Stetson Bennett’s Last-Second TD Leads Rams Over Cowboys 13-12

In a dramatic preseason showdown, Stetson Bennett threw a game-tying touchdown pass to Miller Forristall with just four seconds on the clock. The Los Angeles Rams clinched a 13-12 victory over the Dallas Cowboys after successfully kicking the PAT. This nail-biting game showcased Bennett’s resilience, coming back from a rough start to lead his team to victory.

Introduction

On a sunny afternoon in Inglewood, California, fans were treated to an exciting preseason opener between the Los Angeles Rams and the Dallas Cowboys. The focus was on Stetson Bennett, a quarterback known for leading the University of Georgia to two consecutive national titles. Bennett, who had not played in almost a year, faced a challenging game but managed to lead his team to a thrilling victory. This game highlighted both his struggles and his ability to perform under pressure, leaving fans and analysts with much to discuss.

For the Rams, this game was more than just a preseason match; it was an opportunity to gauge the effectiveness of their new players and strategies. For Bennett, it was a chance to prove his worth after being drafted in the fourth round last year and missing the regular season due to personal issues. The Cowboys, on the other hand, were eager to see how their new quarterback, Trey Lance, would perform after being traded from the San Francisco 49ers.

The Game’s Dramatic Climax

Bennett’s Heroics in the Final Minutes

For most of the game, Bennett struggled, throwing four interceptions and appearing rusty after his long hiatus. However, the last three minutes showcased why he was a two-time national champion. Bennett orchestrated a crucial 13-play, 70-yard drive that culminated in a 6-yard touchdown pass to Miller Forristall, tying the game with just four seconds left.

• Bennett was 8 of 9 for 61 yards on this final drive.
• Forristall caught all three of his receptions for 31 yards during this critical possession.
• The Rams capitalized on a holding penalty against Dallas that negated what would have been Bennett’s fifth interception.

The Importance of the PAT

The game was tied at 12-12 after Bennett’s touchdown pass. The Rams then kicked the PAT to secure a 13-12 win. This single point highlighted the importance of special teams in football, often an overlooked aspect of the game.

Performance Analysis

Bennett’s Overall Performance

Despite his rocky start, Bennett ended the game with 24 of 38 for 224 yards. His ability to rebound from multiple interceptions and lead a game-winning drive spoke volumes about his mental toughness and skill.

• Four interceptions were a significant blemish on his performance.
• His final drive showcased his ability to perform under pressure.

Key Players for the Rams

• Jordan Whittington: Had six receptions for 74 yards, making him a crucial part of the Rams’ offense.
• Joshua Karty: The rookie kicker made two field goals, contributing to the Rams’ overall score.

Cowboys’ Quarterback Play

Trey Lance, making his debut for the Cowboys, showed promise but also areas for improvement.

• Passed for 188 yards and completed 25 of 41 passes.
• Led the Cowboys to four field goals but no touchdowns, which was a point of concern.

Special Teams Performance

• Brandon Aubrey: Kicked four field goals for the Cowboys, showcasing his reliability.
• Joshua Karty: Made two field goals for the Rams, demonstrating his potential as a reliable kicker.

Game Turning Points

Key Moments in the Game

Several key moments defined the game’s outcome, highlighting the importance of both offensive and defensive plays:

• First Quarter: The Rams started strong, with Karty kicking a 28-yard field goal after a 12-play, 61-yard drive.
• Cooper Rush’s Drive: The Cowboys responded with a field goal after a 43-yard completion to Jalen Brooks.
• Second Quarter: Both teams traded field goals, maintaining a close score throughout the game.

Defensive Highlights

• Brock Mogensen’s Interception: Picked off a Bennett pass and returned it to the Rams’ 23-yard line, setting up a field goal for the Cowboys.
• Holding Penalty: A crucial holding penalty against Dallas negated what could have been Bennett’s fifth interception, allowing the Rams to continue their game-winning drive.

FAQs

What was the final score of the Rams vs. Cowboys preseason game?

The final score was 13-12 in favor of the Los Angeles Rams.

How did Stetson Bennett perform in the game?

Stetson Bennett had a challenging game, throwing four interceptions but ultimately leading a game-winning drive, finishing 24 of 38 for 224 yards.

Who were the standout players for the Rams?

Key players included Stetson Bennett, Jordan Whittington with six receptions for 74 yards, and rookie kicker Joshua Karty, who made two field goals.

How did Trey Lance perform for the Cowboys?

Trey Lance passed for 188 yards and completed 25 of 41 passes but was unable to lead the Cowboys to a touchdown.

What were the key turning points in the game?

Key moments included Bennett’s game-winning drive, a holding penalty against Dallas, and crucial field goals by both teams.

Conclusion

The preseason opener between the Los Angeles Rams and the Dallas Cowboys was a game filled with drama, resilience, and critical plays. Stetson Bennett’s performance, despite initial setbacks, showcased his ability to lead under pressure. The game also highlighted the importance of special teams and key defensive plays. As both teams look ahead to their next preseason matchups, they will take valuable lessons from this intense opener, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.