Rams Defeat Cowboys 31-21 in Preseason Opener
In their first preseason contest of 2025, the Los Angeles Rams notched a decisive 31-21 victory over the Dallas Cowboys at SoFi Stadium on August 9. Both teams opted to rest their starters, including Matthew Stafford and Dak Prescott, shifting the spotlight to backup talent and rookies eager to make an impression ahead of the regular season.
Game Highlights
– Stetson Bennett Shines: Rams quarterback Stetson Bennett led the charge, passing for 188yards and throwing two touchdowns. His composure and accuracy stood out as he guided the offense effectively, demonstrating notable development over the offseason.
– Blake Corum’s Strong Debut: Rookie running back Blake Corum opened the scoring with a pair of first-quarter touchdown runs, showcasing his vision and burst. Corum’s efforts set the tone for the Rams early and highlighted his potential as a valuable asset for the team in 2025.
– Backups See Action: With most key contributors sidelined, the game served as an extended audition for players battling for roster spots. Dallas debutants—including new head coach Brian Schottenheimer and quarterback Joe Milton—struggled early, but the team settled in by halftime.
– Cowboys’ Silver Linings: Will Grier capped off a late Cowboys drive with an 8-yard touchdown run, and Joe Milton III connected with Rivaldo Fairweather for a score and a two-point conversion in the fourth quarter, underscoring some positive flashes in an otherwise uneven performance.
Scoring Summary
| Quarter | Cowboys | Rams |
|———|———|——|
| 1st | 0 | 14 |
| 2nd | 6 | 0 |
| 3rd | 0 | 3 |
| 4th | 15 | 14 |
| Final| 21|31|
Key Takeaways
– The Rams’ backup and rookie players, led by Bennett and Corum, looked more cohesive throughout the night, especially against a Cowboys squad still adjusting to a new coaching regime.
– Both teams used the contest to evaluate depth at multiple positions, with several fringe roster players seizing the opportunity to stand out.
Looking Ahead
While preseason outcomes don’t determine regular season success, the Rams displayed notable depth and readiness early in camp. For the Cowboys, the focus will be on tightening execution and building chemistry among the reserves as they prepare for the next round of preseason matchups.
The 2025 preseason opener was a showcase for new faces and future potential, with Los Angeles ultimately outpacing Dallas in a spirited exhibition.
