hope, I hope)?????Will they draft the players necessary to put a competitive product on the field??? I know that these are not easy questions to answer, I guess that I just need you to throw me a bone. Merry Xmas !!!

Jim Thomas: Yeah, the Rams sure are low on the national radar these days. There hasn't been a national media person at Rams Park since very early in the regular season.
I can't tell you what changes will be made for '08, I think that plan is still be formulated. My feeling _ right now, at this moment _ that Scott Linehan returns in '08. Losses in the last four games might change all that.
I would be surprised if upper management goes anywhere.
The Rams always think they're drafting the right players. As we've seen, it frequently doesn't work out that way. I don't think the Rams are far away from being competitive _ as in competitive for a playoff spot. With fewer injuries, they might have gotten there this season.
Happy holiday. . . .

YoMurphy: Will Haslett be held responsible by the NFL for catching a microphone on the field when he was cursing at the refs on Sunday? I suspect he won't, since he had no idea it was broadcast, but I can't remember the last time I saw that happen so blatantly on national TV. I must admit I couldn't stop laughing either.

Also, where do you think the "whispers around the NFL" that Haslett is catching the eye of the Rams front office (and other teams) as a head coach replacement came from? The commentators remarked on this immediately after Haslett got caught barking at the refs.
Is this just wishful thinking turning into a rumor?
I am a fan of Haz and I admit I like the idea.

Jim Thomas: If every coach who cussed during a game got fined, the NFL would have enough money in its coffers to buy a few countries. (Wait a minute, the NFL already has enough money to do that. But you get my drift.)

Who knows where these rumors start. Most of the time, they're either unfounded or big-time exaggerations. I don't know how Shaw feels about Haslett as a possible head coach; but it would be hard not to notice the defensive improvement over the past month, month and a half. (At least before that near fourth quarter meltdown last Sunday against Chris Redman.)

Chris in NYC: Hi Jim,

One observation I have about he second half problems with the Rams is that the O line seems less effective as the game progresses (SJ's late run notwithstanding). I'm wondering if this boils down to lack of conditioning on the line, understandable given that some weren't playing a month or so ago. And also the inability to make blocking adjustments because of the lack of coordination due to all the personnel shifting. The inability to control the line of scrimmage is obviously influencing the play calling. Has Linehan addressed this particular issue as a cause of lackluster second half play?

Thanks,

Chris is NYC

Jim Thomas: Certainly Steussie and Petitti _ and Leckey when he was starting _ aren't exactly in midseason form in terms of being in football shape. So that could be a reason, or at least part of the reason for the second-half woes.

Matt: Hey Jim

The way I see it, just a gut feeling, the Rams will most likely end up with Chris Long or Vernon Gholston. Who would you personally like to have more? Where do you think the Rams will pick up an extra nose tackle because as much as I like Ryan we still need depth everywhere and don't think he can hold up all 16+ games. What do you think about moving OJ to SS although he's playing great at free and getting a Mike Doss or other FA/draft pick?

Jim Thomas: I think it's way to early to call. My early feeling, and I haven't delved into this too deeply yet, is that Long is much more likely to be a top 10 pick (or even a top five pick) than Gholston. As for Ryan, he's actually held up very well, and remember Carriker is still going to get his share of reps at NT. I wouldn't rate that very high at all on team needs at the moment.
As for safety, how about Indy's Bob Sanders? He's unrestricted at the end of the year. I think the Rams need to think about upgrading at safety _ but I'm not sure it will be in '08. It may come a year after that. As for Atogwe at SS, I say leave him at free, he's just starting to get his feet under him at that position.

jjg: Trying to be pithy...your thoughts on the Rams swithching to the 3-4 moving Will to the outside....it seemsa to me it is easier to get good Lbs than good DLine guys....??

Jim Thomas: Despite all the Rams use of the 3-man fronts since Little has been gone, the Rams are still using it only in passing situations. In order to use it on running downs as well, they'd probably need to move Carriker to DE; get another big DE; and add at least one or two more LBs. And if they make that switch, I'm not sure what happens to James Hall, Claude Wroten, and La'Roi Glover _ they don't really fit into a 3-4 scheme be it at end or nose tackle. And could Little make the transition from 4-3 DE to 3-4 rush linebacker?

Buzz: Jim,
Did you believe Linehan when he said he hasn't gone conservative in any of these games in which we had the lead at the half and then went into offensive hybernation the rest of the way? He accused himself of being a reckless wildman in the second half of the Falcons game. He says this is true because he throws just as many passes in the second half as he does in the first half. But what about the nature of those passes? Is he taking shots down the field? Is he throwing those 20 yard passes that Bruce and Holt thrive on? Or is he dinking and dunking passes and calling that aggressive? A coach in denial is coach asking to be fired. Thanks.

Jim Thomas: I still feel both he and Haslett _ in general _ have gotten too conservative in their play calling once the Rams have gotten leads.

JustA Guy: Yo, Big up to you JT from the Ill side. The Rams did a great job of keeping Eric Metcalf down last week and I was amazed that Steve DeBerg was unable to finish the game. How do you see this week's game against the Bengals? I know Icky Woods and James Brooks are a nice combination, Tim Krumrie can still play, Anthony Munoz is a beast and, of course, Carl Pickens is still quite a deep threat. How do you think the Rams fare and what's your favorite color?

Jim Thomas: My favorite color is red, the Rams will have a difficult time winning any of the final four games. Other than that, I have no idea what you're talking about. It's as if you're stuck in the '70s and '80s. Not to be harsh, but do you keep up on the game? And one last thing. . .have you ever worked in TV?

Michael: Hey Jim. Long time LA Rams fan and frequent reader. I can't help notice the fire that Haslet has compared to Linehan. Reminds of the old school coaches. Remember when Vermeil first came in and how hard the training camps were? He eventually lightened up but you have to think those first couple of years helped the team from discipline through building that team atmosphere. Every since that super bowl, it would seem that the Rams camps get easier and easier. Is this part of the problem with this team or is it a side effect of having so many aging veterans. Do you think a hard nosed coach is what they really need or is this "likeable" coach the wave of the future?

Jim Thomas: Those tough training camps and regular-season practices during Vermeil's first two seasons in St. Louis resulted in a near-player revolt in '98. It was only when Vermeil agreed to lighten up that the players seemed to respond. Of course, adding Marshall Faulk, signing Trent Green and Adam Timmerman, and drafting Torry Holt had something to do with all that as well.
You can be an old-school head coach without being a dictator. It seems to me that NFL players don't respond to the dictator-types very well these days.

bash-on: Ryan Fitzpatrick would sure look good in a Rams uniform tonight. Too bad he'll be on the other sideline. Who's brilliant idea was it to let him go for a seventh round pick anyway?


Bash-On Regardless

Jim Thomas: All signs point to Linehan. Again, I'm not sure Fitzpatrick is the second coming of Bulger, Warner, Trent Green, or even Gus Frerotte, but given Bulger's injury history and Frerotte's age, it made no sense to let him go for a seventh-rounder.

Graham from England: Jim

Looking at our last four games, we will not be favoured to will win any of them. Therefore we go 3-13 and the HC is gone. If we say win two of those games, do you honestly belive that he will return next year. I know what you hear and i know what you have said about management waiting until the end of the season, but come on Jim, gut feeling, does he come back or not if we go 3-13?

On another note, Is it possible the Brock Berlin starts on Sunday. What is the status on Mark Bulger.

Jim Thomas: As I've said before, I think 3-13 puts Linehan on the bubble.
Berlin will not start Sunday. As we've reported on Stltoday.com, Bulger passed his neuropsych exam Tuesday and has been cleared to practice. He will start against Cincy barring some unforeseen setback.

Nick: Hi Jim,

Any update on the quarterback situation?

Thanks

Jim Thomas: Bulger cleared to practice and play; Frerotte out at least one week; Bouman visited Rams Park Tuesday but was not signed once the Rams learned that Bulger was OK.

Brian: Hey Jim, Thanks for your time. I would just like to know why the Rams aren't giving Marques Hagans a chance at QB for Sunday. What do they have to lose and it would be more exciting than Berlin. That is unless Hagans is hurt and I just didn't know that. Thanks.

Jim Thomas: The Rams don't view Hagans as an NFL QB. And I'm not sure anybody did when he came out of college. Hagans takes a few snaps on Friday in practice, but really knows only a miniscule amount of the offense from a QB standpoint.

Matt: Who do you like more Chris Long or Vernon Gholston? Also, where do you suppose the Rams look for a backup to Cliff Ryan if we do switch primarily to a 3-4? As well as OJ is playing at FS, would it be beneficial to move him to SS (considering the poor tackling in the secondary) and bringing in a Mike Doss through FA or drafting one? Thanks

Jim Thomas: Matt--I think I answered this one earlier.

Bob: Hi Jim,

Any more news on the quarterback situation for Sunday?

Thanks.

Jim Thomas: Bulger cleared to play, so Bouman was not signed.

Glenn Turner: Rams draft priorities? Speed rusher on the DL, Safety, OL, WR with speed. How would you prioritize the needs?

Jim Thomas: 1.) DE; 2.) OT; 3.) WR
But as I've mentioned before, it's a moving target and free agency can change the pecking order.

JD Clark: Jim, looking at how well Brandon Chillar has played the last month or so, do you think he should be resigned? I think he is now coming in to his own and will be a very solid linebacker for years to come. I just don't want to see another Rams draftee move on to better pastures and be a stud elsewhere. Thanks for your great insight.

Jim Thomas: JD--You make a great point. Just as Chillar has developed into a solid player, why let him go. Re-sign him now.

GoneGator: Hi Jim - you have any updates on Bulger? I really hope he plays. As a Florida fan, and having seen him play, you do not want Berlin as you *gasp* starter. Besides, haven't we suffered enough on offense?

Jim Thomas: Bulger has been cleared to play; as a result Bouman wasn't re-signed; as was the case last week, Berlin will be the No. 2 in cincy.

Dallas Rams Fan: Have you heard anything about the status of Marc Bulger this week? Did he pass the neurological test?

Jim Thomas: Second time was the charm for Bulger; see prior posts.

JK: What do you see the top needs are for next year? Also, do you think these needs can be addressed in free agency or the draft?
Bob Wallace also said that nobody complained about the number of commercials from 99 to 03. Well, yes we did, which shows you how closely the brass listens to the fans.

Jim Thomas: See earlier posts about Rams needs. But I think you have to use a combination of the draft and free agency. I'd like to see the Rams pick up at least a starter or two in free agency, particularly on the offensive line.
As for Wallace, maybe there were some complaints, but don't you think the dazzling success on the field lessened those complaints considerably?

RT: Jim;

Season ticket holder from the Big Red days now for the Rams. I watch the sideline dynamics alot on game day. I noticed that Bulger was no where to be found in the offensive sideline huddle when timeouts were called, nor did he come over to talk to Gus on the sideline and offer any advice or encouragement. I know when he was previously hurt he would be with Linehan and have a headset on. Do you read anything into this?

Thanks

Jim Thomas: No. Maybe Bulger just wanted to stay out of the way, and let Frerotte do his thing.

Chris: Jim,
I have to agree with the earlier question about atmosphere. My wife and I have talked about this numerous times...glad to see we're not the only ones. From trips to other NFL stadiums, both indoors and out, I think we pale in comparison on many levels. It's tough to keep paying the season ticket prices when it's really not a fun place to be, win or lose. The Packers, for example, have the same die hard, scream-your-lungs-out, crazy for the team fan base. Whether they are 4-12 or 12-4. I know that's the extreme, but there are many stadiums that promote that same feeling whether winning or losing. KC, Pitt, Indy, and others come to mind.
Take the TV timeouts and other breaks and give us something other than ads. Kiss cam is good idea, we need some sort of Rams cheers or chant, a livelier announcer, and just anything that makes it not feel like a funeral home at times.
Is management aware of the product they put out their and expect us to keep buying into?

Jim Thomas: I think management is aware of the problem. Whether they're willing to do much about it remains to be seen.

Coachvh: Is Jackson's apparent displeasure with the play calling a problem? Or is it a competitive "heat of the moment" thing? While I don't coach NFL players, I wouldn't accept it from a player.

Jim Thomas: Jackson is a very competitive player, and a very emotional player on the sideline. I think it's just heat of moment. I don't want to speak for Linehan, but I don't think it bothers him much, if at all.

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.

Jim: Jim,

How would you rate the football expertise of John Shaw and Jay Zygmunt after their long tenures with the team? Everyone talks about their legal backgrounds, but after such a long time around the game, they would have to have developed a pretty in depth understanding of what is going on with coaching and players, would they not? I would like to have confidence that they can observe the same coaching inadequacies that fans and media can plainly see.

Thanks for your time.

Jim Thomas: Very good question. When it comes to evaluating a coach's performance, I think they are very well equipped. They're both very bright men, and in many cases, see the same things many of us do.
As for what's happening with the players, I think they depend more on what the coaches might be telling them as anything. At times, I feel they've been impatient with young players. They've contributed to some bad decisions in free agency. And should've stepped in at times when Mike Martz made some of his goofier draft picks. I think they rely too much on the Giddings scouting service when it comes to evaluating players rather than their own scouts and personnel people.

David: If Linehan stays and Haslett is offered a job elsewhere, who do you think the defensive coordinator's job would go to?

Jim Thomas: If Haslett goes, he probably takes Venturi and DB coach Willy Robinson with him. So I doubt it would be anybody on this staff. John L. Smith, Linehan's coaching mentor who most recently was at Michigan State and now is an advance scout for the Rams, would be one possibility although Smith has told me in the past that he'd prefer to return to the college ranks and as a head coach.

Team-Sport: Jim,
Thanks again for doing this.

Perhaps I did read too much into your report on Todd Bouman. But it seems like the "Knows the System" cliche is mis-leading, especially after 5 years away from that 'system'. That's a long time, don't you think?

Jim Thomas: No biggie. It's moot now because Bouman wasn't signed. But the terminology, the way coaches call plays in their play books usually doesn't change _ or change much _ over many years. The simple fact of knowing the language of the offensive system would've helped Bouman get ready very quickly. And with only four games left in the season, time was of the essence if the Rams had signed Bouman.

Todd W.: Jim,
I think every home game should've or could've been won. Critical Fumbles pretty much sum up most of them. I know it doesn't matter now, and I know it's part of the game, but what do you think?

Jim Thomas: No doubt, the two lost fumbles by Jackson against Carolina were critical.
So were the fumbles by Torry Holt and Dante Hall (on the muffed punt) against San Francisco. And the botched center exchange by Frerotte vs. Seattle.

David: Hi Jim,
In a 3-4 alignment, you need an immovable force at Nose Tackle. Can Ryan or Carriker fit that bill if we go to 3-4 most of the time? Also, I have heard that it is easier to find 250 pound rush linebackers than it is to find 350 pound lineman. Would the use of the 3-4 make it easier to find quality defensive players on a consistent basis? I love seeing the linebackers jump around on defense before a blitz. It reminds me of the confusion Mike Martz's offense use to cause on the other side of the ball.

Jim Thomas: I think Ryan could be that guy. I think in a 3-4, Carriker moves to to DE, although he probably could also slide inside on some plays.
I don't know about rush LBs being easier to find than nose tackles.
I too like the moving around that Haslett has been doing on defense lately when he goes to the 3-man front.

spoon_is_great: Hi, Jim.

Andy Strickland reported that he had heard from a Rams source that the Rams were actually using a some kind of hockey type workout program similar to the one used by the Buffalo Sabres. This source implied that Holt, Bruce, and Bulger worked out with their own personal trainers because they didn't like this type of workout.

Have you heard anything about this and could this be the reason for all the Rams injuries? If so, this would mean that the guy Linehan brought in might actually be partly to blame for the injuries. Thus, Linehan might be partly to blame for the rash of injuries.

Thanks for answering our questions.

Jim Thomas: Not aware of any hockey type conditioning program in use by the Rams. Their two strength and conditioning coaches have long background in football, not hockey. Bruce has always worked out predominantly on his own during the offseason conditioning program. Holt and Bulger usually are around at Rams Park.
Many of the injuries, as I've pointed out in an earlier post, have nothing to do with conditioning and weight training. They've had a lot of fluke injuries this year.

JerseyRamFan: Hey Jim,

What would the penalty be, or would it be a fine if the team went ahead anyway without the leagues approval and wore the throwbacks?

Also, the reason I made the Gotta Go To Work comment, was because that was what Steven Jackson said to the cameras before the game and they still play that dumb song "I don't want to work, I just want to play all day" after every TD.

Jim Thomas: Sorry, my bad on the Gotta Go to Work remark. I was unaware of Jackson's comments.
As for throwbacks, I just don't think the Rams would wear them without league approval.

James: Hi Jim, thanks so much for everything you do here. Not really a burning question im sure, but with the depletion of the O-line, was there ever any thought of using a guy like Chris Massey on some plays as a center or anything? Or is he strictly a long snapper? Is it normal for teams to use a roster spot strictly for their long snapper?

Jim Thomas: Massey weighs only about 245 pounds, so he's way too light to be used at center for plays from scrimmage.
I don't know the exact number, but a lot of teams _ I would say the majority _ have long snappers that just long snap.