The Los Angeles Rams and Los Angeles Chargers wrap up the preseason with a cross-town clash at SoFi Stadium. Both teams have roster spots on the line, key injuries to monitor, and momentum to build before the regular season.
The Los Angeles Rams (1-0) and Los Angeles Chargers (1-1) meet in their preseason finale on Friday, August 28, at SoFi Stadium. With the regular season around the corner, this cross-town matchup is about more than bragging rights: both teams are sorting out roster battles and dealing with significant injuries. The Rams come in with momentum after a 20-12 win over the Chiefs, while the Chargers are looking to rebound from a 41-17 loss to the 49ers. Expect starters to see extended action, making this a competitive dress rehearsal for both squads.
Los Angeles Rams: Building on a Sharp Preseason Debut
The Rams opened the preseason with a convincing 20-12 victory at Kansas City, thanks largely to a efficient passing night from quarterback Ty Simpson, who completed 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns, both to tight end Dean Connors (9 and 2 yards). Jordan Waters led the ground game with 37 yards on five carries, while Brennan Presley paced the receiving corps with four catches for 58 yards. Defensively, safety Nick Andersen collected nine tackles and defensive end Desjuan Johnson added a sack.
Head coach Sean McVay is managing a few key injuries. Wide receiver Puka Nacua (Questionable) and defensive end Myles Garrett (Questionable) are both doubtful to play, as McVay has stressed they won’t be rushed back. Also questionable are Ashton Gillotte, Jeff Caldwell, Davis Allen, and Keagen Trost, while Justin Dedich is out and Mario Williams is on injured reserve. The team is also monitoring the potential return of retired defensive tackle Aaron Donald, who has worked out with the team twice as he weighs a comeback.
In the kicking game, Harrison Mevis converted field goals from 25, 40, and 25 yards in the win, providing a reliable leg as the team evaluates specialists.
Los Angeles Chargers: Seeking a Bounce-Back Performance
The Chargers suffered a 41-17 defeat to the San Francisco 49ers, a game that exposed issues on both sides of the ball. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei completed 7 of 15 passes for 80 yards and a touchdown, while Trey Lance added 42 rushing yards on two carries. Jerand Bradley caught the lone touchdown pass, a 28-yard strike. Linebacker Lander Barton led the defense with six tackles.
Injury concerns are mounting on the offensive line: starters Rashawn Slater and Austen Pleasants are both questionable, while Tyler Biadasz and Isaiah World are out. The team will likely shuffle the line to protect whoever is under center. Wide receiver Quentin Johnston is also questionable, leaving the receiving corps thin.
The Chargers will look to close the preseason on a positive note and settle key roster battles, especially along an offensive line that has been hit hard by injuries. The 49ers’ special teams also burned them, with Jacob Cowing returning a punt 83 yards for a touchdown, a reminder of the importance of special teams in close games.
Head-to-Head: What to Watch
This is a preseason game, so the outcome matters less than the performances. The Rams’ offense looked sharp in their opener, with Ty Simpson showing poise and accuracy. The Chargers’ offense sputtered against the 49ers, but they face a Rams defense that is missing key pieces like Myles Garrett. Keep an eye on the quarterback battle: the Rams have Matthew Stafford as the starter, but the backup spot is up for grabs, while the Chargers are evaluating DJ Uiagalelei and Trey Lance.
- Injury impact: The Chargers’ offensive line is banged up, which could limit their ability to establish the run or protect the quarterback.
- Roster battles: Both teams have undecided positions, especially at wide receiver and along the defensive line.
- Special teams: The Chargers allowed a punt return touchdown last week; the Rams’ Harrison Mevis has been accurate.
- Motivation: The Rams are 1-0 and want to stay undefeated; the Chargers are 1-1 and want to end the preseason on a high note.
Prediction
The Rams have shown more consistency and have a healthier roster overall, despite key injuries. The Chargers’ offensive line issues will likely hamper their ability to sustain drives. Expect a close game, but the Rams’ momentum and depth should give them the edge. Prediction: Rams win 24-20.
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