August 23, 2026 • 6:01 AM EDT
Updated 8 hours ago
It feels like just yesterday there were doubts about whether Stetson Bennett IV was up to the job of backing up Matthew Stafford. The Rams weren’t sure two years ago, especially with Jimmy Garoppolo set to miss time on a PED suspension. Fast forward to now—Garoppolo has moved on, rookie Ty Simpson is still learning, and suddenly the Rams have Bennett sitting in the pole position to step in if Stafford misses a snap.
Bennett took his chance in the preseason and ran with it, quite literally. In the Rams’ 34-0 blitzing of the Saints, he completed 19 of 31 passes for 181 yards and punched in two touchdowns on the ground. That’s a big deal for any young backup quarterback, but especially for a guy who hasn’t taken a snap in a game that counts over the last three years.
The real shift comes from coach Sean McVay’s tone. You could tell he wasn’t just paying lip service. After the game, McVay went out of his way to praise Bennett’s progression. “I think he’s getting better and better,” McVay told reporters. “I think part of it is the overall command. I thought he made some really good decisions. I thought he got through some progressions. Then I love the fact that he used his legs. . . . [H]e did a great job. I thought he got an opportunity to be able to really showcase a lot of his skills. Huge credit to [quarterbacks coach] Dave Ragone too. I think those two guys were really in sync and it was fun to watch.” According to Yahoo Sports, there’s a new sense of assurance in Bennett’s readiness within the Rams organization.
The main knock on Bennett? All his development has come in preseason games. He’s not seen a regular-season snap yet. That could worry you, but McVay highlighted why reps even in these settings build not just skill, but confidence. He’s noted that “repetition is the mother of learning,” and Bennett is absorbing everything, showing intent and presence on the field. You can see teammates rallying around him—always a big green flag.
Bennett did have one risky moment against the Saints, stretching for the pylon and nearly fumbling out the end zone. The touchdown stood, but McVay acknowledged they’ll be coaching him to protect the ball in those situations. Still, if that’s the worst you can criticize after a commanding win, you’re looking at a player who’s checking a lot of important boxes for a backup quarterback. The Rams might not have another experienced backup behind Stafford on the roster, but if Bennett is forced into action, confidence in him has never been higher.
Why Bennett’s emergence is big for Rams bettors
- Bennett showed he can pilot the offense during a full-blown preseason rout, not just mop-up duty.
- He’s earned confidence from the coaching staff, especially with his progressions and decision-making.
- The Rams’ backup QB situation was uncertain as recently as two years ago, but Bennett’s development changes that conversation.
- Coach McVay’s public confidence is no small thing—when McVay commits, it matters.
- Lack of regular-season snaps is still a red flag for bettors, but his play in high-leverage preseason spots is a positive indicator.
Key takeaways for NFL and fantasy bettors
- Bennett is the clear QB2 for the Rams heading into this season.
- If Stafford gets hurt, the drop-off at quarterback isn’t as scary as it once was for Rams backers.
- McVay trusts Bennett with real responsibility—expect the playbook to stay open if Bennett is called up.
- Bennett’s mobility adds a wrinkle for live betting and rushing props, if he sees the field.
- Rookie Ty Simpson will need time—don’t expect him to leapfrog Bennett soon.
- A lack of regular-season action is a legit concern, but Bennett’s command in the preseason is building trust.
- Bennett’s teammates support him, which matters for morale and locker-room confidence—key for in-game swings and comebacks.
- McVay values ball security; if Bennett doesn’t fix this, it could cap his upside.
Bennett’s attitude and “gamer” reputation
McVay shared why Bennett has won over his teammates and staff: “We talk about it all the time, and you guys have heard me say it, repetition is the mother of learning,” McVay said. “[Bennett] has been intentional about applying those reps and you can feel like his teammates, they enjoy him. He’s an easy guy to be able to root for. He’s just got a nice swag and a nice presence and especially like what we asked earlier, you feel his game really comes to life in game day settings. The gamer thing, he’s just got a good feel and it’s not too big. He loves competing and it’s fun to watch him do it.” When your head coach is that effusive, you know the locker room feels the same way.
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