<
        >

          Matthew Stafford's second TD pass expands Rams' lead before halftime

          Harry How/Getty Images
          • Sarah Barshop, ESPN Staff WriterDec 22, 2023, 01:45 AM
            Close
              Sarah Barshop covers the Los Angeles Rams for ESPN. She joined ESPN in 2016 to cover the Green Bay Packers for ESPN Milwaukee. She then moved to Houston to cover the Texans. She came to ESPN after working as a writer and editor for Sports Illustrated. You can follow her on Twitter @sarahbarshop.
            Follow on X

          INGLEWOOD, Calif. -- The Rams' early success continued on "Thursday Night Football" against the New Orleans Saints, as Los Angeles scored for an NFL-high 11th time on the opening drive.

          On fourth and goal from the 2-yard line, Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford found rookie receiver Puka Nacua for the first score of the game.

          The 95-yard touchdown drive was the Rams' longest drive of the season. Stafford completed 5 of 7 passes for 68 yards on the drive, connecting with four different players.

          Later in the second half, after the Saints had pulled within 10-7, Stafford threw his second touchdown pass of the night on a four-yard pass to Demarcus Robinson

          The game has significant playoff implications for the Rams, who entered with a 54% chance to reach the postseason. That jumps to 78% if they beat the Saints and falls to 17% with a loss.