The Los Angeles Rams won the first professional football game played in Los Angeles in 22 years last night when they defeated the Dallas Cowboys 28-24 in their first preseason game.
The fans had something to cheer about at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum as The Rams third quarterback, Sean Mannion threw for 147 yards and three touchdowns in the comeback win. Mannion took over at the beginning of the 3rd quarter after reports that first overall draft pick, Jared Goff, had stiffness in his throwing shoulder.
Rams Return to L.A. and Beat Dallas Cowboys in 4th Quarter
All eyes were on Goff, however fifth year quarterback Case Keenum got the start. Keenum went 6 for 7 and threw for 58 yards before Goff came into the game during the Rams fourth possession. Goff did not impress before halftime, throwing for 38 yards and an interception.
After the game, head coach Jeff Fisher said “I’m gonna give him several opportunities to go with the ones throughout the preseason”, referring to Goff who Rams fans are hopeful to be the future franchise quarterback. Fisher is optimistic that Goff will get more opportunities to show his progression with the starting offensive line before the season opener against the San Francisco 49ers.
Goff took a big hit from the Cowboys pass rush before returning the following possession and throwing a 14-yard completion, his longest of the game. Goff sat out after the first half as a precaution from the Rams staff.
Rams Ground Game
The Rams running game was solid throughout the game. Malcolm Brown broke out for a 39 yard run in the third quarter as he averaged 8.3 yards on 8 carries. Aaron Green averaged 6.8 yards, and Benjamin Cunningham averaged 5.8 yards, each on 4 carries. Both backs ran hard as they showed their worth, while starting running back Todd Gurley sat out of the game.
The consistent ground attack kept Los Angeles in the game as Dallas was in lead for most of the contest. A 101-yard game opening kick return by Cowboys return man Lucky Whitehead was the first play in L.A. since Los Angeles’ 22-year football hiatus began.
Prescott Impresses
Cowboys got an impressive performance from rookie quarterback Dak Prescott out of Mississippi State. He threw for 139 yards and 2 touchdowns on 12 attempts, but the Cowboys weren’t able to hold on as Los Angeles outscored Dallas 21-0 in the second half.
Even though it was preseason game, L.A. fans got to see an impressive one. The Cowboys led 24-21 in the fourth quarter. Jeff Fisher said he wants the rookies to see the difference between practice and game speed. The young players of the Rams, who hope to make the 53-man roster, appeared to make the decision a tough one for their staff.
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