Gridiron Gripes: Rookie Signal-Callers Struggle to Find Rhythm

Four Takeaways from the Rams’ Preseason Win over the Chargers

Chargers quarterback Easton Stick, left, passes during a 13-9 preseason loss to the Rams at SoFi Stadium on Saturday.

The Rams secured a 13-9 victory over the Chargers in Week 2 of the NFL preseason, showcasing some promising performances and areas for improvement.

Backup QB Candidates Still a Work in Progress

Rams wide receiver JJ Laap, right, celebrates with a teammate after catching a 47-yard touchdown pass from Stetson Bennett. — Rams wide receiver JJ Laap, right, celebrates with a teammate after catching a 47-yard touchdown pass from Stetson Bennett during the fourth quarter Saturday.

Stetson Bennett had an up-and-down performance, completing 17 of 31 passes for 213 yards, including a 47-yard touchdown, with an interception and a fumble. He improved significantly from his previous outing, but still struggled with decision-making errors.

Easton Stick, the Chargers’ backup quarterback, played the first half and showed some improvements, completing eight of 13 passes for 85 yards, but he also fumbled a snap at the Rams’ one-yard line.

Defenses Remain Stingy

Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh leads his players onto the field at SoFi Stadium before a preseason game against the Rams. — Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh leads his players onto the field at SoFi Stadium before a preseason game against the Rams on Saturday.

The Rams’ defense continued to impress, not allowing a touchdown for the second consecutive game. Safety Jason Taylor II had a strong performance, making two tackles and recovering a fumble.

The Rams’ special teams unit also had a solid outing, with kicker Karty making two field goals and the winning extra point.

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.