JT chat, 9/29

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Thread.aspx?Id=1520108&Page=4

Thanks for the chat after a brutal weekend of Rams football. Any idea why we’re shopping around for a WR? Nick Toon?
by Uncle Leo 2:01 PM

Toon is expected to be added to the practice squad today. No. big deal.
by jthomas 2:02 PM

hi Jim,
I am quite confused with the 2015 Rams. I know I should be used to this by now but I’m not. Who are the Rams this year?
by Ding Dong 2:02 PM

Actually the season has started out like many of us anticipated. Good defense. Struggling offense. But I don’t think anyone thought the offense would struggle this much. And the Rams have squandered opportunities for victories against Washington and Pittsburgh. Barring a big upset at Arizona or Green Bay, they’re staring at 1-4. And we’ve seen that movie before, haven’t we?
by jthomas 2:04 PM

Any idea what the health setback(s) Brian Quick had (per Fisher) were?
by Craig 2:05 PM

I guess Fisher shared that on his radio show. In his press conferences w/the media he has only said that Quick is healthy.
by jthomas 2:05 PM

What do you make of the comments by the group of owners about strongly opposing the Rams move to LA? I believe the Panthers owner is the leader of the pack.
by Derek 2:05 PM

Well, there were no on-the-record comments. So as is sometimes the case with Pro Football Talk, it was more speculative gossip than actual reporting. But I think in this case there is some truth to it. I had heard that Richardson was pro-St. Louis. There have been indications that other members of the LA Opportunities Committee were pro-St. Louis, if the task force has an “actionable” plan with all the I’s dotted and Ts crossed. But we won’t know for sure until it’s time to vote, will we?
by jthomas 2:09 PM

Jim
Thoughts on J Laurinaitis? Sure, he makes a lot of tackles, but alway 5-10 yards downfield. Always out of position in coverage and not much of a run stopper. I realize we are stuck with him this year but either he needs to play better or go.
by Tuco 2:10 PM

I would put James Laurinaitis in the above average to very good category at linebacker. He is productive, he is a team leader (voted 4 times captain), he gets the defense lined up correctly, and frequently gets them out of bad plays. He is the Rams’ best middle linebacker since London Fletcher. He handles himself with class on and off the field. St. Louis sports fans should be proud of him and how he represents the city week in and week out, year in and year out.
by jthomas 2:13 PM

It seems like the “cushion of death” is here to stay. Between the 20s, we give the cushion and the opposing QB makes the easy completions. Inside the redzone, they get closer and magically the completions decrease. Can you ask why they continue to give away completions?
by cook 2:13 PM

In the case of Pittsburgh it was to minimize the Steelers big-play potential. The last thing the Rams wanted Pittsburgh wide receivers to do Sunday was get behind them. And it worked. The Steelers had four pass plays over 40 yards against San Francisco the week before. They had no pass play over 20 yards against the Rams. But I do agree with you that the cushions sometimes seem too big, and are aggravating ta times.
by jthomas 2:17 PM

I’m disgusted with this team and especially all the coaches.
by Steve 2:17 PM

Thanks for your input.
by jthomas 2:17 PM

Jim – any concerns with so many dropped balls? It seems like the defense also has let a few slip their fingers. Are they running the wrong drills in practice? Do they need some 1980’s stick ’em?
by Ryan 2:18 PM

Stick ’em might help. The drops have been troubling the past couple of weeks.
by jthomas 2:18 PM

Jim, not trying to diminish Laurinaitis as a person, we all know he’s awesome, But Rams definitely need to find a MLB to groom, real soon.
by PureAdrenaline 2:19 PM

Just don’t understand the Laurinaitis bashing.
by jthomas 2:19 PM

If the defense can play like they did last week, and the offense can score a touchdown we beat Arizona?
by Ron 2:19 PM

If it were only that easy.
by jthomas 2:19 PM

Chances of 1-4? Are we singing the same song by the end of the year? Waiting for the draft and hoping for a better year in 2016. ..yet again.
by Andrew Day 2:20 PM

It does look depressingly familiar at this point.
by jthomas 2:20 PM

Jim – In your opinion, is the problem on offense more scheme, personnel or is it 50-50?
by McGarrett 2:20 PM

Most of all, I think the problem on offense is mainly inexperience at this point.
by jthomas 2:21 PM

Think Gurley will get more than 25 touches in a game before week 16?
by JeffM 2:21 PM

Barring any kind of medical setback, I’d say yes.
by jthomas 2:21 PM

Is Tavon too fast for Foles? I’ve seen several plays where he has to slow up to catch the ball (Sherman in the end zone for example). BTW, I remember when people here bashed Fletcher.
by Jim 2:22 PM

As is the case with any new QB, their timing certainly needs some work.
by jthomas 2:23 PM

Ok it was an interesting experiment but isn’t time the Rams give a legitimate offensive coordinator ?
by EricRams 2:23 PM

Wait a minute. I thought everything was Schotty’s fault?
by jthomas 2:23 PM

Did the Rams make the right choice in drafting Greg Robinson over the Matthews kid?
by ihtnep 2:23 PM

Too early to tell.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

Without Bradford to bash it looks like Laurinaitis is next in line.
by CarolinaRam 2:24 PM

Could be.
by jthomas 2:24 PM

what’s the deal with Brain Quick?
by Mark B 2:24 PM

You know the situation. Fisher likes to dress only so many WRs. Givens played very well in the preseason. Quick is rusty coming back from the injury. Fisher values special teams (Bradley Marquez). I get all that. But after scoring 10 points and then 6 points, why not try something different? Like Quick. That’s where I’m at.
by jthomas 2:27 PM

Is it time to open up the offense, and try to set up the run by establishing a passing game early in the game? I think they have enough talent at WR to at least give it a shot.
by David 2:27 PM

I would’ve liked to have seen that approach against Pittsburgh’s secondary last week.
by jthomas 2:27 PM

Good Day Jim, The last two games having been awful, Fishers has to take the blame for the worst offence in the NFL you could see a mile away that this team would struggle to score points
by OzyRamsFan 2:28 PM

Yeah, I think most of us expected some tough going early, but maybe not this tough.
by jthomas 2:28 PM

The national media seemed to think that Fisher was overrated when the Rams hired him, and he certainly hasn’t done anything to change that perception. Agree?
by ihtnep 2:30 PM

I do not remember the national media saying Fisher was overrated when he was hired.
by jthomas 2:30 PM

Did I miss something? If Big Ben had not been hurt this game would not of been close…Roethlisbuger was 20 for 24 200 yards passing when he was hurt, that does not sound like a great defense to me…Seahawks put 31 points on them, Redskins abused them and the Steelers were killing them up to the point Big Ben left the game…What am I missing about this great defense?
by Paul B. 2:30 PM

Yeah, apparently you missed the fact that it was still 9-3 when Roethlisberger was injured. Apparently you missed the fact that from early in the second quarter after the Pittsburgh TD to late in the third quarter (when Roethlisberger was hurt) that the Steelers had 33 yards of offense.
by jthomas 2:35 PM

Hey Jim. Thanks for the chat. Do you think Terry Bradshaw’s “100% Rams gone” statement carries any weight? I mean, he does work for Fox and one would think the networks have some kind of say in this as well. Plus, combine that with Joe Buck’s rant and you get the feeling they have been told something. Thanks!
by mr 2:36 PM

Since FOX sports is headquartered in LA, I’m sure they’d like to have an NFL team in their hometown, that goes without saying. As far as Terry Bradshaw is concerned, he’s not on my short list of relocation sources.
by jthomas 2:37 PM

Why cant this team attack other team weakness ….I thought thats what a game plan is for..i can coach the rams offense i bet we will score…….at least 17pts per game ….and here come the Cardinals ..god help us
by roc 2:37 PM

I feel your frustration.
by jthomas 2:38 PM

Will Trey Watts be up this week? Can we cut Isiaah Pead now?
Was Cook hurt, or double teamed? I thought he’d do some damage against the Steeler secondary. Outside of poor blocking, he usually plays with passion.
by WestCoast Ramfan 2:38 PM

Watts is eligible to return to the active roster after the Arizona game.
by jthomas 2:38 PM

Obviously, our linemen and TEs ($12 million) aren’t getting it done run blocking. Which ones are blowing it?
by Steven 2:39 PM

They’re all playing great. You heard Fisher. 🙂
by jthomas 2:39 PM

Hi JT, in the long view of things, I staunchly believe the Rams needed to have some semblance of a quick start. Having lost 2 of 3 seems likely to deteriorate the passion necessary for a showing to compel the league to keep the Rams in town. Sure hope I’m wrong but w. those 2 road games next on the schedule, it could get tough… Hope I’m blatantly mistaken.
by MJ 2:40 PM

I think I understand what you’re saying. And I do wonder if lack of passion _ lack of attendance if another season goes down the tubes _ will factor into the owners’ decision on relocation.
by jthomas 2:42 PM

If you were a betting man wouldnt you bet Quick will be in the mix this Sunday?
by Jase 2:42 PM

Too early in the week to tell.
by jthomas 2:42 PM

Jim,
Have you been asked the percentage today? LA Rams or St. Louis Rams 2016?
by PureAdrenaline 2:42 PM

I’m still at 44-56.
by jthomas 2:42 PM

Haven’t the Rams used the same flame throwers during introductions for years? Am I paranoid, or was that a set up to make the stadium (and thus STL) look bad?
by Alton Ken 2:42 PM

Yeah, they’ve had similar introductions for years. And yeah, I think you’re paranoid on this one.
by jthomas 2:43 PM

Is Hekker’s leg about to fall off?
by Uncle Leo 2:43 PM

Sadly, he was perhaps the team MVP in the Washington game.
by jthomas 2:44 PM

Tell Alton Stan Kroenke has stock in Duraflame
by Jase 2:44 PM

Probably so!
by jthomas 2:44 PM

I expected much more from Cook against the Steelers. Was he double teamed or what?
I thougt Britt, and Tavon were our best playmakers Sunday.
by WestCoast Ramfan 2:45 PM

No doubt Britt and Tavon were just that. As for Cook haven’t looked at the coaches tape yet so I don’t know what to tell you. He does have the tendency to disappear in some games.
by jthomas 2:46 PM

Jim – I’m a little surprised that you are still at 44-56. To me the latest news makes the most sense of any that I have heard: Chargers move two hours up the road and everybody else stays put. Especially if the NFLPA is going to kick in 300 mil.
by Ryan 2:46 PM

Because nothing really has changed for months.
by jthomas 2:47 PM

Is the team allowed to practice in the dome? I ask because Kendricks complained he lost the ball in the lights. If that is the case it seems to me a good spell of practice in the dome, under the lights, would be in order.
by Steve 2:47 PM

They’ve practiced in the dome once or twice before. In fairness to Kendricks, I have been told by past receivers that they thought there was a blind spot or two in the dome lighting.
by jthomas 2:49 PM

Jim – any idea who the hot coaching candidates will be next year?
by Ryan 2:49 PM

I don’t think that’s going to be an issue.
by jthomas 2:50 PM

JIm its tuesday an u havent watch the game yet ….i feel your pain…thats where i get my questions from so i know its got to be hard for you to !
have a nice day
by Star Stream 2:50 PM

With the new practice schedule _ Tuesday practices _ it’s tougher to look at the coaches tape early in the week.
by jthomas 2:51 PM

Hi Jim I know you don’t like uniform questions but I can’t help but wonder why Fisher won’t use the gold pants. He has tried all other combinations to try to stir up some luck I’m sure. At least the gold pants helps us old timers remember the Rams when they could put some points on the board.
by jWebb19 2:51 PM

I believe teams are allowed only two colors of pants for regular uniforms, and the Rams decided to go with white and blue.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

Hi Jim, any opinion on who got the better deal in the Foles/Bradford swap yet?
by Ramster 2:52 PM

Not after three games.
by jthomas 2:52 PM

Jim, a hypothetical question. If Fisher were to throw up his hands and walk away tomorrow, who on the staff would be the interim HC? McGinnis?
by Dave in Kirkwood 2:53 PM

Probably.
by jthomas 2:54 PM

@Ryan Not very much fan support for Chargers in LA. Just moving to LA isn’t going to force people to become Charger Fans. Large support in LA for Raider and Rams.
by PureAdrenaline 2:54 PM

You sure about that? I thought Chargers were getting about 25 percent of their fan base from LA these days.
by jthomas 2:55 PM

Seriously? a “gold pants” question makes it, but questions about Fishers comments or job status doesnt??
by JeffF 2:55 PM

No whining JeffF. Re-send your question. I try to answer as many as I can if as long as they’re not questions I’ve already answered..
by jthomas 2:56 PM

Hi Jim, thanks for doing this, you’re a brave man! Why do we insist on throwing the ball 4 yards when it’s 3rd and 6? What evidence do we have that our receivers will ever break a tackle??
by TC 2:57 PM

You’ve noticed that too. As for breaking tackles, did you see the Green Bay receivers get yards after the catch on Monday Night against Kansas City. Pretty impressive.
by jthomas 2:58 PM

Afternoon Jim, Even if we end up 8-8 again, I would like to see exciting offense. This team, in it’s current state, is so boring to watch in today’s pass happy electric play NFL
by Punt 2:58 PM

Defense can be entertaining.
by jthomas 2:58 PM

Hi Jim, How is the O-Line doing compared to how well you thought they were going to play coming into the season?
by Trevor 2:58 PM

I thought they’d run block a little better, even early in the season.
by jthomas 2:59 PM

Okay thanks, Is Fisher that delusional or perhaps arrogant that he actually believes the offensive line played well and they are that close to 3-0? Or is his job status extremely secure that he doesnt have the fears other coaches do of needing success?
by JeffF 2:59 PM

I kinda think he has a pretty good idea that unless this season is a disaster _ of the 4-12 or so variety _ that Stan Kroenke wants him to guide the team through the planned relocation process to LA. Fisher always portrays confidence, rarely gets flustered publicly _ that’s his personality. He is trying to project confidence. He’s been around long enough that he’s not going to give up on a season, 3 games in. But I know where you’re coming from. Just once, it might be nice to see him throw a chair in frustration or call out a player or two. But that’s not his makeup.
by jthomas 3:03 PM

Were my comments deleted again. Sorry for wasting your time.
by RamsfaninTX 3:03 PM

My my, we’re all a little antsy today. Due to the volume of questions I can only answer maybe one of five. If your questions or comments aren’t responded to at first, try sending them again.
by jthomas 3:05 PM

@jthomas You mean no, “We Let em off the hook” postgame rants?
by PureAdrenaline 3:05 PM

That would be different.
by jthomas 3:05 PM

The offensive line is getting better. the Rams should be 2-1. My prediction — you will remember for this next week — Rams blow away AZ in AZ for a solid victory making the Rams 2 and 2. Foles (an AZ college boy) gets back his form and timing. Rams D stuffs AZ.
by david b 3:06 PM

OK then. You saw it here first. And probably last.
by jthomas 3:06 PM

Jim,
Gronk torched the Steelers early in the year, how do we not put one or two plays like that in there?
by Len 3:06 PM

Well, the Rams did try to go to Kendricks, didn’t they?
by jthomas 3:07 PM

I enjoy your chats, immensely. I will miss them when the rams move.
1. I hear from sports talk and the talking heads that we have a superstar coaching staff. Why aren’t they able to make adjustments quicker. Also, why does it take so long for the players they draft to adjust.
2. Why aren’t players sat when they keep making the same bonehead mistakes over and over? Are the backups that bad. Thanks
by Les 3:07 PM

First off, if you hear it from talking heads or sports talk radio, it must be true, right? #sarcasm. I’m not sure if adjustments, or lack of adjustments, are really the main issue here early in the season. As to your second question, the bench can be a big motivator.
by jthomas 3:09 PM

I agree that Cook seems to disappear during games. Since he has issues blocking as well, does it make sense to sit him for a game to try and light a fire? Just appears to be a lack of urgency or focus.
by Bob 3:09 PM

Don’t know about all that. But I think getting him involved in the passing game early might be a good idea.
by jthomas 3:10 PM

I guess kendricks is our deep threat !!! omg!
by Star Stream 3:11 PM

He was on Sunday.
by jthomas 3:11 PM

Jim, a pet peeve- on kickoffs, the 20 yard line is automatic by downing the ball in the end zone. Yet we continually see many teams run it out only to be stopped shy of the 20 it seems well greater than 75% of the time. Are coaches that slow to catch on to tell their players to down it and take the 20?
by JeffF 3:11 PM

I think as a general rule if the kickoff goes 5-6 yards deep into the end zone or less, they’re fine with the return man giving it a shot. Deeper than that, it’s probably better to take the touchback.
by jthomas 3:13 PM

Hi Jim, I’m pretty sure Kendricks makes less than Cook but he seems to block better than Cook by a large margin. In your opinion, has Fisher’s loyalty to a previous player paid off in this case?
by Greg 3:13 PM

I think we’ve all seen that Cook does have some yards-after-the-catch ability. And is faster than most tight ends in the league. So you have that potential. Kendricks is regarded as a better blocker. But the Rams use 2 tight ends a lot. It’s almost a 1, 1A type situation. Are you saying Kendricks should play ahead of Cook.
by jthomas 3:15 PM

Quick needs to play plain and simple. Agree?
by simdaddy 3:20 PM

Agree. But at whose expense? Who do you sit to get Quick on the game-day roster?
by jthomas 3:20 PM

jim have fisher to give me a call 3142609811# help the rams
by Star Stream 3:20 PM

Somehow I don’t think he’s going to give you a call.
by jthomas 3:21 PM

re Cook, not sure Kendricks plays ahead of Cook, but I believe Cook’s salary is in the high end. I suppose what I’m asking your opinion on is he worth the price paid? Kendricks was the hero week 1, but did have a bad drop week 3- not to say Cook has a great pair of mitts on him either.
by Greg 3:21 PM

I think it’s debatable if Cook is worth the money at this point.
by jthomas 3:22 PM

If Gurley can play 5 snaps why not 25?
by simdaddy 3:22 PM

It’s all about getting your legs under you, building a foundation of conditioning, getting in “football shape.” You simply don’t go from not carrying a football in a competitive situation for 10 months then strolling out on the field and getting 25 touches just like that.
by jthomas 3:24 PM

Just jumped on..Have the FJF (Fire Jeff Fisher) Threads started? If not let me be the first!!
by Cousin Vinny 3:24 PM

Appreciate the energy, but you’re not the first in terms of being very upset w/the head coach.
by jthomas 3:24 PM

Whats the deal with Akeem Ayers? Seems like Barron playing a lot of linebacker. Ayers has a total of 3 tackles, is that a concern.
by evan 3:25 PM

Actually he has 6 tackles but I get your point. Even in the best of times the strong side LB (which is Ayers’ position) plays only 35 to 40 percent of the time. But Ayers isn’t playing much _ 9 snaps in the opener, 27 plays in Week 2, only 10 plays vs. Pittsburgh. Barron has been pretty effective in that LB role, both rushing the passer and defending the run, so that has cut into Ayers time.
by jthomas 3:29 PM

How confident are you of your 9-7 won/loss prediction for the Rams? Since you are locking into the Rams’ record at the start of the season, how about giving a confidence factor throughout the season?
by Roanoke 3:29 PM

OK, my Confidence Factor on 9-7 right now is 3.5 on a scale of 10.
by jthomas 3:30 PM

Not that payroll determines success…but our defense has been strong for a few years now while offense has struggled. Do you know how Rams payroll breakout between Offense, Defense and Special Teams compares to teams that are successful?
by richgre 3:30 PM

That’s an interesting question, and I don’t have a hard and fast answer off the top of my head. But I’m sure it’s tilted strongly toward defense right now based on the experience factor on that side of the ball (as opposed to all the inexperience on defense). Most of the elite teams in the NFL have elite, very highly-paid QBs, so I would guess the Rams are more the exception than the rule.
by jthomas 3:32 PM

I hear a lot of people calling for brian quick to be inserted into the line-up as if he is a cure-all. gimme a break are you people delusional? one player is not going to make a difference on a fisher led offense. I have been saying it since fisher took over, “do not expect an offensive juggernaut under fisher”. Look at his past tenn teams. The “little” offense will always take a back seat to the BIG D. and although that might not be a bad thing, the man has not clue about offense and evidently neither to any of his subordinates. Unfortunately it doesn’t look like this defense, although improved, is incapable of carrying this team. When a big play is needed this team fails and will continue to fail under fisher. the seahag game was a fairytale, wake up people and welcome to mediocre to bad rams football. At least the whiners look worse than this assembled bunch of losers????? sorry no question but where would I start?
by steve 3:33 PM

I get your basic point. We’re talking about a guy with 54 catches for 833 yards in a 3-year career. Not Jerry Rice. But I do think Quick showed potential last season. And based on the lack of production offensively the past couple of weeks, why not give him a chance? He may not put the offense over the top, but maybe it helps a little bit. As for your larger point, it’s true that Fisher is defensive oriented, but I think we’re safe in assuming he’d like a more productive offense. I wouldn’t say he has no clue.
by jthomas 3:39 PM

Yes, I’m getting a bit jaded.
by Money Guy 3:39 PM

Oh my, so this is what it’s gotten to. St. Louis is indeed a jaded football town.
by jthomas 3:39 PM

Lets be honest Jim. We are supposed to be a running team but yet we cant run! We have officially sunk to the worst offense in the league. I know certain reason/excuses can be attributed 1) new rookie OC 2) young OL 3) Jeff Fishers stubborness to draft OL in past drafts with our top picks but keep drafting dline and rbs. At this point, if we lose the next two games, I want fisher gone during the bye week! He clearly cant coach NOR ADAPT ingame to the new NFL! your thoughts?
by Rodney T (ATL) 3:40 PM

I think everyone is weary of waiting for this team to turn the corner. But no, we’re not going to see a repeat of 2008 (coach fired during bye week).
by jthomas 3:41 PM

If the Rams were somehow to stay in StL, and Fisher continues as coach, how long will fans continue to put up with this kind of on-field product?
by Tom 3:41 PM

From the sounds of this chat, and the number of empty seats in the dome, it doesn’t look like many fans are putting up with it.
by jthomas 3:42 PM

I seen fisher say it won’t be tolerated if I recall he said that last year cut Ray Ray and then tolerated mistakes the rest of the year. Is that your recollection?
by Jim jr 3:42 PM

I’d have to double-check to see if it was precisely at the time of the Boom King’s demise, but yeah, we’ve heard that before.
by jthomas 3:43 PM

Jim – I understand that Kroenke will keep Fisher if the Rams move. However, do you know, what is his MO as an owner of other sports teams ? Is he an owner who really cares about winning – and is willing to fire coaches – or at least put them on the hot seat – or is he an owner to leaves them alone to do their thing ?
by NYRAM 3:43 PM

Kroenke likes to hire veteran coaches and let them do their thing. I’ve heard Kroenke say in the past on many occasions _ back when he spoke publicly _ that he wants teams that are playoff competitive every year. I’ve never heard him talk about wanting to win championships and doing everything in his power to do that.
by jthomas 3:45 PM

Why not fire Fisher during the bye week! SAve us the trouble of sitting through the remaining 9 games of this mediocrity. I just read an article on NFL.com and Tyran M. of AZ gave us praise as a good team and ask “why dont those guys win superbowl every year”. When the premier star of your division rival praises you and wonders how you underachieve with that talent, it begs to question the people at the top! Fire Fischer this year! and next year if the team sucks with a new coach, fire Les Snead and the entire scouting department! (im still pissed abt 2012 draft with us taking Quick over Alshon)
by Rodney T (ATL) 3:46 PM

So if I’m reading you right, you want the guillotine rolled out into the Rams Park parking lot ASAP.
by jthomas 3:47 PM

So, if Nick Foles is competing 62+% of his passes, and they are going for 7 yards per attempt, shouldn’t the Rams do something crazy like do nothing but pass for the first two series of a game to open up the run game?
by G 3:47 PM

As you probably know by now that’s not Fisher’s style. Do you remember the start of the 2013 season when Bradford led the Rams to a fourth-quarter comeback in the opener against Arizona going no-huddle, and then almost pulled off a huge comeback going no-huddle in Week 2 against Atlanta. Bradford looked very comfortable in that style of offense. I asked Fisher the Monday after the Atlanta game if he ever thought about going to the no-huddle _ at least on occasion. The answer: No. (End of discussion.)
by jthomas 3:50 PM

Can we safely say the Jared Cook experiment is over? As a pass catching TE – I believe part of your job is to catch passes – correct? Or am I expecting too much?
by Free 3:51 PM

No. I think it’s fair to question whether he is playing up to his contract, but he is tied for the team lead in catches and second in receiving yards so far this season. He led the team in catches and yards in 2013, his first season here, and led the team in catches and was second in yards in ’14. He was thrown to only 3 times in the Pittsburgh game. There are fans on this chat who want Quick to play and be active in this offense. Who think Bailey should get the ball more often. Who think Givens should be more involved. Well, when you’re getting only 50 plays on offense a game _ a league-low _ how many passes do you think there are to go around?
by jthomas 3:59 PM

A Not So Dead Market
by Big BQ83 Fan 3:59 PM

Point well taken. I was just thinking the same thing. If nobody cared, we wouldn’t have all this today.
by jthomas 4:00 PM

Well Jim, perhaps them getting the ball more would be successful and thus allow for more, many more plays per game 😉
by TBaker 4:01 PM

No doubt.
by jthomas 4:01 PM

. If the D can play consistently at the level seen on Sunday then we could make 7-9 even with offensive ineptitude. To make it to the playoffs, the offense has to grow (Foles gets in rhythm, TE catch passes, Bailey and Givens get open, OL blocks and Gurley starts to produce). If that happens 9-7 or 10-6 is possible. Questions is, do we know why Quick is still sidelined – seems more than a numbers thing as suggested – is he still injured? Also have we signed Nick Toon as reported in a couple of places yesterday? Rams consistently inconsistent for last 4 years – are we any better than 2012? I am officially bemused!
by UK Ram 4:02 PM

To answer your very last question.. There’s no doubt in my mind that the Rams have better personnel than they did in 2012. But I can’t sit here and tell you that they’re going to end up better than the 7-8-1 record of that season.
by jthomas 4:03 PM

Jeff Fisher is one really arrogant and delusional coach. “We are a few plays away from being 3-0”. “Todd (Gurley) was like six carries for nine yards. He could have very well had 50 or 60 yards in those six carries, he was that close”. Does this guy really think anybody’s buying this crap at this point. If this were NY or Philly he would be getting crucified (and justifiably so). Jim, now be honest, do you see this coach/regime having what it takes to get this team back to being a playoff team? (not just a .500 team)
by Rachael Wayne 4:04 PM

It’s hard to see it at this point.
by jthomas 4:04 PM

Given the dismal state of the Rams offense, why hasn’t Fisher activated Quick, arguably their best WR before the injury?
by JeffM 4:04 PM

Now that Gurley is up and running, that is THE question, isn’t it/
by jthomas 4:05 PM

How long does Kroenke stay with Fisher? I feel that if the rams are in LA next year, there will be a new head coach, your take, thanks, Jim
by gary 4:05 PM

I’ve mentioned this before, I kind of think unless this season is a total disaster, that Kroenke wants Fisher to steer the team through the planned relocation to LA.
by jthomas 4:06 PM

Hi Jim,
Didn’t expect the game to be close, so kudos to the defense, they showed up. Does this weeks game become a must win? We are staring 1-4 going into the bye week. That’s what infuriates me about this team, we NEEDED to win at Washington, that was an inexcusable loss.
by Len 4:07 PM

The Rams must figure out a way to be 2-3 after Arizona and Green Bay.
by jthomas 4:07 PM

Hi Jim, another slow start to the season, how disappointing eh?
by Ekern55 4:07 PM

About as disappointing as it gets, wouldn’t you say?
by jthomas 4:08 PM

Good day Sir Jim. What has me most concerned on offense is that we cannot even move the ball at the end of the game when we are trailing. In the last two weeks, the Rams have turned the ball over on downs on their last drive. Typically an offense can at least get some garbage yards at the end of the game when the opposing team’s defense is in prevent mode. At worst, teams will run out of time while they still have the ball, or will score and then have to try an onside kick or something. We barely eked out a couple of first downs combined in the final drives of the last two games. That is not very encouraging
by Vern 4:08 PM

No it’s not.
by jthomas 4:08 PM

Jim. What did you think of Florio’s story about Jerry Richardson and other owners being against the Rams moving to LA?
by Terry 4:08 PM

I think there’s definitely some truth to it.
by jthomas 4:08 PM

Hi Jim, Why does Fisher stress the run game so much when the NFL is a passng league. seems like he’s living in the past.
by Irving 4:09 PM

Maybe. But the last three NFC teams to reach the Super Bowl _ Seattle (twice) and San Francisco _ were run-oriented teams. So it can be done that way. The Rams obviously aren’t running nearly as effectively to get anywhere near that level.
by jthomas 4:11 PM

Were we ever close to getting Shanahan as our OC? He called a great game for the Falcons this week, finds ways to get Julius Jones open and is the only one to figure out how to use a healthy RG3. If Fisher is such good friends with his father, Mike Shanahan, what happened?
by Uncle Leo 4:11 PM

Don’t think so.
by jthomas 4:11 PM

Sure makes it tuff to be a fan when you see we could be 1-4 soon Wish we had any kind of offense
by Jsumms 4:11 PM

I hear you.
by jthomas 4:11 PM

Any idea if the Rams are tweaking the game plan for a road game against the Cardinals? I’m thinking 2 yards per carry, a fake of some sort, a screen or two, and a gimmick play to tavon ain’t going to cut it this week.
by Ryan 4:12 PM

What would you suggest?
by jthomas 4:12 PM

I can’t imagine what would Brady say if he tossed the ball to Gronk and he dropped it twice in a game. This is unacceptable. It’s time to cut ties with Kendricks.
by rams77 4:13 PM

You mean the same Kendricks who made that huge TD catch in the upset over Seattle? That guy?
by jthomas 4:13 PM

Jim – did you get any impressions of Gurley from his play? I couldn’t tell if his playbook is limited, the line didn’t hold up, or if he was over hyped. I like to think it was just him getting his feet wet and next week there might be some better plays to take advantage of what he is supposed to bring to the table.
by Ryan 4:14 PM

He looked like a guy who hadn’t carried a football since November.
by jthomas 4:14 PM

So Fisher thinks they are a play or two away from being 3-0 huh? Kind of reminds me of something Whitey Herzog said when he was managing the cellar dwelling Texas Rangers in 1974, “We’re only two players away from being a contender; Babe Ruth and Sandy Koufax.”
by ihtnep 4:14 PM

Nice.
by jthomas 4:14 PM

Hey Jim, what’s up with Gordo? No game day live chats or weekly sports chats lately. Can you tell him that I miss him?
by ihtnep 4:15 PM

Gordo has more print column duties these days, that’s basically it. He appreciates the support.
by jthomas 4:15 PM

JT, is it me or does this offense stink of Schottenheimer? Is he calling in plays from Georgia? I did not expect a Chip Kelly (pre Bradford) type of offense but geez… this is brutal. Fisher seems like a smart guy. Can we expect any type of creativity in the offensive game play or adjustment during the game.
by dazed and confused 4:16 PM

That’s it. You’ve cracked the case! It’s still Schottenheimer’s fault!
by jthomas 4:16 PM

i’m assuming you read about dave checketts resigning from legends hospitality to pursue investments in sports teams. is he on the way to become an investor in the rams? is he putting together an investor group as he did in 2010 (jerry ford the money man) to buyout the rams? i also assume that as a former mls team owner he considers that experience an advantage for being part of a rams ownership or buyout group. what have you heard about his next move and have you (or will you) be interviewing him?
by branford76 4:17 PM

Interesting thoughts here. But do you think Checketts can get the kind of money together that is needed for something like this?
by jthomas 4:18 PM

Jim, will Fischer be on the HOT seat if we finish below 500? Something needs to change, he has the talent now so no more excuses right? thanks again
by Ekern55 4:18 PM

One would think so. But I don’t think so.
by jthomas 4:18 PM

Fisher seemed to back away from his comments immediately after the game about not tolerating mistakes (drops/penalties) any longer. It seems the drops are mostly confined to our tight ends. What can they do to fix it, absent personnel changes?
by Craig 4:19 PM

I don’t know, it was mainly backs and wide receivers in the Washington game.
by jthomas 4:20 PM

is there a pattern designed for Austn that is longer than five yards?
by bjf 4:21 PM

They’ve tried some deep balls to him. Just haven’t connected.
by jthomas 4:21 PM

Can you attempt to describe Givens and Bailey’s role this year?
by cook 4:22 PM

At the moment, Bailey is the third receiver and Givens is the fourth.
by jthomas 4:22 PM

Austin Davis > Nick Foles?
by ihtnep 4:22 PM

Don’t think so.
by jthomas 4:23 PM

As a season ticket holder, I received an emailed survey yesterday asking about traffic after the game, the game-day experience, etc. Have you heard any rumblings about problems and/or complaints? The traffic in the Laclede’s Landing area was an absolute nightmare and no law enforcement to help with traffic. Also, even at the Club Level, there were some super obnoxious, obscenity shouting Steelers fans in our section and never a sign of an usher or security. Sure, you can text somebody about it but any usher that made even a 30-second appearance would see. I’m not sure we even know how to do an NFL game in St. Louis. We need a new stadium and a new approach. The winning part would also be great. Thanks for the chats! We appreciate you! Go ST. LOUIS Rams, you are hard on us but you’re all we’ve got and we still love you!
by Dan 4:27 PM

Interesting. First I’ve heard of this.
by jthomas 4:27 PM

Is there no love lost between Arians & Fisher? Seems like Arians takes coaching against Fisher and the Rams personal? Can we do better than the 49ers did against the Redbirds?
by Uncle Leo 4:27 PM

I don’t know if you can say all that just based off Arians’ comments after the game here last year. But there certainly were some shots fired.
by jthomas 4:28 PM

That 100 yard game by Britt was the first in how many games(dating back to last season)?
by cook 4:28 PM

Britt had nine catches for 103 yards last year vs. NY Giants in Game 15. But the Rams haven’t had many lately, that’s for sure.
by jthomas 4:30 PM

Who got cut from the practice squad?
by Steve 4:32 PM

Nick Toon fills the practice squad spot created by the promotion of Brandon McGee to the active roster. McGee replaces Isaiah Pead on the active roster Pead was cut.
by jthomas 4:33 PM