Rams Recap: Goff makes first argument answering critics in 24-21 win

The Los Angeles Rams played a solid 60 minutes of football as Jared Goff goes error free, in a 24-21 win in Oakland against the Raiders.

Los Angeles Rams fans may have seen the first legitimate glimpses of the quarterback they have been hoping for since the 2016 NFL Draft. Tonight in Oakland, Jared Goff made his first serious argument in answering the critics and naysayers that have dogged him since his inaugural 0-7 rookie season.

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Against the Raiders, Goff went 16/20 for 160 yards and a touchdown.

Best part, zero turnovers.

Goff looked poised and deliberate, working effectively out of the shotgun for the Rams offense. If head coach Sean McVay was looking to establish some offensive rhythm and consistency, he’ll have liked the first half of action tonight, and the game as a whole.

Well, mostly.

His big three of Goff, running back Todd Gurley, and rookie receiver Cooper Kupp impressed.

Most importantly next to his quarterback’s performance, was Gurley looking like Gurley. The running back rushed 8 times for 48 yards and a touchdown. A sign that perhaps he’s waking from a long hibernation of little to no productivity. Fans who were keeping their fingers crossed that he’d begin to find his way back will rest easy tonight.

Rams rookie receiver Kupp may emerge as a story that gets better each and every week. He may also be part of the tandem call, “Goff to Kupp” when the regular season rolls though a 16 week schedule. While the signing of Sammy Watkins was monster news for Los Angeles, Kupp may wind up being “the guy” for this offense, and a reliable ‘go-to’ for Goff.

As for Watkins, it was a relatively quiet night after a turbulent week for the veteran acquired from the Buffalo Bills a week ago Friday. His one reception will make the stat sheet, but it’s expected, at least hoped, he becomes the home run for Goff who looks to be finding his game.

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Preseason aside, the Rams first team looked noticeably solid, especially after a fumble filled preseason opener last week against the Dallas Cowboys.

Second string quarterback Sean Mannion would play the second half of football, going 15/22 for 133 yards and a late touchdown to Josh Reynolds for the go-ahead score, as the Rams would beat the Raiders in Oakland, 24-21.