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Bennett Emerges as Likely Rams Backup After Commanding Preseason Half

Coaches say his game-day poise increases confidence he could replace Matthew Stafford if needed while the QB competition remains unresolved before the final preseason game.

Overview

  • In a 34-0 preseason win over the Saints on Saturday, Stetson Bennett completed 19 of 31 passes for 181 yards, orchestrated multiple scoring drives and scored two rushing touchdowns.
  • Bennett converted a crucial fourth-and-1 with a 16-yard pass and used mobility in the red zone to finish drives, plays that staff cited as evidence of his situational poise.
  • Rams coach Sean McVay and quarterbacks coach Dave Ragone publicly praised Bennett’s competitiveness and command of the offense, calling him a ‘gamer’ whose play improves in live settings.
  • Rookie Ty Simpson’s strong outing the prior week keeps the competition alive, and the Rams have one preseason game left for Simpson to push for the backup job.
  • Despite Thursday’s performance, Bennett has never taken a regular-season snap in three prior NFL seasons, so coaches will weigh preseason reps, practice translation and Stafford’s health when making the final roster decision.