GeezerRam

Draft picks and Free agents

2011-01-25T17:03:00.000-08:00

Time for Billy DeVaney and staff to hunker down and pick some winners from the college draft and free agent lists.

I sincerely hope they are as successful as Spags and the coaches have been at getting the mazimum out of the players once they have been selected and are on the squad.

The next couple of years can be very pivotal in continuing the turnaround of the Rams into an contending team.

Offense

2011-01-10T09:56:00.000-08:00

I think the 2010 seaon was an overall positive because there was progress made towards restoring the Rams to a contender.

The organization is aiming at getting the team to that status and keeping it there over the long haul. One area still needing work is the offense in that they still need playmaker wide receivers and a solid backup for Steven Jackson. Along with that, I think they need to loosen up the playcalling and make it a more wide open offense.

The Rams are on their way, and they have an owner who cares passionately about how the team and players are performing

Overall Success

2011-01-04T05:14:00.000-08:00

Looking back on the 2010 season, I think we can measure it as a very successful campaign. The team came a long way in improving their offense. That improvement absolutely needs to continue, mainly to sustain that offensive push throughout the second half right down to the last play of the game.

The defense has been ahead of the offense under Spagnuolo, and at least partly, that may because his background is in defense.

I do think Shurmur needs to get more daring on his playcalling, and that in effect applies to Spagnuolo also, as I suspect he has a hand in the coservative play calls. That needs to be fixed, and if Shurmur wont do it, hire someone who will get it done!

Loosen up on offense

2010-12-27T16:04:00.000-08:00

Add me to the list of people wanting the offense to be more aggressive throughout the game! I think we could easily have 3-4 more wins this year if this philosophy had been in place.

The Rams get out to a lead in the first half and then go conservative in the second half, which allows the opponent back into the game.

I do realize we would not have had these first half leads last seaon, so my wish is tempered by thanks for the progress which has been shown.

Another important step

2010-11-29T16:33:00.000-08:00

The Rams took another important step on 11/28 when they held on to that lead late in the second half on the road at Denver. It may not have been a real pretty win, but it still counts every bit as much in the standings as if it had been a Rams rout.

The team just continues to show growth and maturation as a team each week. Over time there will be new free agents and draft picks to blend in with the team, and unfortunately some of our present players may be traded or choose to move on to other teams, but I am feeling confident we finally have an organization ALL on the same page from the owner right on down to the last staff member.

This is a BIG improvement and hasnt been consistently true of the Rams since Carroll Rosenbloom drowned. Good times for the Rams and their fans are around the corner, folks, hang on and enjoy the ride!

Falcon game

2010-11-23T16:29:00.000-08:00

This was another game that I would have written off as a loss ahead of time. The Falcons showed why they are counted among the top teams in the NFL last Sunday, and the Rams showed once again that they are much improved, but still have a distance to go.

Overall they stayed in the game with an excellent Falcons team well into the game. Patience is something which has been sorely tested for Rams fans the last several years, and that continues this season, with one large difference. That difference is that we can see large improvement over last years team each week(except for the Detroit game), and I believe that improvement will continue.

Those calling for DeVaney and or Spagnuolo to be fired just arent thinking - that would mean starting over and last season and this would be an utter waste. If we are patient, I think we will continue to see improvement each year, and I honestly think we may be playoff contenders next season or 2012, and that team nucleus will hold together for a number of seasons.

Another tough Loss!

2010-11-15T13:27:00.000-08:00

Another tough road loss for the Rams this week, and it was also another game I feel they should have won.

I just have to keep reminding myself of the 'pits' this team has been in, and how far they have already come.

They will claw and fight every week, and that hasnt always been true, even in some games in the "Greatest Show" years.

We are on the right track, and I think if Stan Kroenke is patient, he will see a first rate team and organization emerge from the rubble of the past several years, and it will be a permanent improvement.

The reasons for the errors of the past are no longer in the organization making personnel decisions, and DeVaney and Spagnuolo are very good at their jobs and will get it done.

Rams - Panthers game

2010-11-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

Went to the Rams win against the Panthers yesterday and it was a good day. Saw Isaac Bruce be honored before the game with his #80 jersey retired - they did a nice job with that ceremony.

This offense now being used by the Rams will make those of us who remember the 'Greatest Show on Turf' teams get very impatient. I think that 'dink and dunk' would be an accurate description of the strategy. Some of that is dictated by the personnel available, particularly wide receivers.

This is a tough scrappy team who, in some cases, may not have the talent their opposition has, but their heart and desire pushes their effort to an overachieving level. The Rams are definitely on the road back to respectability and long-term competitveness.

Chris Long

2010-10-26T08:30:00.000-07:00

It seems to me that Chris Long is really progressing as a difference maker on the defense this year. I think we tend to forget how difficult it is to come into the NFL and make an immediate impact.

Some exceptional players look like all stars right out of college, but I think the majority take some time to really get their bearings in this highly competitive league.

I think Chris will continue to improve especially considering his reputation as one of the hardest workers you'll ever find.

Step Up

2010-10-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

What a discouraging game that was against Detroit! I am hoping that getting their rear end kicked in all phases helps the players take their effort to another level for the rest of the year. Nearly every team has that kind of game once in a while, their character will determine whether they bounce back. I believe our Rams will, the spunk shown by this group of players thus far has been impressive, I think .

Competitive Rams

2010-10-04T05:13:00.000-07:00

The Rams are on their way back to being a competitive team, and the future looks very bright. I am especially optimistic because of the new makeup of the team from the owner on down to the players.

Georgia, God rest her soul, was an aloof and disinterested owner who let unqualified people make football personnel decisions which dogged the franchise much of the nearly 20 years she was the owner.

That was then, and we now thankfully have a fully energized owner who cares very much about the team, and there is also a very competent front office and coaching staff who knows their duties.

I am as impressed with Kevin Demoff as I am with Billy Devaney and Spags!

Go RAMS!

That was fun

2010-09-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

That was the most enjoyable afternoon of Rams football I have experienced in a LONG time. Just an overall good performance by a feisty improving team who refuse to give up or give in! It may be another year or even 2 before they turn the corner into an above .500 team but I feel they are definitely on their way to doing just that. The ownership situation, the front office, the coaching staff, and the players are all pulling in the same direction, a positive direction, and I daresay things are looking better for the long term than they have since Carroll Rosenbloom's untimely death

Help!

2010-09-21T09:40:00.000-07:00

Another week, another game the Rams could have won.. It does seem that our coaches/players are not adjusting their game plan after the other team makes adjustments, and also the opponents are taking advantage of our lack of a deep threat wide receiver.

We are in games but need to find a way to push the effort over the top and into a win. I dont have any ready answers, if I did I would be trying to get on an NFL coaching staff.

I do think Pat Shurmur has the burden on him at this point, we need to be finding creative ways to counter the defensive strategy of loading the line of scrimmage with personnel and stopping Steven Jackson. So far any such strategy has failed with a resounding 'THUD'

Cause for Optimism

2010-09-13T05:18:00.000-07:00

Rams lost a game yesterday they very well could and should have won. I still feel very optimistic about the team. They scrapped, fought and clawed every minute and I do see much more hope in their team effort. The fight in them carries over from last year, and it combines with more talent.

The ad nauseum criticism and wailing on message boards because they lost adds to my disgust with some fellow fans. Folks, we need to be PATIENT. It took a long time for the talent pool on this team to get as depleted as it was, and it is going to take time to build it back up! If you arent ready to face that, you are going to be very unhappy.

Perspective

2010-09-03T05:26:00.000-07:00

As we reflect on a very good preseason for our Rams, folks, and mutter as every 'expert' totally discounts all of it as 'just preseason', lets all remember just how DREADFUL that 'just preseason' period had been for several preceding years!

They do look SO MUCH BETTER. And yes,it is only preseason, but it has given us all much more hope than we have had in a long time for a decent regular season!

GO RAMS!

Stan Kroenke

2010-08-27T13:35:00.000-07:00

I think good times are ahead with our new owner on board. He is a person with deep pockets who cares about the performance of the team, but is wise enough to place people with expertise in the critical jobs rather than pull a Dan/Snyder/Jerry Jones act and meddle in day to day team operations.

I am sure the GM and coach will be apprised of his general wishes in a particular situation, but he will leave the details to the people best suited to carry them out.

He was on hand for the game in Foxborough, and I am sure it was a pleasant evening for him, as it was for all Rams fans!

Same old Same Old

2010-08-15T13:16:00.000-07:00

Well, now, our first peek at the 2010 Rams was a bit underwhelming. I sure hope things are looking better by the opener against Arizona! We keep hearing 'its just preseason' with 'vanilla packages', but I think all of us want to see at least some sign that the team is turning it around, and that was not the case against the Vikings. Have read a number of posters on various message boards berating Shurmur as an OC for some time now and found it tiresome, but its beginning to look as if their rants are not unfounded. LETS GO RAMS!

Patience

2010-08-01T15:42:00.000-07:00

None of us really wants to hear this, but I really think we and all Rams fans need to be patient with the current rebuilding process going on with the team. Because there was such futility the last few years of the previous front office, its particlarly hard to be patient.

We are seeing good young talent coming to the team through the draft and there are some veteran pickups to mentor those young players along with playing their respective positions.

Hearing posters on other boards already wanting to throw Devaney and Spags out and start over mystifies me. This is a major undertaking for which changing staffs would just reset the process to square #1 and thus require an even longer time frame.

Bradford and Saffold will help to improve the entire team, but there is still a long way to go, in my opinion.

Rams Front Office

2010-07-12T09:28:00.000-07:00

I had contact with Rams ticket sales since the last newsletter, and am quite encouraged by it. I have attended 1 Rams home game each season since the 1996 season, and there was 1 year I attended 2 games. I received a phone call recently acknowledging my previous game attendance and was asked for input on how that experience was, and whether I planned to continue going to games. I advised them I did plan to continue going to games and encouraged their effort to reach out to the fans, telling them I thought it was exactly the right thing to do. I was given a short 'promo' for season tickets which I declined, but it was really not pushy, and I was not shunted aside when I said no. Folks, I think all phases of our teams operation are in excellent hands, my only regret is that it had to fall to such depths as it did before this transformation took effect. GO RAMS!

Ownership needs to be settled

2010-06-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

It is critical, I think, that the Rams ownership situation be settled as soon as possible. The front office and coaching staff are manned by knowledgeable and capable people and the ownership needs to be set in place so the entire organization is 'set' and are on the 'same page' to address the future of the team. Either Kroenke or Khan seem to be very highly qualified people with extraordinary resources and would be excellent 'hands on' owners with high interest in the teams success. Kudos to the Rams and the 49ers for allowing the trade of Reverend Ike back where he truly belongs for his retirement. Classy move by both organizations to accomplish this!

False Start

2010-05-12T08:01:00.000-07:00

It seems to me that Stan Kroenke, the NFL owners, and the 'limbo' of the Rams ownership are as guilty of a 'false start' as Alex Barron, the king of the 'false start' art!

I was willing to give Kroenke the benefit of the doubt until I hear that he is wanting the NFL to approve his wife as the Rams owner in name to get around the 'cross ownership' dilemma.

Stan has right of first refusal and no one else! If the NFL approves this, its a sham that is a slap right across the face of Shahid Khan.

If that is Stan's position, the NFL should deny him and accept the bid offer of Mr Khan to be the teams owner, period! Acceptance of Kroenke under these conditions stinks of prejudice, in my opinion, and is an affront to a well qualified man in Mr Khan.

2010 Draft

2010-04-25T06:03:00.000-07:00

The big day has come and gone and we have our franchise QB and other new players selected. Now comes the process of signing them to contracts and seeing what level of talent we have. I really think the next few months is a chance to see how well our scouts and personnel gurus are doing their jobs. No one other than Sam Bradford is a name that knocks anyone's socks off, but I know those people making recommendations on the picks have put alot of effort into making their judgement calls and we will see the results in the coming months. I do feel confident that the Rams organization is a dedicated professional group wanting to put the best team on the field and that they have the expertise and knowledge to get it done.

#1 Pick

2010-03-30T16:38:00.001-07:00

I am hearing alot about Sam Bradford these days with the prevailing opinion seeming to be the Rams should pick him rather than Mr Suh from Nebraska. We are very fortunate to have a football professional actually being responsible for making the pick - I say that because I know I would be wavering like a very small tree limb in a howling wind between the 2 were it me making the decision. Valid arguments can be made for both young men, and we will be getting a very good person along with a very talented football player in either case. Good luck and best wishes to Billy as he researches about the possible draft picks and brainstorms with Spags, the staff, and the scouts.

Owner Approval Process

2010-03-15T16:35:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a deliberate slow response to the proposed sale of the Rams to Shahid Khan, in my opinion. It may well serve the process well to move slowly and carefully through it, but it sure is aggravating to me as an interested fan. I would like to know whether or not he is being viewed favorably by the owners, or at least have a hint here and there on his status. I certainly hope he is approved and we begin a new era with a committed and professional staff throughout the organization.

Shahid Khan

2010-03-01T16:34:00.000-08:00

Assuming Mr Khan 'passes muster' and is approved by the NFL as the Rams owner, I think we can look forward to very good times for the organization in the future. He is a avid fan of the team and will be an owner who takes a direct interest in the team. I dont think he will be an 'interfering owner' like Jerry Jones or Dan Snyder, but he will be very interested and very up-to-date with how the organization is functioning.

Though Chip and Lucia have been exceptional during their ownership of the team, there is a lot of damage to UNDO because of the disinterested ownership of Georgia for oh so many years. I sincerely hope MR Khan is approved, and soon!

"Rumored ' Moves

2010-02-03T04:38:00.000-08:00

I am sick of hearing about "rumored" moves of the Rams. These stories are blatant attempts to sell papers or draw attention to the writer.

Chip Rosenbloom and the organization have been very professional throughout the process, which is more than what can be said for the reporters who keep giving CPR to this "dead horse" of a story every few weeks.

Bleacher report has now entered the round of speculation, but their gossip and ungrounded speculation is no worse than the so-called professional reporters already poking around.

I will be glad when something happens on this front and the story no longer has any fuel.

Important time

2010-01-19T16:17:00.000-08:00

Its time for Billy Devaney to prove himself worthy of the confidence placed in him by Chip and Lucia. WE need to hit on nearly all of our free agent signings and draft picks to start to make a difference in this teams talent level. I feel he is very capable as he has already brought in some unsung players who are at a reasonable if not great talent level. I think he has to do what he thinks is the correct pick, not what sportswriters and fans think he should do. I think that was part of the problem with our lawyer/accountant front office, they were too worried about what others thought, but then again, they had no business being in the position of having say on picks and signings.

Texans/Rams game

2009-12-21T16:30:00.000-08:00

Attended the Rams game yesterday and saw a very good effort by the Rams, which unfortunately fell short once again. I am impressed with the effort these players are giving, and I think it speaks well of their character, and of the leadership of the head coach. Many, many players/teams would be 'mailing it in' at this point in an abysmal season, and there is no sign of such a tendency by the Rams. It really is up to Billy DeVaney and the scouts at this point, to make moves and evaluate talent to help bring talented players on board. I think it will take multiple drafts and scouring of available free agents over the next several years to turn it around. WE have to be able to consistently make correct evaluations of players in the draft and available free agents. The right man is in place to do this successfully, in my opinion

Dejavu all over again

2009-12-08T12:14:00.000-08:00

To quote Yogi, this offense seems like 'dejavu all over again'. I swear I've seen this from a Rams team before.. Jerry Rhome was the OC, Tony Banks was the QB in the earlier version. I recall attending a game between the Rams and Seahawks where the Seahawks got out to a 17-9 lead, and it felt to me like it may as well have been 47-9 because I knew the Rams were incapable of mustering any offense. Only problem with the comparison was that Kurt and Martz proved the very next year that the previous version had alot of talent, and it was a simple case of a poor OC and a poor QB holding it back. I'm afraid the present version of the Rams is a case of talent shortage, which is going to take longer to correct.

Liked what I saw!

2009-11-15T20:37:00.001-08:00

Great effort by the Rams on Sunday! The team is buying into Spags program!

Great heart and scrappiness all over the field today.

Stay the course Ram Fans! With good drafts and Free agent selections to improve by getting more talented scrappy, tough players, this will be fun to watch develop!

GO RAMS!

Kool Aid

2009-10-25T18:19:00.000-07:00

I guess I'm still drinking the Kool Aid folks, but with this season going the way it is, I am still hopeful for the Rams future.

What would make me very angry would be if this team was anywhere near this depth of poor performance, and was NOT making moves to turn the fortunes around. I think they have been doing so, and the recent trade with the Eagles is the latest example of that philosophy being in effect.

We should stay the course through this season and next before anyone starts calling for Spags or Billly to be replaced. The cupboard they inherited is embarrassingly short on talented players and it will take time.

If the team doesn't stay the course it will mean starting the same painful course all over again. Band aids and half-fixes will not do at this point, Rams need major rebuilding.

Hanging tough

2009-10-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

This Rams team has NO QUIT in them. I love the way they hang in there and slug it out! Unfortunately they are short on talent, and the only remedies for that are longer term fixes. I may be accused of drinking the 'kool aid' but I do feel that once talent is connected with the attitude Spags is bringing to the team, we will see a long run of tough, competitive, contending Rams teams!

Laughingstock

2009-10-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

Laughingstock is what the Rams are at present. I don't think its a fair characterization, but until the team starts to win on the field, its going to continue.

Sportswriters and commentators 'pile on' once the ball starts rolling in a fashion that would make Rodney Harrison blush. I was disgusted listening to a couple of schmucks on St Louis radio Sunday evening berated and ridiculed everything about the Rams. Listening to the venom on the airwaves from St Louis at present gives me another reason to appreciate how people like Devaney and Spagnuolo earn a pretty darn good salary!

I wouldn't put up with that load of feces on any job. I still believe these two fellas will get the organization turned around, and am amazed how many media and fans forget how they all were stating the fact that 'this will take a while' when Devaney assumed full authority of personnel decisions, and again when he hired Spags.

Yes the team sucks at present! That is obvious to all of us. The drastic steps which were taken in the offseason were an admission by Chip Rosenbloom that real, permanent, changes needed to be made. The Achilles heels(both of them) are far from or totally removed from the personnel decision 'loop' . It takes time. Its very ugly now, but real, sustained improvement is on the other side of this struggle!

Whew!

2009-10-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, this season is looking mighty grim. Another pitiful day for the offense! i do feel that the team plays tough, particularly the defense, but, as has been said already by many commentators, there are far too many critical mistakes on a team whose talent level will not allow for that. I do have confidence in Spags and Billy, and will stay loyal, of course. This is a herculean task those 2 have committed themselves to, and I think they need fan support now more than they ever have or will again! Go Rams!

Haters

2009-09-27T18:05:00.000-07:00

Looking at the coaches rating poll on ESPN website, I see that Spags is down into the 40 percentile range.

Makes me wonder how stupid and or delusional the Rams fan base is. The harsh rhetoric and bashing seem to be getting stronger on St Louis talk radio also. I could understand this if the organization hadn't taken the extreme steps they have within the organization to turn it around.

If the folks bashing and dissing the team at this point don't like what they see, even though we know its going to be a long process - don't let that door hit you in the butt on your way out the door to whatever winning bandwagon you want to hop onto!

Good Riddance!

Still Upbeat

2009-09-20T14:02:00.000-07:00

Think we have to remain upbeat about our Rams! I see a team with a lot of holes, and I see a team that's bustin' their butts on the field.

Spagnuolo is instilling a work ethic in these players and its working. For the second half against Seattle the Rams were out of it, but still played hard. They fought right down to the end against the Redskins, and while Avery's fumble was so disappointing, lets remember they were in a position to win the game.

Stay the course with these players and these coaches and we will see a long upward line marking their improvement right into a contending team. The talent needs to be improved, and that will take time through free agency and the draft, but I feel happy that a smart, tough pair of people are in charge of the operation and am confident they will be successful!

Accountability

2009-09-14T05:13:00.000-07:00

One of the first things which HAS to be in place for our Rams to turn the team around is Accountability.

I sincerely believe this will be adhered to under Coach Spagnuolo. We saw a stumbling start to the season yesterday, but need to keep remembering he and Billy Devaney inherited this mess and it will take time to straighten it out.

I personally would not relish the thought of facing Coach Spagnoulo if I screwed something up, and I dont think any member of the Rams roster does either.

It all has to start somewhere, and I think the Rams have 2 excellent people in Spags and Devaney in place to in turn put the rest of the team on notice that everyone is accountable to do their job to the best of their ability!

We are ready!

2009-09-05T12:16:00.000-07:00

For sure, we are all ready for some football! I hope Marc Bulger isn't rusty due to his lack of playing time in the new offense. He has put a lot of time in studying it, but nothing can replace game experience. That is my main concern heading into the season.

I think the coaches have prepared the team as well as they can be, and as is always the case, now its up to the players to execute the coaches instructions.

I think the players will be held accountable under coach Spagnuolo, and this is the most important difference under this coach. They know they will have to answer to a demanding person who wont listen to excuses. This has been missing and will make a noticeable difference in team performance.

Go, you Rams!

Samkon Gado

2009-08-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

I'm hoping Samkon Gado makes it through to the regular season roster. Cant help but root for the guy, he's a definite good citizen and a welcome contrast to to the prime time personalities like TO.

On the football field, he's doing well in preseason, well except for that stinker of a second game, when he and the entire team pretty much laid a rotten egg.

I think the more fresh faces(As long as they are talented fresh faces) the better, as everyone tries to clear away the stench of the last two seasons and turn this team around.

I close with another reminder for myself and all Rams fans, that we do need to give Billy DeVaney and Steve Spagnuolo TIME to get the team back on track! Patience has to be the key, and I think as fans, knowing they have shook up the entire organization, makes us more accepting of the fact that it indeed is going to be a gradual process to get the Rams back to a contender.

That's a good start!

2009-08-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

I was very encouraged by the Rams performance against the Jets Friday night. Appeared to me Ryan had the Jets defense doing some very un-preseason like blitzing packages, which caught the Rams offense unprepared. This for the long run is a very good thing which should pay dividends down the road in the regular season. Not sure what Ryans' reason was, though his genes make me suspect it was a 'showboat' move. Whatever the reason, it helped the Rams and likely the Jets to prepare for the regular season far far more than hours on end of practice could have!

I was impressed with the way the entire Rams team just stayed with it and slugged it out the entire game. I think we are in for a pleasant surprise this year! A competitive team which is not playoff caliber, but one vastly improved from the past 2 seasons

Turnout for Scrimmage

2009-08-09T11:56:00.000-07:00

Excellent turnout for a scrimmage was the case Friday August 7. I am hoping thats the first of many more encouraging signs coming from the Rams and their fans this summer and fall. Of course there was no admission fee, but still an overflow crowd for a facility holding 6500 people is a start. It appears the business and football side of the Rams staff is determined to work at restoring excellent commnity and fan relations, and I think fans are ready to give them a chance to turn it around. I do not think the fans would be as agreeable if the team had not basically reworked itself from top to bottom. I was one of the fans wanting Haslett to be hired as head coach, but I now feel it was critical to hire a new coach from outside the organization, and applaud their wisdom in doing that. I think we are in for an interesting year. I think the 2009 Rams will surprise the league and their fans with a much better level of play, and we will be at worst, within shouting distance of a .500 record!

Los Angeles Jaguars?

2009-07-21T14:53:00.000-07:00

Saw an article on a sports website recently speculating about a possible move by the Jaguars from Jacksonville to LA. It was eerily familiar with some of the speculation we hear from some of the local St Louis writers. I think we should all keep in mind that to worry about that possibility at this point is foolish and will not accomplish anything except to give yourself nervous and stomach problems for no good reason. In my opinion, so many steps have to occur in sequence for any move to actually happen, and the earliest date it could possibly occur is so far off that it should not be a concern at all. Lets worry about whether that o-line will be able to protect Bulger, not whether United van lines will be at Rams Park in 2014!

We have hope!

2009-07-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

I might well be drinking the Kool Aid, but I am feeling more confident about this team than I have in a very long time. Especially for the long term, I think the organization is in better shape than it has been since Carrol Rosenbloom died. Good capable people in the GM and Head coach positions should translate to long term improvement and stability, and less distraction from the task of fielding the best team possible year in and year out. Lets watch this good story develop and play out!

Much Angst about nothing!

2009-06-15T18:35:00.000-07:00

The more I think about the 'stir' about the Rams being sold, the more I'm thinking that it's not something for St Louis area people to get all riled up about. We are talking 2014 before there's even a possibility of a new owner moving the team.

There are possibilities of Stan Kroenke or Dave Checketts being the new majority owner, and major concerns for anyone contemplating buying a professional team and moving it. All of these things seem to signal 'Chill, already'. If you are going to start worrying about the move possibility at this point, you may as well ask your doctor for a Nexium prescription now, because you will be working yourself towards an ulcer, and for the remotest of concerns.

The St Louis Post-Dispatch seems for the most part bent on 'stirring' this every so often, though the sportswriters have not really joined in that chorus, but writers trying to stir up taxpayers into looking out for a hand in their pocket looking for big bucks. Its much too far away and far too indefinite to be a concern. Lets just enjoy the revitalization of an organization.

New Ownership

2009-06-01T12:55:00.000-07:00

Since I am within 100 miles of St Louis, the news that Chip and Lucia are putting the team for sale, and that there have been no 'nibbles' from St Louis area people as buyers is a bummer to me.

But I am also realistic and believe we should be thankful the two of them have started this organization down the right path which it has essentially strayed from ever since Steve Rosenbloom was fired.

Nothing but good in the Rams future if the new owners follow the plan setup by Chip, Lucia, and Billy Devaney, whether it be in St Louis or wherever.

One fact in St Louis favor is that I am hard pressed to name an available city with a better facility.. I'd be interested to hear possibilities. LA never has accomplished anything concrete on a new venue that I am aware of??

Welcome Jason

2009-05-07T09:32:00.000-07:00

I may be in a minority, but I am very pleased with our first round draft pick. I think they HAD to address the Oline - no ifs,ors,buts, or maybes about it. Have to wonder whether some of the fan enchantment with Sanchez was with casual fans.Unitas Starr or Marino in their primes couldn't QB a team from flat on their back with a stinky snarling defensive lineman in their face!! There's still alot to fix, and all the picks may not work out, but I truly believe the Rams have a plan for a long term fix, and yes they do have a clue, in fact many clues as to how to implement that plan. Go Rams!

Very quiet on the Ram front

2009-04-13T08:55:00.000-07:00

Seems as though it is really, really quiet right now on Rams news. I am not sure what to think of the signing of Kyle Boller - seems he is another QB who is skittish in the pocket. We need a stout Oline, oh, so very bad , for his and Bulgers sake.

I for one think it is foolish to look anywhere else with the first round pick other than the offensive line. Nowhere else is the need for improvement so desperate. I do agree with the Pace decision, simply because of the state of the rest of the team. I dont feel they can afford to rely on his health at this point, just as well go with a younger player while we are rebuilding and get them some experience.

I just feel confident we will see good sound moves in the free agent market, and on draft day as long as Devaney is making the decisions. I feel better about that process than I have since Georgia threw Steve Rosenbloom out of the organization 25 years ago.

You're Joshing me!

2009-03-17T06:44:00.000-07:00

From a distance, it appears we may need to send a thank you note to the Bronco's organization for hiring Josh McDaniel so quick! All the furor between him and Jay Cutler is troublesome. My first thought was that Cutler is a crybaby wanting attention, but I really hadnt heard anything along those lines about him previously. At the very least, it isn't a good sign for a new coach to get ensnared in a controversy with his marquee QB right off the bat. Seems to be a major shortcoming on the communications side of his method of operation. Kindof sounds like that guy in New England he used to work for....

Tea Leaves Reading

2009-03-03T08:54:00.001-08:00

I'm reading some tea leaves trying to determine whether the new regime at Rams Park is still on the right track. The tea leaves which point to the signing of Jason Brown, tagging OJ Atogwe, and signing Ron Bartell to a multi-year deal seem to indicate a fine future read for our Rams, or at least the beginnings of one. Also the release of Bennett and Trent Green bodes well. Trent is a class act and I wish him well, but his release in particular tells my leaves that Devaney and Spagnuolo are not afraid to make a tough decision if necessary. As for Bennett, he never was going to fit here. I think the original idea on him was that he was a bigger stronger receiver to go with the rabbits, but that bigger stronger receiver was hurt far more than anyone among the WR's.

It will be interesting to watch the FA signing and draft picks as time goes on. There is a plan in place for a change.

Interesting article on Bartell in the Post Dispatch today - he mentioned he had never had direct contact with the previous GM after his signing. Hmmm - not really surprising, I guess, in so many ways, Zygmunt had no business being in the position he was.

Slow time for football news

2009-02-18T15:00:00.000-08:00

Not much news on the football front to write about. I imagine the new coaching staff is hibernating at Rams Park along about now figuring out what their plan will be for free agency and the draft. In ways this comes out like a 2 month poker game, as they and all NFL staffs play their cards real close to the vest until they have pounced and made their move. Free agents signed will give some hints of the direction a team will go in the draft, but there's no guarantees. I am very sure we have a GM who has a detailed plan he will share with the coaching staff and ask for and consider their input before putting the plan in operation for this year, and also in years to come. That simple statement, my friends, is something that could not be said of the Rams organization for a looonngg time. Thank goodness that time has arrived! Cant wait to see them get started!

PS to 'Letter to Billy Devaney'

2009-01-27T12:07:00.000-08:00

In my last post I had said that I thought Billy should go with Jim Haslett unless someone just looked to be 'head and shoulders' above the rest of the candidates. I think Steve Spagnuolo turned out to be just that, especially in the area Of Leadership. I don't think they could have found a better more suited candidates for their needs, period. I think Rex Ryan had much more talent to work with than Steve did (plus I'm admittedly biased, because I absolutely could not stand Rex's arrogant and loud-mouthed dad). I am ready for some 'climate changes' at Rams Park!!

Letter To Billy Devaney

2009-01-11T14:26:00.000-08:00

I think Mr Devaney knows a thing or a thousand things more about running a football team than I do, but I hope his line of thinking is to hire Jim Haslett, unless one of the other candidates is very clearly head and shoulders above the entire group, in which case anyone would hire that outstanding candidate. If everything seems pretty equal, I think the Rams would be smart to take advantage of Haslett's experience and already outlined plan to turn the franchise around. I do most definitely feel confident Devaney will make a smart, well thought out decision based on sound logic, which automatically makes it better than anything the previous regime did intentionally. I think they stumbled onto Vermeil accidentally, and even then they managed to royally tick off another highly respected coach (Jim Mora) with their mishandling of the vetting and hiring process on that occasion. There is a true professional making those decisions now, and it is long overdue! Go Rams! Go Billy!

Haslett Hatchet?

2008-12-15T08:27:00.000-08:00

I am as sick and tired of this buch of gutless, heartless players as everyone else, and it looks as though they are going to insure that Haslett is not there next year with their soft, wimpy play. If I didnt have to endure the results, I'd say this bunch deserves a ' Mike Keenan' type person to pit them through hell next year. Devaney should search for the meanest, orneriest drill sergeant who ever walked the face of the earth and turn him loose on this bunch. They are absolutely gutless - too bad we cant deep six the whole bunch and just start over!

OJ Atogwe

2008-12-02T10:20:00.000-08:00

Seems to me OJ Atogwe is quietly going about his business doing a good job this year. Oshiomogho is a ball hawk who has played well in the midst of some depressing football by our Rams as a whole. Future looks good for him, Chris Long, and Adam Carriker. Give Billy Devaney the authority to proceed to building the rest of the team around these excellent young players. This has been one of the longest fottball seasons in my memory, but if Chip does show Shaw and Zygmunt the door and set in place an actual football heirarchy, we know better days are ahead. Go Rams!

Professional Pride

2008-11-25T08:14:00.000-08:00

Professional pride just isn't there for the highly paid athletes on the Ram's roster. I do agree (wholeheartedly. actually) with the premise that this group just isnt as talented as most of the teams they face on Sunday. That being said there appears to me to be an absolute lack of effort the past several games. If this level of play continues, they'll have to move out of the dome to a neighborhood park and pay people to sit and watch them. The first time I heard someone suggest cuttting Incognito, I thought it was a stupid remark - the more I see him do one stupid stunt after another, I realize he's the stupid one. Tear it apart, Chip, and start over from the ground up with Devaney!

Leadership Lesson

2008-10-19T15:26:00.000-07:00

We are reaping the benefits of an ongoing seminar on Strong Leadership by Professor Jim Haslett. Seems like many times changing a coach or manager ends up not making a difference or making a very marginal difference in a team's performance. I was expecting some difference from the Rams just from being aware of Haslett's Saints' teams performances, but I'd be a liar if I tried to tell you I saw this big of a change coming. I'm already repeating myself, but once again, Hats off to Haslett for turning the situation around so quickly and completely! I know there's a lot of season left, and some top notch opponents still on the schedule, but I feel we have a fighting chance to give anyone of those teams all the tussle they can handle, if not more than they can handle. I'm for getting Haslett on board with a long-term contract and Soon! Go Rams!

Haslett

2008-10-12T15:25:00.000-07:00

Here's A big Thank you to Skip Rosenbloom and Coach Haslett. In a way it galls me that Linehan had to be fired, because he dealt with people much like I do, but its apparent that most times, being a nice guy doesnt get it done as a NFL coach, with Tony Dungy being a notable exception. At any rate, I feel like the Rams have a chance on most Sundays now, and we all know that if those players arent giving their all on every play, Haslett will be kicking their butts. Apparently he's been getting his message across. What a statement to win todays game on a last minute drive, when they have been rolling over and giving up in the 4th quarter!

New Head coach

2008-09-29T06:39:00.000-07:00

Just was reading on the post dispatch website that Linehan has been fired and Haslett has been promoted to take his place. Some folks wont like that because the defense has been 'unimpressive' to say the least, but I think this team needs a fireball to give them a good swift kick in the butt, and Haslett is OOOOO so qualified to administer that. Article also mentions that he doesnt get along with Zygmunt particularly well - I think there probably should be some tension there, Jay's wanting to watch spending, and the coach is wanting the best talent as bottom line. Hope Al Saunders stays the course, and I hope we are ushering Zygmunt and Shaw back to California for good after the season. Good Luck Coach Haslett! Rams players better enjoy their bye week, I think some long overdue butt-chewings are on the horizon when you return to practice next week. I hope Haslett and Devaney, along with Saunders, has the opportunity to tell Chip what they think of the lousy setup of the organization as it stands, and how it should be reconstructed to more closely mirror other successful organizations.

Looker and Little

2008-09-15T06:47:00.000-07:00

Leonard Little and Dane Looker are apparently the only veterans who really give a darn on this football team. Todays Post Dispatch said they both lit into their teammates in the locker room, and its about time somebody did. Clear out the roster and start over with those two. Looker may not be the most talented WR but he's got heart, and Leonard's got talent and heart. If the team cant give an effort for 4 quarters on a Sunday, I cant stand to watch much more of this pathetic bunch!

A Stinkeroo

2008-09-07T15:30:00.000-07:00

Well, now, that was a waste of a nice afternoon! I have been hesitant to jump on the fire Linehan bandwagon, but I think I'm there. Just seemed like folks going through the motions to me, or did I miss something? It appears we need someone to fire these folks up, and it sure isnt happening right now. I think Haslett could get that accomplished as the HC, and I'd be mulling that over and soon if I were John Shaw. Unfortunately a reasonable and mild mannered approach seldom works with being the head coach of pro athletes, and reasonable and mild mannered appears to be Scott's base personality. There surely is more and better coming from the offense, hopefully as they acclimate to Saunders offense, that will take off. Its now time for my nap - after that snoozer of a game I cant help myself!

Way to go Jay !

2008-08-25T11:41:00.000-07:00

I have been a fairly harsh critic of Jay Zygmunt over the years, and I think justifiably so in a number of instances. When I see he has done something the right way, I believe that should be acknowledged also. The recent holdout by Stephen Jackson could not have been handled better at the Rams end, in my opinion. There were negotiations going on until Jackson refused to report for training camp, and I agreed 100% with the Rams stance at that point - no negotiations until he does report. There appeared to be 'talks' of some sort going on at least late in the holdout time period, and the fact that these were done privately with the agent minus any posturing by either side was something that should occur more often than it does. I think the holdout option is not something a player or agent should be doing, but I will have to give Jackson's agent credit for keeping the negotiations or talks out of the media also. I dont guess Drew Rosenhaus or Scott Boras will take the cue to change their ways, but all the same, thank God its over, and thanks to Jay for some excellent work!
draft
11:22:00 AM
by Geezer Ram

Rams-Titans

2008-08-08T06:45:00.000-07:00

Some things never change through the years, and it looks as though 'edgy' Rams-Titan encounters are among those standards that remain 'set'. Alot of the faces have changed - actually Al Saunders has had 3 job moves since this first happened, but the tempers still get dialed up when these teams get together. Maybe part of the reason is these organizations know how hard it is to get to the super bowl, let alone win it, when you abide by the rules. Fisher was a hard-nosed competitor as a player and a coach, and his team reflects his personality. I think Coach Linehan could use some of that 'fire' himself, but thats another article. Lets carry some of that 'fire' on through the regular season!

Jackson's Holdout

2008-07-28T08:34:00.000-07:00

I'm most definitely with Patti on objecting to Jackson's (or any professional athlete's holdout). These people sign contracts and should expect to have to abide by them. In Stephen's case, my understanding is that the Rams did not have the new agents name provided to them until very recently. How can you negotiate an agreement if you don't know who is doing the negotiation? Professional athletes' astronomical pay scale makes it very hard to find any sympathy for their 'plight' in contract negotiations. Here we are looking at millionaires negotiationg with billionaires again. The only difference for a football player is that NFL owners do seem to be able to slide out of contracts easier, with 'guaranteed money' being much less prevalent than in baseball. Nonetheless Stephen, please get yourself into camp, and make it quick!!

LaRoi Glover

2008-07-08T05:57:00.000-07:00

There was very nice article on LaRoi in the St Louis Post Dispatch on July 1. He had not completed requirements for his college degree when he left for the NFL in 1996, and recently completed the full two semesters of courses he was lacking and finally received his degree.

One of the reasons he cited was to be an example for his 3 children, that this was an important thing to complete.

We have many examples of selfish, grandstanding, and even criminal behavior by professional athletes, and its refreshing to read about a good example being set by someone.

There are far more stories like this, and more inspirational ones where athletes use their name and fame to promote charitable causes in ways not possible if they hadn't gained recognition through their athletic talent.

These stories are often not publicized because the media and we the public don't pay as much attention to that type of story. Thanks to the Post Dispatch for running this story.

Training Camp

2008-06-23T16:21:00.000-07:00

Rams will be tucked away up in Wisconsin for training camp this year. I beelieve this can be a positive move, though it means I won't be seeing any of the camp. Made it every year they held it in Macomb, but Wisconsin's a pretty fair drive when weather and last minute coaching staff changes can cancel what you went all that way to see.

I think its a good move because I think the heat will be noticeably less brutal up there, and they will have other teams nearby to scrimmage/practice with. They'll have to deal with the heat early in the season, but I think the sauna like conditions in St Louis and Macomb actually took too much out of players in most years instead of preparing them for those conditions. Having other teams training nearby is a huge plus in my opinion, and will benefit far more than any heat conditioning could do.

Al Saunders

2008-06-09T08:16:00.000-07:00

I agree with some posts and articles I've seen saying that this is one of our key off-season acquisitions. He is an excellent 'X's and 'O's guy and is a very enthusiastic person who communicates well with players.

I'd never heard of the guy when I saw him at training camp in Macomb in '99. He caught my attention as a receivers coach when I saw him running down the field alongside a receiver running a route in drills yelling encouragement along the lines of "That's the way we want to see routes ran! Way to go!" I'm thinking (who is this guy), and of course have heard a lot about him since in St Louis and KC.

Linehan should leave him alone with the offense and do some head coach overseeing.

I see a powerful offense coming in 08.

Ownership

2008-05-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

Quite a buzz recently about whether or not Georgia's son and daughter will sell the team, and if they do, to whom. I believe they really want to keep the team and also think they will be excellent owners. That being said, what is causing the speculation is the apparent fact that, if they do keep the team, they will be faced with an enormous inheritance tax. This may back them into a corner where they would reluctantly sell the team, and is totally understandable to any of us with much less money. Whether the team is sold, and whether it eventually moves to another city if they are sold, are hot topics around St Louis presently. Realistically, provisions in the contract for the dome will provide the team an 'out' if they want to take it in 2015. I confess that I have never liked the dome atmosphere even in the 'Greatest show' days (seems like they are playing in a huge garage). I'd much prefer an outdoor stadium even if I have to bundle up against the cold. Whether they continue in the future to play in the dome, a new St Louis outdoor stadium, or move to another city, I intend to continue to follow the Rams wherever they are.

Stay the course

2008-05-13T07:40:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are. For the most part, personnel who will be forming the 2008 Rams from are on board and have been put through their paces at the minicamp just completed. All of us are hoping for an uneventful May, June, and July as far as contract signings for free agents and draft picks. I like what's been put together, and I include the new owners (actually especially include) the new owners in the upbeat appraisal! Everything I've read about them indicates a couple of savvy people have taken over ownership. Also I read where Linehan deferred to DeVaney on personnel decisions, which is as it should be(somewhere in the back of my head a voice said (pay attention, Zygmunt and Shaw, you do the same). The 2007 disaster was unequivocally just that, but I'm still hoping a long-term result is that the money folks will let the football folks do their job without getting in the way. If that happens, a long term plus will ultimately come out of it for the organization.

Draft Sleepers

2008-04-28T08:45:00.000-07:00

In my opinion the 'sleepers' in the draft are #1 The offensive linemen, and #2, the Wide receivers. Hats off to Chris Long and the Rams, I think he will be an immediate impact player and a very good one.

The offensive linemen taken are important because we all learned last year that depth can be a critical consideration in dealing with injuries. I'm not sure anyone can plan for the number of injuries we had on on the OL last year, but at least we know the Rams are making the correct moves to address that as much as possible, given roster space limitations. (Let's go easy on 'Holy Toledo' references when it comes to Greco).

Our wide receivers need some reinforcement, too,(wouldn't it be nice if Kevin Curtis was still here) - Torry's all world in my book but he's not getting any younger,and the rest of that group have some promise, but limited production on the field. These WR draft picks, particularly Avery, can be the prime receivers in a few years.

All in all, I believe the Rams drafted well. Chris Long will be a tremendous help at DE, and in all cases the organization drafted with the teams most pressing needs in mind. That sounds to me like a job well done. Now its up to the players they placed their trust in to do their part, and please, no holdouts!!!

Waiting Game

2008-04-14T10:12:00.000-07:00

Pretty frustrating time of year right now for NFL fans-at least thats my opinion. We have to wait for draft day to see whether the Rams go in the direction WE think they should, and then generally there's a cat-and-mouse game to see if we get our picks signed in time for training camp. One dubious advantage this year is that we have needs on both lines, so if the first pick takes away the 'fill' for one need, we can still make a giant leap to fill the other. Here's hoping this is the only draft day that will be true for a long time to come, though. I'm fervently hoping Billy Devaney is earning his money as I write this by exploring all the possible (And impossible ones, too, for that matter) scenarios. for draft day. Guess in some ways you could compare draft day to a poker game. We all should realize though, that that Parcells guy with the first move is a top notch A-ONE player, but he only gets 1 share of the pot, and there will be plenty left on the table no matter what he does.

We're no April Fools

2008-04-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

Though I'm from Illinois, I think the Rams organization can understand if we all make the Rams understand they reside in the 'Show Me' state during this offseason. This is really a time which can make or break a teams hopes of rebuilding. I have alot of confidence in Billy Devaney, and the statement the Rams organization made by hiring a experienced personnel 'football' guy. It remains to be seen of course, how draft day will go, but I feel they have prepared better for the draft than they have since the earlier Charley Armey days. I feel he lost power after Martz became head coach, and we ended up with Trung Candidate's and Jimmy Kennedy's mixed in with some decent picks. Likely we will we never pick all winners and no wienies, but I think the organization has all the management pieces in place to give us the best shot at doing very well.
I believe that means there should be zero chance that McFadden would be a Rams pick. I dont know if the Fans wanting that done are Arkansas fans or what, but that makes zero sense to me when the lines are a DIRE need. I poke fun at the Candidate pick, but this would be worse, because there wasnt a dire need screaming at them in that draft! Go Rams with your current horse at running back!!

Fellow Geezer

2008-03-18T06:13:00.000-07:00

Seeing as how my 'handle' on this site is GeezerRam, I 'have' to comment on the Rams signing Trent Green recently. Now the team has its own GeezerRam, and I think its an excellent move. He knows the system, goes back a good ways with Al Saunders, and has very good leadership qualities. I think that last attribute may be a key one. Marc has provided leadership, but I dont think he's really comfortable in that role.

I remember the few preseason games I saw Trent play in '99, one of the first things that jumped out at me was how after an offensive series, he was touching base with all the offensive players on the bench. It was a 180 degree change from 'I'll go sit by myself' Tony Banks, and because Banks was the previous QB, it really made that quality stand out. Marc is somewhere in between Tony and Trent, but I think Trent makes a difference, even as a backup. If I was Marc, I'd be getting ready to pick his brain on all areas, and applying what makes sense for me. I only hope Linehan stays out of Saunders way on the offense - I'm thinking we are going to see some high powered offense again folks - not quite the GSOT, but a great offense nonetheless!

Moves to be made

2008-03-03T09:07:00.000-08:00

Here and there, there seems to be a 'murmur' starting up among Rams fans something along the lines of "WHY HAVENT WE SIGNED ANY FREE AGENTS BESIDES JOSH BROWN YET?' I think we'll be seing some moves made, maybe just not as fast as we'd like to see. I believe Jacob Bell (formerly of the Titans) is due to visit Rams Park today, which means they are looking to fill an obvious need in the Oline. I heard Devaney in an interview recently state that they have charted 'wish list boards' on free agents, just as they do on draft day. Guess that was already assumed or known by some fans, and it makes sense, but it was something I had not heard directly, and found it interesting.

I do have a confidence this year with a experienced, proven personnel guru on board in the person of Billy Devaney, that we will fare well in the free agent/draft process over the next 2 months, and will be pleased with the results come the '08 season. Go Rams!

Time for the Front office to step up!

2008-02-23T07:14:00.000-08:00

With combine week here, and draft day a couple of months away, its time for the ‘new’ front office to begin showing us they have a handle on this process and on free agent evaluation, I personally think Billy Devaney ‘s hiring and the signal it seems to give from Jay Zygmunt as to the Rams actually having a full-power personnel department, means better results in the future, starting with the present year.

To be fair some of the past first round ‘whiffs’ would have also been made by other organizations also, Damione Lewis, Jimmy Kennedy, and Adam Archuleta come to mind, (ranked in the order of my disappointment with their end results). I would venture to say we wont have a Trung Candidate on our draft board under Devaney, even if the head coach likes him.

I am curious like everyone else as to how our draft picks pan out from Round 1 Though round 7. Contacts cultivated over the years by Devaney, and the rest of the Rams staff involved will hopefully help them accomplish some dynamite draft picks and free agent acquisitions. Billy’s years of experience in a front office role HAS to be a big plus for the Rams front office, along with an understanding by Zygmunt and others that they better get it right this time. That atrocious season past may have been the only wakeup call that got through to them. Here’s hoping so, anyway, it sure was a bear to watch (No Chicago pun intended)

Memory of an elephant

2008-02-04T06:48:00.000-08:00

I guess I'm admitting to being a sore loser, but one of my main thoughts the day after Eli and his band slew Goliath, is "Hows that tough loss feel, you smug, preening Patriots/Patriot fans?". One difference between that game and the Rams-Patriots superbowl was that the Giants did not appear to mug the Patrriot receivers. They did beat up on the Patriots but within the rules. I assume they also did not have an employee taping the Patriots final walkthrough, either .Sometimes it takes a while but eventually there is justice in the NFL world, on and off the field! Thank You Giants!!

New Owner(s)

2008-01-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

Bernie Miklasz had pretty positive comments about Chip Rosenbloom in the Post Dispatch today. Since Bernie's tendency is to be overly critical in addition to playing to the crowd's mood, I think this is very good news.

He doesnt think Chip will stay the owner over the long haul, but will absolutely do what is in the best interest of the organization while he has the team.

My interpretation is that if Chip thinks it's in the best interest of the team to politely tell John Shaw to step aside, he will do so. Bernie speculates that Stan Kroenke may eventually end up being the majority owner, which is also good news.

Chip Rosenbloom is apparently more knowledgeable about the organization than we in the general public would have realized, and he can 'hit the ground running' as far as speaking to and dealing with issues. These next few years may be very interesting for Ram fans.

Lets all stay tuned!!

The direction is 'UP'

2008-01-09T11:53:00.000-08:00

We just went through the worst season in Rams' history, so there is only one direction to go, and that is UP.

We just got handed a new challenge when the whiners hired Martz as their OC, but let's dwell on the Rams instead of their opponents.

The next few weeks are key, I believe, and I'm counting on the right decisions being made to turn this organization around and get back to being a solid, competitive team. I sincerely believe Shaw and Zygmunt want to do what is in the best interest of the team, and I hope they carry through with that in mind even if it means reduced roles for both of them.

If Cam Cameron is to be the OC, so be it. He, like Martz, is a good coordinator who isn't cut out to be a head coach, and he will be a good addition in that role.

I believe Coach Linehan when he says he is going to take a long hard look at things, beginning with himself. That should apply to him and to his bosses, also.

The defense is in extremely capable hands, in my opinion, and I would like for Haslett to be around for a good long period of time.

Everyone rest up your vocal cords, and patch up all the dents and marks in your living room walls where your various missiles/objects hit while you were watching the Rams during this past season!!

Wait till Next Year

2008-01-01T14:31:00.000-08:00

Some of the Rams will be much better for the force-fed(by injury) unexpected playing time they were thrown into this year.

One area of concern I see is the offensive line, many of those players were strictly stop-gaps who are unlikely to return in 08. Think Barron may be one who someone needs to light a fire under, if he only would sprout a work ethic, I think he has a ton of potential. Romberg is a free agent, and I would like to see him back.

If there isnt an emphasis on both offensive and defensive linemen in the draft, I'll blow a gasket. Zygmunt and Shaw need to back away from any final say on personnel decisions and let a football person be the decision maker.

As far as I am concerned, if Softli is fired, Zygmunt and Shaw can hit the road ahead of him. They are roughly 995% more at fault than Softli is. Makes me wonder if he's quietly told them to butt out of football decisions, and they chose to let him go rather than take some excellent advice.

Torry's Outburst

2007-12-22T06:53:00.000-08:00

I have been of the opinion that Coach Linehan should get a third year to have a fair run at the head coaching job. Torry Holt's obvious displeasure during the Steeler game, coupled with Marc's 'eyeroll' earlier in the season is leading me to change my opinion. If you cant keep happy 100 percenter team guys who anyone would figure as the last 2 people to rock the boat, you need to get out of the way and let someone else give it a try. It appears to me that he has lost the team and that 3rd year would very likely be a disaster if he's still the coach. Just my opinion!

Lukewarm Fans

2007-12-18T06:34:00.000-08:00

I am afraid both corporate season tickets and individual single game ticket holders are responsible for the empty seats and those filled with fans of the opposing team in the Edward Jones dome. I'd like to think there are a lot of dedicated Rams fans out there in St Louis, but it seems we have more than our share of the fair weather variety.

Thank the yuppies who stayed away and for allowing a lot of Packer fans in the prime seats, but then again the "nosebleed" seats aren't selling out either.

Don't know that I see a solution for it.

A competitive team would put them back in the seats, but I don't think the exodus we are seeing is in any way warranted when you consider this will be only the third losing season since 2000.

There just isn't a big enough hard core group of fans around. Much as it would pain me, if it continues, I think the organization would be justified to move.

On their side of the ledger, though, at some point Zygamunt and Shaw need to give a full time/full power "football" person in control - it is plain, simple, and STUPID to have bean counters in 3 piece suits having a lot of the say in the football operations. I also hope they are serious about making this LONG needed change in the hierarchy of the organization.

Second Half

2007-12-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

I really want Coach Linehan to succeed with the Rams, but it sure appears that opponents are adjusting to our game plan at halftime, and we are not, at least on offense.

I'm not pretending for a nanosecond that I have an answer, but it's not looking like our coaches do either.

I know the extreme number of injuries plays into it also, but I can't help but think other teams are near the same situation. I don't know whether more creativity is needed or what, but it is glaring that we are in trouble in the second half, unless Joey Harrington is the opposing quarterback.

Sure hoping someone on our sideline has the answer, don't you?

I'm a jinx

2007-11-25T22:04:00.000-08:00

That one hurts-I'm feeling like a jinx/a curse. Had to go into work around halftime and was unable to watch any of the second half until....that very last play. Was chastising myself for sitting down to watch it after THAT happened. Lets get all these 'boinks and doinnks' and broken bones out of the system this lost year, and get all the breaks next year. This second half of the season has life in it - no more going through the motions like some of the later 1st season half games

The 'Unstylish W'

2007-11-19T08:50:00.000-08:00

Still counts the same in the standings. There have been enough ugly ones get away from the Rams (and not just this year) that it was about time we got to tuck a turkey in the win column. We will all be concerned about the Oline, and about Marc's protection by them, but lets just savor the win now. Hats off to OJ and Will in particular, and Coach Haslett and the defense in general. This team has been through the wringer and is showing some spunk. Some of those teams we lost to earlier are turning out to be better than expected (see Cleveland and Tampa Bay), but all that is behind us. Turn to the old cliche (old but true) to look ahead and take them one game at a time.

Can we all say 'Hallelujah'??

2007-11-12T13:41:00.000-08:00

A real pleasant surprise happened yesterday. Marc looked like the Marc we've come to expect, and the o-line gave him some time to execute the game plan instead of having opposing d-linemen in his grill all afternoon. Nice work and nice game planning were evident also, though they let up on the gas too soon on defense.

Thought it was a great gesture for Marc to give Coach Linehan a game ball also. Linehan has had a tough go - I want to see the Rams win as much as the next guy, but I thought it was downright embarasing to hear the vitriol being spewed at him as he walked to the locker room after the Browns game. I wasnt there to hear it, but one of the St Louis stations played a good 20-30 seconds of people screaming at him-thank goodness it was unintelligible, but I'm pretty sure from the tone they were'nt saying 'have a nice day, Scott, get 'em next game'. I sincerely hope we all just saw a page turned and we'll see a Rams team the rest of the year close to what we were expecting.

Every aspect was clicking, and lets keep it ticking from here on out.

Go Rams!

Stephen Jackson makes the offense go

2007-10-28T20:38:00.000-07:00

I think Sunday's games against the Browns was a statement about how much this offense is built around Stephen Jackson's abilities as a big, fast, bruising runner. When he was in the game, we saw an offense able to mix it up and march right on down the field on 2 nice drives. Once he left the game the offense was floundering again. Its easy to view with 20/20 hindsight, but we opted for bigger slower receivers and let Curtis walk away, and I think speed burners at receiver may have been the only answer as a fill in while Stephen is hurt. I hope he's back after the bye, because it appears to me the offense will continue to struggle mightily if he's not. This is no indictment of Brian Leonard AT ALL, he is exceeding what he was drafted to do. He's just not a Stephen Jackson - not many people are! I liked the spunk and fight in the team today, but that W still eluded them. It looked like Clifton Ryan and Adam Carriker had very good games also. All in all, players and fans alike need this bye week coming up, I believe!

Are we on information overload?

2007-10-22T07:54:00.000-07:00

A thought I've had in other subject areas is creeping into my 'Ram Fan life'.

Ever wish as I have that 'nervous Nellie' stock exchange buyers and sellers didnt know every time someone in the Middle East sneezed or scratched themselves, and promptly started a flurry of activity which ended up putting stocks in a nosedive?

With internet mesage boards like our own Planet Rams out there for all to read and contribute to, I sometimes think I pay too much attention to the most extreme opinions. Overall I think its a great thing that technology allows us folks with a passion for Rams football to have a dialogue with each other about what's going right and whats going wrong with the team, but I catch myself getting really dejected on my own when things are going like they are for the 2007 Rams, without logging on and reading many other folks' thoughts about what exactly is wrong and who should fix it.

Some fans have extremely detailed problem analysis which apparently come from high school/college experience as players or just a very deep study of football. I'm not into the mechanics of the game that deeply, almost seems that sort of study is a coaching level interest where you cant sit back and enjoy the game because you're focusing in on one area extensively. I might focus in one a specific area occasionally, but not often.

One thing I do appreciate at Planet Rams is that Patti and all the gang seem to be folks around my level of interest, rather than casual bandwagoners or total Fanatics!

Tough Time to be a Ram Fan

2007-10-15T12:39:00.000-07:00

Another tough Sunday for our beloved Rams! Sounds as though the sportswriters and fans have the answer as to what's wrong and how to fix it. I honestly can't say I have near the football knowledge to think I could take that task on.

No one could have predicted the injuries that would hit this team like a plague, and that is a major part of the poor showing.

We fans weren't the only ones thinking this team would be a playoff contender heading into the season, a lot of the national writers that usually thumb their noses at the Rams were actually counting them as a playoff team.

Sounds as though the bloodhounds are on Jay Zygmunt's trail now, and the lack of a true football person over him, or at least equal to him in power. I have had the same question in my mind in the past, but I'm not so sure this particular discussion about him isn't just a need to blame someone at this time.

Long term, I think they need to add a full power personnel guru, or make Softl one, but this abyss is decimation by injuries, in my opinion.

I have every intention of keeping my ear to Rams Football no matter what. I'm embarrassed by the St Louis fans and media knocking each other over trying to get off the bandwagon more than anything.

Headed in the Right Direction!

2007-10-08T06:16:00.000-07:00

I believe there were positives to bring out of the game today.

I felt like the team had a pulse and made strides on offense but were bitten by some crucial mistakes of their own making, and at a couple of critical times, and some overreaching calls by the fellows in striped shirts.

If there are some fans ready to throw in the towel because there's nothing showing in the win column yet,see ya and don't let that door hit you in your behind on your way out.

There's been mistakes made that I think need to be corrected, but we need to move on and give them a chance to fix it.

One thing I absolutely think needs revision is not playing the regulars hardly at all in preseason. They need to have more time to mesh and get on the same page.

That said, lets not keep pounding on the same old dead horse. Linehan is building a track record of recognizing problems and making adjustments. All indication seem to say that he will be the coach through next season at a minimum, and I think this is the minimum length of time that would be fair to him or any coach.

Oh My!

2007-09-23T13:56:00.000-07:00

To be totally lame and obvious in my comments, Its not looking good, folks!!

Having a patchwork offensive line(on second thought make that leaking patchwork offensive line) is REALLY dragging things down.

The play calling is very vanilla, and I'm not sure we are making any halftime adjustments - some of both of those points may be due to OL holes, but predictable play calling has opposing defenses sitting all over the offense.

This may be a very long season as we sure have a brutal schedule coming up over the next several weeks.

I'll be doggoned if I'll join the chorus I've already heard in places to fire Coach Linehan - that's pure stupidity! One thing he aleady demonstrated last year was addressing problems directly and effectively, and I'm confident he will continue that, and will make adjustments.

The injury problems thus far have been staggering, and we are all witnessing it weekly.

Quick Trigger

2007-09-16T23:07:00.000-07:00

Holy Mackerel, its already creeping into Post Dispatch columns that Linehan is on the hot seat!! Oh Brother, are we really that spoiled?? Any estimation I've heard says that a coach should have 3 years minimum to get a fair shake on his plan and personnel. Fans who are thinking that way are apparently spoiled rotten. This would likely be a T.O reaction if he were a fan- I shudder to think what kind of team would be taking the field if we change the coach every year! Please calm down, everyone!

Second Half Stinker

2007-09-09T13:18:00.000-07:00

Very upsetting second half today. Seemed to take the air out of the team on Stephen Jackson's fumble deep in Carolina territory in the third quarter. Heard DeMarco Farr comment that he thought the defense was not staying with their assignments, and seemed confused. In particular that he felt James Hall was ' peeking inside' and trying to cover a teammates area when they busted some of those ridiculous runs to the outside where James should have been concentrating his efforts. Lets hope they do a good job of regrouping. Felt McMichael did a good job blocking, there was a rotating turnstile where Richie would normally be, though. There should be some intense practices this week, I'm guessing. I missed who let Marc get creamed, that better get fixed quick!

Jimmy Kennedy

2007-09-03T21:35:00.000-07:00

I assume everyone has noticed that Jimmy was cut by the Broncos. Its not something I would snicker at, but it does show it wasn't just an inability of our coaching staff to get through to him.

For all our hair-pulling over the "busts" we do as Ram Fans over our past DT draft woes, its all hindsight 20/20 over Kennedy, Lewis, and Pickett.

Everyone had those 3 high on their draft lists. Jimmy just has to make improving his level of play a priority, or he may be done. What a shame, he has more tools than a lot of NFL starters, but falls well below the "heart and pride" charts of those players. Put Grant Wistrom's guts and heart in his body, and he'd knock the front door to Canton down. Only way Jimmy's getting in there is to pay admission just like you and me.

If Adam Carriker develops into the player we all think he will, there's no reason Jimmy couldn't do the same. Only difference between them is Adam seems to have enough drive and eagerness to learn for both of them, and Jimmy's is all but nonexistent.

Let's Skip this one!

2007-08-28T10:36:00.000-07:00

Anyone else want them to skip this last preseason game? I'd just as soon they did, even if it is the Governor's cup.. I think hits like Rodney Harrison's cheap shot (one of many by that scumbag) on Trent Green was one of the times all NFL teams collectiely said, it just isnt worth it, and scaled back first team time in preseason games drastically. Another factor as a Ram fan is that Coach Linehan seems to share Martz's philosophy on ultra vanilla preseason playbooks. It is important to the guys trying to get the last few spots on the teams roster, and I suppose one of those fellas could turn into a front line 49er nemesis, but lets get ready for some regular season football!! PLEASE!

2007 Rams

2007-08-18T06:35:00.000-07:00

I have a simple wish among my high hopes for the 2007 Rams, and that is 'Lets powder those doggone deadbirds and niners'. I want those 2 teams left as a bump in the road, and a small one at that. We should manhandle the Cardinals in particular, despite what every national publication thinks of them. Until they actually have an offensive line out on the field consistently blocking well, they are pretenders to being in contention for anything but last place. I think the niners had a bit of a coaching edge last year and 2005 - Nolan is an excellent defensive coach who took advantage of our coaching disarray in 05, and had an advantage over Coach Linehan last year of having a year with his team under his belt already. Its time for payback! Go Rams !

In Scott I Trust

2007-08-11T17:33:00.000-07:00

So far, I am very impressed with Scott Linehan's job performance as Ram's head coach.

He has quietly gone about the business of capably overseeing all aspects of assembling the best talent possible for the offense, defense and special teams. He is working well with his players and coaching staff, and meshes well with Nick Softl, Jay Zygmunt, and John Shaw in the front office. The quiet demeanor and easy going nature has not meant an easy mark for possible problem causers within the team, however, as Jimmy Kennedy and Anthony Hargrove will attest. Whether it be underachieving defensive tackles, unexcused practice absences, or coach's own involvement with actual play-calling to the detriment of his being able to exercise oversight of the entire team, Scott has shown himself already to be a decisive, direct 'doer' when it comes to recognizing a problem, formulating a plan to make a correction or adjustment, and following through with implementing that plan to solve the problem.

I just have a confidence in him that he will continue to address problems and issues as they occur, and make reasonable and well thought changes as neccesary to ensure our Rams are a highly professional organization which makes consistent and well planned moves to keep the teams performance at a high level.

I admit to being a fan who thought they should have picked Ron Rivera when I scanned the list of names being considered for Rams HC when Scott was hired. Good job John Shaw, Jay Zygmunt and whoever else figured in the decision to hire Linehan. I'm glad noone asked me for advice!

Will's in the middle

2007-08-02T07:28:00.000-07:00

Will Witherspoon

I'm looking for another excellent year from #51. A 6 year veteran who has done everything asked of him both with the Rams and the Panthers should benefit from an improved defensive line in 2007. Ideally, his size would fit him best as an weak side linebacker, but I think Haslett wants his leadership in the middle linebacker spot. A smallish middle linebacker can work (London Fletcher, anyone) if the D-line is pulling its weight in the middle. Will appeared to be overmatched at times against the run last year, but I think a large part of the problem was that he was getting a defensive tackle's share of the force of the opponents run game, thanks to some pylon-like efforts (good riddance Jimmy) in the middle of the defensive line. It would be interesting to hear Will's opinion of Adam Carriker as the season progresses this year, because I think if Adam performs well, Will's job becomes much more manageable. We have marveled at the high motor efforts of Grant Wistrom, and have heard that Adam is a bigger version of Grant, but lets not forget that Will is one of those guys also. He's an easy guy to root for, a good citizen who goes out,works hard, does his job, and provides leadership to the defense. Go Will, and Go Rams in 2007!!