Rams chat with Jim Thomas

Rams chat with Jim Thomas

http://live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_49?Page=4

Hi Jim, haven’t heard much of Tavon Austin how is he looking so far ?
by Johnny August 5 at 2:01 PM

Pretty good. I’d still rank Bailey, Britt, and Quick ahead of him as far as how he has looked so far in camp. But Austin has had some moments. They’ve been using him a little more in the backfield this camp; let’s see if that carries over to the season.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:02 PM

Jim is Bradford going to Play on Friday!?
by Dave Fan Since 1951 August 5 at 2:02 PM

Don’t think so. Jeff Fisher told me before camp started that he probably wouldn’t play Bradford against New Orleans, but has yet to say anything definitively.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:03 PM

What kind of chance to you think EJ Gaines has at making the team?
by SPOT August 5 at 2:03 PM

A pretty good chance I would say as a special teams guy. Right now, I’d say it’s between him, Greg Reid, and Darren Woodard for the 5th spot, and the Rams could keep 6. For what it’s worth the first unofficial depth chart of the preseason has Gaines listed as second team.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:06 PM

Hey Jim, with the WR’s by committee, who do you expect to have the most targets/catches each game?
by James August 5 at 2:06 PM

If Bailey weren’t suspended, I’d say he’d be the guy. Without him, I think it comes down to Austin, Britt, and Cook. But without a proven No. 1 receiver or go-to guy, it could vary from game to game.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:07 PM

Jim, thanks for doing these chats, so good to be back in season! Any news on how Alex Carrington has looked so far in camp? Right now, we only seem to hear about Donald tearing it up.
by MC in DC August 5 at 2:07 PM

No, Carrington isn’t tearing it up like Donald. But he’s been OK. Remember he’s coming back from a 2013 injury. But he’s been solid. And keep in mind, he’s not the quick, speed-rush guy like Donald. He’s more of the bigger run-stuffer kind of guy.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:08 PM

I know Maurice Alexander missed valuable reps in OTAs but is he too far behind to perhaps be a starter by mid-season?
by TxRam August 5 at 2:08 PM

That’ll be tough. McDonald and McLeod are pretty well ensconced as the starters at this point.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:09 PM

Jim, I am a Bradford fan, but am now resigned to the fact that he just may never be more than an Average NFL QB. With the team assembled around him, do you feel like he can take (or manage) this team into the playoffs against a brutal schedule?
by MC in DC August 5 at 2:09 PM

We’ll soon find out.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:09 PM

Thanks for the chat Jim. Been hearing a lot about Britt, Quick and Bailey looking good so far. Do you have faith that this group will be much improved, or are you more worried that they are working against a subpar secondary?
by Brian F August 5 at 2:10 PM

I’m reserving judgment. Last year at this time, we were all raving about the new-improved receiver corps _ particularly Austin. Quick had a good camp last year as well in ’13. Etc. Etc. And then the games started. And you make a good point about the secondary _ that unit still has to prove itself.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:11 PM

Aside from special teams, what does Pead offer that our other running backs don’t?
by TxRam August 5 at 2:12 PM

The Rams think he can still be a space player on third down, catching passes out of the backfield. But it’s going to be hard for him to leapfrog Stacy, Cunningham, and Mason on the depth chart.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:13 PM

How is the OL looking after the top 6? Who do you think have the best chance of making the team? Thanks
by Paul August 5 at 2:13 PM

I’m assuming that you’re putting Davin Joseph in the top six. The Rams will probably keep eight or nine o-linemen, which brings you to Tim Barnes, Barrett Jones, Mike Person, Sean Hooey, Brandon Washington. I’d say Barnes and Barrett, maybe Person, are at the head of the group so far. At this point, I think rookies Demetrius Rhaney and Mitchell Van Dyk are practice squad candidates, although Rhaney has had some moments in camp.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:17 PM

Based on 1 week of camp, who will be the surprise starter on the roster week 1?
by MC in DC August 5 at 2:17 PM

I don’t know if it still ranks as a surprise, but I’d say Kenny Britt.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:17 PM

Yeah! New Banner Picture! But same old picture from your 5 yr high school reunion. Accept your Jim, just accept it.
by eman August 5 at 2:17 PM

Again, I have nothing to do with what goes on the banner. If it’s that important for you to see a more, uh, modern picture of me, there’s always my avatar _ is that what they call it? _ on Twitter.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:19 PM

What are the realistic chances of TJ Moe making the team??
by Terry 710 August 5 at 2:19 PM

1.) A very strong preseason. 2.) Fisher goes into the regular season with 6 WRs (even with the Bailey suspension.) That would put Moe on the active roster for at least 4 games.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:20 PM

CAN YOU TELL ME RAY RAY ARMSTRONG IS GOING TO START?!? CAN YOU?!?
by HammyRammy August 5 at 2:20 PM

I CAN’T TELL YOU THAT! HE’S STILL BACKING UP DUNBAR AND OGLETREE ON THE OUTSIDE!
by jthomas August 5 at 2:21 PM

I’m a big boy, and feel like a small lineman like Donald would be easier to block since he doesn’t have size. What makes Donald so effective?
by DannyO’Neil August 5 at 2:22 PM

Impressive quickness, good strength, uses leverage to his advantage, smart, mature, knows how to use hands to fend off blockers.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:23 PM

Any big news come out of the referre visit. Also, heard something is passing about a rule change (something about aggessiveness) that really helps out the recievers. Ring any bell?
by eman August 5 at 2:23 PM

Our Joe Lyons wrote about their visit last Friday. Here’s the link:
Thomas: Bradford Looks Strong in Return
The Post-Dispatch’s Jim Thomas joins CineSport’s Brian Clark to discuss the Rams’ plan for Sam Bradford as they prepare for their preseason opener against the New Orleans Saints.
There was no real news out of the meeting; the refs simply go over the rule changes and points of emphasis that come out of the owners meeting in March. One thing the officials are going to emphasize more this year _ or so they say _ is throwing flags for illegal contact by defenders on pass coverage. They’re also going emphasis calling more flags for grabbing the jersey of receivers.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:28 PM

How is Barret Jones? Is it too early to be concerned with him missing more time?
by AzRamsFan August 5 at 2:28 PM

Well, he certainly needs the reps. But I don’t think he’s missed enough to really set him back so far.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:29 PM

Do you think that a Greg Williams type attack from the front seven will relieve some of the pressure on our “suspect” secondary and free them to be better than we expect?
by flagthrower August 5 at 2:29 PM

That’s the theory. But remember, throwing quick underneath passes can neutralize any pass rush, and that’s where tight early coverage comes into play. And that’s something that’s hard to do if you’re giving too much of a cushion.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:30 PM

Is Robert Quinn look like our best player on defense in camp?
by DannyO’Neil August 5 at 2:30 PM

If not at the top, he’s certainly near the top.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:30 PM

Hi Jim, Do the Rams lead the NFL in sacks this season and how do they get ?
by OzyRamFan August 5 at 2:31 PM

They’ve been at or near the top each of the past two seasons, so sure, I think we’ll see more of the same this year. The thing about Gregg Williams though is that the pressure could come from all over, be it blitzing linebackers, blitzing safeties, or Joyner coming off the slot. And the more the Rams are playing with a lead, the more they should have opportunities for sacks.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:33 PM

Chances Pettis makes this team? Did you see the fight?
by Bashful August 5 at 2:33 PM

I think he’s there, especially for the first four games when there’s no Bailey. As for the fight, I was maybe 20-25 feet away. It was right by the sideline where I was standing.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:34 PM

Are there any ill effects of the strange Saffold contract situation so far in camp?
by Brad August 5 at 2:35 PM

Not sure exactly what you mean here. But it’s not a good feeling seeing him on the sideline so early in camp, even if it’s only for a few days.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:35 PM

JT Any chance of the gold pants making a return this season? I dislike the blue on blue home look. What about the gold 3rd jersey they sell? With the white pants…sweet don’t you you think?
by JWebb19 August 5 at 2:36 PM

Sorry, you’re stuck with the blue pants and white pants again this year (except for the throwback game against San Fran). Teams must notify the league office well in advance on uniform changes, and the Rams haven’t done so to my knowledge, be it gold pants or anything else.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:38 PM

I know it’s early, but is Joyner the real deal? Lots of hype already from camp. What a great story that guy has.
by TinderorHinge August 5 at 2:39 PM

He certainly looks like it. Smart. Instinctive. Tough.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:39 PM

I get the sense that Silent Stan is playing the St. Louis fans. It appears that he is sitting idly by while tempus fugates until a year to year lease kicks in, at which time he can/will pull a Billy Bidwill. Your take?
by Bashful August 5 at 2:39 PM

Stan always plays it close to the vest, and seems to wait it out on negotiations/decision-making. Remember the attempted purchase of the team by Shad Khan four years ago? Kroenke I believe waited until the last day to exercise his matching rights. Right now, he’s still got no place to go. But that can change, as we all know.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:42 PM

Does Stan not understand how his silence is perceived, or does he understand but chooses to be silent anyway?
by Scipio the elder August 5 at 2:42 PM

Don’t think he cares about how his silence is perceived.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:42 PM

How come my jersey isn’t being sold in the online team store yet!!!!???
by L.Joyner20 August 5 at 2:43 PM

Don’t have an answer for you Lamarcus. Maybe you should check with the marketing department.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:44 PM

Who do you think will be the starting line up in the defensive backfield?
by AzRamsFan August 5 at 2:44 PM

Jenkins and Johnson at cornerback; Joyner at nickel back; McDonald at strong safety; McLeod at free safety.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:45 PM

Any word on the following free agents are performing in Camp: Austin Franklin WR and Tre Watts RB Tulsa?
by CaliSteve August 5 at 2:45 PM

Franklin has been OK from what I have noticed. But again, there are 90 players out there so I haven’t watched him a lot. He’s in a group behind the top 6 WRs that includes Justin Veltung and T.J. Moe. I liked what I saw from Watts early in camp, but he’s been banged up and hasn’t practiced in a few days.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:48 PM

I thought that picks were illegal yet we saw them occur in many games without a flag flying, even in the playoffs. Has something changed?
by Bashful August 5 at 2:48 PM

They still are illegal; I just think the officiating crews miss them from time to time.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:48 PM

JT-will you be at the dome for the game on Friday or sledging burgers and brews at Garveys?
by DannyO’Neil August 5 at 2:49 PM

No Garvey’s on Friday, Danny boy. Do you still get down there from time to time?
by jthomas August 5 at 2:49 PM

Is Harvey Dahl still an option?
by Mike August 5 at 2:49 PM

Fisher told me at the start of camp that the door was still open for a Dahl return, but he underwent pretty major hip surgery in the offseason. I don’t know if he’s ready, or even if he still wants to play.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:50 PM

First cuts are when? Is it too soon to expect any surprises?
by Steve August 5 at 2:50 PM

First cuts (to 75 players) aren’t until Aug. 26. There is always a surprise or two.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:53 PM

Are any of the RAM preseason games nationally televised?
by L. Clanton August 5 at 2:54 PM

Nope
by jthomas August 5 at 2:54 PM

How has Marcus Roberson been doing? I thought he should’ve been drafted and is a steal for the Rams.
by tim August 5 at 2:54 PM

Hasn’t really flashed in my eyes.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:54 PM

I read that Michael Brockers didn’t participate in the last practice. Any insight as to why?
by Blake August 5 at 2:54 PM

He turned an ankle during the Saturday FanFest scrimmage at the dome, and was in a walking boot after the game. But not a major injury.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:56 PM

are there any better “players” coaches than fisher, if so who? Seems like everyone on the team loves him. And is there any great coaches out there that players just hate?
by eman August 5 at 2:56 PM

There are plenty of players’ coaches in the league, but I do believe Fisher has to be in the top group. He is proactive when it comes to injuries. He has a good sense for when players are dragging. He has toughness but yet has kind of a laid-back personality that players respond to.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:58 PM

Is Aaron Donald starting Week 1, do you think?
by bneverett August 5 at 2:58 PM

No. He’s in the rotation with Brockers and Langford the starters, and will see plenty of action in passing situations.
by jthomas August 5 at 2:59 PM

Jim, do you know when the next full pad practice is? Is this information posted online anywhere?
by Donnie August 5 at 2:59 PM

Info not posted on-line anywhere to my knowledge. I think the next one is Wednesday’s special teams practice which is closed to the public.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:03 PM

Care to project which QBs play which quarters Friday?
by tom August 5 at 3:04 PM

Hill starts, followed by Gilbert and Davis. That’s my guess.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:05 PM

Have you heard how long will most starters play on Friday?
by Gladdy August 5 at 3:05 PM

Fisher hasn’t spoke on it, but I think we’re talking maybe a couple of series for the starters. And of course, players such as Jake Long and Williams Hayes (both coming back from surgeries) won’t play. Neither will nicked up players such as Laurinaitis, Brockers, Saffold, Jenkins.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:07 PM

Look down the road in the Jim crystal ball and tell us one surprise cut the Rams will make ?
by BigRams August 5 at 3:07 PM

The crystal ball is out of order at this time.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:07 PM

How can we view the game this Friday? NFL Network?
by DannyO’Neil August 5 at 3:08 PM

Fox 2 I believe.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:08 PM

How do teams practice their “real” schemes on offense and defense? We know that most teams play vanilla during the pre season. Are additions made to the playbook after the final cut so that schemes are not revealed?
by Bashful August 5 at 3:08 PM

They practice them every day. The installation is ongoing during training camp.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:09 PM

The Rams have a great legacy of wide receivers despite the recent dry spell. Any reason the teams hasn’t called more of alumni to come in and help coach-up the WR’s for a few weeks? Heck, bring Mad Mike in for a few weeks as a consultant if need be.
by Guy Munsch August 5 at 3:09 PM

Both Bruce and Holt were here during training camp in 2013. Holt will be at camp some this year.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:09 PM

I know that no one wants to talk about the Rams 7th round pick, but how is Mitchell Van Dyk doing?
by LaughingLion August 5 at 3:10 PM

Just kidding LaughingLion. As I mentioned earlier in the chat, I think he’s a practice squad guy. I think he needs more strength and bulk. But he doesn’t seem overwhelmed.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:11 PM

If Aaron Donald is so explosive and has already shown that he can blow up running plays vs. NFL linemen, why wouldn’t he be in there on first downs to create a second-and-12? Wouldn’t that fit Williams’ D even better?
by Contrarian August 5 at 3:11 PM

Very few d-linemen play every down anymore. And Donald might not hold up to the pounding if he was in on run downs all the time. Plus, why not have him on the field doing what he does best _ rush the passer.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:12 PM

What do you think the 2 or 3 things that Bradford needs to do improve his QB play?
by J Carroll August 5 at 3:12 PM

1.) Stay healthy. 2.) Stay healthy. 3.) Get the ball out quick.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:13 PM

What % chance do you see the Rams making the play offs?
by felix August 5 at 3:13 PM

I’ll say 38%
by jthomas August 5 at 3:13 PM

I thought Chris Givens was really going to bounce back this year. I heard he was much healthier than last year and had sought after help from a professional. Disappointing to see him so far down on the depth chart. Seems like he’s still regressing in the coaches eyes.
by Blake August 5 at 3:13 PM

Interesting thoughts. It’s not like Givens has been terrible or anything in camp. I just think the others have just played that much better.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:13 PM

Is Brian Quick coming along?
by felix August 5 at 3:14 PM

He’s had a great camp so far, but has missed the last few practices with an abdominal issues.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:14 PM

and any hated coaches?
by eman August 5 at 3:14 PM

Sorry, forgot about your last part of the question. Let’s see, Tom Coughlin is a hard driver. Belichick, of course. Greg Schiano didn’t seem to be a favorite of his guys. Then again, there was a time (’97 and ’98) when some fellow named Vermeil wasn’t too popular with the Rams.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:16 PM

Jim – While there’s no way to know for sure, how differently do you think the Rams-Patriots Super Bowl would have turned out if the officials would have called illegal contact on the NE d-backs as the rule is written?
by McGarrett August 5 at 3:16 PM

No doubt in my mind _ Rams win.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:16 PM

Jim – Do you think camp will remain in St. Louis indefinitely? I’d guess the players/coaches prefer staying here to Macomb. I do miss the stories counting how many players getting tickets driving back from camp.
by McGarrett August 5 at 3:17 PM

As long as Jeff Fisher is here. I don’t think Fisher’s ever had a camp out of his home city, dating back to his time in Tennessee.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:18 PM

Gilberth or Davis?
by felix August 5 at 3:21 PM

Right now. On today, Aug. 5, 2014. . . .Gilbert
by jthomas August 5 at 3:21 PM

I thought Barrett Jones would have surpassed Tim Barnes at Center on the depth chart by now. Any idea why he hasn’t yet?
by Blake August 5 at 3:21 PM

Well, right now Jones is hurt. They were pretty even before that, alternating time with the starting offensive line while Wells was hurt.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:22 PM

I’m thinking the Rams are 3-0 at the BYE in the 4th week…agree? Schedule gets Brutal after that…
by L Clanton August 5 at 3:22 PM

A quick start is a necessity. They’ve got to take care of Minnesota and Dallas at home. Tampa Bay will be tough. Have a lot of respect for Lovie Smith as a coach. And it likely will be 90 degrees at kickoff in Tampa on Sept. 15. Rams conditioning and toughness will be put to the test.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:24 PM

What are the chances the Rams have a new OC next year?
by Blake August 5 at 3:24 PM

That, I can’t predict. I do not sense he’s on any kind of hot seat here at Rams Park. (Sorry Schotty haters.)
by jthomas August 5 at 3:25 PM

Am nervous about Bradford. Am nervous/delusional about Rams making the playoffs this year. But, the defense, greatness is possible… could it be one they talk about and compare to the ’85 Bears defense?
by Guy Munsch August 5 at 3:25 PM

Whoa! The ’85 Bears? Let’s all take a deep breath.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:26 PM

Have heard very little about TJMoe…..is he getting many reps…..figure he is a long shot…but local flavor would be good!
by SPOT August 5 at 3:26 PM

Talked about him earlier in the chat. Local flavor is good, but it’s not going to be easy to crack the top five or six. Practice squad a more realistic possibility.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:27 PM

What % of total carries do you see Stacy finishing the season with? Will Mason/Cunningham cut into his workload significantly?
by CRitz August 5 at 3:27 PM

Hard to predict. You have to think as the season goes on and Mason gets settled in he would see more action. At the NFL owners meetings in March, Fisher called Stacy a “70 percent” back, meaning he would get 70 percent of the touches. But that was before he drafted Mason.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:28 PM

Since SB was injured on a scramble last year doe sit look like he’ll stay in the pocket even more this year?
by Steve August 5 at 3:28 PM

He said Saturday after the FanFest practice that he won’t cut down on his scrambles, that it’s part of playing QB. He said he’ll be more likely to slide _ i.e. get down _ however.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:29 PM

With so few spots open on the 53, will the coaches look more at practice or game film to fill the few remaining spots? Thanks
by Paul August 5 at 3:29 PM

It’s all part of the equation. Obviously, you’d think want happens in games would have a greater bearing in the evaluation process.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:30 PM

Did Mr. Williams go into the HOF as a Ram or Cardinal ?
by Alaskan Fan August 5 at 3:30 PM

That’s not how it works in the NFL. You just go into the Hall as a player.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:31 PM

I believe the Rams first two preseason games are both nationally televised live on NFL Network.
by Mark August 5 at 3:31 PM

Haven’t heard that. And neither has Rams PR dept.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:31 PM

Do Kurt Warner and Orlando Pace have a bust in Canton by this time next year?
by Blake August 5 at 3:31 PM

I think they both have a very good chance to do so.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:31 PM

What NFC West O line does the Rams D line have the most of an advantage against?
by CRitz August 5 at 3:31 PM

In the past couple of years, it’s always been Arizona, but the Cardinals appear to have shored up their line a bit this offseason.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:32 PM

Has Ray Ray Armstrong developed something of a reputation as a “dirty” player? Watching him last year, it looked like he was doing his best to annoy/agitate opponents.
by flagthrower August 5 at 3:32 PM

I’m sure that’s the case among special teamers. He does not play nice.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:33 PM

I’ve been hearing the years that Brian Quick is having a great or outstanding practice but don’t see it on game day. Is he a great practice player and can’t do it on gameday?
by tom August 5 at 3:33 PM

You’re right on, Tom. He’s got to show he can do it on game day.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:33 PM

Is Greg Robinson picking up the offense better? Heard his head was spinning in OTAs.
by Gladdy August 5 at 3:33 PM

Yes.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:33 PM

What is the team’s biggest weakness: O-Line or Defensive back?
by Gladdy August 5 at 3:33 PM

I’d say d-back.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:33 PM

Pats did the exact same thing to the Colts the following year. Grab, grab, grab. Did Martz/players ever chew out the officials during that super bowl?
by JB August 5 at 3:34 PM

I’m sure Martz did. Remember, a couple of years after that game, illegal conduct was made a point of emphasis. It did seem to be called more often for a year or two, and then kind of tailed off.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:35 PM

Any idea yet on where the rams may be looking for help after other teams begin cuts? Thanks
by Paul August 5 at 3:35 PM

Well, it depends on who gets cut.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:35 PM

How often will we see Quick, Britt and Cook on the field at the same time?
by flagthrower August 5 at 3:35 PM

They’ve used that Big formation in camp a fair amount, even in two TE sets with Kendricks out there as well so we’ll see.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:36 PM

Not related to the Rams but have you seen the 49ers new stadium? NICE! If the Rams went with an outdoor stadium one day I’d like something similar, as much as I’d hate to copy the 49ers. I think I read 2/3 or the seats were lower level.
by klent August 5 at 3:36 PM

Interesting. I’ve seen a few photos here and there of the SF stadium. And it does look very nice.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:37 PM

How has Westbrooks looked since coming back from his injury? Any UDFA standing out
by jack August 5 at 3:37 PM

He’s looked very quick. Right now I’d say Westbrooks and TE Alex Bayer are the best looking rookie free agents.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:37 PM

Are there any improvements to The Ed for the coming season? I know they say the turf at the stadium is fast but is it loved or hated by the players?
by Guy Munsch August 5 at 3:37 PM

I know they’ve improved the sound system. I think the players are OK with the turf.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:38 PM

Why Laurenaitis doesn’t seem to get any recognition in the media?
by felix August 5 at 3:38 PM

He’s well-respected by most of the local media.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:39 PM

Chances Kenny Britt has 1000 yards?
by CRitz August 5 at 3:39 PM

20%
by jthomas August 5 at 3:39 PM

38%? That’s a bit optimistic. I can’t come up with a scenario where it’s higher than 36%.
by LaughingLion August 5 at 3:39 PM

OK, let’s split the difference and go 37%
by jthomas August 5 at 3:39 PM

Is 10 wins realistic?
by Frycook August 5 at 3:39 PM

On a scale of possible to realistic, I’d lean more towards possible.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:40 PM

Ok…Let me take you off the spot and re-phrase my question……who are the candidates to be the 3rd TE behind Cook and Kendricks?
by Knux August 5 at 3:43 PM

Cory Harkey is the third tight end. If you’re talking about fourth tight end, it’s Bayer or Justice Cunning ham.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:44 PM

In straight line speed, in Givens faster than Austin?
by CRitz August 5 at 3:44 PM

Austin.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:44 PM

Who is the fastest player on the Rams defense?
by Tommy M August 5 at 3:44 PM

Might be McGee.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:44 PM

Ive read a lot about Saffold and Robinson working at LT, but are they working at RT too? Thanks
by Paul August 5 at 3:44 PM

No on Saffold, no on Robinson.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:45 PM

Has Mason shown the speed to break long runs during camp so far?
by Marv August 5 at 3:45 PM

Pretty much.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:46 PM

Rams always get bumped in mid-MO when the Chiefs are playing an NFC team at the same time. Do I have to worry bout that much this season?
by John August 5 at 3:46 PM

Probably depends on the record of each team.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:46 PM

How has Christian Bryant and Matt Daniels looked coming back from injuries, chances either make team?
by jack August 5 at 3:46 PM

Bryant has been back only for one practice. Daniels has looked pretty good. Some big hits. As always, with him it’s a matter of staying healthy.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:47 PM

What can we expect from Gregg Williams’ defense in the first couple of games? Generic or will he be working his regular playbook stuff
by Ron H August 5 at 3:47 PM

Obviously game plans are opponent-specific but I don’t think Williams is the type to hold anything back.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:48 PM

When he was with the Rams, did you see Cogs pull any of that crap he pulled in Miami? Is his NFL career over?
by bass August 5 at 3:49 PM

For the most part, Richie Incognito behaved himself in the locker room and on the practice field while in St. Louis. He was new in his career and the Rams had veterans that kept him in line.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:50 PM

If Clemens got the Rams to 7 wins last year, don’t you think Bradford might have gotten them to 9-7?
by Karl John August 5 at 3:52 PM

Yes, I think the Rams win at home against Seattle and Tennessee (games 8 &9) if Sam’s around.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:54 PM

Much has been said and written locally about this being the year the Rams have to succeed yet you don’t think they have much of a chance to make the playoffs. If they fulfill your prophesy, are the Rams looking for another head coach next year?
by Bashful August 5 at 3:54 PM

I think only a collapse _ say 4 or 5 wins _ would do that.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:55 PM

When the 2014 schedule came out, I couldn’t help but notice that the Seattle Seahawks will once again have the last game of the season at home. In fact, since 2009, the Seattle has only ended one season on the road (2011, Arizona). Because the final game of the season always means something to the playoff picture, doesn’t this give the Seahawks a competitive advantage — especially considering their “12th man”? Why hasn’t other teams pointed out this scheduling disparity? (If it is one)
by sciipo August 5 at 3:55 PM

Sorry, I meant to get to this earlier. Yeah, it’s a strange quirk. But I don’t really think it means much in the big picture. You get 8 home games and 8 road games. If Seattle played that 8th home game a week or two earlier, it might mean that the Seahawks would’ve already clinched a playoff berth, the division, home field advantage, etc., a week or two earlier.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:58 PM

Just go on if this has been asked I’ll look. We keep hearing about SB’s arm strength is much better, is it very noticeable?
by Don August 5 at 3:58 PM

Yeah, I think it’s pretty noticeable. That was especially the case Saturday at the dome.
by jthomas August 5 at 3:59 PM

As an avid fly-fisher, I was curious what town is nearest to Fisher’s Montana home?
by Contrarian August 5 at 4:00 PM

Don’t know what town, but I don’t think he’s too far from Yellowstone.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:00 PM

who is your favorite rams interview ever, and why?
by brent August 5 at 4:00 PM

Lots to chose from over the years. But I still have to go with D’Marco Farr. He was like a buffet line of quotes. If you wanted humor, he had it. Perspective/insight _ ditto. Matchup questions _ yes. Non-football stuff _ certainly.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:02 PM

I’ve been a rams diehard since great 60s teams then 70s then greatest show on tuff I feel fish is pointing us to something special! Do you get that sence?
by patrick August 5 at 4:02 PM

There is a different vibe and feel to camp this year. What that leads to I can’t say. And a couple of injuries at the wrong position, and the good vibes could change. I’ll say it again _ Fisher seems to like this club.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:03 PM

Jim , Thanks for the chat. I would just like to say that it is refreshing to have a writer on these chats that is not arrogant, pompous, and thinks he knows it all. Usually any questions I asked get answered with a smart aleck comeback. As far as a question. Who do you predict will be the backup QB’s who make the final roster.
by Michael hickenbottom August 5 at 4:03 PM

I think the Rams keep 3 QBs this year, and that’s it’s Hill and Gilbert behind Bradford.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:04 PM

Is Fisher on a 5 year contract? Don’t coaches usually get an extension in the 4th year if they are staying? If the Rams max out at 8-8 this year and the Rams haven’t had a winning season in 3 years what do they do with Fisher? Re-up or wait to see what happens in the 4th year?
by Guy Munsch August 5 at 4:06 PM

Five-year deal, so too early for extension.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:06 PM

Mason or Cunningham?
by PS August 5 at 4:07 PM

They’ll both make the final 53. As to who’s the No. 2 RB behind Stacy, I’d kind of think Mason by pedigree, but I like Cunningham a lot.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:08 PM

I believe it was a wasted opportunity not drafting that big 320 lb. center (I think SF grabbed him). We may waste the advantage of having two huge, pro bowl caliber talents because we’re weak in the very middle. Wells won’t stay healthy, Barnes was adequate at best, and I’m hugely disappointed that after a year of strength training, I haven’t heard anything impressive at camp regarding Jones. I was hoping, post-red shirt year, he could step in and be a dynamite center right away. I think the center position could be an ultimate weakness for our line. Your thoughts?
by TxRam August 5 at 4:08 PM

This certainly is a make-or-break kind of year for Wells. Jones has been out for a few days now. Before that he was alternating with Barnes while Wells was out early in camp. If Wells is on the field the position will be fine.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:10 PM

How has Greg Robinson looks at guard?
by HammyRammy August 5 at 4:10 PM

Pretty good. Powerful run blocker _ as advertised. I think he’s getting better on pass blocking.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:10 PM

Hi Jim, is this the best O-line you have seen in a few years? At the least best depth?
by Mike L August 5 at 4:10 PM

It has the potential to be just that. But we all know the big IF _ if Long, Wells, and Saffold can stay healthy.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:11 PM

How’s Robinson looking so far? Will he be a starter on opening day?
by ram77 August 5 at 4:11 PM

Looking pretty good and will be the starting left guard.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:11 PM

A comment more than a question. Pat Bowlen just had to step down from running the Broncos (though he still owns them) due to health issues. It is stunning to see how revered he is in Denver. SK is holding the cards in the stadium issue but he is playing them wrong. He has a fan base just dying to support him and keep the team in St. Louis but he can’t get out of his business man mode. He should be playing the contract and the public against the government.
by Steve August 5 at 4:12 PM

Don’t think Kroenke is interested in popularity contests.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:12 PM

Jim, Putting all bias aside (if possible), how do you think the general managers would view Bradford if he were on San Fran/Seattle with their OL/skill players/dominant D and how would they judge Wilson/Kapernick if they were on the Rams the last couple of years with our OL/skill players playing from behind most of the time. Also assume they are healthy (which has been a concern for Sam in the past). Thanks.
by Bull August 5 at 4:13 PM

Always good to hear from you Bull. I can’t really speak for the other GMs in the league. But I think teams respect Bradford’s arm strength and potential. (I know, when does potential get realized?) Remember, it was Mike Shanahan who helped talk Jeff Fisher into taking the St. Louis job over Miami because of Bradford. I’m sure some GMs might wonder why hasn’t Bradford clicked yet for the Rams. With Wilson and Kaepernick, you have to respect their improvisational skills and their running ability. I’m still not convinced about them as passers. If you had to depend on their passing ability to win a game _ say a game where they had to throw it 35-40 times, could they do it?
by jthomas August 5 at 4:18 PM

I’ve heard a lot of good things about Travis Bond. any thoughts on him!
by Dave Fan Since 1951 August 5 at 4:18 PM

He’s certainly a wide-body. Some run-blocking skill. Not sure about him as a pass blocker.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:18 PM

During the Fisher Era Seattle is 15-1 at home, SF is 12-3-1 at home, and last year Arizona was 6-2 at home. In that same time frame the Rams are 9-7 at home. Based on how badly they got outplayed on the road vs all three NFC West opponents last year, how important is it that the Rams take control of their home field if they are going to make a push for the playoffs?
by Tackleberry August 5 at 4:19 PM

Extremely important. The Rams showed signs a year ago, going 5-3 at home, and winning their last three of the season in the dome. I think it will take at least 6-2 at home to be a serious playoff contender in 2014.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:20 PM

Jim- What a difference three years makes! Three years ago, we were all wondering whose practice squads we could raid to help our roster. Now, were all worried about good football players being raided off our squad…! Staying on the practice squad theme, all things being equal between the two, do the Rams put Westbrooks or Sam on the P.S. while the other is on the 53-man roster? Would we definitely loose Westbrooks, while no one would claim Sam because of perceived “distractions”? What are you hearing at Rams Park? Thanks
by Contrarian August 5 at 4:20 PM

The preseason is all-important in determining that. If Westbrooks plays in games like he has during his first couple of practices, it will be tough to stash him on the practice squad. And yes, I think the “distraction” factor might make it tougher for Sam to land on a practice squad.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:22 PM

is Pead finally going to be dealt for a second round pick to Giants -they need a back and i wany a Matt Mulligan for that wasted pick!
by bigba August 5 at 4:24 PM

If that happens, he won’t fetch a second-rounder.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:24 PM

Are Sammy Brown and Michael Sam battling for the last DE spot? Could they both make it? Who is having a better camp between the two?
by which sam August 5 at 4:24 PM

Brown has been injured most of camp. He gets injured a lot in camp over the years. I’d put Sam ahead of him at this point.
by jthomas August 5 at 4:25 PM

How is JL 55’s injury?
by AzRamsFan August 5 at 4:26 PM

Tons of question today. Thanks for your interest. Until next Tuesday. . . .
by jthomas August 5 at 4:27 PM