The Los Angeles Rams finally got into the win column for the 2026 season last night, rolling over the New York Giants with a decisive 28-6 score. Sure, a win is a win, but what everyone is really buzzing about is the return of the legend himself, Aaron Donald, who played his first game after a two-year retirement. It was a huge night, especially with starting quarterback Jaxson Dart exiting early due to an MCL sprain in the first quarter.
AD’s Return Is Already Shaking Up the Line
Man, the energy in SoFi Stadium when Aaron Donald was announced? Electric. The dude hadn’t played in two years, and you could feel the juice. He might not have bagged a sack, but his presence was undeniable. The Rams defense had its best energy since “Aaron Donald Night” last year against the Buccaneers, which is no coincidence. AD played a reasonable 58% of snaps, and that controlled usage means this Rams defensive line is going to be fresh all season. Kobie Turner was a menace early, and Braden Fiske was doing damage late, and that’s *before* Myles Garrett even returns. This unit is seriously on track to be the best in football, and it’s happening sooner than later.
Adams Explodes and Stafford Delivers When It Counts
With the Puka Nacua injury news breaking, the spotlight was absolutely on Davante Adams to step up and prove that two-year contract was worth it for more than just redzone touchdowns. And holy smokes, did he ever! Adams had his best game as a Ram, hauling in 8 receptions on 10 targets for a massive 195 yards and 2 touchdowns. He made some highlight reel grabs through the first three quarters, showing he’s still got plenty left in the tank as a solid number two option. Speaking of stepping up, Matthew Stafford needed a big night. His career Monday Night Football record as a Ram was a dismal 1-5 heading into this game, but he delivered exactly what was needed with four touchdown passes. With seven primetime games on the schedule this year, Stafford is going to be under the microscope a lot, and he showed up big time tonight.
Rams Have a Running Back Debate, And It’s Not Close
If you actually watched the game, there is no debate here. Blake Corum is clearly the more explosive back, hitting holes with conviction. Kyren Williams, on the other hand, dances just a hair too long, and that indecisiveness is killing their chances for big runs. Both backs rushed 12 times against the Giants. Williams actually out-rushed Corum 85 yards to 79, but here’s the kicker: both fumbled, and Williams lost his, leading to an easy Giants field goal. Against a stronger opponent, that turnover could have absolutely torched them.
This win, fueled by Donald’s return and Stafford’s primetime performance, sets a tone. With seven primetime games on the schedule, Stafford better be ready to keep delivering.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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