The Rams faced the Chargers on 8/13 in their first preseason game of the year. It was a relatively clean game on the Rams’ side. They did not turn the ball over and forced one interception which was what sealed the game with under a minute left. The Rams beat the Chargers 29-22 in a very close matchup. Their next game is Friday, August 19th as they will host the Houston Texans.
Team Stats
The Rams compiled a total of 232 yards against the Chargers. This can be improved, but a win is a win. The Chargers generated more yards offensively, putting up a total of 312 yards. The Rams had 21 first downs and were 8/12 on 3rd downs. The Rams defense was steady, allowing 9/15 third down conversions. We got to see newer faces that don’t typically hit the field during the regular season. There were a few standouts last night, so let’s take a look at who those players are.
QB Bryce Perkins
Neither Matthew Stafford nor John Wolford played in the first Rams preseason game. Meaning Bryce Perkins had four quarters to impress. And boy did he. Perkins was 10/17 for 133 yards and 2 TDs. He also rushed 8 times for a total of 39 yards and a TD. Perkins made a very strong case for the QB2 spot in the Rams preseason game. He showed how valuable he is on the ground, making defenders miss to extend plays.
WR Lance McCutcheon
Undrafted free agent, Lance McCutcheon, made a huge splash in his first preseason game. He caught 5 passes for 87 yards. He also caught both of Perkins’ touchdown passes and a 2-pt conversion. McCutcheon played for Montana State during his collegiate career. In 2021, he had 63 receptions for 1,219 yards. That’s an average of 19.3 yards a catch! With a 6’3 frame, McCutcheon could carve himself a role into the Rams’ offense this season.
RB A.J. Rose
A.J. Rose struggled a bit in the Rams preseason game. His second burst of effort landed him in the endzone to give the Rams 6. Rose had 8 carries for just 19 yards. Though he is further down the depth chart, the preseason is a perfect opportunity for Rose to show what he’s got.
DL Bobby Brown III
Second-year defensive lineman, Bobby Brown III, was another player that caught my eye. He was frequently around the ball and was able to get to the QB once for a sack. He also had 2 solo tackles. Brown did come off of the field limping in the second half, which is something to watch. Bobby Brown III will not be able to play in the first six games of the year, as he was suspended for violating the NFL’s PED policy. The former Aggie will have a chance to take meaningful snaps this year, as the Rams’ defensive front frequently rotates.
Overall
This was a good first step for the defending champs. Preseason may not mean a whole lot regarding the regular season, but it’s good to see young depth players make an impact. Rams football is back, and it is time to attempt to run it back. It will be exciting to see who else can make a splash for the Rams during the preseason!
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