The Los Angeles Rams absolutely demolished the New Orleans Saints yesterday, rolling to a dominant 34-0 victory in their preseason showdown. While the Saints reserves looked like they were sleepwalking, the Rams’ second-stringers played with serious fire, proving they’re head and shoulders above what New Orleans brought. And for anyone watching closely, one name jumped off the field: Jarquez Hunter. That dude just staked a major claim for the Rams’ RB#3 spot.
Hunter Sprints Ahead in the Backfield Battle
This preseason is all about proving yourself, and Jarquez Hunter did exactly that. The #117 draft pick from 2025 put on a show, ripping off 68 yards at a beastly 5.7 yards per carry. He flashed everything that made him a top college back: burst, speed, and power, all in one package. When you see that kind of dynamic performance, it’s hard to ignore. Yeah, Ronnie Rivers is still in the “likely” category, but he only played three snaps last year and didn’t even make the opening 53-man roster. Jordan Waters also had a good performance with a competitive north/south running style, but Hunter’s all-around game felt different, felt more impactful. Dean Conners didn’t get much work, and with the Rams only running 26 offensive plays in the second half, it was tough for anyone to truly stand out, but Hunter found a way. Kyren Williams and Blake Corum might be the top guys, but Hunter just made this RB3 spot his to lose.
Bennett’s Big Night, But With Some Wobbly Throws
It wasn’t just the running backs making noise. Stetson Bennett had his turn in the spotlight in Week 2, and man, was he efficient! Four scores on just five possessions? That’s stellar, no doubt. But here’s the kicker: his accuracy still looks a bit shaky. He’s on point when throwing between the numbers, hitting those in-breaking routes and settled receivers perfectly. But when he tries to throw outside or lead his guys, the ball tends to float and sail. You gotta love that he’s making plays with his feet, though. Ty Simpson, who had a sterling Week 1, didn’t play badly this time, just not as spectacular, while Matthew Stafford remains the guy. Still, Bennett’s night leaves you with a mixed bag of excitement for the efficiency and a little worry about the precision.
The wide receiver room also saw some clarity. Puka Nacua, Davante Adans, Jordan Whittington, and Konata Mumpford are in. Xavier Smith is “likely” after a solid Week 1 where he sat out. That means it’s a fight for one last spot among CJ Daniels, Brennan Presley, and Tyler Scott. Plus, undrafted rookie Austin Blaske is getting some serious accolades for his offensive line play, which is huge for an undrafted guy making an impact!
The Rams now have a short week before their preseason finale on Thursday night against the San Diego Chargers. This is it, folks, the last chance for these guys to truly make their case before the final 53-man roster predictions drop. Every snap, every tackle, every run matters more than ever.
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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