Are The Rams Ready For The "Next Step"?

Today is a big day for the Rams. When was the last time you could say the Rams controlled their own destiny? It's hard to believe that all the Rams need to do is win their games and they win the division. They don't need help from anybody.

But isn't that the theme Spagnuolo is trying to cultivate? Messages have been sent numerous times over the past two seasons with the release of Pisa, the trade of Witherspoon, the, "we're not interested" mentality with TO, Vincent Jackson and Moss and the list goes on and on.

Spagnuolo believes in what he is building here, and the good part? The team does as well. But as good as things are looking right now, are the Rams truly ready to take that next step and win on the road, make a push, and win the NFC West?

With Spagnuolo fending off Moss, TO, Jackson etc, he's sending a clear message that this team will not sacrifice the short term, for the long term. But by passing on these high level WR's, is that message also saying we're not ready to take that next step?

I don't think so, that is, I don't think that's the message trying to be delivered. I think when you look at everything with a "big picture" mentality, you're going to see exactly what is happening here in St. Louis. Spagnuolo is instilling a sort of "Patriot" philosophy is he not?

New England is always in the Superbowl hunt year, after year, after year and that's because they have built a program, not just a talented team. Like New England, we need a few more pieces in place to solidify our foundation before we take those calculated risks.

Although one can argue Witherspoon still had some gas in the tank, and Pisa as well, but with those players leaving, it opened the door for Lauranaitis and Brandon Gibson... who, as inconsistent as he has been, it's hard to argue we don't need him right now.

Yes, Spagnuolo appears to be the master of personnel.. (in Dumb and Dumber voice) "I like it, I like it a lot"

Are we ready for the next step? We'll know soon enough. But i'll say this, Spagnuolo is the type of guy who doesn't force a player to grow, he listens to them and let's them do it at their own pace.. he just patiently sits back with that smiling grin as players step up, almost saying, "See, I told ya so".

Let's hope Spags used plenty of Miracle Grow.. I'm not sure how much longer I can wait! How about today fellas?