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These are only excerpts of questions and answers. To read the whole chat click the link below.
*****************************************************************************
http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_96
Rams chat with Jim Thomas: 8/12/15
I have not heard much about L. Joyner, is he not been playing well or is he just getting buried on the depth chart due to the quality above him? Also, have you heard anymore on Gaines and is the feeling around camp that his injury is serious?
On Joyner, I just haven't written about him. Remember, there are 90 players on the roster. He's had a good camp so far from what I can tell and is running with the first-team defense at nickel back. Haven't heard anything more on Gaines but I think the Rams are concerned that it could be an injury (plantar fascia) that sidelines him for a while.
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do you think jacob hagen will make the team or practice squad or neither? if not, do you think another team would pick him up?
Still very early on Hagen. The preseason games will be key of course. It will be tough to make it at safety on the 53man where the Rams have McLeod, McDonald, Barron, Alexander, Coady and of course Joyner could play there in a pinch.
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I've read from some posters that the Rams offense looks horrible especially downfield passing. Supposedly they are not even working on this that much. Is there any truth to this?
Offense has had its moments. I would say not a ton of downfield passing so far. The offense did look sloppy and was not effective at Lindenwood on Friday. We'll see what the preseason games bring, starting Friday in Oakland.
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Are we looking at a series or 2 only for the first team offense on Friday? Hopefully 1st team Oline plays a little longer right?
Fisher didn't specify Monday _ that's the last day I talked to him before heading to Chicago. But the general rule of thumb is the starters play about a quarter in preseason openers. I would expect that some of the young O-linemen play longer.
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Been reading the Philly report, seems Bradford is practicing with only an elastic brace. Did the sheep act to fast, Foles doesn't seem to have the tools SB brought to the table?
There's no doubt Sam Bradford has lots of talent. Let's see if he can stay healthy.
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Is the major focus on the offensive line during the game Friday?
Well, that's one of the areas of focus.
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Is Isaiah Pead a special team player only now? How has he looked in the backfield? Forever hoping that he can flip the switch like Quick did last season.
I think he's fighting for a roster spot. His chances of sticking this year _ at least early in the season _ may be helped by the fact that Todd Gurley probably won't play much early. (If at all.) And Trey Watts will begin the season serving a four-game suspension.
--------
Over under on our total sacks for this year?
For the Rams' defense? 52
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I'm rather bullish on the defense of the Rams. If healthy (I hate those words but they are necessary) I see few teams that can put a front 7 out there that are overall as good as what the Rams have.
If Janoris can find a way to focus and not make so many mental errors and if EJ Gaines can be healthy or if Trumaine Johnson can step up in his absence and our safeties communicate with our CBs the D should be a top 5 or top 10 group.
Am I insane?
Yeah, I think the front seven will hold up its end of the bargain. I think it's all a matter of who the back end holds up. As you mention, the DBs have to cut down on the number off big plays allowed.
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Will play action help T Austin get separation from defense? How can someone that quick not get the ball in space?
It certainly would. But in order to make play-action effective, you've got to have an effective running game.
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Will the Rams be able to run the ball this season?
I'm gonna say yes. Slow go early, but yes, when all is said and done.
-------
From what I saw at training camp the O-line is working very hard. Roger Saffold is a high character guy and a very good leader. All that said , do the Rams have Evan Mathis on speed dial.
Not for the kind of money he's asking for.
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If Brian Quick is able to play in say 14 of the 16 games this year, what kind of numbers do you think he will put up?
So hard to predict. But with 14 games I'd say 800 yards.
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Do you see Marcus Roberson starting by the 2016 season? Also does Cody Davis stick around for 2015?
I think Roberson could have starters potential. And if either Jenkins or Johnson leave after '15 (as pending UFAs) that could give Roberson a shot. I think Davis sticks. Good special teams player.
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Will you be out at the Oxnard practices? Been a fan of your coverage of the Rams for the last 20+ years. It would be great to stop by and just say hi.
I'll be there.
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Do you suppose it has crossed Fishers mind that the team needs to get off to a faster start?
I think the subject's come up a time or two at Rams Park.
-------
I saw Jeff Garcia at pracitce Monday working with some receivers what exactly is his role?
He's the assistant wide receivers coach.
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Speaking of a fast start, how do you see our OL faring in the opener vs. Seattle?
Five words for Foles Get the ball out quick.
--------
Whats the deal with Brandon Washington, every year he sneaks on the practice squad why? Do the Rams pursue Matt Flynn or try to trade for Mike Glenon.
Obviously, they see something they like in him. But after two or three years on the practice squad, or bouncing on and off the active roster, players usually have show they're capable of taking that next step. So this could be that year for him. On the QBs, I'd say no.
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Hey Jim what happens if the 3 projected center's don't pan out. Can you see Garret Reynolds sliding over as the grizzled vet?
I don't think he plays center.
--------
Seeing I Bruce at Ram's started me wondering about the Rams eligible for the HOF next year. How do you rate their entry chances, individually?
1.) Pace; 2.) Warner. 3.) tied _ Bruce and Holt.
--------
How about running the ball vs. Seattle in the opener? Any hope?
There's always hope. But as you know, it's tough to move the ball against Seattle, and at this point don't see any reason why that would change on Sept. 13.
--------
Is a 12-4 record realistic?
Survey says! No.
--------
been doing some mock drafts and they have the Rams ahead of the 49ers. You buying that?
I don't see any reason why the Rams shouldn't finish ahead of the 'Niners this year in the division.
--------
What do you think the Rams division record will be this season?
4-2. Sweep San Fran, split with Seattle and Arizona.
--------
I asked this question last time but I know you get a lot of questions so I thought I'd ask again and it's not a relocation question ;-) Going to see my first Rams home game when the Rams play my hometown Browns in October and wondering if you had any local things I should be sure to try and do, items such as restuarants, type of food, things to see, etc.
I don't think the Museum of Westward expansion is open now because of the construction work on the Arch. But I've always enjoyed that. If you get to StL early enough (like on a Saturday), the zoo is always great that time of year and it's free. There are tons of Italian restaurants on the Hill, but plenty of restaurants in the downtown area around the Edward Jones Dome as well. If you're the casino type, there's one right across the street from the dome.
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Have you seen enough to form an opinion on who is in the lead in the Center battle?
Not really. But I've said all along, I think slight edge for Jones.
-------
Last week you mentioned some players with Pro Bowl potential. I noticed McDonald wasn't on the list but I've seen a lot of good press for him with national writers. Do you think he has the makings of being an elite safety?
Yeah, I think he has that potential.
---------
Whats the deal with stedman? he gets rave reviews every year but never seems to get the reps. are the other receivers out playing him?
Yeah, I'd like to see Bailey get more of a chance at the start of the season.
---------
Sorry if this was already asked but I have several questions. There's a certain poster who calls himself Hammer in the Rams forum.
He claims to be at most of the Rams practices and he's adamant that 1) Chris Long is finished. 2) That GRob losing 25 lbs has him being pushed around by even the back up D-linemen. 3) that William Hayes has lost not one, but TWO steps. 4) That Greg Williams has the D blitzing so often that the team can't work on it's intermediate to deep passing game. 5) That Tavon Austin looks lost and will continue to be a bust. And 6) That Michael Brockers will never be a good pass rusher because he lacks the "quick twitch" muscles.
Any truth to any of these claims or is the guy full of s**t?
Sorry, I'll pass on this one. We're all entitled to our opinion.
--------
No offense to the crowd today, but the season is less a month away and all talk is of owners meetings. My dad told me to only worry and work at what you can actually control..and to leave the rest for God....that being said, how many sacks for Quinn this season?
I'm gonna go 13 1/2 for Quinn.
--------
I wonder if you can tell us how Foles has been looking? What's his TD-INT ratio been and has it improved as camp has progressed?
I think he has improved as camp has progressed. In that sense, he's growing on me. He's thrown a few INTs in camp, but not too many.
--------
Honest unvarnished truth: how is the o-line going to play this season barring significant injuries?
It's difficult to see such an inexperienced line getting by without some bumps along the way. As I mentioned before, the Rams are going to have to get the ball out quick.
-------
Hard to believe that the Rams season opener is just a month away. I guess the biggest question mark would have to be the O-line.Do you think Gurley will get in for a few plays, or is it too soon to tell.
If I had to guess, I'd say he doesn't play in the opener.
--------
Does Coach Boudreau have any input on draft day regarding which OL the Rams select? Not that either one of them is Fred Astaire, but who would you say is more mobile: Foles or Bradford? How is Akeem Ayers in pass coverage?
Yes, Boudreau has input. I think a healthy Bradford _ when he first came out _ was a little more mobile. But Foles does OK. (By that I mean he's not a statue.) Ayers is supposed to be pretty good in coverage.
-------
Jim, question from friggin Redskins land... any sense from practice/camp so far if our passing game will continue to be pedestrian? Or will we continue to see screens that don't work and dink-and-dunk that isn't reliable enough to score points? As pessimistic as that sounds, I'm really looking forward to the Foles effect.
Don't be surprised if there's a lot of short stuff in the passing game early while Foles settles in and the offensive line gets its legs under them.
---------
L Collins' agent bragged that he outsmarted the Ram's front office by telling them Collins would sit out if the Rams drafted him in the late rounds, as they planned. Do you buy that narrative? Wouldn't they have taken all the pressure off their first round pick by getting a first round talent in the 6th or 7th round?
Don't know about all that. But I think the guy probably would've been worth a seventh-round pick.
*****************************************************************************
http://sports.live.stltoday.com/Event/Rams_chat_with_Jim_Thomas_96
Rams chat with Jim Thomas: 8/12/15
I have not heard much about L. Joyner, is he not been playing well or is he just getting buried on the depth chart due to the quality above him? Also, have you heard anymore on Gaines and is the feeling around camp that his injury is serious?
On Joyner, I just haven't written about him. Remember, there are 90 players on the roster. He's had a good camp so far from what I can tell and is running with the first-team defense at nickel back. Haven't heard anything more on Gaines but I think the Rams are concerned that it could be an injury (plantar fascia) that sidelines him for a while.
-------
do you think jacob hagen will make the team or practice squad or neither? if not, do you think another team would pick him up?
Still very early on Hagen. The preseason games will be key of course. It will be tough to make it at safety on the 53man where the Rams have McLeod, McDonald, Barron, Alexander, Coady and of course Joyner could play there in a pinch.
--------
I've read from some posters that the Rams offense looks horrible especially downfield passing. Supposedly they are not even working on this that much. Is there any truth to this?
Offense has had its moments. I would say not a ton of downfield passing so far. The offense did look sloppy and was not effective at Lindenwood on Friday. We'll see what the preseason games bring, starting Friday in Oakland.
-------
Are we looking at a series or 2 only for the first team offense on Friday? Hopefully 1st team Oline plays a little longer right?
Fisher didn't specify Monday _ that's the last day I talked to him before heading to Chicago. But the general rule of thumb is the starters play about a quarter in preseason openers. I would expect that some of the young O-linemen play longer.
-------
Been reading the Philly report, seems Bradford is practicing with only an elastic brace. Did the sheep act to fast, Foles doesn't seem to have the tools SB brought to the table?
There's no doubt Sam Bradford has lots of talent. Let's see if he can stay healthy.
-------
Is the major focus on the offensive line during the game Friday?
Well, that's one of the areas of focus.
--------
Is Isaiah Pead a special team player only now? How has he looked in the backfield? Forever hoping that he can flip the switch like Quick did last season.
I think he's fighting for a roster spot. His chances of sticking this year _ at least early in the season _ may be helped by the fact that Todd Gurley probably won't play much early. (If at all.) And Trey Watts will begin the season serving a four-game suspension.
--------
Over under on our total sacks for this year?
For the Rams' defense? 52
-------
I'm rather bullish on the defense of the Rams. If healthy (I hate those words but they are necessary) I see few teams that can put a front 7 out there that are overall as good as what the Rams have.
If Janoris can find a way to focus and not make so many mental errors and if EJ Gaines can be healthy or if Trumaine Johnson can step up in his absence and our safeties communicate with our CBs the D should be a top 5 or top 10 group.
Am I insane?
Yeah, I think the front seven will hold up its end of the bargain. I think it's all a matter of who the back end holds up. As you mention, the DBs have to cut down on the number off big plays allowed.
-------
Will play action help T Austin get separation from defense? How can someone that quick not get the ball in space?
It certainly would. But in order to make play-action effective, you've got to have an effective running game.
-------
Will the Rams be able to run the ball this season?
I'm gonna say yes. Slow go early, but yes, when all is said and done.
-------
From what I saw at training camp the O-line is working very hard. Roger Saffold is a high character guy and a very good leader. All that said , do the Rams have Evan Mathis on speed dial.
Not for the kind of money he's asking for.
-------
If Brian Quick is able to play in say 14 of the 16 games this year, what kind of numbers do you think he will put up?
So hard to predict. But with 14 games I'd say 800 yards.
--------
Do you see Marcus Roberson starting by the 2016 season? Also does Cody Davis stick around for 2015?
I think Roberson could have starters potential. And if either Jenkins or Johnson leave after '15 (as pending UFAs) that could give Roberson a shot. I think Davis sticks. Good special teams player.
-------
Will you be out at the Oxnard practices? Been a fan of your coverage of the Rams for the last 20+ years. It would be great to stop by and just say hi.
I'll be there.
--------
Do you suppose it has crossed Fishers mind that the team needs to get off to a faster start?
I think the subject's come up a time or two at Rams Park.
-------
I saw Jeff Garcia at pracitce Monday working with some receivers what exactly is his role?
He's the assistant wide receivers coach.
-------
Speaking of a fast start, how do you see our OL faring in the opener vs. Seattle?
Five words for Foles Get the ball out quick.
--------
Whats the deal with Brandon Washington, every year he sneaks on the practice squad why? Do the Rams pursue Matt Flynn or try to trade for Mike Glenon.
Obviously, they see something they like in him. But after two or three years on the practice squad, or bouncing on and off the active roster, players usually have show they're capable of taking that next step. So this could be that year for him. On the QBs, I'd say no.
--------
Hey Jim what happens if the 3 projected center's don't pan out. Can you see Garret Reynolds sliding over as the grizzled vet?
I don't think he plays center.
--------
Seeing I Bruce at Ram's started me wondering about the Rams eligible for the HOF next year. How do you rate their entry chances, individually?
1.) Pace; 2.) Warner. 3.) tied _ Bruce and Holt.
--------
How about running the ball vs. Seattle in the opener? Any hope?
There's always hope. But as you know, it's tough to move the ball against Seattle, and at this point don't see any reason why that would change on Sept. 13.
--------
Is a 12-4 record realistic?
Survey says! No.
--------
been doing some mock drafts and they have the Rams ahead of the 49ers. You buying that?
I don't see any reason why the Rams shouldn't finish ahead of the 'Niners this year in the division.
--------
What do you think the Rams division record will be this season?
4-2. Sweep San Fran, split with Seattle and Arizona.
--------
I asked this question last time but I know you get a lot of questions so I thought I'd ask again and it's not a relocation question ;-) Going to see my first Rams home game when the Rams play my hometown Browns in October and wondering if you had any local things I should be sure to try and do, items such as restuarants, type of food, things to see, etc.
I don't think the Museum of Westward expansion is open now because of the construction work on the Arch. But I've always enjoyed that. If you get to StL early enough (like on a Saturday), the zoo is always great that time of year and it's free. There are tons of Italian restaurants on the Hill, but plenty of restaurants in the downtown area around the Edward Jones Dome as well. If you're the casino type, there's one right across the street from the dome.
---------
Have you seen enough to form an opinion on who is in the lead in the Center battle?
Not really. But I've said all along, I think slight edge for Jones.
-------
Last week you mentioned some players with Pro Bowl potential. I noticed McDonald wasn't on the list but I've seen a lot of good press for him with national writers. Do you think he has the makings of being an elite safety?
Yeah, I think he has that potential.
---------
Whats the deal with stedman? he gets rave reviews every year but never seems to get the reps. are the other receivers out playing him?
Yeah, I'd like to see Bailey get more of a chance at the start of the season.
---------
Sorry if this was already asked but I have several questions. There's a certain poster who calls himself Hammer in the Rams forum.
He claims to be at most of the Rams practices and he's adamant that 1) Chris Long is finished. 2) That GRob losing 25 lbs has him being pushed around by even the back up D-linemen. 3) that William Hayes has lost not one, but TWO steps. 4) That Greg Williams has the D blitzing so often that the team can't work on it's intermediate to deep passing game. 5) That Tavon Austin looks lost and will continue to be a bust. And 6) That Michael Brockers will never be a good pass rusher because he lacks the "quick twitch" muscles.
Any truth to any of these claims or is the guy full of s**t?
Sorry, I'll pass on this one. We're all entitled to our opinion.
--------
No offense to the crowd today, but the season is less a month away and all talk is of owners meetings. My dad told me to only worry and work at what you can actually control..and to leave the rest for God....that being said, how many sacks for Quinn this season?
I'm gonna go 13 1/2 for Quinn.
--------
I wonder if you can tell us how Foles has been looking? What's his TD-INT ratio been and has it improved as camp has progressed?
I think he has improved as camp has progressed. In that sense, he's growing on me. He's thrown a few INTs in camp, but not too many.
--------
Honest unvarnished truth: how is the o-line going to play this season barring significant injuries?
It's difficult to see such an inexperienced line getting by without some bumps along the way. As I mentioned before, the Rams are going to have to get the ball out quick.
-------
Hard to believe that the Rams season opener is just a month away. I guess the biggest question mark would have to be the O-line.Do you think Gurley will get in for a few plays, or is it too soon to tell.
If I had to guess, I'd say he doesn't play in the opener.
--------
Does Coach Boudreau have any input on draft day regarding which OL the Rams select? Not that either one of them is Fred Astaire, but who would you say is more mobile: Foles or Bradford? How is Akeem Ayers in pass coverage?
Yes, Boudreau has input. I think a healthy Bradford _ when he first came out _ was a little more mobile. But Foles does OK. (By that I mean he's not a statue.) Ayers is supposed to be pretty good in coverage.
-------
Jim, question from friggin Redskins land... any sense from practice/camp so far if our passing game will continue to be pedestrian? Or will we continue to see screens that don't work and dink-and-dunk that isn't reliable enough to score points? As pessimistic as that sounds, I'm really looking forward to the Foles effect.
Don't be surprised if there's a lot of short stuff in the passing game early while Foles settles in and the offensive line gets its legs under them.
---------
L Collins' agent bragged that he outsmarted the Ram's front office by telling them Collins would sit out if the Rams drafted him in the late rounds, as they planned. Do you buy that narrative? Wouldn't they have taken all the pressure off their first round pick by getting a first round talent in the 6th or 7th round?
Don't know about all that. But I think the guy probably would've been worth a seventh-round pick.
