Tom Gannam - AP
St. Louis Rams owner Stan Kroenke has run afoul of the CVC, who says that the team is in v
I doubt the St. Louis Rams expected the response they got to the news that they would be playing one home game in each of the next three seasons in London. In case you decided to keep your IQ above 75 and avoid local talk radio for the last two weeks, let me just say that fans did not receive the news well. I believe PR shit storm might be the most apt description. Now, the Rams may have run afoul of the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission, who claims that their decision to play in the UK at the expense of one of their home games violates their lease on the Edward Jones Dome.
That sound you heard was Stan Kroenke shrugging ... or maybe counting his "jack."
"We immediately brought this to the Rams' attention and are awaiting their response," the CVC said in a statement reported in the Post-Dispatch on Friday.
Reports of this first surfaced this morning on KTRS. We reached out to the Rams for clarification, but have yet to receive a response.
It's hard to believe that this possibility wasn't considered, unless by some strange chance the Rams haven't really paid attention to the details in their bargain basement lease on the Ed Jones Dome. Somehow I doubt that, since the franchise is fully aware of their out clause in the lease come 2015 and the steps that must be taken between now and then to resolve that issue.
The first milestone in the lease negotiations happens next Wednesday, Feb. 1, when the CVC is due to present a plan to the Rams for upgrading the Dome to put it in compliance with the "top tier" clause that lets them out in 2015.
As for who gets the say in what constitutes "top tier," that ultimately falls to the arbitrator, should the two sides go that far. Of course, arbitration is non-binding.
Fan feelings about the potential for the Rams to leave are already a little raw in the wake of the relocation talk during the Jeff Fisher saga and the London news. In fact, one local nut got tossed in the pokey for making death threats on KTRS.
The Rams went on a minor PR offensive in the wake of the poorly-received London news. Now, the lease negotiations start in less than a week with more than a hint of acrimony.
[Note by Ryan Van Bibber, 01/27/12 5:22 PM EST ] As nextSTL points out, this is obviously a leverage play by the CVC, their tit to the Rams' tat of deciding to play in London. As for how much leverage it buys them, that remains to be seen. I suspect not a whole lot in the grand scheme, emphasis on scheme, of a deal of this magnitude.
I'll say this, when politics start getting factored in, I think you have to favor the Rams. Stan Kroenke is a master of getting public bucks for suburban shopping center developments, and those lessons won't be lost in the Dome negotiations. I suspect that in the end, the city and state will pony up a sizable amount of money to keep the Rams here ... and not run afoul of a billionaire whose day job is directly associated with one of the largest corporations in America.
Six months ago, with the Vikings lease on the Metrodome up at the end of the season, it seemed impossible for the team to get any public money, with members of both parties blustering about tight public budgets. All that's changed since then, and another cash-strapped state walked back from previous statements. Whether you agree or disagree with taxpayers dollars for stadiums (I tend to think schools and universities and infrastructure make for better investments), politicians of both parties tend to acquiesce in stare downs with corporations who fund campaigns.
Updated at 12:25EST by DouglasM
Here is a the Rams response to the St. Louis CVC courtesy of ESPN's Mike Sando:
0 recs | 393 comments
Comments are back up!
Was it just my computer, or was it everyone else’s too?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I loggede out, then logged back in and the comments came back up
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
same thing happened to me
it worked!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
If they do move to LA.. Will any of you STL residents still be fans?
m0pi1 - January 27, 2012
It's really not about that. It's about fans being treated so shabbily by an owner that would take their team away
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Actually, he is going to take his team away. The Rams are owned by Stan not the fans in ST. Louis. You have as much right to them as the fans in LA. Only one city owns an NFL Team. That is Green Bay. If you want to own a team buy one or buy stock in Green Bay. Either way… It is Stan’s team and he is free to move it where ever he wants.
frisbie17 - January 27, 2012
whats your 20?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
He means: Where do you live?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
o donde estas?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Me 'o shack-o este in New Mexico. lol
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
new mexican
sounds and reads a lot different than actual Mexican……interesting!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Mexican is truly a beautiful language
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
almost as good as Spanish
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
¿Que es eso?
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
You know what I just thought...
Pittsburgh’s professional basketball team is almost as good as Washingtons
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
your team has no wins
and mine has 3. Sadly, a month from now, that will still be the case
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
But does Washington have THE POWER?!
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
nope, but we do have this!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Shows what I know about geography...
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
breath it in, buddy
Pentagon power!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
or 'breathe' it.....up to you
breath it if you want, but it might fall over!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
there IS a difference DC...
im spanish/native american. i freakin cant stand it when people say…“oh your from mexico?”…NO! im from NEW MEXICO! LOL!
Mark Jaramillo - January 27, 2012
My bad...
Yo soy ignorant!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
what part douglas?
im from belen. the hub city.
Mark Jaramillo - January 27, 2012
welcome to TST, by the way
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Not only no...
BUT HELL NO. In fact I will make it my single purpose in life the see the demise of the Rams.
Sggladden - January 27, 2012
that bad, eh?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Having never even set foot in the state of Missouri
I’ll be a Rams fan regardless of where they end up; however, I strongly believe that they belong in St Louis.
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
I kinda liked the London games,
expect for losing a home game but now we may not have them?? Don’t know how I feel. Maybe in the lease talks, the CVC will allow the London games to happen in return for something else?
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
In return for a home game in January?
I.e. winning the NFC West
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
London Games
If they are really pushing the London Games the Rams have to be the visiting team, give up the home money and take a cut in the money made.
learning - January 27, 2012
I'm going to London for at least the first of the games
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
It's not so much the losing of one or even three games
It’s the total screw job on how they are going about things. It just has been handled quite poorly. This announcement should never have been made like it was. Everything in terms of how it will work should have been clearly decided and communicated and there should be some type iof compensation to us poor souls on the hook for season tickets through shitty season after shitty season. Also I don’t know how people keep overlooking the reality of being forced to buy 100% of the crap preseason schedule but only getting 7/8 of the season. Any way you slice it dumping this upon everyone right now was a real shitty move.
I’m actually not completely bent out of shape out of losing the games and I think it’s kind of neat to see the team get the exposure and it could be fun if they do something fun at the Dome Durring those games.
I don’t think most realistic people begrudge Kronke for wanting to negotiate a good deal but running the people that support your team through this type of tight lipped hard ball negotiations is really uncalled for. Nothing wrong with being a shrewd businessman but at some point you have to realize your just being a big Dickasaurus.
Sggladden - January 27, 2012
I don't see how the CVC has any leverage
If they want the team, they have to pay. Period.
Trying to pull this shit will do nothing when the team has every capacity of bolting for Los Angeles.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
What shit are they pulling?
If anything Stan’s pulling shit because he violated the terms of the lease. OMG the CVC wants the Rams to follow the agreement both sides reached?!!?!? Shocking!!
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
I feel as though the CVC is trying to put the Rams on double secret probation
I mean really, it’s like they are trying to find some dirt.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
Have to get leverage somehow
but I don’t think this is as big of a deal as people are making it.
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
It's probably something to do with calling it a home game but not in St. Louis
I’m just spitballing here, but don’t bite the hand that feeds you know?
The Rams, besides emotional ties, have no reason to be in St. Louis. Whether you think they belong in LA or not, it’s hard to say that it wouldn’t be financially smart to look at that option.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
The team would be more profitable, but would Stan make more money??
Probably not, LA won’t be of that much more value to the team that owning a 60-75% share, (would have to sell part to move to LA) would make him more money. Stan would make more money in LA. Plus, the Chargers or Vikings will be there before 2014.
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
I just think the lure of having a mega-complex in one of the biggest markets in the country would be too much
I mean, if I’m a billionaire, do I stick in a city that is microsized compared to LA in a renovated stadium, or go to a huge market with a new super stadium?
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
He wouldn't own that stadium
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
The Farmers deal or AEG or whatever
is just that, an idea. Stan could easily create a stadium in downtown LA if he wanted to. Think of the type of traffic it could generate? Stan is a real estate mogul, it could be one of the biggest shopping centers in the country with how things have gone.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
Not really.
you know how hard it is to get land in LA?? That a major reason why they haven’t had a team because it’s so hard to get enough land in LA for a stadium. The only way to get the Rams in LA is through AEG or the other deal in the city of industry.
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
No I don't know how hard it is to get land in LA
but I do know that Stan has billions of dollars. That’s why I think it could happen.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
I'm just saying
there’s been other billionaires who have tried and failed.
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
and the owners of the stadium wants part ownership as well...
kroenke’s not down for that.
Mark Jaramillo - January 27, 2012
Would make more money in STL with the renovated stadium
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
Lots to consider for an NFL team. It's why the L.A. area has been without a team for so long.
It says something that even the huge potential of a local cable contract is there and they all still balk
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Chargers, Vikings...or Raiders
All of them are better than us right now. Why would, of all places, LA pay for a losing team to move in? I mean the uproar is starting to just get plain out dumb. WE ARE NOT GOOD RIGHT NOW, BETTER TEAMS CAN LEAVE THEIR CITIES BEFORE RAMS, SO WHY ARE WE FREAKING OUT!!
James Goldbleu - January 27, 2012
lol It's what we do in the off season! :-)
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
They wouldn't be more profitable in China
If they only win 1-2 games a year. Occasionally rising up 7 wins. That won’t cut it any where.
LARams1968 - January 27, 2012
but winning in LA would net him less money than being average in STL
Brick Top - January 28, 2012
I doubt that.
Oh, you must be talking about the cost of aquiring a stadium. Well perhaps. It would certainly cost more as land in LA is worth a lot more than in Stl. That would be offset, at least somewhat, by the higher revenues generated by the loftier ticket prices and sky high luxery suites. I really don’t think you have enough information to make such a speculatory statement.
LARams1968 - January 28, 2012
NO
I’m talking about the fact he won’t own 100% of the team
Brick Top - January 28, 2012
Owning 100% of the team,
and thus 100% of the revenues is better than owning 60-75% of the team getting a smaller piece out of a bigger pie
Brick Top - January 28, 2012
howie43 - January 27, 2012
Hey is that Fletcher
from the outlaw Josie wales?
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
Dean Wopner from Animal House
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Awesome movie.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
Yeah but...
I heard it would only cost him $750,000 due to the loss of the London games. He has more than that in his couch cushions.
Sggladden - January 27, 2012
I thought he was going to make a ton of extra money from the London games?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
No $750,000 to buy of the lease!
Basically the team is paying very little to lease out the dome while the city, county and state have all the capital invested in the dome. A facility that is virtually worthless without the Rams. Trying to strong arm Stan probably isn’t the smartest move right now.
I’m not even sure why the CVC bothered to release the fact that they have inquired with the Rams about this issue. Probably they were bombarded with questions and wanted to get it in the record that they are aware of the lease violation issue.
Sggladden - January 27, 2012
Maybe Kroenke didn't read the lease LOL
it clearly states what they have to do. Could hurt him in arbitration knowing that he knowingly broke the rules of the lease, but I think a deal will be reached before then
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
i hope they do leave to LA... get out of the dying town of st louis
joemammaz - January 27, 2012
Uh...how's it dying??
St. Louis is in WAY better shape than LA economically.
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
anyone hear that they may be moving to Virginia?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I'd probably shit my pants
Because I’m going to be moving there in July
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
welcome!
what part?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Reston area
Is that a nice place? I’ve never been within 1500 miles of the DC area, so I have no idea what it’ll be like
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
New Job?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Yes sir
I’ll be joining corporate America.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
What kind of work?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
a consultant for microsoft
helping the government learn how to use windows, one congressman at a time.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
Very cool job! My brother in law works for HP now that his company was purchased by them. He was a part of ARCSight: computer security stuff I think?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
They live in the Alexandria area
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Neighbors
I’ll be sure to swing by…
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
That's sweet
I’m pretty excited…first real full time job.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
I think we should all send Bill Gates a thank you for hiring you
Maybe we can jswirb to let Bill know what’s wrong with his company? lol
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
As long as jswirb is the man in charge
It could start out like thisEric Nagel - January 27, 2012
lol
Jswirb –
"Bill, you stul the idea for Wydoes from me. I thuncked of it way befur you. HAHA.Douglas M - January 27, 2012
purfiktly speled
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Very nice
near the Dulles (airport), Great Falls which is nearby is where some of the wealthiest in VA live (Skins players), great shopping centers (Reston Town Center, and Tysons Corner), near George Washington National Park, and they’ve got a great golf course….if you’re interested
You will, though, be joining the worst traffic on the planet
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I used to work in downtown seattle
I’m used to going 10 in a 60.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
You'll fit right in....
…to a billion assholes honkin horns, refusing to use turn signals, cutting you off, and using the side of the road as a drag strip
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Yes!
that’s my dream.
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
It's called Sunday afternoon on the Banfield in Ptown
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
Probably the part right close to his ass
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
ah shit
I hate it when I respond to a comment and my response falls like 20 stories towards the bottom.
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
I'm part of the "move the Rams to Portales NM Group" We have like 86 bucks raised so far toward a domed stadium
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
SHHHHHHH!!!!!
They’ll realize our plan!!
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
I think the pancake breakfast should add another $50 to the fund. I'm thinking carwash next?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
hilarious
stop ya killin me
James Goldbleu - January 27, 2012
then why dont they just build a entire new stadium?
joemammaz - January 27, 2012
Because taxpayers here don't want to put public money into a stadium
to replace the Dome that hasn’t even been around for 20 years. No city would!
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
Plus before these negotiations,
why would STL even consider a new stadium?? Had no reason to. I still don’t think we need one. Just renovate the Dome
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
honestly
how could you not want the rams to move to LA? IF your a real rams fan then you would understand that it would be way better for them. brand new stadium with millions of new fans and hollywood would be all over that. Big time media and way more money. More FA players would want to come over there. Chance to have a super bowl in there new stadium. What do you not like?
joemammaz - January 27, 2012
I'm from St. Louis fuck nut
that’s why. STL IS MY HOME!! Sorry if I want my favorite team to stay where I live!!
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
that's a pretty good reason...
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
sounds pretty selfish to me
joemammaz - January 27, 2012
And I bet your a Rams fan from LA
your selfish for wanting them in LA. Rams can and have won in STL.
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
im from oklahoma bud
joemammaz - January 27, 2012
And if it's selfish so be it
I deserve to be selfish in this senario. I’ve supported this team in my hometown for my entire life. Sorry if I want them to stay in the city they’ve won their only super bowl and that I’ve had many great memories of them.
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
The Rams need to go back home
CLEVELAND!
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
Portales, NM! They'll draw hundreds of fans each week!
As long as the cameras just show the 50 yard line no one will know the difference
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
playing where douglas?
the pecan fields? haahaa!
Mark Jaramillo - January 27, 2012
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
and then a real punter showed up...
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Punt, Pass and Kick used to such a great thing!
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
i would love to see the rams in thos colors
joemammaz - January 27, 2012
300 million vs. 1 billion
what would you rather be on the hook for?
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
Jesus!!
No way a new stadium in STL would be a $1 Billion unless Stan pays for most of that himself!!
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
I'm sure they could think of ways to make it that expensive
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
Lucas Oil cost $720 billion
what’s wrong with an arena of that quality?
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
*Million
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
It's not the newest greatest superest stadium in the world
plus it doesn’t have a 70000 trillion foot TV in the middle of it, now does it?
Eric Nagel - January 27, 2012
Costs have gone up
I think I read somewhere that Jerry Jones has almost paid off his new stadium? If that’s true, I would think Kroenke would want to own the building himself, and screw Gov. subsidies?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Yep
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
and cost have gone up, but not to where STL needs a billon dollar stadium
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
How about a "Super Bowl host worthy" stadium?
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
Here's something interesting
You can calculate relative costs here
What cost $1000000000 in 1992 would cost $1534289834.49 in 2010.
Also, if you were to buy exactly the same products in 2010 and 1992,
they would cost you $1000000000 and $642908363.74 respectively.
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
This means that even a Edward Jones quality stadium now would cost a $1 Billion
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Then why did Lucas Oil, which is better than the dome,
cost less than 1 billion
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
It has more to do with "When". Lower building cost in the past
It also has to do with Architecture and materials
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
It was built like 3 years ago!!
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
inflation is a bitch
Eric Nagel - January 28, 2012
St. Louis isn't a city that will ever host a Super Bowl.
Don’t have the logistics, mainly hotel rooms in good locations, to do it
Brick Top - January 27, 2012
Kroenke's mustache is Kroeked; makes him look like a really rich alcoholic.
sergey606 - January 27, 2012
He looks like a Swiss watch maker
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
He looks like he's brothers with this guy
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
HA!
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
He looks like a homeless guy in an expensive suit
Are we sure he doesn’t live in a box outside the Ed?
ramdude - January 27, 2012
looks pretty damn good here, if you ask me
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
But what about this Jamoke? Jim Irsay
Everybody knows you wear your plaid sports coat with a striped shirt after a hard day at the used car lot.
There appears to be a need for NFL owners to look like 1920’s gangstas with the striped suits and such.
ramdude - January 27, 2012
look at Peyton's coin purse!!!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Damn, I don't have enough for a soda.
Irsay: I’ll sell ya this water for 50 bucks. Old man.
ramdude - January 27, 2012
'90 mil to sit on the bench'
oooooooooohh………is that coach?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
That damn Eli just sent me another picture of his ass
Uhh, ya brother’s got a cute ass. Just sayin.
ramdude - January 27, 2012
this looks like tom brady nowadays.....
Mark Jaramillo - January 27, 2012
Isn't the standard for how long it takes to build a new stadium 3 years?
So, if the lease is over in 2014, aren’t St Louis and the EJD far past the time when all of this should have been settled? Are we expecting the Rams to still be playing in the Dome in 2014, 2015 and beyond?
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
I'll admit
I have little to no knowledge on this matter.
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
Well LA's stadium wouldn't be built by then either
Maybe they’ll play in Mizzou’s stadium?
Like the Huskies are doing next year, playing at CenturyLink while they repair Husky stadium
sergey606 - January 27, 2012 via mobile
I've seen people suggest that the Rams play at Dodgers Stadium until the new stadium is built.
How about noooo?
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
Chavez Ravine is my favorite stadium
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
In section 58, you are closer to the SF game.
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Ha! rec'd
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Bless you my son
ramdude - January 27, 2012
I've seen this picture before somewhere
hmmmmmm…..
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
Oh yeah
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
Don't be a 14! lol
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Come onnnnn
We all giggled at this at junior high, anyone who says they didn’t is a damned liar
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
That looks like it would hurt.
ramdude - January 28, 2012
It lookks like 90% of the seats woul be 20 yard line or worse. Half the best seats in the house for baseball would be in the endzone?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Is it even fathomable?
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
Sell out crowds of 55,000 for a professional football team?
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
good thing is...
with about 25% of the stadium essentially missing, we’d have a packed house!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I liked you better with Faulk as your avatar...
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
my apologies...
I’m taking the offseason to utilize what little fandom I have left on the Caps, Bullets, and Nats
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I'll let it slide
but I’m not happy about it.
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012
my goodness gracious!
I just clicked on your profile and saw that you’re a Bulldog fan! This just got worse…
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Hahaha!
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
Since I'm in New Mexico, I thought this might be a cheery avatar
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
hows the dental coverage out there?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
The guy at the John Deere repair shop moonlights as a dentist
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
at least he'll get a free toothbrush
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
There's a serious waiting list to get your teeth cleaned though
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
look at what my dentist gave me last time
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I keep my toothbrushes outside...
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
tree huggin hippie
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I'm trying to grow more tooth brushes. watering them doen't seem to help?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
The one on the right belonged to my exwife
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
you've got enough to supply West Virginia!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
That's where they really are a TOOTH brush
No plural needed.
ramdude - January 27, 2012
he's got some teeth
in his pesto
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
That was from a "Fluoride in the water Ad? lol
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
They for it or agin it?
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Reasons I quit chewing as my resolution
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
a lotta fishing line get caught in your lips?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
power lines and bungee cords too
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
Sounds like you made a wise choice
ramdude - January 27, 2012
it's driving him insane
did you, or did you not, see that he’s a Pittsburgh Penguins and Georgia Bulldog fan?!?!
….you need to go get some Skoal, RAMphet. Or at least get the delicious beef jerky that comes in the same style container
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Jealousy is an ugly color on you..
No, wait, that’s just Ovechkin:)
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
suspended....
you know thats BS
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
and college football doesnt count for me.
You can lump UNC, Mizzou, Virginia and a few others into that group
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
kentucky?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Back when that had that real good QB
Can’t remember his name but I wanted the Rams to take him. Back near the end of Bulger
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
Woodson
Andre Woodson
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Indeed.
Yes indeed.
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
Brush this!
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Critters was a great movie!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
So true
ramdude - January 27, 2012
you got lunch?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I think the thing with the Rams
Is that despite having more success in St. Louis than the football Cardinals ever did (they crossed that point when they had a home playoff game), there really aren’t many ties to St. Louis.
How many players from the GSOT era still live or work in St. Louis? Uh, D’Marco Farr and Aeneas Williams (who came in at the end).
By contrast, you still have old football Cardinals doing commercials in St. Louis.
I’d love to have them stay, but I don’t think at the cost of a billion dollars (which is likely what it would take to build a top stadium). Especially when the owner is so rich himself and basically doesn’t do anything but collect sports teams.
So let them go back to LA or London or Saskatoon.
DiscoJer - January 27, 2012
Brandon Marshall doing his part to take the Phins out of the #2 spot sweepstakes....
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/01/27/brandon-marshall-has-reached-out-to-matt-flynn/
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I love it
well played by the CVC. I dunno if it means shit in the end, but if nothing else I love seeing these guys responding in kind to Kroenke. This is going to keep a bunch of lawyers working overtime for a while.
If the London games in fact violate the lease, what then? Will there be a settlement? Do the Rams have to pay the CVC some sort of fine? Could those funds end up being used to pay for (part of) renovations/upgrades at the Ed? Didn’t Kroenke & the Rams perform their due diligence and see this coming? Was the CVC surprised by the 3-games-in-London announcement? Did the Rams, the NFL, and the London sports authority involve the CVC in any of the negotiations?
nota bene - January 27, 2012
Well it took them like over a week to come out and say they violated the terms
To me it seems that they had to read the fine print and were not involved in the London talks with the K man
sergey606 - January 27, 2012 via mobile
I think it's just gamesmanship going into the negotiations - To show Kroenke they are afraid of him
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Doubt it
It’s most likely a move to get people to quit bothering them with it. They know the Rams violated the lease… they also know there is squat they can do about it.
Sggladden - January 27, 2012
I dunno
They could terminate the lease, leaving the Rams with nowhere to play. I would love to see them do it.
At this point, the Rams aren’t providing any economic benefit to St. Louis. So why grovel? Let them go to London or wherever
DiscoJer - January 27, 2012
whats your 20?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
You have "CB" in your blood, don't you?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I was born in the cab of an 18 wheeler
same place I was conceived
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Really? or did you just watch "Black Dog"?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Big Trouble in Little China
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
HA! One of my all time favorite movies!
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
You know they are making another one, right? Supposed to be out next year I think?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I did not
but thank you so much for letting me know. What in the world has taken so long?!?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
The city of St. Louis better be careful. The city of Concord, NC(about an hour from where I live) started complaining when SMI owner Bruton Smith wanted to build a dragstrip on the property were he has Charlotte Motor Speedway and the Charlotte Dirt Track. City and county people started going crazy about the extra noise and it ended with Bruton threatening to move the big track and the dirt track to another locale. In the end the city and county had to combine to build and improve infrastructure around the Speedway areas to the tune of $80 million plus. All because a few idiots wanting to complain about noise for 6-10 more days a year. So he got his cake and ate it too at the expense of the taxpayers in that area. These business men are ruthless, Bruton never had any intention of moving the Speedway anywhere, but he made them believe it and got all that money out of them for improvements to the area.
Christy
Scrapgirl933 - January 27, 2012
He probably feels bad about it though
NOT!
ramdude - January 27, 2012
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
NFL Network showing the Rams - Pats Super Bowl
Keep saying how the Rams were supposed to be better than the lowly Pats
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Vinatieri!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
And we would have won it too, if it hadn't been for that meddling kicker
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Tom Brady....
so cocky in his bright pink dress!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Ooga Booga
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Doug, we hunger for another caption contest
Gotta any Rams underoos or something?
ramdude - January 27, 2012
How many guys here tonight want a Caption contest?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
mmmmmm
absolutely!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
werent those pushing 1000 comments a night?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
500 to 1000 - It helps rationalize paying for the prize
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
1,2 40
ramdude - January 27, 2012
I am owed a long sleeve shirt from a contest.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
Yeah, I think I'm owed 50 bucks in a smart Rams wallet.
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Those are "Rams Bucks", You can use them for parking fees if you rent a 50 yardline suite at EJD
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
You're the ONE!!!! I've having been trying to figure out who hasn't gotten their prize yet?
I just yesterday got around to sending out two prizes that were due. I just sent a Hoody to Jordansdad and a Band o’ brothers/Pacific DVD set to… I already forgot who I sent it too? lol
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
please tell me you're kidding...
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Nope!
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
that damn DVD set was mine!
I emailed you about a gazillion times
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
It's on the way to you then BRB
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
You're in Virgina, right? Yup! It's on his way
Delivery Estimate: Thursday, February 2, 2012 – Friday, February 17, 2012
This shipment was sent to:
xxxxx Bate
xxxxxxxxxxx
ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA 22314-5844
United States
This shipment will be delivered by USPS.
You can track the status of this shipment online by visiting Your Account at http://www.amazon.com/gp/css/shiptrack/view.html?ie=UTF8&addressID=jlrnkuiqsr&trackingNumber=9114082133393496117696&latestArrivalDate=1329551999&shipMethod=media%20mail&orderID=102-6074279-3709060&shipmentDate=1327996799&carrierId=USPS.
You have been charged for the following items shipped today:
Band of Brothers / The Pacific Special Edition Gift Set
Sold by: Thomas Schnegelsberger
Condition: new
Quantity: 1
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I'll take one too
12
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
Please tell me I got it right? If it's the wrong address I'll scream
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Im 22314
not sure about ‘xxxxxxxxxxxxx’ but if it comes anywhere close, I’ll find it!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I "X"-ed your address out before posting
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Haha. Appreciate it
just go ahead and put it out there. I bought a kegerator a few months ago, so any Rams fan is welcome to stop by for a cold one……for some of you a trip across the country for a beer may not make a whole lot of sense, but the offer stands
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
You going to make the London Trip?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Are the Rams?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Only half the team.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
DX injuries his knee boarding the plane?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I wouldn't doubt it knowing him.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
Only King survives the boarding process
ramdude - January 27, 2012
IMPOSSIBLE
he’ll be cut loooooooooooong before then……won’t he????
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
In a nuclear war only the roaches survive
who knows?
ramdude - January 27, 2012
I already have a place to stay lined up with a author friend.
He has a huuuuuuuge Manor House, and I get the guest wing.
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
woooohooo
I’ll bring the camera and the bartles and Jaymes cutouts
dbcouver - January 28, 2012
I am so sorry it took soooooo long to straighten all the prize things out.
I got screwed out of prizes by a couple of guys. I lost one poor guy’s e-mail in a folder file…. Someone else can do the post next season…
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
no need to apologize
I love the caption contests even without the prizes
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Have you seen how many sites are doing Caption Contest posts now? Copycats!
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I wondered if SB Nation made sites do certain things
but WE know where the Caption Contest began. Our team may be the worst, but our damn posts are the best!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I said the same thing to Ryan two days ago
If you look at our front page and compare it to the other SBNation NFL sites – We absolutely blow them away! Ryan deserves a prize of some kind
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
A hoodie perhams?
ramdude - January 27, 2012
WTF was that?!?!?
perhaps
ramdude - January 27, 2012
A woodsmoked hams
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
Hopefully SBNation has an award for best site and he wins
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I think we all hate each others success
I saw a caption contest on revenge of the birds and pretty much all captions were green. Getting a rec on here is difficult but I guess it makes it also more meaningful.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
rec'd!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
we're more apt to inflict pain (with love)
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Sounds like you have a hell of a lot of things to keep track of.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
I'm in an edit of 4 books, plus my third book re-write
Books edits account for about 90% of my e-mail. Most requests for my services(that I refuse by the way)
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Some of the problems have to do with my e-mail file system, the rest of the problems had to do with me screwing up
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
"heh heh Van said tit... that was pretty cool heh heh"
VTramsFan - January 27, 2012
Awesome
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
What was up with the site?
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
What's wrong with it?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
It was fucked up earlier.
Had Jackie Chan there an error message and the comments did work.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
It's not just TST it was SB nation but things were fucked up.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
site got all swirb'd up
actin like a big piece of swirb
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
OOONNNNNNNNNNNN!
I mean NOOOOOOOOOOOO!
ramdude - January 27, 2012
LLLLLLLLLLLLLLLoL
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
And racecar spelled backwards is racecar!
ZZZZZZZZOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMM!
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Did I get your address right?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Yes sir!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Enjoy the movies! I have the set too
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Absolutely!
I hate to ask, but are you held fiscally responsible for these prizes?
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Yup
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
and it's being taken advantage of by some TSTer's, eh?
pretty terrible stuff. The consolation probably won’t help the wallet, but thank you!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I don't know if they are TSTers. I hope not
Because I open the contests to all the SBNation NFL sites, it could have been a lot of people
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
not that you should continue to foot the bill
but if you were to consider it, I’d make it all Rams merch from here on out….
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
With the cheaters figured in --- $1500+- in prizes for the season
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Thank you for supporting the Rams said
Stanley Kroenke
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Kroenke will never know I did it.
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
He can feel it
Silver and Gold, Silver and Gold…
ramdude - January 27, 2012
I love lamp.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
I love car
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Do you really love the car or are you just looking at things and saying that you love them?
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
No, just mirroring your "Lamp" comment
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
he was going along with the movie there....
Ron Burgundy points out that he’s just saying he loves random things that he sees
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
there yugo again
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
Ive been waiting for an opportunity to use that for so long
AND YOU BLEW IT!!!
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
..of all people!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I hope it was worth it..
Joe Mazzi - January 27, 2012 via mobile
I've never been so proud of myself
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
DO-YOU-UNDERSTAND-THE-WORDS-THAT-ARE-COMING-OUT-OF-MY-MOUTH?
ramdude - January 27, 2012
I actually have that sound Ap on my droid phone
I used to play it on the radio when talking to other trains when that shit was legal.
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
That was the pinnacle of Chris Tucker's career
ramdude - January 28, 2012
F the kicker
The pats had to cheat to win buncha puss’s
Ramzman18 - January 27, 2012 via mobile
One thing I do know. I decided a few days ago that one of the Caption Contests will have Tickets, airfare and a place to stay as a prize. Very cool, eh?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
understatement
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
For the London Game against the Pats --- I forgot to mention that, didn't I? lol
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I see what you did there
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Pretty good prize, you have to admit?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
until another lying SOB sends you his info
and you go the game with a Shehawks fan…
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Too true
I need to find a way to verify who people are?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I'm me - all day long!
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Hmmmm..... Warm Beer, British Food
Well yeah, I guess so!
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Making the prize sound worse and worse by the minute.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
Where the winner will be staying is very cool
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I've seen 'Hostel'
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
You saw "Hostel"....
I’m sorry.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
Nope. Peter jame's Manor House has a guest wing. It has 5 Suites in it.
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
You sure this isn't out of a novel?
ramdude - January 27, 2012
LOL Too cliche for a novel
He told me I get the whole wing when I come over
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Hot wing
ramdude - January 27, 2012
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
I had a dozen the other night
ramdude - January 27, 2012
I'm looking forward to the visit. If you guys think I should just get the winner a hotel room, I can do that too?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
That sounds like some bucks (GBPs)
Not sure we deserve all that.
ramdude - January 27, 2012
I'll go!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
This contest could bring down the interweb
ramdude - January 27, 2012
The internet will explode.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
All Al Gore's hard work
down the drain
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
When he said that, I was soooo stunned I couldn't believe what I was hearing.
I knew he was about to be slammed for saying it. Never liked him…
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
And there's manbearpig
ramdude - January 27, 2012
How about the "Lock box" lol The guy is such a political whore
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
He's actually a whouuoore
ramdude - January 27, 2012
I'm not openning thhis one contest to other sites, just TST
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
lol
It should cost too much. I plan to use Flyer miles from my book tour for the Airline tickets. The place to stay if free. It will just cost me the game tickets, and I have a guy working on that too
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I'd like the corner room at the top please
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Gotta head out...
buenas noches, muchachos!
DCRamFan - January 27, 2012
Night!
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
So many pictures......so, so many pictures.....
You clever bastards, you
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
Now that we know all about this interweb thingy, we may start writing comments in Pinnacle
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I was kinda pissed I didn't get here in time to whip out this gem
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
Great pic!
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Rumor on NFL Net - P Manning to 49ers
But it’s not substaniated
ramdude - January 27, 2012
With how Alex Smith played they will probably keep him.
Let the relapse begin.
RAMpage28 - January 27, 2012
Link?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
They are talking about it on TV.
It’s really just talking heads yaking at this point. Mentioned Washington too, but SF seems to be the first choice.
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Kurt Warner mentioned a few days ago that he thought SF would be interested I think?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
They even mentioned the Jets cause Rex has a man-crush on him
Imagine both Manning boys playing out of the same stadium…
ramdude - January 27, 2012
Nothing on Niner Nation about it
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
The Colts site doen't have anything either
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Looks like it's just chatter.
I don’t expect to see a manning transaction happening very swiftly
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
I do NOT want him anywhere near the NFC West
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I concur.
That’s the last thing we need to be dealing with
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
Do you know anything about the Salary CAP?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
What about the salary cap?
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
It's my understanding the Rams have $10 mil in Cap room this year...
,,, and $40 mil in 2013. Can we sign FAs to a contract that pays the less this year, and more in 2013 to fit under the CAP? It would alow the Rams to hire more FAs this season instead of waiting a whole year
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I honestly am not sure
Shit. looks like I’m out of the running for the GM job
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
It's all about the interview... Just nod knowingly! lol
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Kroenke: "What will you do for this organization?"
Me: “……A lot.”
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
"Well let me just say this..."
“The first thing you gotta do is grab the bull by the horns. The fat lady has sung to much here, and I know the buck stops here… and I did not have sex with Monica Lew…”
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
In answer to your salary cap question above
In 1994 the Trailblazers GM Bob Whitsitt tried to circumvent the NBA salary cap by using the Bird exception on unrestricted free agent Chris Dudley, (a name that will live in infamy). He signed him to an reasonably low contract level with nothing more than the wink of an eye that the next year Dudley would cash in by getting the big contract by being a restricted free-agent and signing for a mint.
This transaction was made possible by a loophole in the CBA and the Bird exception and was still nearly nixed by the NBA.
What’s all this got to do with our situation? Well the only reason I bring it up is because at the time it was common thought that the loophole would be closed in all future CBA formats in professional sports and that was 18 years ago. I can’t say for sure that we could sign FAs this year and pay for them next year, but I think it would be considered as un ethical, (I know it’s hard for me to even type that word in a discussion about agents and NFL owners and players and stuff), now as it was then, and the ability to do so restricted.
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
(un) reasonbly low contract level
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
Interesting
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Ate some salary caps once
damn they was good.
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
They're hallucinogenic. You could imagine the Rams are winning a game... Trippy, eh?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
What I saw:
Brock Berlin completing a td pass to mike sims-walker after a long run by trung candidate on 4th and 15, leading scott Linehan to his fourth super bowl victory. Just say no to drugs, kids
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
HA!
I saw PeeWee Herman run by Just King and catch a touchdown pass… Wait? I think that actually happened?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
It didn't happen....
…..but that doesn’t necessarily mean that peewee herman couldn’t burn justin king for a tocuhdown
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
How about the part where I'm singing Purple Haze with Jimmy Hendricks?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Being high causing a hallucination about a situation in which you would also be high
Paradox!
turpinforpresident - January 27, 2012
...or epiphany?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Hahahahaha Whoops!
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
what a rush
LARams1968 - January 27, 2012
He's only half as evil lol
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Second try!
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I will keep the Rams in St Louis for......100 BILLION DOLLARS!!! MUAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
leadhead - January 27, 2012
Question
I don’t follow the St. Louis sports scene as closely as you guys, but the timing of this seems weird to me. Why did it take them so long to realize it violated the lease? This seems like something people in the know would, well, know.
And if it does really violate the lease, why would Kroenke even bother agreeing to it, since he almost certainly knew too? It seems like he is intentionally poking St. Louis in the eye, which would be bad news for those who want to keep the team here.
It just seems odd. Either somebody in this story is bad at their job or there’s more to the story than we know. Or at least more than I know.
wustl_chiefs_fan - January 27, 2012
I'll see your bet and raise
LARams1968 - January 27, 2012
I would have thought if there was a contractual conflict, it would have been raised before the announcement
I just can’t figure out what kind of games these guys are playing? Did Kroenke think that with the lease option coming up, he could do whatever he wanted and the EJD commission would relent to stay in his good graces?
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Either that, or the CVC is lying.
Which would be stupid on their part, since if they are lying it won’t take long for it to be exposed. Or I guess they agreed to it behind closed doors, and are taking it back, which would mean the Rams are pretty much gone.
If this is Kroenke using some of his leverage, then that’s not good news for the Rams staying either, since you’d think he’d want to keep as much leverage as possible to use in the stadium debate.
Maybe he thinks this gets him more leverage. But that doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. If anything this would give St. Louis leverage.
wustl_chiefs_fan - January 27, 2012
hahaha! Have you seen what they are turning out these days? You got the run of the mill bachelors in administration, liberal arts and psychology… as far as regular school, I say we all high tail it out of here and nuke the office of indoctrination from orbit! Its the only way to be sure!
Ok well you got me on infrastructure…that is kind of necessary especially in St louis…keeping the river at bay I think has got to be a priority there LOL!
leadhead - January 27, 2012
There are, if I have this straight, now conflicting agreements
putting the NFL firmly in Kroenkes pocket. The Rams already having entered into a contract with the CVC, knowingly allowed the NFL to make them a party to another contract the interests of which are contrary to those of the deed with the CVC. Is it possible noww, that the NFL would be best served to help the Rams in their contract negotiations with the CVC, if they enter into negotiations to opt out of the original contract?
Some lawyers are gonna turn this into a career, I’m thinking.
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
You make a valid point here:
By committing the “St. Louis Rams” to playing in London for the next three years, haven’t they, by implication, renewed the lease by acknowledging the “loss of home games in St. Louis” ????
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Hey Doug, the Rams responded to CVC
http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcwest/post/_/id/58310/back-at-ya-rams-respond-on-london
I can’t add it, but im sure you can.
T.Ram - January 27, 2012
Via ESPN's Mike Sando:
The St. Louis Rams have responded to the city’s stadium authority with a statement of their own.
They obviously were not happy with the Convention and Visitors Commission publicly challenging the Rams’ plans to play three home games in London over the next three seasons.
“We think that playing in London is great for the Rams and great for St. Louis,” the team said. “We are in talks with the St. Louis Convention and Visitors Commission, which is also the region’s chief marketing group, about how to make the most of this opportunity. As the CVC said today, this will ‘elevate an awareness of St. Louis on the global stage.’ We look forward to having amicable and meaningful dialogue with the CVC on many issues and believe those conversations should remain between the parties.”
Please shut up, in other words.
There was nothing particularly amicable about the CVC’s statement or the Rams’ response, or about Rams owner Stan Kroenke previously going out of his way to take a noncommittal stance amid questions about the team’s future in St. Louis. The Rams hold the upper hand in the long term because they control the team ultimately. In the meantime, both parties have grasped for leverage when it was available.
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
lol I meant in the story
Right under Van’s edit. STL can just help pay for the dome, and everyone will be happy.
T.Ram - January 27, 2012
lol I didn't even think of updating his post
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
I'm thinkin you're right
The city can’t afford the level of lawyering Stan and the NFL can bring to bear here. Probably just cheaper for St Louis to assk Stan how deep he’s gonna sink into them and either say OK or bye bye
dbcouver - January 27, 2012
That;s what I'm saying
I heard hey will have to build a new stadium. If they have to update the dome that’s cool too. CVC has no leverage, other than the Rams suck. If they start winning though……….
T.Ram - January 27, 2012
As bad as the Rams are....that is some pretty good leverage LOL!
leadhead - January 27, 2012
Soooo much goes into commiting public money to anything, let alone a non-life service like a stadium
The politician are going to come out of the woodwork in an election year… This is going to be more complex than I originally thought
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
Yup, the Rams will have to have a couple of good years
To make this as less messy as possible.
T.Ram - January 27, 2012
I think Kroenke will renew with shortened option terms. He may want 2 or 3 year options instead 10 year
Douglas M - January 27, 2012
NEW ST LOUIS STADIUM
I could see it now….
St Louis awards Kroenke with some great land so that he can build his own new, state-of-the-art stadium. The ONLY contingency is that the new Rams stadium HAS to be named the, “Dan Dierdorf” Dome or the “Larry Wilson” Dome. (lighten up, although not too far fetched)
As an outsider to MO and a Rams fan of 55 years I can only make 2 suggestions to the Ram locals during these upcoming lease negotiations…
1) Stop Whining about how much it costs to go to a Rams game
2) Stop Whining about, “well if they put a winning team on the field…..”
Even during sellouts with “Ram” fans (once upon a time) occupying the majority of the stands, they are viewed as “weak” home game fans. Every time the Rams have a huge play or scored an exciting TD the TV always pans to the crowds. Check out any Ram tape. You will always see the same thing. 60% sitting and not cheering (the winning TD), 80% have a radio or other device stuck to their heads for Cards play-by-play and talk shows. 60% or more lock like they all brought grandpa, uncle Joe and aunt Martha to the game (love em all) all sitting their complaining about the lighting or load music.
Just look at the SEA fans and compare the enthusiasm and home crowd support they receive. Or ANY other NFL city / team.
I was also thinking the same thing as Bidwell’s recent article. St Louis just may end up being known as the U.S. city that lost two NFL franchises…
Just saying…..be careful (and good luck)
GO RAMS !!!!
RamHard - January 28, 2012
I've never been to the dome, since I'm in Seattle
But I don’t think the two compare. Clink is filled with Seahawks fans, not opponents fans. Out of all the sports franchises here, they (and the Sounders to an extent) are the pride of Seattle. That’s why it is so crazy in the stadium.
Screw the Mariners, because they only try for half the year anyway.
Eric Nagel - January 28, 2012
I actually like the Ms
but Seattle’s stadium is made for noise, our dome isn’t acoustically comparable
sergey606 - January 28, 2012
Good observations
Compariativly speaking the Rams are a good value when you look at other NFL cities or even the Cardinals. Winning teams come and go. Every team has dry spells… granted the Rams take these to new heights or rather new lows. We’ve had great teams and it appears Kronke is committed to fielding a championship team. Also you shouldn’t hold the past 5 years against him as he had little to no influence as minority owner. We’re just now seeing his commitment and direction. It would be a real shame to have to suffer through this bad stretch just to have the team pulled out from under us just as they are turning things around.
The Rams have an issue with there game day fans. When evaluating this one has to consider two things: one, sporting events in St Louis are a big part of the social scene and two, we are a developing fan base. I believe we are seeing NFL games become more of a social scene these days across the league… even places crazy like KC aren’t what they used to be. I hate this trend but it’s what all pro leagues are pushing as that’s where the dollars are. The NFL game day experience is less of a blue collar thing than it used to be. Different fan bases have different values and St Louis is known for being a polite group and seems to struggle with finding that edge that makes it tough on opposing teams. Now I will say this, I’ve begun to see this shift but due to the relatively poor play it would be hard for someone not at every game to notice. When the St Louis crowd gets into the game they can really turn the dome into an advantage. Ironically there are times where the sudden shift from a passive quiet crowd to a blaring loud one cause the defense to have troubles… they become too accustom to being able to hear and suddenly find themselves in an entirely hostile environment and have trouble adapting… unfortunately about half these times our defense would blow a tackle on 3rd down and allow the opposition to escape. You can’t expect ANY fan base to continue this kind of investment when they are constantly let down. In any event the St Louis fanbase is relatively young, only having the team since 1995. I susect given time to develop, Rams fans will improve collectively as we see more fans that grew ip with tge team. The region has a high interest in the Rams and TV ratings bear this out. I have little doubt that a winning season will bring sell outs and enthusiastic crowds to the games.
Sggladden - January 28, 2012
It is kind of sad.
But they’ve been so terrible that the fans haven’t had much to cheer for
Notorious PSC - January 28, 2012
Even though the game I went to was KC @ STL so it was the same state, but half the stadium had Chief fans
sergey606 - January 28, 2012
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