Inglewood, Calif. – Jimmy Garoppolo was eager to take the reins as the starting quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders in their preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams. Unlike Sean McVay, both Garoppolo and his head coach, Josh McDaniels, believed that the preseason was necessary for preparing for the regular season, even if it meant enduring a few hits on the field.
Garoppolo showcased his skills in his Raiders debut, completing all four of his passes for 39 yards and leading the team to a touchdown drive. This victory marked Garoppolo’s return to the game since his season-ending foot injury last December. The experienced quarterback played only in the opening series, but he demonstrated his proficiency by leading a comfortable drive that resulted in Brandon Bolden’s 7-yard TD run.
After a prolonged period without game action, McDaniels felt it was essential for Garoppolo to regain his rhythm and confidence. Getting some reps in the preseason would also help allay concerns about his health, given his injury history.
McDaniels did not divulge his strategy for the starters before the game, but most of the Raiders’ key contributors had the opportunity to participate. Even star receiver Davante Adams made an appearance in the opening drive, although Garoppolo did not target him.
Stetson Bennett played as the Rams’ quarterback for the first three quarters. While he made some impressive throws, he also made a significant mistake, resulting in a 50-yard interception return for a touchdown by Raiders safety Isaiah Pola-Mao. Rams linebacker Jacob Hummel also intercepted a poorly-thrown pass by Brian Hoyer for a touchdown.
Meanwhile, the backup battle intensified between Hoyer and Aidan O’Connell. While Hoyer, a seasoned veteran, played sparingly and underperformed, O’Connell showcased his abilities and passed for 163 yards, throwing two consecutive touchdown passes.
Bennett faced miscommunication issues with Tyler Johnson, leading to an easy interception for Pola-Mao. Brett Rypien, Bennett’s competitor for the backup spot behind Matthew Stafford, did not take the field until the fourth quarter but completed all four of his pass attempts.
Despite the different quarterbacks taking the field, the Rams’ offense failed to impress for the second straight week, managing only one offensive touchdown.
Star defensive lineman Aaron Donald surprised everyone by participating in pregame warmups fully suited up but ultimately did not play in the game. Coach McVay revealed that Donald dressed out because he plans to stay home during the upcoming game in Denver, as his wife is due to give birth soon.
In terms of injuries, Raiders linebacker Darien Butler suffered two minor injuries in the first quarter but continued playing. Rams right tackle Logan Bruss left the field with trainers during the first half, potentially indicating an injury concern.
Looking ahead, the Raiders will face the Cowboys on August 26 to conclude the preseason, while the Rams will play the Broncos on the same day following two joint practices in Colorado earlier in the week.
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