{
  "id": 805813,
  "title": "Rams Hint at Winner of Backup QB Battle With Preseason Starter",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/13/rams-hint-at-winner-of-backup-qb-battle-with-preseason-starter",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-13T20:44:56.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/rams-hint-at-winner-of-backup-qb-battle-with-preseason-starter-12320562"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Los Angeles Rams hint at the outcome of the backup quarterback battle with preseason starter Ty Simpson. Currently, the No. 2 spot behind reigning MVP Stetson Bennett is up for grabs, with Bennett, a fourth-round pick, set to start Saturday's preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs according to Myles Simmons of Pro Football Talk. Simpson, a highly touted first-round draft pick, still has a chance to play but only after Bennett's appearance.\n\nThe Rams appear to be taking a cautious approach in rushing Simpson into NFL play, recognizing the increased competition level. Simpson, who showcased his skills in college, acknowledges the complexities of coach Sean McVay's offensive system as a hurdle he must overcome. He admits feeling like a freshman again, overwhelmed by the amount of information he needs to process. To tackle this challenge, Simpson has adopted an unconventional learning method, reciting play calls for himself, which he listens to both when he goes to bed and wakes up.\n\nBennett, with three previous seasons with the Rams, already has the experience to hold the No. 2 spot. However, Simpson's ceiling is higher, making it likely that he will eventually overtake Bennett in the pecking order. In the meantime, Simpson is learning from veteran signal callers on the team, hoping to absorb their knowledge and terminology to better prepare for his eventual starting role.",
  "summary": "The Los Angeles Rams announced which quarterback will start their preseason opener, perhaps revealing the standings for backup QB.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}