Bruise on Brain May Sideline Rams’ Smith

Ram center Doug Smith received what was described as “a bruise on the brain” at New Orleans last Sunday and may not play against the 49ers in San Francisco Monday night.

“This was a little more than a Grade One concussion,” trainer Jim Anderson said Thursday. Smith, a Pro Bowl selection last season, was injured in the first quarter.

“He’ll practice tomorrow, and the doctors will re-test him,” offensive line coach Hudson Houck said. “But we’re not sure he’s going to start. If there’s any doubt or hesitation on anybody’s part, he won’t play.” Tony Slaton is Smith’s backup.