Full Breakdown
Rams Blank Saints 34-0 in Preseason Showcase
8/23/2026, 11:46:28 PM
Core Event
The Los Angeles Rams defeated the New Orleans Saints 34-0 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Stetson Bennett, the Rams’ presumptive backup quarterback, completed 19 of 31 passes for 181 yards and rushed for two touchdowns. Safety Alex Cook returned an interception 100 yards for a touchdown, and outside linebacker Wesley Bailey recorded a sack, a forced fumble and five tackles. The Rams’ defense forced three turnovers and held the Saints to 293 total yards.
Background & Context
Both teams entered the game with 0-2 preseason records. The Rams have used the first two weeks to rest most starters, giving depth players extensive reps. The Saints, meanwhile, were evaluating a quarterback competition between Zach Wilson and Spencer Rattler behind starter Tyler Shough. Joint practices with the Rams and Dallas Cowboys earlier in the week left the Saints fatigued, a factor noted by Saints head coach Kellen Moore.
Data & Statistics
- Score: Rams 34, Saints 0 (Rams organization).
- Rushing: Rams 151 yards on 27 carries (5.6 ypc); Saints 105 yards on 26 carries (4.0 ypc).
- Passing: Rams 254 yards (Bennett 181, Ty Simpson 73); Saints 188 yards (Wilson 55, Rattler 141).
- Turnovers: Rams forced three (two interceptions, one forced fumble); Saints committed three.
- Penalties: Saints 12 penalties for 96 yards; Rams 4 penalties.
- Defensive Highlights: Secondary recorded eight passes defended, the most by a Rams preseason unit since 2017 (Sean McVay). Alex Cook’s 100-yard pick-six was the longest preseason interception return since 2017. Wesley Bailey logged 10 pressures, double any other player.
Why It Matters / Impact
The dominant performance reinforces the Rams’ depth across the roster. Bennett’s two rushing scores bolster his case as Matthew Stafford’s backup, while the secondary’s activity suggests the team can sustain strong pass coverage despite losing starters Cobie Durant and Roger McCreary in free agency. For the Saints, the shutout highlights deficiencies in quarterback decision-making and a lack of pass rush, issues that must be addressed before the regular season.
Official Statements & Responses
Rams head coach Sean McVay praised the collective effort, noting the “team effort” on both sides of the ball and expressing confidence in the depth players who earned their snaps. He highlighted the secondary’s execution, saying the group “did a great job” in understanding coverages.
Criticism & Opposition
Moore’s post-game remarks serve as direct criticism of his own squad’s execution. The Saints’ inability to protect the football and generate pressure was identified as a primary weakness.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He’s getting better and better. I think part of it is the overall command,” — Sean McVay, said head coach
- “I thought you felt his presence all day,” — Sean McVay, said head coach
- “We did good things on offense,” — Stetson Bennett
- “There's going to be some challenging lessons coming out of this game, but I think it's going to be lessons nevertheless,” — Coach Kellen Moore, saints coach
What’s Next
- The Rams will travel to face the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday, August 27 (scheduled).
- The Saints close their preseason with a road game against the Dallas Cowboys on Friday, August 28 (scheduled).
