Rams' woes weren't all Warner's fault

Did you know that Kurt Warner wasn't on the cover of the Wheaties box that commemorated the Rams' 1999 championship season? I still have that box.

Granted, he got his own cereal deal, but Warner symbolized the new era of Rams football, an era that has officially come to a close. The team that was once known as the "Greatest Show on Turf" is gone, never to return, after their ringmaster was plucked last week.

I am not unhappy that Warner is gone, but I don't think he should leave with the blame of the team's troubles over the last two seasons. No, that blame falls on Mad Mike Martz, who practically forced Warner out of the starting role and indirectly focusing the critical spotlight of the fans and media on his ailing quarterback by exploiting Warner's injuries.

I hope Warner shines in New York, though I don't think he will behind that horrid offensive line. I also don't think Marc Bulger will do well this season. In fact, I'll be surprised if the Rams make it to the playoffs.

I guess they both need to eat their Wheaties.

Take a look at your week ahead while you eat your Wheaties:

Today

Some Rams players are participating in the eighth annual Bowl-a-Ram-a to benefit the St. Louis Chapter of Epilepsy Foundation tonight. The doors open at Tropicana Lanes in south St. Louis at 6 p.m. and bowling begins at 7 p.m.

Wednesday

Perryville visits Cape Girardeau for a couple of senior American Legion baseball games. Don O'Keith, Perryville's new coach, is optimistic about turning the team around after last year's dismal record. This will be an entertaining doubleheader that begins at 6 p.m.

Friday

There's nothing like a little Friday baseball under the lights. The Riverdogs are in town for a game against the Plaza Tire Capahas at 7:30 p.m. The Caps better win this one quick because they'll need their rest, this game begins a scheduled stretch of five games in just over 40 hours for the team.

Saturday

The St. Louis Printers are in Cape Girardeau and are scheduled to play four games with the Plaza Tire Capahas, though not all on Saturday. The Caps play a doubleheader beginning at 4 p.m. Saturday, then another doubleheader again Sunday at noon.

David Wilson is a sportswriter for the Southeast Missourian and his column appears every Monday.