Ty Simpson's impressive performance in the Rams' preseason win over the Kansas City Chiefs has sparked excitement and raised questions about his potential role in the team's future. Simpson, a rookie quarterback, showcased his talent by passing for two touchdowns and completing 21 of 25 attempts for 190 yards. His performance was particularly notable given his limited experience, having started only 15 games for Alabama.
What makes Simpson's debut even more intriguing is the context of his selection. The Rams' decision to draft him highly, despite his limited college experience, suggests a belief in his potential. This belief is further bolstered by the fact that Simpson's parents and brother were in attendance, providing a supportive environment that could have contributed to his relaxed and confident demeanor.
One of the key aspects of Simpson's performance was his ability to make smart decisions. After bobbling a high snap on his first series, he threw the ball out of bounds, demonstrating a level of self-awareness and adaptability. From that point on, offensive coordinator Nate Scheelhaase called play-action bootlegs and other rollouts, allowing Simpson to find receivers, many of whom were wide open.
The fact that Simpson's performance came against a strong Chiefs defense, including many starters, adds to its significance. It suggests that he has the talent and composure to handle pressure situations, which is a crucial trait for a quarterback in the NFL.
However, the question remains: does Simpson's performance change anything? Coach Sean McVay's response is telling. He emphasizes the need for continued evaluation, indicating that the team will make decisions based on performance and other factors. Simpson himself remains focused on his role and the team's needs, avoiding the pressure of a potential competition with Stetson Bennett, the presumptive frontrunner to back up the reigning NFL MVP, Matthew Stafford.
The Rams' offensive line depth is another area of interest. The injury to Keagen Trost, a third-round pick with versatility, highlights the team's need for depth at this position. The potential suspension of left tackle Alaric Jackson further underscores the importance of having reliable offensive linemen.
Max Klare, a second-round draft pick from Ohio State, stood out as a go-to receiver. He was targeted eight times and caught seven passes for 37 yards, showcasing his skills and potential impact on the team's offense. The presence of veterans like Tyler Higbee, Colby Parkinson, and Davis Allen, along with second-year pro Terrance Ferguson, adds depth and experience to the position group.
The Rams' defense also made its presence known, holding the Chiefs to field goals. Outside linebacker Desjuan Johnson, a rotational player last season, had a notable performance, including a sack. Rookie lineman Tim Keenan also contributed a sack, and safety Nick Andersen led the team with nine tackles. The special teams unit, under new coordinator Bubba Ventrone, performed well, with Harrison Mevis kicking field goals and Ethan Evans averaging nearly 61 yards for four punts.
In conclusion, Simpson's performance in the Rams' preseason win is a positive sign, but it is just one step in his journey. The team's continued evaluation and the presence of experienced players like Bennett and Stafford suggest that the competition for positions will be fierce. As the season progresses, Simpson's role and impact will become clearer, and his performance will be a key factor in the team's success.
