What We Learned from Sam Bradford's Pre-Coming Out Party

For those of you who didn't foresee the Rams lighting up the Patriots defense for 36 points, you aren't the only ones. The Rams first-team offense looked like they were ready to start the regular season as they came back late in the game for a 36-35 win.

If you want to read into it, it actually strengthens the argument that the preseason should be shortened to two games. Overall, it was a great night for the St. Louis Rams.

Game Notes

Sam Bradford is clearly ready to lead this team. He was 15 of 22 for 189 yards and two TDs. Not bad for the rook. Bradford looked poised in the pocket, made great reads, looked off receivers, and most importantly converted 11 of 17 third downs. Rams fans have a lot to look forward to if he keeps up this kind of performance.

The offensive line looked strong in pass protection. In the Rams first two preseason games they allowed Sam Bradford to be sacked four times. Against the Patriots, only once. The team converted 18 first downs in the air, mostly because the line provided the QB enough time to make the right reads. Another game, another injury-free night for the offensive line.

Danny Amendola will be a star this season. He may not be a top receiver but the combo-threat return man showed how valuable he is by catching five balls for 50 yards, and returned five combined kicks for 97 yards. With Donnie Avery's status uncertain, after what looked to be a horrific knee injury, the rise of Amendola is huge for the Rams.

The defense has a lot of work to do. They were great up front against the run, but the Patriots didn't seem too interested in running the ball, only calling 11 run plays. Tom Brady's cannon for an arm burned the Rams all night long. He faced very little pressure. Brady stood in the pocket all calm, cool, and collected on every big gain the Pats had. His insane accuracy zinged balls into tight spots time after time, which is difficult to defend. It's worth mentioning that the Rams secondary has been fighting injuries since training began.

As I said before, overall it was a great night for the Rams. Their prize possession, Sam Bradford, poked holes in the Pats defense at will. The line looked great and finally healthy. Steven Jackson looked spry in the 10 plays he was on the field, which led to a touchdown. 

Look for my piece on how the Rams win four games before the bye week.

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