Sando: Any Sense Playing Bradford Against *****?

[r8rh8rmike]

Any sense playing Bradford against *****?

By Mike Sando
December 2, 2011

News that Sam Bradford remained limited, Chris Long did not practice and Darian Stewart still had not passed concussion testing hung over the St. Louis Rams on Friday.

Bradford, as the starting quarterback, ranks high on the team's list of most important players. Long has 10 sacks and ranks as one of the team's best players on defense. Stewart, though inconsistent, has provided a physical presence with his hitting at safety.

Bradford's ankle injury is threatening to prevent him from getting sufficient work in the offense and with receiver Brandon Lloyd. But with so many problems throughout the roster, including along the offensive line, perhaps there's little to gain by putting Bradford on the field against the San Francisco *****' defense in Week 13.

To review, the Rams' injured reserve list already features:
•Cornerbacks Ron Bartell, Bradley Fletcher, Jerome Murphy, Al Harris, Marquis Johnson and Brian Jackson;
•Receivers Danny Amendola, Greg Salas and Mark Clayton;
•Tight end Mike Hoomanawanui;
•Tackles Rodger Saffold and Jason Smith;
•Defensive tackle Jermelle Cudjo.

Just about every NFL team has a chance against every opponent. The Rams should not concede the game. But if that ankle is preventing Bradford from practicing much, why play him?

[mh-i]

It's a no brainer. Bradford should sit it out. Maybe for the rest of the season.