Rams limp into bye week at 0-4

ST. LOUIS -- St. Louis Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo is trying to stay positive heading into the team's bye week despite an 0-4 start.

The Rams fell to the Washington Redskins 17-10 on Sunday. St. Louis fell behind 17-0 before rallying for 10 points in the final 10 minutes, 9 seconds to get within striking distance.

Rams linebacker James Laurinaitis intercepted Rex Grossman with just over five minutes left to give the offense the ball at the Redskins 19.

But an illegal shift penalty and two sacks ended the potential game-trying threat.

"I'd be lying if I said I wasn't frustrated," Laurinaitis said. "I think everybody in this organization is frustrated."

St. Louis, which is 13-55 since the start of the 2007 season, has been outscored 113-46 this season.

The rough beginning has taken its toll on Spagnuolo, who entered the season with high hopes.

"I've got a wonderful wife. That's my only sanity," Spagnuolo said. "It's not easy. I'm hanging my hat on the fact that I see no quit in this football team."

The Rams gave up seven sacks against Washington. The pounding wore down quarterback Sam Bradford, who was 20 of 43 for 164 yards.

"Sam has got a hip that's a little sore, a contusion," Spagnuolo said. "We'll see where he is tomorrow as far as practicing."

St. Louis was outscored 96-36 in its first three games, including a 31-13 to Philadelphia in the season opener and a 37-7 loss at home to Baltimore in Week 3.

The Rams were hoping to break through against Washington.

Instead, they face a tough stretch with consecutive road games at Green Bay and Dallas after the bye week.

But for now, the team will enjoy a little time off.

"I'm kind of glad the bye week is here," Spagnuolo said. "Get a little time away and then come back ready to go."

Noteworthy

* Wide receiver Danny Amendola will get a second opinion on his ailing elbow Wednesday. Amendola has not played since suffering the injury in the fourth quarter of the season opener. He practiced Thursday, but the elbow swelled up overnight.

* Tight end Mike Hoomanawanui suffered a concussion against Washington. He also had a concussion in the preseason.

* Defensive tackle Darell Scott will undergo thumb surgery Wednesday.