After a thrilling victory over the Dallas Cowboys in their preseason opener, the Los Angeles Rams were able to follow it up with yet another come-from-behind 21-20 win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Saturday.
Despite quarterback Jared Goff’s underwhelming performance in his professional debut, the first overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft was able to bounce back nicely after earning some time with the starters. He finished 8-of-12 for 82 yards and the first touchdown of his career:
Welcome to the NFL, @JaredGoff16!
His first NFL touchdown pass, and a heck of a catch by @MallyCat_28#KCvsLA https://t.co/IosdoITMzi
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) August 21, 2016
There is still plenty for the former Cal product to work on before the regular season begins after he fumbled the ball while tripping over his own lineman during his first drive. However, one former rookie that does not need any time getting to regular season form is their All-Pro running back Todd Gurley, who also scored a touchdown in his preseason debut:
Good luck trying to stop the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year…@TG3II in for SIX! #KCvsLA https://t.co/79tHPPsaZB
— NFL (@NFL) August 21, 2016
Aside from the young players getting their due, the Rams receiving team still has yet to show any signs of improvement from last year. Quarterback Alex Smith had his way with the Rams defense for the most part, throwing 9-of-12 for 137 yards and a touchdown. However, the Rams defensive line was able to force adequate pressure and even came up with a few sacks early on in the game.
Overall, it was another gutsy performance by a Rams team that clearly hopes to fill a few voids come September.
