No starters, no problem: Ty Simpson’s 2nd-quarter TD sparks the Rams’ preseason sweep

Ty Simpson threw a go-ahead touchdown in the second quarter, propelling the Los Angeles Rams to a 20-18 preseason victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Harrison Mevis contributed with two 27-yard field goals for the Rams, who did not field any starters, adhering to head coach Sean McVay's strategy for non-standings games. Backup quarterback Bennett Stenson was also excluded from the lineup. After the coin toss, referee Shawn Hochuli cautioned the captains, urging them to stay healthy.

The Rams dominated the game with three wins in their preseason schedule, setting their sights on an Australian preseason tour. They enter the new season as clear favorites to win the Super Bowl, which is scheduled for Feb. 14 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert played only two series, fumbling early in the first quarter to set up Mevis' first 27-yard field goal.

Herbert quickly responded with a 65-yard touchdown pass to Quentin Johnston, the second-longest reception of the receiver's career, to extend the Chargers' lead to 7-3.

Chargers defensive coordinator Chris O'Leary celebrated a big play after forcing the Rams to turn the ball over on downs near the opponent's 1-yard line. Trey Lance replaced Herbert in the second quarter, with his first series ending on a missed punt by JK Scott. The Rams capitalized on this turnover with Simpson's 11-yard touchdown pass to Brennan Presley, solidifying a 10-7 lead.

Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker missed a crucial 49-yard field goal before halftime, handing the Rams a 13-7 advantage. Dicker also missed two extra-point attempts in three preseason games. The Chargers narrowed the gap to 13-10 in the third quarter with Dicker's 34-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Matthew Caldwell connected with Dean Connors on an 8-yard touchdown pass, extending the Rams' lead to 20-10.

The Chargers managed to close the gap to 20-18 through Gregory Desrosiers' 34-yard touchdown run and third-string quarterback DJ Uiagalelei's 2-point conversion pass to Evan Svoboda. Rams' Jacob Caldwell left the game after sustaining an injury during a fumble recovery in the fourth quarter.