The drop-off in 2002 was incredible. However, spirits and hopes are high in 2003 and the Rams are looking to make another run like they did in 2001. I, too, am excited about the opportunities in 2003 and here are things I want to see in 2003:

1. Holt go back to 88.
No, we didn't lose Torry Holt and keep Az Hakim in 2002. Holt changed back to his college number (for a picture, check out ) which happened to be Hakim's number. Az Hakim's number became available when he left for Detroit. But 81 was not kind to Torry and though many #81 Holt's were sold, Torry's past performances make me think that returning to 88 might help. In a game of superstitions, why not?!?

2. Find Out What's Wrong with Warner and I'm Not Asking Brenda
Kurt Warner disappeared from the NFL in 2002 and he was not vacationing in NFL Europe or playing Arena football. Throughout the year, something was wrong. After the season ended, x-rays found a broken bone. But that's not what I'm talking about. In a distinct lack of solidarity, Warner insisted nothing was wrong while rumors indicated the Rams staff suspected something was amiss. How is such a large gap created? I don't know but that must go in 2003. From what I've read thus far, things are back on track when it comes to Kurt Warner but a repeat of last year's disappearance will likely ruin the Rams' season. Hey Kurt: come back, welcome back, and stay around a while.

3. Where's the Gel?
No, I'm not looking to help recently acquired Kyle Turley with his blond mane. In 2002, the Rams did not seem to play a good team game. The D did allow the Rams to stay in games, but watching week after week, I did not get the feeling that the Rams were playing together. In 2003, I'm hoping for the team to follow Aeneas Williams and Marshall Faulk in re-committing to the Saint Louis Rams (see GridIron Gate issue #1 for a great story on their commitment to making a winner in Saint Louis).

That's what I want to see in 2003. If you have anything you'd like to see in 2003, email me at Don.Ackerman@juno.com.

Ram on,
Don