Rams vs. Raiders: Can Stetson Bennett Win Backup Job?

When the Los Angeles Rams and Las Vegas Raiders meet on Saturday, their two rookie passers will lead the way.

After an eventful week of joint practices, the Los Angeles Rams (0-1) will face the Las Vegas Raiders (1-0) on Saturday. The preseason contest marks a potential inflection point for some rookies, including quarterback Stetson Bennett.

The quarterback of Georgia’s budding dynasty, Bennett won national championships in 2021 and 2022. Yet, his professional outlook has already surpassed expectations.

Most around the draft community felt Bennett would fade into irrelevance after hoisting the College Football Playoff trophy. He turns 26 this fall and by many accounts rode the coattails of an unfairly talented Bulldog squad. Lacking elite athleticism and arm talent, many were surprised when his name was called in the fourth round last April.

Yet, he’s here, and playing fairly well. Against the Los Angeles Chargers, Bennett completed 17 of 29 passes for 191 yards and a score. He got the bulk of playing time after presumed backup Brett Rypien exited.

With another strong performance, could he leapfrog Rypien on the depth chart?

Bennett’s camp, along with his draft capital, could end up convincing head coach Sean McVay to make the switch. The Rams need a strong year from their rookie class if they plan on looking competent, and that may include Bennett providing adequate insurance.

“I thought he did a nice job of being able to exhaust some of his progressions,” said McVay. “You could see that it was a step in the right direction.”

Bennett will likely be going throw-for-throw with Raiders passer Aidan O’Connell. In a dominant 34-7 win over the San Francisco 49ers, he stole the show, completing 15 of 18 passes for 141 yards. O’Connell was safe, efficient, and methodical all game.

Expect O’Connell to make his case for the backup job on Saturday, just like Bennett. A big day from either could bring some newfound responsibilities in 2023.

WHAT: Los Angeles Rams (0-1) vs. Las Vegas Raiders (1-0)

WHERE: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA (70,240)

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023, 6 p.m. (PT)

TELEVISION: KABC-7, Rams app

RADIO: ESPN LA 710 AM, Tu Liga Radio 1330 AM (Spanish Radio)

ODDS: Rams +3.5 (-111, moneyline +150), Total: 39.5 (o -111/u -111)

Make sure to follow along with in-game updates at Ram Digest!

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You can follow Anthony Licciardi on Twitter @ALiccScouting

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