The Los Angeles Rams kicked off their preseason with a gritty 20-12 win over the Kansas City Chiefs Saturday, but forget the final score for a second: it was rookie quarterback Ty Simpson who absolutely exploded onto the NFL scene! This kid, a No. 13 pick in the 2026 draft, delivered an eye-popping NFL debut that has everyone buzzing. Simpson looked ridiculously dialed in, completing 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards, tossing two clutch touchdowns, and keeping his stat sheet clean with zero interceptions and zero sacks. What a way to introduce yourself to the league, right?
Rams’ Rookie Rises, Bennett Stays Steady in QB Battle
Simpson hit the field in the second quarter and it was instant electricity. He didn’t just ease in, he dropped a 23-yard pass on his very first snap. The true highlight came when he capped off his incredible debut by hooking up with Dean Connors for back-to-back passing touchdowns in the fourth quarter. Simpson is definitely competing hard with Stetson Bennett IV for that backup spot behind Matthew Stafford, but let’s be real, he’s also making a serious case for being a potential future starter for the Rams. If Saturday was any indication, that future might be arriving on the fast track. Stetson Bennett IV, who got the start for the Rams, completed four of six pass attempts for 38 yards, playing a clean game with zero touchdowns, zero interceptions, and zero sacks. He efficiently moved the team downfield, leading them into range for a 25-yard field goal in the first quarter. Solid, reliable, and exactly what a coach wants from a veteran presence, even if the rookie stole the headlines.
Chiefs’ Rookies and the HUGE Mahomes Question Mark
Switching over to the Chiefs’ side, Justin Fields got the nod to start, completing all four of his passes for 41 yards on two drives. While those drives both ended in punts, he was perfect on his attempts. Then, seventh-round pick Garrett Nussmeier came in during the second quarter and absolutely showed some flashes! This guy impressed everyone by consistently finding his targets even when on the move. He finished with 13 of 19 passes completed for 98 yards. Yeah, he took two sacks and didn’t throw any touchdowns or interceptions, but there was one play that almost blew the roof off: a massive 94-yard touchdown pass attempt in the fourth quarter that was right on the money, only for Jason Brownlee to drop it. Can you believe it? That would have been a game-changer! Nussmeier is also locked in a tight competition with Fields to play behind Patrick Mahomes. And here’s the kicker: this battle has some crazy high stakes. If Mahomes, who had ACL surgery last December, isn’t ready for Week 1, the winner of this competition could be seeing some serious, early-season playing time.
What’s Next? Every Snap Matters for These QBs!
You can bet all four of these quarterbacks are going to get even more chances to shine as the preseason rolls into next week. The Rams are set to battle the New Orleans Saints next Saturday, and the Chiefs will hit the road to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the very same day. These aren’t just exhibition games anymore; every single snap is crucial for Simpson, Bennett, Nussmeier, and Fields as they fight to solidify their spots, impress the coaching staff, and prove they’ve got what it takes. With potential starting roles hanging in the balance, it’s gonna be must-watch football!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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