Hall of Fame Game just made Rams’ Stetson Bennett situation harder to ignore

The Los Angeles Rams still have time before they must suit up and compete in their first preseason game of 2025. But that is not the case for the team's cross-town rivals. On Thursday Night Football, the Los Angeles Chargers traveled to the Detroit Lions to compete in the 2025 NFL Hall of Fame Game.

It was a preseason game, yes. But it proved to be one about vindicating Chargers quarterback Trey Lance. After failed attempts to earn a starting job with the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys, Lance was tarnished and forgotten among NFL circles. However, a stunning performance by Lance against the Lions —a two-touchdown, error-free performance —has launched Lance back into NFL discussions.

Related: It only took 1 practice at camp for this Rams controversial player to shock fans

But it has paved the way for Rams backup quarterback Stetson Bennett to do the same in his first preseason game. That's what made that game so special for Rams fans. After all, if Trey Lance can pick up the pieces and shine in 2024, Stetson Bennett can too.

Bennett and Lance starred in 2024 preseason, but not for the right reasons

Looking back at the 2024 NFL preseason reveals two things. Los Angeles Rams quarterback Stetson Bennett was one of the NFL's star quarterbacks of the preseason, despite competing in just two games. And both Trey Lance and Stetson Bennett put up curious numbers a year ago. If you recall, both Lance and Bennett threw two touchdowns in preseason games last season.

But that was overshadowed by both quarterbacks also tossing five interceptions.

Just to be clear, Trey Lance competed in three preseason games, completed 73 of 113 passes for 662 yards, two touchdowns, and five interceptions. Stetson Bennett completed 41 of 69 passes for 437 yards, two touchdowns, and five interceptions. But Bennett had mitigating circumstances.

He stepped away from football in 2023, essentially resetting his football career and performance back to square one. So his performance last year was better compared to that of an NFL rookie than to a second-year quarterback. Still, Bennett showed grit and determination last year, despite the challenge of having to rebuild his reputation.

Seemingly, Bennett does his best when he is a walk on.

Fast forward to 2025, and it's a brand new season with a brand new Stetson Bennett. No, that's not some tired cliche'. Rather, Bennett appeared to be in better shape at Rams training camp than ever, seemingly more muscular and ready. And it's a very good thing that he did.

With starting quarterback Matthew Stafford sitting out with back soreness, Bennett has been getting plenty of reps with the 2s, and the more he works, the more fun he is having. While this may be merely temporary, he is the big winner at Rams training camp so far. Suddenly, Rams HC Sean McVay is very impressed with his quarterback.

And for good reason.

Any progress by Steton Bennett benefits this team in numerous ways. Not only does it add to the overall talent level on the Rams roster, but it also affords the team a viable bridge between Matthew Stafford and some future franchise quarterback who is not on the team just yet. And it may even toss Bennett's hat into the ring for future starting quarterback.

As always, thanks for reading.

More Los Angeles Rams news and analysis