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Rams to start Feeley ahead of rookie QB Bradford vs. Browns

ST. LOUIS -- A.J. Feeley will start ahead of No. 1 overall draft pick Sam Bradford in the Rams' second preseason game, although the rookie might get a few more plays.

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Bradford's role in Saturday night's game at Cleveland probably will be similar to the opener, when he went 6-of-13 passing for 57 yards and was sacked four times in a 28-7 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

"It's just another opportunity to play in a game and get live reps," Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said Thursday. "I think at this position it's probably the most valuable thing you can get."

Bradford also will have his first look at a 3-4 NFL defense.

"I think the more I can see that in the preseason, the better it will prepare me to see that in the regular season," Bradford said. "There's a lot I can gain out of this week."

Feeley, a veteran backup, has previously played in the Rams' system. He had a poor opener, though, going 3 of 6 for 19 yards, and two of the incompletions could have been intercepted and returned for touchdowns.

"I think what I'd say is he's a little bit more comfortable with (the offense), because he's been in it in prior years," Spagnuolo said of Feeley. "I think both of them are doing a pretty good job."

Bradford bobbled a few more snaps in practice Thursday, but he said he felt much more comfortable. The rookie had some exchange issues in the preseason opener.

"Saturday, I'll see what it's like in a game situation," Bradford said. "But I expect to go out there and execute everything cleanly."

The Rams managed just 150 total yards in their opener, and the lone touchdown came on Danny Amendola's 93-yard punt return.

Spagnuolo said offensive guard Jacob Bell and cornerbacks Ron Bartell and Bradley Fletcher, who all missed the first game because of injuries, should play. Kicker Josh Brown attempted field goals for the first time since injuring a hip flexor before a scrimmage Aug. 7, and he might play.

Rookie tight end Michael Hoomanawanui left Thursday practice early because of an illness.

Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press