It took one preseason game for Rams disappointment to finally flip the script

As soon as the Los Angeles Rams stepped onto the football field to defend SoFi Stadium's home turf from the invading Dallas Cowboys, electricity filled the air. Even knowing and constantly reminding myself that this is just a preseason game, and not to read too much into it, the pressure of no football for months had other ideas. And it was the performance of running back Blake Corum that kicked my enthusiasm and optimism over the top.

The Rams' opening drive was handled by players who have not yet earned their roster spots — don't tell them that. Led by a confident and calm Stetson Bennett at quarterback, the team managed a fine blend of runs and passes to drive 79 yards in 13 plays, in just 5:16 of game clock.

Corum continued his impressive showing from the Rams scrimmage with the Cowboys. Bennett completed four of six passes, but it was the second-year back who found the end zone, grinding out 14 tough yards on four carries.

Blake Corum finally scores his first touchdown in a Rams uniform

On the Rams' second offensive possession, the team began to mix in carries by rookie RB Jarquez Hunter. But Corum's afternoon was not over just yet. After a short reception of four yards, Corum smashed through the Cowboys' defensive front for an impressive nine-yard gain.

Once again, the Rams kept the young Cowboys defense off balance with a masterful blend of runs and passes, advancing the football 50 yards to set up a third-down and four yards to go. Once more, the Rams sent the second-year back onto the field. And once again, Corum was not to be denied, plunging four yards for his second touchdown of the day.

By the time the smoke cleared, Corum had two touchdowns, and by the end of the first half, the score was decidedly in the Rams' favor (14-6)... largely thanks to the 2024 disappointment.

Head coach Sean McVay had indicated in a pre-game interview that the plan was to prepare all the running backs, sans Kyren Williams. While the team did not dig all the way into the Rams depth chart, it was reassuring to see Corum finally find the end zone, even if it was only the preseason. After all, he couldn't do it once as a rookie.

The Rams invested their 83rd overall pick to select the former Michigan Wolverine in Round 3 of the 2024 NFL Draft. However, after investing a premium pick in the guy, they seldom used him in 2024, opting to run Williams into the ground.

The 24-year-old was a touchdown machine for Michigan. In his final two seasons, he crossed the plane 45 times on the ground and twice through the air. So it was a complete mystery to Rams fans that he was unable to score at all in his rookie season. Perhaps this preseason game will jump-start his 2025 NFL season. We can only hope.

Corum ended the day with nine rushes for 32 yards and two touchdowns.

As always, thanks for reading.

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