Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett registered an uncharacteristic stat line in his highly anticipated debut for the team, recording zero tackles, pressures, or sacks in a 27-7 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. The performance was highlighted by a stark comparison with wide receiver Puka Nacua, who recorded one tackle.
Garrett's stat line marked his first game without a pressure since Week 10 of the 2018 season and only the fourth time in his career he finished a game without a sack, tackle, or quarterback hit, according to Pro Football Focus. He played 27 pass-rushing snaps in the contest held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
"This was the worst version of myself," Garrett stated after the game. He acknowledged dealing with knee tendinitis during training camp and expressed the need to "get healthy" before the Rams' next game against the Giants on September 21.
The Rams acquired Garrett from the Cleveland Browns to be a cornerstone of their defense, contributing to a "super team" reputation before the season began. However, the team's defensive efforts were unable to contain San Francisco's offense, which utilized a quick passing attack that limited opportunities for Garrett to impact the game. Los Angeles' season-opening loss also saw the 49ers' offense score 27 points while limiting the Rams to just 7.
Despite the disappointing debut, the outcome of a single game does not define Garrett's tenure with the Rams. Nevertheless, the statistic that their star receiver found his way into the tackle column while their prized pass rusher did not, serves as a stark summary of the Rams' season-opening performance in Melbourne.