The St. Louis Rams 2011 Stat Predictions: Chris Long

  A certain Rams player’s great uncle, Irv Kershner, directed the Star Wars sequel: "The Empire Strikes Back". In the 2008 NFL Draft, the St. Louis Rams chose defensive end Chris Long out the University of Virginia with the second overall pick. That same year, Chris began to direct his own saga: The Rams Strike Back. He has become a cornerstone defensive player, marking a turning point for a franchise that thought winning could only happen long, long ago and far, far away in a distant galaxy.

  Long had what many have called a breakout year for the Rams in 2010. He had 8.5 sacks to go along with his 29 tackles, a league high 42.5 QB hurries and three forced fumbles in a season that saw the Rams turn from loser to winner in the broad scheme of the NFL. Long has shown himself to not only be a stellar defensive end, but a player that exemplifies class and leadership. His numbers are going to keep climbing as the cast of players around him improves.

  So how will he do in 2011? Give me your best Yoda-esk vision for this gifted defensive end. The statistics to focus on here are: Sacks, QB Hurries, Tackles and Forced Fumbles