Stetson Bennett made a significant impression during the Los Angeles Rams' second preseason game, outperforming rookie Ty Simpson and bolstering his claim for the backup quarterback position. In a 34-0 victory over the Saints on Saturday, Bennett started and played the first half, completing 19 of 31 passes for 181 yards. He orchestrated four consecutive scoring drives, demonstrating command of the offense and the ability to improvise.
Coach Sean McVay described Bennett as a "gamer," noting his ability to perform when the stakes are high. This performance was crucial following Simpson's strong showing in the previous week's game against the Chiefs. Simpson had earned praise for his play, turning what was initially viewed as Bennett's succession plan into a competitive situation.
Bennett's poise was evident on a critical fourth-and-1 play, where he connected with Tyler Scott for a 16-yard gain, setting up an early Rams lead. He also utilized his legs, scoring two rushing touchdowns in the red zone when his passing options were covered, contributing to the Rams' 20-0 halftime advantage.
"They're constantly reminding me in practice, especially down in the red zone, ‘Hey, if it's not there, take off,’" Bennett said after the game. The former two-time CFP National Championship MVP acknowledged feeling more comfortable in game situations compared to previous years.
Simpson, who finished the second half completing 8 of 12 passes for 73 yards, still has an opportunity to make his case in the final preseason game against the Chargers. However, Bennett's experience within McVay's offensive system provides him with an advantage. Simpson himself acknowledged the learning curve in transitioning NFL plays from diagrams to execution and expressed that he has much to learn from Bennett and starting quarterback Matthew Stafford.
"He's a baller," Simpson said of Bennett. "He doesn't care. He just takes what the defense gives him. He just plays."
Despite Bennett's promising preseason performance, he has yet to throw a regular-season NFL pass. The Rams, with a Super Bowl aspiration and a veteran starting quarterback facing injury concerns, are looking for a reliable backup. While one productive preseason half does not guarantee it, Bennett's recent showing suggests he is becoming a more dependable option for the team. McVay reiterated his belief in Bennett's game-day performance, stating, "You just feel like his game really comes to life in game-day settings. It’s not too big. He loves competing."