LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Rams showed they have plenty of firepower beyond their biggest names Monday night, responding to a disappointing season opener with a convincing 28-6 win over the New York Giants.
With Puka Nacua sidelined by a hip injury, Davante Adams took on a much larger role in the Rams’ passing attack. The veteran receiver delivered one of his strongest performances in a Los Angeles uniform, finishing with eight receptions for 195 yards and two touchdowns.
Several of Adams’ biggest plays required difficult catches and precise route running. He opened his scoring account with a leaping grab before later breaking free for a 64-yard reception. He added another impressive catch on a back-shoulder throw from Matthew Stafford and followed it with a toe-tapping sideline reception.
The connection between Adams and Stafford gave the Rams’ offense a completely different look from their season opener, when Adams managed just three catches for 26 yards in a loss to San Francisco.
“We came out aggressive, just shooting our shot,” Adams said. “Stafford has got a way of manipulating the defenses, and he makes it easier for all of our guys.”
Coach Sean McVay said getting Adams involved early was an important part of the offensive approach.
Young Fills the Void on Defense
The Rams were also missing star defensive end Myles Garrett, but Byron Young helped make up for his absence.
Young finished with five tackles, a sack and three quarterback hits while consistently creating pressure. He was also involved in the play that sent Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart to the sideline with a knee injury.
After Dart left the game, the Rams’ defense continued to pressure Jameis Winston and prevented New York from finding any offensive rhythm.
McVay praised the activity from the defensive front, particularly the work from the edge rushers and interior defenders.
Aaron Donald also returned to NFL action after a 32-month absence. He recorded three tackles and a quarterback pressure and said he expects to become more effective as he gets back into game shape.
What Worked for Los Angeles
The biggest positive for the Rams was their response after a rough opening week in Melbourne.
Rather than allowing that loss to carry over, Los Angeles played with urgency from the start against New York. The offense attacked early, while the defense consistently disrupted the Giants.
The challenge now is maintaining that level of focus. McVay acknowledged that sustaining the same urgency after a strong performance can be difficult.
Areas That Still Need Improvement
Penalties were one of the few negatives for the Rams. The team was flagged six times for 50 yards, with mistakes coming from the offense, defense and special teams.
Special teams also remain an area of concern.
Harrison Mevis missed a 43-yard field-goal attempt just before halftime, while punter Ethan Evans had an inconsistent night. Los Angeles also chose to punt rather than attempt a 56-yard field goal later in the game.
Players Trending Up
Safety Quentin Lake bounced back from a difficult opener against San Francisco and made a major impact against New York. He recorded six tackles and forced a fumble.
The secondary also adjusted well despite the absence of Kam Kinchens, with Kam Curl and Josh Wallace taking on larger roles.
Injury Update
Nacua’s status for the Rams’ upcoming game against Denver remains uncertain. McVay said Tuesday that he is hopeful the receiver will be able to return.
Los Angeles will have little time to prepare for the Broncos, with the team facing another primetime matchup on a short week.
The game will be the Rams’ third primetime appearance in the first five weeks of the season.
