Four down territory: Takeaways from Rams first win of season

The Los Angeles Rams are in the win column for the 2026 season thanks to a 28-6 victory over the New York Giants . The Rams controlled the majority of the game after Jaxson Dart exited early because of an MCL sprain suffered in the first quarter. But the major news belonged to Aaron Donald and Co., as the legendary defensive tackle played his first game for the Rams after spending two years in retirement. Here are the 4 biggest takeaways from Monday Night's win for LA; starting with the future Hall of Famer…

The juice that came from SoFi Stadium when Aaron Donald was announced out of the tunnel was unlike any other.

Aaron Donald may not have registered a sack in the game but his impact was felt. The energy of the Rams defense was the best it has been since its win against the Buccaneers on Sunday Night Football last year… which coincidentally was "Aaron Donald Night". AD only played 58% of the snaps and it was a reasonable snap count for the legendary player.

The Rams defensive line is going to be fresh all season long now because of Aaron Donald's insertion into the lineup. Kobie Turner was a menace early and Braden Fiske did damage late in the game. This does not even include the effect that Myles Garrett may have when he returns.

This unit will be the best in football in due time.

In my opinion, if you watch the tape, there is no debate who should be the Rams starting running back. Blake Corum is the more explosive runner in my opinion. He hits the hole with conviction whereas Kyren Williams dances just a hair too long. That indecisiveness has prevented the Rams from having the opportunity to break long runs. I think if given the opportunity, Corum could provide more explosion to the Rams offense.

Both running backs rushed 12 times against the Giants. Williams outrushed Corum 85 yards to 79 yards. Both fumbled, but Kyren Williams lost his fumble; leading to an easy Giants field goal. Had the Giants been more formidable, the turnover could have been costly (flashback to Week 5 vs. SF).

After the Puka Nacua injury news broke, I emphasized that the spotlight was on Adams to show up and earn his 2 year contract (for more than just a redzone touchdown magnet). Well, #17 must have heard loud and clear because he had his best game as a Ram; registering 8 receptions (10 targets) for 195 yards and 2 touchdowns. He made a bunch of highlight reel grabs throughout the first three quarters of the game. Hopefully, Puka Nacua returns soon but Adams at least showed that he still has game left in him and is a solid #2 in the passing game.

4th Down: Matthew Stafford 's Monday Night Performance

Entering the game tonight, Stafford had a 1-5 career record as a Ram in Monday Night Football games. He needed to deliver. And he sure did. Earlier this week, I had predicted 4 touchdown passes and #9 delivered with – you bet – 4 touchdowns.

With 7 primetime games on this year's schedule, Matthew Stafford is going to be in the spotlight a lot. The Rams need him to show up more like he did tonight than the Australia-type performance.