JT chat. 12/2

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_66?Page=0

No injuries to C. Long/J. Long, Sam and Bailey with no suspension…..record as of now?
by D_Roks30 2:05 PM

I’d say 7-5. Maybe even 8-4.
by jthomas 2:06 PM

Hi Jim. Anything new on the Rams to L.A. front? As a St. Louis resident, I have found it tough to get excited about the Rams (even this past week!) knowing they could be gone next year.
by Rodger 2:06 PM

Nothing that I’m aware of. Been a little busy on other fronts.
by jthomas 2:06 PM

Hi Jim, what are the chances that all the teams in the NFC west finish 9-7 and the Rams win the division with the tie-breaker? (OK I know the chances are ZERO but a guy can dream right?) This team finally has talent and is getting better each week!
by SteveSPN 2:06 PM

Not sure if that’s even mathematically possible given all the head-to-head matchups that are remaining. Let’s see if the Rams can get to six wins first.
by jthomas 2:08 PM

Seems to me the “controversy” about the Rams’ ‘hands-up’ is much ado about not much. “Hands up” has become shorthand for the Ferguson tragedy, and acknowledging it isn’t disrespecting the police but showing respect for a life lost and the changes all parts of our community need to make, including the police union.
by TimJim 2:08 PM

I agree with your basic point. And I didn’t think much of it at the time. Obviously, the police and a lot of other folks feel differently.
by jthomas 2:09 PM

Jim, could you explain the meaning of Brah Brah Bojangles in your twitter comments?
by Stratis 2:09 PM

It’s just a saying that DE William Hayes has. Brah is slang for brother. Bojangles is a mostly southern restaurant that he likes. So whenever he gets a sack or has a big play (like the forced fumble he had against Oakland), Nick Wagoner and I tweet out Brah, Brah Bojangles. It’s just a fun thing. It’s also the name he has on his sign at the Edward Jones Dome for his charity foundation. (Brah Brah Bojangles).
by jthomas 2:12 PM

Hi. (see name). Remember that promise you made us regarding shaving your head if the Rams make the playoffs? Well, too bad the refs cheated us in SD or the Rams would be looking pretty good right now.
by Jim I Love You 2:12 PM

My head might be saved instead of shaved. Is that what you’re saying?
by jthomas 2:13 PM

I never hear Blockers name called. Does he make plays. Is he a good player?
by Duane Ewell 2:13 PM

He has yet to have that breakout year. He came to camp very trim for a defensive tackle, and I wonder if maybe he wasn’t too light. But he has played better lately, and had 8 tackles vs. Oakland and a sack the week before vs. San Diego.
by jthomas 2:15 PM

If the Rams leave do you see the Jags coming to STL and of so what are the chances that all this happens with the rams leaving and the Jags filling the void in STL.
by Grant 2:15 PM

In the short term, no. I’m told Shad Khan is trying to make it work in Jacksonville.
by jthomas 2:17 PM

Don’t shoot? I just assumed the receivers “hands up” gestures meant they were going to score lots of TDs. Although Jared Cook was part of that group…
by ky kid 2:17 PM

OK, our first attempt at sarcasm for the day. Can anyone top this _ on any subject?
by jthomas 2:17 PM

Great win Jim what can we expect from the rams next?
by Star Stream 2:20 PM

I’d say expect the unexpected. This team has been so unpredictable. I don’t think there’s been a more unpredictable team or season since the team has been in St. Louis.
by jthomas 2:21 PM

Does the promotion of Cunningham as the fifth in order to avoid losing him indicate that the Rams will most likely part ways with Kendricks after the season?
by arnezzi 2:31 PM

Sorry, Phone call I had to take. That’s an interesting point on Justice Cunningham. I know the Rams like him. He’s a good blocker. He certainly has shown that he’s as good a receiver as Kendricks.
by jthomas 2:32 PM

Looking more and more like Bradford, draft pick and Hill or Davis @ QB next year, isn’t it? Hoyer playing himself out of big FA $$ and no other names likely to hit the market…
by arnezzi 2:33 PM

Yes. That’s assuming Bradford comes back at a reduced rate.
by jthomas 2:34 PM

Jim, I was going to see the Rams in Washington this weekend but because of this gesture made by the 5 Rams players, I will join the many in St. Louis who call for a boycott of Rams games until the Players and management apologize to the St. Louis Police for this total wrong gesture, totally classless!
by T. Wood Ches. Va. 2:34 PM

Everyone’s entitled to their opinion. Don’t know what else to say.
by jthomas 2:34 PM

should we tell the Shriners to get on the clown suits and fire up the go-karts for the parade?
by arnezzi 2:34 PM

Yeah, it definitely could happen. Seven wins looks reachable at this point.
by jthomas 2:35 PM

Still thinking CB/S is a draft priority? I see it no higher than fourth after QB, OL and LB (especially depth)
by arnezzi 2:35 PM

Yeah, at this point it looks like more of a depth need.
by jthomas 2:35 PM

Are you aware of any attempts by the Peacock/Blitz group to reach out to Stan Kroenke?
by Tyler 2:36 PM

I don’t know how substantive the talks have been, but I believe Peacock and Demoff have had many conversations.
by jthomas 2:36 PM

There are many upset at, what some perceive, as Kevin Demoff’s statement of no outside negotiations. Now he is almost as invisible as Kroenke. It appears Mr. Demoff is being untruthful.
by Tyler 2:36 PM

I think what Kevin would reply is that when he made those statements about no outside negotiations _ that was a couple of months ago. Things obviously have changed.
by jthomas 2:37 PM

Jim – Do you think the defense can be as dominant against the Redskins? McCoy has had his moments so far…
by McGarrett 2:37 PM

Obviously, Washington has more talent on offense than Oakland. Plus it’s a road game for StL, although FedEx Field isn’t really a huge home-field advantage. So it will be tougher to defend Washington, but we’re not talking offensive juggernaut here.
by jthomas 2:39 PM

Seems like every year in Dec/Jan us rams fans are looking back and saying, man, if we just one or two more things go our way, we’re in the playoffs. Obviously the biggest piece missing is QB. Do you think Fisher’s comments about bringing Sam back are sincere or just what he’s saying right now? I certainly don’t see any better free agents or rookies that impress.
by ky kid 2:39 PM

I think Fisher sincerely respects both Bradford and Bradford’s talent. But if Bradford is indeed back, it’s hard for me to imagine the Rams going into 2015 without some kind of safety net given the injury history.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

Jim – with the Rams a reliably healthy QB away from real contention next year, Bradford looks better than all the likely FA QBs, plus he’s better than the college QBs except Mariota who wont be available when the Rams draft. That’s a problem, yes?
by Sacramento Ram 2:41 PM

No doubt, good QBs are hard to find.
by jthomas 2:41 PM

Do you think Kroneke has the owners votes to relocate?
by Tyler 2:42 PM

I don’t think so, at least not at this point.
by jthomas 2:42 PM

How does the year-to-year lease work? Does the team agree to a yearly lease then apply for relocation?
by Tyler 2:42 PM

The timeline on the thing indicates that that indeed will be the case. The Rams have agreed to let the city/stadium authority know by Jan. 28 if they’re going year-to-year. They have until Feb. 15 to file for relocation with the NFL.
by jthomas 2:44 PM

Prediction for Sunday vs. the Skins? Colt McCoy, RG3, Kirk Cousins?
by Jim I Love You 2:44 PM

It will be Colt McCoy starting against the Rams.
by jthomas 2:45 PM

Jim – RE: the list of 2010 Rams draftees. I think George Selvie is a regular contributor to the ‘Boys. As I recall, he was a bit of project when the Rams drafted him. Rams released him to get him on the Practice squad, but the ‘Boys snatched him up.
by Simple.10 2:46 PM

Good point. It has been several years in the making, but he’s developed into a pretty good role player.
by jthomas 2:47 PM

Why did the Rams switch practice jersey’s? Fisher said to ‘lighten’ things up but could it be a precursor to a move?
by Tyler 2:47 PM

Now, you’re going Oliver Stone.
by jthomas 2:47 PM

Any comments on the officiating this past Sunday?
by RugHead 2:47 PM

Not even the refs could mess this one up. No, I think referee Gene Steratore’s crew usually does a pretty good job.
by jthomas 2:48 PM

Jim: Thanks for your time. Loved your commentary on Ferguson. My perspective, for what it is worth, was that the venue was inappropriate. The players are employee’s of the Rams. The game was on national television. The “gesture” infers that an injustice was perpetrated by Officer Wilson. At least that was the inference back in August. Has that changed?
by RugHead 2:49 PM

Many of the players involved said they meant the gesture as a show of support for the Ferguson community in the hopes of healing. That they weren’t taking signs. Many fans/observers obviously felt otherwise.
by jthomas 2:51 PM

Really? 5 players holding up their arms entering the field and now it’s splashed across the national media? We have enough problems filling The Ed with all the relocation talk, a losing record and now this? Now we’re putting our hands up in the air.
by Rams Public Relations Office 2:51 PM

Yeah, they may lose some ticket sales.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

If raising your hands in the air makes you score 52 points? I am all for it.
by Bluarcher 2:52 PM

Here’s a thought.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

I see Cason at Carolina was cut. Can he help the secondary? Only 28 years old
by noods 2:53 PM

I don’t see the Rams changing the mix right now.
by jthomas 2:53 PM

Who is the rookie MVP? Donald or Mason?
by John 2:53 PM

Right now, I’d say Donald, but 4 games left and it looks like Mason is intent on closing fast.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

34-17 Rams over Washington..I’ll bet the farm!
by ShawnB 2:54 PM

How many acres on your farm?
by jthomas 2:54 PM

From media reports, it appears that RGIII is on the way out in Washington. Would the Rams have any interest and if so, wouldn’t that be ironic?
by RugHead 2:55 PM

It would be ironic, but can’t see him landing here.
by jthomas 2:55 PM

There was crazy talk this past off season about Chris Long, his contract hit, do the Rams keep him around, etc. He seems to be the heart & soul of the defense, talent and locker room presence. Would love to see him spend his whole career with the Rams. Agree or nobody is untouchable?
by Greg, Rams fan in Maryland 2:56 PM

Long is part of the fabric of the defense, and I feel he’s very much in the Rams plans. But long-term it’s rare that a player goes through his entire career with one club.
by jthomas 2:58 PM

Why did Rams trade a 4/6 picks for barron? Isnt he another SS type? Will Rams play big nickle all season?
by RamPage 2:59 PM

They think highly of Barron, and already have found a role for him in as you say, the big nickel. I think he is more of a SS type.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

The header image is new, but your photo is…well…dated.
by TBreezy 3:00 PM

OK, just imagine it with gray hair and more wrinkles.
by jthomas 3:00 PM

Im Boycotting the refs for continuously making the hands up gesture
by willywawa 3:00 PM

Yeah, they made that gesture a lot of times Sunday.
by jthomas 3:00 PM

Do the Rams go looking for a speedy, deep threat WR in next years draft?
by RugHead 3:01 PM

Can’t see that happening if Britt comes back.
by jthomas 3:01 PM

Hi Jim, is it just me or does the Raiders OC look like a cross between Fisher and Snead? Here is a picture for reference: bit.ly/1yaaNJz
by Danny 3:01 PM

It’s Greg Olson. He was in StL for the first two years of the Scott Linehan tenure. . . .And no, I’m not seeing it.
by jthomas 3:02 PM

Is Mo Alexander the FS defense is missing, does he have hands and speed neede, seems more of Cam Chancellor type than Earl Thomas. those rangy FS are hard to come by, you have to pick them in rds 1-3
by HomeyDontPlay 3:02 PM

He’s a bigger body, who’s known as a hard-hitter. Safety remains a relatively new position for him. He was a linebacker for much of his college career. I’m not sure if he can play FS.
by jthomas 3:04 PM

Loved seeing the game on Sunday, but it only becomes a negative if the context of the win (awful Raiders team at home) is lost and all of the sudden the Rams feel they do not need a better QB.
by Tackleberry 3:04 PM

I think the Rams realize they still have needs at QB.
by jthomas 3:05 PM

JT, when will you get a new mug shot for your live chat header?
by rocky1515 3:05 PM

That will be my No. 1 offseason priority. (wink, wink)
by jthomas 3:05 PM

When Rodger Saffold when out with his shoulder injury who took his spot at guard.
by ramsfan 3:05 PM

Mike Person.
by jthomas 3:05 PM

Can’t wait for SF to fire/trade Harbaugh. Werent they losing before he got there? Had talent but no coaching/scheme, he changed whole team, now they want draft picks for him, should change that rule on trading coaches!
by HomeyDontPlay 3:06 PM

Yes, they were losing. If he goes, it obviously could be a setback tor the organization which I don’t think would upset many in these parts.
by jthomas 3:07 PM

JT – which OL on the team are offseason priorities, can any of those guys (Barrett, Washington, etc) play? Havent seen any of them in game action, should team be playing them to find out before offseason?
by HomeyDontPlay 3:08 PM

Rams need help on the interior _ another guard for sure. Perhaps even a guard and a center. And if Barksdale isn’t re-signed add tackle to the list..
by jthomas 3:09 PM

Gimpy QB’s like SB and RGIII are easy to come by and a big risk. Would a scenario like SB restructuring his final year be more likely than a cut/resign? If they cut him, doesn’t he become a FA and could make a deal elsewhere? Seems to me they need each other.
by RugHead 3:10 PM

Yes, of course Bradford becomes a free agent if he’s cut. I think the No. 1 option would be to re-sign him at a reduced rate.
by jthomas 3:10 PM

What is your best guess on our starting offensive line look like in Game 1 of 2015? I don’t think we need Jake Long and I think Barrett will replace Wells.
by Stratis 3:11 PM

Right now, the only sure things would be LT Greg Robinson, LG Rodger Saffold, and RT Joe Barksdale (if he re-signs).
by jthomas 3:11 PM

what is the status of barret jones all over the nfl they where gushing about what a deal that was for a fourth rounder good blocker smart what happened to him
by big nick 3:11 PM

He’s healthy, he’s still on the roster. Has been working at tackle these days for the scout team. His back surgery slowed him down in the preseason. I’m not sure if the Rams view him as starting material. It’s amazing how many questions are asked about him.
by jthomas 3:13 PM

I sit safe to say Givens is on the way out, quite day when all other WR/TE had targets?
by MizzRulez 3:14 PM

You still need at least 4 wide receivers on game day. I think could be back.
by jthomas 3:15 PM

Is Sted a Stud or what? He looked like a Gazelle on that one handed catch!
by SteveSPN 3:15 PM

Yeah, my brother-in-law refers to him as Studman Bailey.
by jthomas 3:15 PM

Jones was All0-american at OC, play all OL positions for national chanps, guy can’t start of Joseph or wells? Yikes
by MizzRulez 3:15 PM

There have been plenty of highly decorated college players who either washed out or ended up being mere role players in the NFL. It happens more than you think.
by jthomas 3:17 PM

If the Rams were to move to LA (say it aint so) would you be out of a job or are you in the market for a waterfront condo at the closest retirement home?
by JPWagg 3:17 PM

If said many times, I’d probably be covering high school football in St. Louis. And there’s nothing wrong with that.
by jthomas 3:18 PM

Wouldn’t a better “Person” to fill in at guard be Barrett Jones? See what I did there?
by Larry W 3:18 PM

Rams obviously like Person better at this point than Jones at guard.
by jthomas 3:18 PM

Has it been tough covering this team the last ten years? I know you have no rooting interest but I bet it’d be nice to cover a winning team every once in a while
by Boon 3:19 PM

No doubt. Everyone enjoys covering a trainwreck every now and then. But year after year gets old.
by jthomas 3:20 PM

Since Kronkie won’t talk to the media, I’m guessing Dave Peacock knows the 2nd most in the room (perhaps Demoff too) I’d love to hear Peacock’s thoughts… — Could you interview him and get his thoughts??
by kevin 3:21 PM

I think someone else on our staff is working on that.
by jthomas 3:21 PM

Are you a Rams fan or is this simply a job? If not what team do you root for?
by Mike P 3:21 PM

You have to be neutral and objective on the job. Although it’s usually more pleasant around here when they win. And I do feel for the fans of St. Louis. They’ve been through a lot. My No. 1 rooting interest is the Black Knights of Army. I watch every game of theirs that I can; even subscribed to a sports tier on my cable so I could get more games on CBS Sports Network. I also follow Mizzou and the Oakville HS Tigers.
by jthomas 3:24 PM

Is hogan of Stanford a good 6th round for the rams.
by Brian 3:24 PM

I think the Rams need to go higher than 6th round at QB, and I’m not sure Hogan is an NFL QB.
by jthomas 3:25 PM

I don’t think the Arizona Cardinals will make the playoffs and I also think the Rams will beat them next Thursday night. Agree, disagree?
by rocky1515 3:25 PM

It’s getting interesting with Arizona, isn’t it. I do think the Rams have a good chance of beating them on Dec. 11. And with Kansas City, Seattle, and San Francisco also on their remaining schedule, it may be tough to get to 10 wins.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

I’ll rephrase he didn’t have a lot of weapons but he is god to come in and compete,
by Brian 3:27 PM

Sorry, I’m not seeing it.
by jthomas 3:27 PM

Can MIZZ beat ALA and who wil lRams be scouting in this game? FS Collins?
by MizzRulez 3:28 PM

I think Mizzou’s defense remains underrated and I believe it will keep them in the game. I’m sure the Rams will be scouting a lot of people at this game.
by jthomas 3:28 PM

What %do you give that next season Bradford will be the starting QB?(a healthy Bradford)
by Tjust84 3:29 PM

This is obviously a fluid one. I’m going to open at 45-55.
by jthomas 3:29 PM

Some draftniks arelinking Rams to MSU QB Connor Cook. Liked what little I saw of him this year, tough, accurate and mobile enough to keep defense honest. Whats your take?
by MizzRulez 3:30 PM

I’ve seen Michigan State play a few times. For some reason, I kinda like that program. There are times when Connor Cook impresses me with his toughness, competitiveness, and ability to get the ball into tight spaces. But I think he misses some easy throws as well.
by jthomas 3:32 PM

Should we trade for RGIII? A fourth rounder? If he became our franchise guy, that original trade would be the greatest ever.
by brps 3:32 PM

Can’t see it.
by jthomas 3:32 PM

Have you ever covered a sport other than football?
by Boon 3:32 PM

When I covered high schools a long time ago, I covered just about ever sport. But I also covered a lot of college basketball.
by jthomas 3:33 PM

Jim: As a neutral observer, please rate from one to seven, the Rams highest needs in the upcoming draft assuming no career threatening injuries the rest of the way.
by RugHead 3:34 PM

Subject to change of course because a lot can change between now and the draft: 1.) QB, 2.) OG, 3.) OT, 4.) FS. 5.) LB, 6.) WR, 7.) CB
by jthomas 3:36 PM

whats the chance the rams return to los angeles?
by LARAMS 3:36 PM

I’m sticking with 50-50.
by jthomas 3:37 PM

jim whats status on quick?
by daryl vegas ram 3:37 PM

Underwent shoulder surgery, but not expected to be ready until the start of camp.
by jthomas 3:38 PM

Has Demoff made anymore comments about the rams staying in St Louis?
by Robert 3:38 PM

Nothing lately.
by jthomas 3:38 PM

is it me or does our offense seem boring? go deep more
by daryl vegas ram 3:38 PM

52-0 never looks boring.
by jthomas 3:38 PM

I really like Trumaine’s play so far. He made an immediate impact right off the injury and with his size I hope that he turns into the shutdown corner we have been searching for years.
by Dr D 3:39 PM

Yeah, he seems more disciplined and consistent so far. He has plenty of potential.
by jthomas 3:39 PM

Hi Jim, thanks for the chats. Everyone was clamoring for Greg Robinson to get meaningful playing time and now that he has, we don’t hear much about him other than when he makes a mental mistake and gives up a sack, etc. What are the overall feelings in the building regarding his performance lately? Thanks.
by Charlie 3:40 PM

He’s playing well. The coaches like what they see. There are things to be worked on, for sure, but it sure looks like he’s there to stay at LT.
by jthomas 3:41 PM

Did Britt just cost himself million$ in a new contract? I have no problem with the gesture other than Britt saying he didn’t tell Fisher because Fisher was so busy. Sounds like when we’re kids and don’t ask our parents because we know the answer will be “no”. This wouldn’t happen to a Belichick team, is there a foundational discipline problem with Fisher’s players that they can even think about doing this behind Fisher’s back?
by Greg, Rams fan in Maryland 3:43 PM

I don’t think he cost himself millions. I really think it was a spur of the moment thing by the receivers involved. And Britt probably thought the last thing he needed to do was bring this up to the coach a few minutes (a half hour, or whatever it was) before the game. Saying all that, sure, it would’ve been better had the coach known.
by jthomas 3:45 PM

Alright Jimmy boy lets get this question over with….whats your percentage as of today the Rams leave for LA? Still at 50-50?
by Trung Canidate 3:45 PM

Still at 50-50 Trung.
by jthomas 3:45 PM

Hi Jim, Hope all is well, side question but if Shad Khan owned the team instead of Kroenke, would we be talking about the relocation rumors?
by Nicholas Rolando 3:45 PM

Really don’t think so. I think Khan would be working towards a stadium solution.
by jthomas 3:46 PM

Has it been 4 or 5 games now that Saffold has gotten injured during the game but not serious enough to miss the next game. Good thing it isn’t serious but this just blows my mind.
by ilovepb&j 3:46 PM

One of my sons was a high school wrestler, and when you have labrum/shoulder problems, that’s what happens.
by jthomas 3:47 PM

hey jim good win this week against a bad opponent now that they have steadily improving do we look to improve o line or secondary in draft dbs have been playing faster but where do you start
by big nick 3:47 PM

At this point, I think you start with O-line, specifically interior O-line.
by jthomas 3:47 PM

What was the penalty against Mason for on the TD did they consider his move a throat slash?
by rickinpa 3:47 PM

No, he extended his arms outward to form a human T _ he told me it was T as in Tre _ and then fell backward in what they used to call the Nestea plunge.
by jthomas 3:48 PM

Will Wells, D Joseph, and J Long be with the Rams next year?
by ii 3:49 PM

I’m gonna say at least one of the three won’t.
by jthomas 3:49 PM

Now that the defense seems to be getting Williams defense down, do you see this as a top 10, dare I say top 5 defense next year? I know this was against Oakland but for awhile I didn’t think they were going to get a first down.
by ilovepb&j 3:49 PM

I’ll just say top 10 at this point. I think they have that capability, at least with a few relatively minor tweaks.
by jthomas 3:50 PM

Are you worried about Quick at all? Any news? He was poised for a solid year and now his shoulder injury–which sounds like it should be called shoulder ANNIHILATION–will have him out until late summer of next year. Do you think he’ll be able to get the work in under whatever QB we have and be ready to go for a good year in 2015?
by KevinJ 3:50 PM

Only concern is for missed practice time in offseason. He’s still young enough and raw enough in his career that he needs all the work he can get.
by jthomas 3:51 PM

Excited to be able to see the Rams in person at FedEx field. Weather calls for a sloppy rainy day on real turf, bad omen for a dome team? It’s been so long since the Rams had a trap game to look beyond and am worried they will somehow bungle this game to the Redskins, the team in DC is beyond desperate.
by Greg, Rams fan in Maryland 3:51 PM

I think Fisher knows how to play in wet weather. I also think every game after a Rams victory could qualify as a trap game, because they haven’t won back-to-back yet this season. I know it’s early in the week _ the team has yet to practice _ but I just have a sense they will get it done this weekend.
by jthomas 3:53 PM

I must say the 50 plus points was exceptional! But the more we win the LESS chance at one of those ELITE College QB’s, huh Jim?
by HMMMMMM 3:54 PM

Yeah, at 5-7 I think that door is closed.
by jthomas 3:54 PM

hey jim kind of funny that ray ray(the guy we let go) screwed up a return for Oakland probably his best hit
by big nick 3:54 PM

It was good to see Ray Ray. Interesting guy.
by jthomas 3:55 PM

Is the hands up and the ensuing controversy a distraction for the team? Could there be division in the clubhouse?
by Tom 3:55 PM

Based on the overall public reaction Sunday and Monday, it certainly could be a distraction. But it’s a pretty strong locker room, so I don’t see any “division” happening.
by jthomas 3:56 PM

I woke up the other day, and my wife had left me for my best friend, my dog had died, my company transferred me to our Ferguson, Mo branch, my house was foreclosed, my credit card had been stolen and maxed out, debit card too and cleaned my bank account out, just found out I have ebola, and my mother is back in jail. Know what keeps me going? I’m not a Raiders fan. #attemptatsarcasm
by ilovepb&j 3:57 PM

There you have it. Looks like this could be today’s winner.
by jthomas 3:57 PM

Permalink
Jim, I read a ridiculous article on Bleacher Report this morning about 5 changes the Rams have to make: 1. QB; 2. OC; 3. #1 Wideout; 4. More Tavon; 5. Road Wins.
I don’t see any of that as necessary, especially a new #1 WR as we have Quick returning and Britt as an option if we want him. Re QB, duhh, but waiting for a draft pick to mature might not coincide with the peak maturity of the rest of the team. And just don’t see Fisher dumping Schotty.
by bblilikoi 3:57 PM

I don’t know who wrote the story for the Bleacher Report, but it isn’t usually the best source of info on such matters.
by jthomas 3:59 PM

Hi Jim — In years past, the Rams have used the Draft to restock a talent-vacant roster with depth. This current Rams roster has fewer gaping holes. Does that increase the likelihood of a trade up in the early rounds for a player the Rams covet.
by TBreezy 3:59 PM

Well, they’ve already given up a couple of picks for Mark Barron. But I think your basic point is correct. The Rams don’t necessarily need, say, 8 draft picks to make the team this year.
by jthomas 4:00 PM

i’m not happy or upset one way or the other with the players doing the hands up deal but I will say probably not the best idea after you had requested increased security and assistance from local police. I will say I kind of laughed when I heard some reporters say expect to hear a statement from stan kroenke… HA!
by booyeah 4:00 PM

I’m expecting to see that statement any second.
by jthomas 4:01 PM

Did you see C’mon man with the Raiders last night? downright hilarious.
by McLovin 4:01 PM

No, but I can only imagine. Poor Raiders.
by jthomas 4:01 PM

Hi Jim, It seems Saffold gets injured every game. Is it safe to say they need to find a permanent replacement next year??
by Cousin Vinny 4:01 PM

No, I just think he needs shoulder surgery as soon as possible after the season. But overall, yeah, the Rams need to find help at guard.
by jthomas 4:02 PM

Mark Sanchez, Brian Hoyer, Jake Locker, Christian Ponder, Colt McCoy, Ryan Mallet, are all QBs that have started in the league. Some have been good and looking for a payday while others are looking for a backup job. Do the Rams push to sign one of them as well as a big WR such as Dez Bryant and D Thomas?
by Dan 4:02 PM

None of those QBs do much for me. As for Bryant and Thomas, do you really think the Cowboys and Broncos will just let them walk? Can’t see that happening.
by jthomas 4:03 PM

Hi Jim, just wondering if we’re ever going to see Barrett Jones on the field at center or guard so we’ll have a better idea what our needs are for the offensive line in next year’s draft.
by Tim 4:04 PM

Barring any further injuries, can’t see that happening this year. Fisher seems committed to the veterans (Wells and Joseph).
by jthomas 4:05 PM

hey jim quick question where did A J McCaarrin wind up? he would fit pretty good in this system sort of like AlexSmith you know manage the game which is what fish wants thoughts
by big nick 4:07 PM

McCarron was 5th-round draft pick by Cincy. He began year on reserve/non-football injury list (shoulder). Don’t think the Rams hit it off with him during pre-draft process.
by jthomas 4:09 PM

Rams fan, STL native in the DC area. D-Jaxx could be out for the Dead-skins. That means the ancient Santana Moss lines up. Rams young secondary should have a good day. Does LaMarcus Joyner make it back this week?
by John Brockmeyer 4:09 PM

I think Joyner is close to returning but the Rams seem very happy with Gaines’ play in the slot since Joyner’s return. Gaines may stay in the nickel back role even when Joyner returns.
by jthomas 4:10 PM

Jim – How surprised would you be if the Rams announced the intention to relocate on the first possible day? It’s in January or February?
by McGarrett 4:10 PM

Wouldn’t be stunned. Deadline to file for relocation is Feb. 15.
by jthomas 4:11 PM

Hi Jim, for every Luck there are a whole lot of Ponders and Gabberts. All of those college QB’s look great until they have to play with the big boys.
by Plutarch 4:11 PM

No doubt.
by jthomas 4:12 PM

Mason was the top-scoring running back in standard formats in Week 13, and he did it on just 17 touches. As sensational as Mason looked, we need to keep in mind that 1) he was playing the Raiders and 2) 76 percent of his rushing yards came on one carry. If you remove Mason’s 89-yard touchdown run, he managed only 28 yards on 13 rushes—2.2 YPC.
That’s not to say that Mason is in trouble moving forward. He’s a clearly talented running back and the Rams now seem committed to getting him the ball. However, it’s important to not overreact given that Mason, who didn’t crack 4.0 YPC in each of the prior four games, didn’t consistently gash Oakland on the ground.
by HMMMMMM 4:12 PM

HMMMMMMM, so if I read you right, you’re telling everyone on the Tre Train to please calm down.
by jthomas 4:13 PM

If you were a betting man, do you think A Davis is on next year’s squad?
by JCSTLRam 4:14 PM

Too early to say. Let’s see how HIll does these final four games and what happens to Bradford.
by jthomas 4:15 PM

as a LE officer, I was admittedly taken by surprise of the “hands up” display put on by my favorite teams players. but with 10 years of service I know this is a thankless job, but when you mix a fan with something you have devoted your life to, well it feels like a slap in the face but it’s something I’m used to. Anyhoo, just a solid QB (whether Bradford or not) and this team is a contender. Not just this past sunday game, but the overall big picture. this teams on the rise?
by steve 4:17 PM

Based on what we’ve seen the last month and a half, it does look like a team on the rise. We’ll see. And thanks on your perspective as a law enforcement officer.
by jthomas 4:18 PM

The Rams drafted zac Stacy with a fifth rounder, do you think if the Rams try to trade him that’s what they’d get in return?
by Boon 4:19 PM

Maybe a sixth.
by jthomas 4:19 PM

JT – what would be your recommendation at QB for next season – rookie, FA or Bradford/Davis? I would go with bradford/Davis after seeing the difference Palmer made for ARI, veteran QB worth 2-3 wins easily.
by HomeyDontPlay 4:19 PM

Bradford, high draft pick at QB, and either Hill or Davis.
by jthomas 4:20 PM

How does Fisher get his September record to mirror his late season record? Also, you have to applaud this team’s resilience, it is very impressive how they show up each week. Too bad they stumble out of the gate each fall.
by Tackleberry 4:20 PM

That’s a great point about the slow starts. Three years in a row it’s been 3-5. Of course, the Bradford injury coming so late in the preseason (third game) was a big blow. But they’ve got to get out of the gates more quickly.
by jthomas 4:22 PM

Do you think Jared Cook is a part of the rams plans next year
by willywawa 4:22 PM

I’d say yes.
by jthomas 4:22 PM

Will the 50/50 go up, once Peacock announces his plans??
by kevin 4:23 PM

Let’s see what he has to say.
by jthomas 4:23 PM

Can the Rams get out of the NFC West basement by the end of the season? If so, who sinks below us? 49ers?
by Greg, Rams fan in Maryland 4:24 PM

Would have to be the ‘Niners, but it would have to be a total collapse by them.
by jthomas 4:25 PM

By my eye, it seems Janoris could be the 3rd best corner on the team at this point behind Trumaine and EJ. Would you or anyone important agree with me?
by Charlie 4:26 PM

I’m wondering the same thing myself.
by jthomas 4:26 PM

A win versus Alabama would be the MU Tigers biggest since… Ever?
by Brent Wood 4:27 PM

Ever.
by jthomas 4:27 PM

Is the window for the Rams shrinking? By that I mean, are rookies too young or near end of their first contract while veterans are too old or injury prone.
by EverythingIsAwesome 4:29 PM

No, I think they’re in a pretty good spot right now.
by jthomas 4:29 PM

hypothetical – johnny manziel becomes starting qb for the browns — do you think the rams would be interested in brian hoyer?
by HOF15 4:33 PM

I’d think the Rams would certainly check him out.
by jthomas 4:33 PM