[RamWraith]

BernieM wrote:
Polley has played better since Marmie switched him to the TE side, but I wouldn't be tempted to overpay him to stay here.

This team needs to spend FA money on a legit middle linebacker to reinforce the run defense. They can move Thomas outside to replace Polley if need be, and Chillar has potential.

Cheers,
Bernie

BernieM wrote:
I believe Little will be here.
The Rams are planning on it.
They'll stick by him if they need to (pending outcome of his legal issues).

I agree with you; I can see why they liked Hargrove.

Cheers,
Bernie

On Bob Stoops:
BernieM wrote:
That's a tough one to answer. I really don't know. I'd think his stock has dropped a little, but he's done such an excellent overall job at OU...I don't see why NFL teams would scratch him off their list (if he's on it) because of a couple of bad bowl games.

I wonder, though....will OU fans turn on him?

In a related comment, if I had to hire a college coach to coach an NFL team, I'd pick Iowa's Kirk Ferentz. He'll be a terrific NFL head coach if and when he wants the opportunity.

Cheers,
Bernie

BernieM wrote:
I was almost as confused as the folks at Rams Park last offseason.

Though no one ever told me they planned to acquire Henson -- Martz did express enthusiasm for Henson, however -- there was definitely a pro-Warner movement underway, for two reasons:

1. Financial. He already was on the books and by cutting him the team would have to take a cap hit.

2. Martz soured on Bulger after the Carolina playoff loss, explaining his decision to kick the FG at the end of regulation by telling Rams execs that he didn't trust Bulger and feared an INT.

What changed?

1. Warner's sermon at the church in Houston the day before the Super Bowl.

2. After reviewing tapes and calming down, Martz realized that Bulger had played well overall, and that it would be hasty and foolish to give up on him, because he'd finally come to the point where he (bulger) could mentally master the offense.

Cheers,
Bernie

BernieM wrote:
I haven't asked about the cap (sorry) ... but the Rams will take a bigger "Warner" hit in 2005 ... and if Faulk retires, that will be another big hit (I don't think he will retire but I don't know).

Jim Thomas told me that, other than those two things, it isn't so bad.

I wish I knew more. I apologize. I have always been weak on salary-cap issues.

Cheers,
Bernie

BernieM wrote:
From Jim Henzler of STATS Inc:

Worst Turnover Differential For Postseason Teams, Since 1933

Team Opp Diff

2004 Rams 39 15 -24

1977 Vikings 46 28 -18

1987 Bears 42 24 -18

1983 Raiders 50 35 -15

1984 Raiders 49 34 -15

1971 ***** 29 15 -14

2004 Packers 29 15 -14

1979 Cowboys 34 23 -11

1990 Saints 39 28 -11

1998 Packers 34 23 -11

Worst Point Differential For Postseason Teams, Since 1933

Team Opp Diff

2004 Rams 319 392 -73

1989 Steelers 265 326 -61

1998 Cardinals 325 378 -53

1978 Falcons 240 290 -50

1989 Oilers 365 412 -47

1982 Browns 140 182 -42

1994 Bears 271 307 -36

1982 Cardinals 135 170 -35

1983 Broncos 302 327 -25

1986 Jets 364 386 -22


Cheers,
B

On Bryce Fisher:
BernieM wrote:
Haven't heard much talk out there, either way.
He's really emerged, as you said. He's going to make a lot of money.
I'm sure someone will overpay.

He was just named NFC Defensive Player of the Month....

--B

On Bulger vs. Warner
BernieM wrote:
The Giants had a shaky offensive line. So did the Rams.
The Giants had Tiki Barber. The Rams did not have a running back who produced consistently. The Rams have better WRs, but the Giants have good receivers. The Giants have a superior tight end.

Cheers,
Bernie