The Los Angeles Rams improved to 2-0 in the preseason with a dominant 34-0 shutout of the New Orleans Saints on Saturday night.
The Los Angeles Rams defeated the New Orleans Saints 34-0 on Saturday night, a decisive preseason win powered by a sharp performance from quarterback Stetson Bennett IV and a defense that forced a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown. The Rams (2-0) controlled the game from start to finish, while the Saints (0-2) struggled to generate any sustained offense.
Rams’ Backup QB Stakes His Claim
Stetson Bennett IV made a strong case for the backup quarterback job behind Matthew Stafford, completing 19 of 31 passes for 181 yards and adding two rushing touchdowns (1 and 8 yards). Bennett’s mobility and decision-making kept the Saints’ defense off balance, and he spread the ball effectively, with CJ Daniels hauling in 8 receptions for 68 yards. Jarquez Hunter complemented the passing attack with 12 carries for 68 yards and a 12-yard touchdown run, while kicker Harrison Mevis connected on two 26-yard field goals.
Saints’ Offense Stalls
The Saints’ offense never found a rhythm. Spencer Rattler, competing for the backup quarterback role behind Derek Carr, completed 14 of 23 passes for 141 yards with one interception. Kendre Miller led the rushing attack with just 22 yards on 6 carries, and CJ Donaldson was the top receiver with 4 catches for 51 yards. The Saints managed only 22 rushing yards as a team, and their inability to sustain drives kept the defense on the field for extended stretches.
Defensive Highlight: Cook’s Pick-Six
The turning point came in the second half when Rams safety Alex Cook stepped in front of a Rattler pass and returned it 100 yards for a touchdown. The score extended the Rams’ lead to 27-0 and effectively put the game out of reach. Cook’s play was the defensive highlight of the night, capping a strong effort that saw the Rams hold the Saints to just 141 passing yards and 22 rushing yards.
Other Key Performances
- Stetson Bennett IV (Rams): 19/31, 181 yards, 2 rushing TDs
- Jarquez Hunter (Rams): 12 carries, 68 yards, 1 TD
- Alex Cook (Rams): 100-yard interception return for TD
- Jackson Sirmon (Saints): 11 total tackles
- CJ Donaldson (Saints): 4 receptions, 51 yards
What It Means
For the Rams, the win solidifies their 2-0 preseason record and gives Bennett a clear edge in the backup quarterback competition. The defense, which recorded a sack by Wesley Bailey and six tackles from Monty Rice, showed depth and playmaking ability. The Saints, meanwhile, fall to 0-2 and face mounting questions on offense, especially with running back Alvin Kamara expected to miss at least a month with a sprained MCL. The backup quarterback battle between Rattler and others remains unsettled, and the Saints will look to regroup before facing the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday, August 29.
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