LOS ANGELES—The Rams performed like a team that’s still figuring it out against the Ravens.
The Ravens started the game with the ball. Joe Flacco went 5/5 with a touchdown on his opening drive. However, most of the attention was on his current backup, Lamar Jackson. After winning the Heisman Trophy in 2016 and being drafted in the first round, many analysts expect him to start this season.
When the Rams had the ball, they couldn’t gain many yards. Their possession ended with a sack.
On the ensuing Ravens possession, Alex Collins ripped off a 23-yard run. Soon after, Jackson threw a nice touch pass to Wide Receiver Chris Moore. The former Heisman trophy winner finished the drive when he left the pocket and evaded three defenders on his way to the endzone.
The Ravens forced a quick stop from the Rams after kicking off. Jackson once again took the field to lead the offense. He hit backup Wide Receiver Jamarion Grant on a slant for a 26-yard gain. However, the drive stalled in the red zone and the Ravens left with only a 29-yard field goal by Justin Tucker.
After both teams struggled to move the ball on their next few drives, the Ravens were able to cap another drive off with a 43-yard field goal.
When the Rams received the ball, Mannion continued with his poor play as he threw an interception. The Ravens once again capitalized with a 40-yard field goal, this time by Kaare Vedvik. At halftime, the score was 23-0 in favor of the Ravens, and the game was already in hand.
The final score was 33-7. The Rams lone touchdown was scored by Wide Receiver Khadarel Hodge on an 8-yard pass from backup Quarter Back Brandon Allen. Offensive starters Jared Goff, Todd Gurley, Brandin Cooks, and Robert Woods did not take the field for the Rams.
Despite a disappointing showing, expectations should be tempered as mostly backups played against the Ravens. When the Rams have their full roster, they should look much more impressive.
Brandon Allen of the Rams, who entered the game for Mannion, finished 10/15 for 73 yards and 1 touchdown. John Kelly of the Rams finished with 77 yards on 13 carries.
Lamar Jackson of the Ravens finished 7/18 for 119 yards and 1 rushing touchdown. Breshad Perriman of the Ravens finished with 71 yards and 1 touchdown on 3 receptions.
Written By Madison McKesson