Isn't this just the formal announcement of what was leaked prior to the season opening 49ers debacle? The press is reveling in kicking Fish and the Rams while they are down but when you read the actual facts - what's everyone so freaked out about? Didn't we already know - or strongly suspect - that there had been an extension signed after the preseason? The only thing I think happened recently is that the Rams brass decided they couldn't sit on this any longer. The spin doctors have been waiting for a time they could slip this news out there, preferably following a couple decent performances when everyone wasn't already fit to be tied. For whatever reason it either leaked or they decided there was never going to be a "good" time and would have to just have to bite the bullet and make the formal announcement.
This announcement means ZERO. It's not a "vote of confidence" or a "reprieve". It's simply an acknowledgement of something that happened months ago. If anything I think it's a sign Fisher is in more trouble than previously thought. It's quite possible the strategy changed from trying to find a time to slip this out without angering fans to realizing there would probably have to be a change and that they needed to get it out and let the chips fall where they may. If they end up firing him, they want as much time to elapse between the announcement of the extension and the firing in order to minimize the appearance of indecision or vacillation.
I'm not surprised by the media trying to make such a story out of this, that's what they do. But I am surprised by some of the knowledgeable folks on this board that are seeing this as significant.
