Sam has the prototype skills and tools for an NFL QB, strong arm, good release, he's big, he's tall, he's a hard worker but he is missing that "it" that is hard to describe that would make him a "playmaker". Yes, if he has time, if his WRs catch the ball, if his WRs create separation, he will put up numbers and the Rams will win more than not. But when things are going not so right, Sam doesn't seem to be the kind of QB that can make it happen. He is going to be a great game manager, one who is not going to lose the game for you but it doesn't look like he is going to make a living putting the game on his back and winning it for you either. Can Fisher build a winner around Sam? Hell yes, and I think if he can keep Sam healthy, he will end up doing just that but this is the NFL and Sam is on the clock. I don't think Sam can survive another season like last season without getting much more shell shocked and tainted for the future. With all that said, a little less pocket collapse so Sam can scramble around a bit, and he has to be confident to do that more, I think he will have much more success and maybe prove me wrong about that little "it" thing. We obviously need the OL to get healthy in a hurry and next year's draft must reap some O rewards.
As far as D goes, Brockers please get well quick. I think with him back in the middle, this D takes the next step to become one of the best in the league. They are opportunistic and gather at the ball much better than in recent years. Rookies will get burned a little this season but overall, I like the direction for sure. Another stud LB is really needed for this D to become "elite".
I think everybody has to be happy with our special teams play so far except for the bone head PF block on the punter in Chicago. I would like to see a returner emerge other than Amendola.
Refs: These refs are really getting the heat now. Actually, I don't think they are doing so badly considering they have never had to do this job at this level. We NFL fans are used to the professionals that have called these games for years. We took them for granted. We underestimated their skills. Now we are left with nothing to do but watch on in shock at how calls can be missed so badly. One thing is pretty certain. All teams are having to deal with it and I'm not sure a decided advantage is being gained by any. I do think you can coach your team to play a little different to adapt. It definitely changes the way the game is played though. And I think these coaches can get into the heads of these refs.