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I have not been this pleased or excited or optimistic about the Rams long term prospects in 30 years. It feels great. I remember when they won their first 5 or 6 games a few years ago; I wasnt impressed. It looked like they were doing it with mirrors or something. This is different. This is a talented, skilled group. The only thing that can stop this offense is injuries -- or maybe an elite defense. Like Miami's or Tampa Bays or whoever else emerges this year.

Still, having said that, I am not convinced yet that the Rams have a solid enough defense to win playoff games against elite teams.

Many people like to point to the "Minnesota" example as proof that a team can scorch its way to the Super Bowl. But of course, Minnesota proved just the opposite last year. Their offense, which amazed us all during the regular season, was shut down in the playoffs by Atlanta.

I still believe that an offense can get you through the regular season and maybe the first round of the playoffs, but it cant take a team the whole distance.

The Rams will not be leading 28 - 0 before the half against elite teams. Example: the defense hasn't faced a great, healthy QB with great recieviers.  Do they have the defensive personnel to beat elite teams?

Can the offense move against an elite defense with a wily defensive coordinator?  

The jury is still out on those two questions. Atlanta and Baltimore weren't elite. Cincy aint elite.

But at least the 49er game will tell us a lot about this defense. I can hardly wait.