When Ryan Hall wins his 22nd marathon like Bill--better yet when he gets close to Joan Benoit's accomplishments, start a Ryan vs. Joan thread. Then move on to Frank Shorter, then Bill Rodgers. Being a great marathoner is more than just one win at the olympic trials. The kid is a newbie. Rodgers raced often and with little science, altitude, and recovery time on his side. Yet he kicked butt for a good long time and managed some amazing performances on difficult courses that could still win some of the same races today. I like Ryan though. A mixture of athlete and Christian mystic.
Is he one of the top world marathoners like Rodgers? Time will tell. He isn't yet.
I also believe Rodgers could have had a world record with a bit of recovery, good nutrition, and less marathons every year. But that is speculation.