Stetson Bennett is set to get the start Saturday against the Kansas City Chiefs, and that changes the equation for a handful of Los Angeles Rams pass-catchers trying to make noise this preseason.
For one thing, the Rams have not often been in this spot lately: a backup quarterback taking the opening snaps in a preseason game. Bennett, who is the team’s designated QB2 this season, will be the one running the show. That may catch some fans off guard, but it also opens the door for receivers and tight ends who have built real timing with him before.
That list is longer than it might seem at first glance. Davis Allen, Jordan Whittington, Xavier Smith and even Konata Mumpfield have all gotten something out of Bennett’s preseason reps in the past.
So have Brennan Presley, Tru Edwards and Mario Williams, along with tight end Mark Redman. Those connections matter now, especially for players fighting for snaps and a roster spot.
Sean McVay said he wants to see “timing,” “good communication,” and “getting in and out of the huddle” from his quarterbacks, and Bennett could use the extra work. His showing in a joint practice with the Dallas Cowboys was not exactly clean, so Saturday gives him a chance to sharpen things up.
Bennett brings the toughness and competitive edge that has always been part of his game, and McVay’s setup gives him a chance to keep pushing. What he does not have yet is Matthew Stafford’s touch, pocket presence, or experience, which is why these preseason reps matter.
That is also the key difference from a veteran backup like Jimmy Garoppolo, who had years as a starter and did not need preseason snaps in the same way. Bennett does. And whether he ends up playing one series, a quarter, or a half, the important part is that he is not being handed anything.
He has always been at his best when he feels pressure. That should mean Bennett comes into Saturday with urgency, and the Rams receivers around him should be ready to cash in.
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Rams Preseason Opener Just Got A Very Different Chiefs Twist
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Chris Jones added to that cautious tone by saying he would prefer the starters sit out as well, which leaves the matchup with a much different feel for Los Angeles. For the Rams, it means the opening preseason test will be less about chasing stars and more about how both teams handle the early reps, the rotation of quarterbacks, and the depth pieces that usually decide August more than the scoreboard does. [Read more 🡒]