Rams Back-Up QB Holds Down the Fort with Stafford Out

Stetson Bennett looked every bit the part of a confident and developing NFL quarterback on Saturday night, guiding the Los Angeles Rams to a 31-21 preseason win over the Dallas Cowboys. The third-year signal caller completed 16 of 24 passes for 188 yards, tossing two touchdowns against one interception, and added 11 rushing yards on three carries. “I thought Stetson had great command,” Rams head coach Sean McVay said. “He got through some progressions well today.”

Bennett, entering the third year of his four-year rookie deal, credited his growth to the steady work with quarterbacks coach Dave Ragone and the foundation laid during his days at Georgia. “I think just more mature, more comfortable in the system, tighter with the guys,” Bennett said. “Working with Rags, it’s just day after day, we’re doing the same things. Don’t get bored with the basics. That goes back to Kirby Smart — just chopping day after day, keep working.”

Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford, sidelined for much of the offseason with back issues, is expected to return to practice on Monday. While that will likely mean fewer practice reps for Bennett, he’s still in line to start next Saturday’s preseason game against the Chargers. Bennett emphasized the benefit of sharing a quarterback room with Stafford. “I don’t think there could be a better guy in the room than Matthew,” Bennett said. “He’s seen it all, been through it all, highs and lows. I try to learn as much as I can from him and apply it.”

The game, Bennett admitted, has slowed down for him — thanks in part to his SEC experience. “I was blessed at Georgia going against studs… that helped going into it. Then it’s just reps and reps with Rags and these guys.” McVay has been vocal about his goals for Bennett, emphasizing continued growth and presence. “I just want to see him continue to do what he’s done,” McVay said. “Keep taking steps in the right direction. He’s enjoying it, totally immersed, and he can create when plays go off schedule.” Bennett’s mindset remains steady as the preseason rolls on: “It’s not going to be a straight uphill climb — it’s going to zig, it’s going to zag. There will be ebbs and flows. Trust the process and keep chopping wood.”