Sam Bradford will start in St. Louis Rams' final exhibition game

Bradford had a big game in his first start, going 15 of 22 for 189 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions in a 36-35 victory at New England on Thursday night. The overall No. 1 draft pick from Oklahoma played the first half and completed his first six passes, earning another start on merit.

"Sam Bradford was leading the charge," running back Steven Jackson said.

Bradford showed off his arm with a couple of long passes, showed good mobility rolling out, and looked comfortable and in charge. It was a big step forward from the first two preseason games when he was 12 of 27 for only 81 yards and appeared a bit tentative.

"He was excellent," coach Steve Spagnuolo said Friday. "He said it best I think after the game when he said he felt in rhythm. Anytime your quarterback can get in rhythm, that's a good thing."

Spagnuolo said it's unlikely that Feeley, who has a sprained thumb on his throwing hand, will be ready in time for the preseason finale on Thursday night against the Baltimore Ravens. Feeley was named the starter before training camp, although it's long been anticipated that Bradford will soon be the Rams' No. 1 quarterback regardless of Feeley's health.

In six possessions, Bradford produced two touchdowns and two field goals, giving a team that went 1-15 last season a boost while getting its second win this preseason.