CJ Daniels has seemingly done enough to earn a roster spot with the Los Angeles Rams, coming off a second straight promising game and proving himself one of their most consistent wideouts this preseason. Listen, this isn’t some “maybe,” this kid has put in the work. He’s been reliable, making plays, and solidifying his place on that squad before the regular season truly kicks off. You just love to see a rookie step up and grab what’s his.
Ty Simpson: Backup QB, No Debate
Alright, let’s talk about the real head-scratcher: Ty Simpson. This rookie has absolutely stolen headlines and, honestly, he’s earned that backup quarterback spot. You’d think Sean McVay would just make it official, right? But no, not our Sean. The coach said he likes what he’s seen from *both* Simpson and Stetson Bennett, and he’s gonna take his “sweet ass time” making a decision. Seriously, McVay? What are we even doing here?
Simpson has simply outplayed Bennett, full stop. It’s not even a debate. The guy has been sensational this preseason, not making a single mistake in three appearances. That’s huge for a rookie. He’s shown high efficiency and poise like he’s been in that offense for years, totally NFL-ready. Meanwhile, Bennett, who’s had four seasons to figure things out, still looks less prepared than Simpson after just three preseason games. Why are the Rams even putting up with mediocrity behind Matthew Stafford? Simpson is the hot hand, he’s earned it. Come on, coach, this shouldn’t be a difficult choice.
The Defense Bent, But Never Broke
Then there’s the defense, which, okay, had perhaps their worst showing of the preseason against the Chargers. Yeah, Justin Herbert tore them up early on, and the Chargers’ running game managed to rack up over 200 yards. That’s a gut punch, no sugarcoating it. But even on an “ugly” night, they found a way to finish on a high note. That’s grit, plain and simple.
Outside of Herbert, this defense clamped down hard against the pass. DJ Uiagalelei and Trey Lance were held to a combined 11-of-20 for 141 yards and zero touchdowns. And let’s be real, Lance having zero completions? That’s pretty on brand for him. Both opposing QBs got absolutely sacked four times each, too. When it truly mattered, the Rams defense stood firm. They kept the Chargers to a combined 3-of-10 on third and fourth down, and they stonewalled them 0-for-1 in the red zone. For the entire preseason, this unit gave up only 30 points across three games, and allowed just two touchdowns, both coming in this finale. It wasn’t the prettiest effort, but they didn’t break. They did enough to keep LA in a position to win.
So, as the preseason wraps up and the real games loom, Daniels is in, Simpson *should* be in, and the defense showed they can bend but not break when it counts. The biggest question mark hanging over the Rams is definitely McVay’s decision at backup QB. Will he finally ride the hot hand, or is he going to overthink this one into oblivion? Rams fans need to keep a super close eye on how that plays out, because the regular season is right around the corner, and every single roster spot, especially at QB, matters big time.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Turf Show Times.
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