Sam Bradford: Managing Expectations For His Rookie Campaign

I think its fair to say that there is a level of optimism in St. Louis that has not been present for several years.

The reason: Sam Bradford.

Thus far, Bradford has done everything Rams’ fans could have hoped he would. 

No long contract holdout.   He arrived at camp healthy and in shape.

He had a couple of rough outings in the first two preseason games, but has since then been nothing short of exceptional (21-28, 254 yards, 3 touchdowns, 0 interceptions) as the starter in games three and four of the preseason.

Though Steve Spagnuolo has not made a formal announcement, it seems highly unlikely that Bradford won’t be the starter next week against the Cardinals.

As a Rams fan, its hard to keep the expectations at a reasonable level.

But, before the Dan Marino comparisons start flying, here’s a reality check:

401 attempts

230 completions

57.4 completion percentage

2,781 yards

14 touchdowns

16 interceptions

73.8 passer rating

How would you feel if those were Sam Bradford’s rookie numbers?

Before you answer, let me ask this question:

Would you agree that Matt Ryan, Joe Flacco, Matthew Stafford and Mark Sanchez all had fairly successful rookie years? 

Would you also agree that these four quarterbacks all appear to have bright futures as NFL starters?

If your answer to both questions was “yes,” this might surprise you:

The statistics listed above are the averaged rookie statistics of Ryan, Flacco, Stafford and Sanchez.

Can Bradford match those stats? 

I, for one, believe he can exceed them.

Some might argue that all of these quarterbacks had better talent around them than Bradford will as a rookie on the Rams

That’s true, to an extent.

Certainly, Steven Jackson is as good, if not better, than any of the running backs who played with these four quarterbacks in their rookie years.

Likewise, contrary to what some may believe, Bradford’s offensive line looks to be fairly solid. 

The big potential weakness is the Rams’ young and unproven receiving corps.  That’s a legitimate concern, but I believe Bradford can succeed in spite of the lack of an elite receiver.

That is, if “success” is defined in reasonable terms.

I believe that Bradford can outperform the averages listed above in two important categories: (1) completion percentage, and (2) interception total. 

Yards and…touchdowns?  He’ll probably need more weapons before he starts accumulating impressive statistics in those areas.

But if Jackson stays healthy, and Bradford can convert third downs, and if the line holds up…

Yes, that’s a lot of “if's.”

But, for the first time in a while, Rams fans have a reason to believe that things will work out in their favor.

We just have to make sure that the optimism is coupled with realistic expectations and patience.

Right now, that’s difficult, but giddy anticipation sure beats hopelessness.