Rams Defeat Raiders 20-15: Defense Shines as Minshew Struggles After O'Connell's Injury

Rams Defeat Raiders 20-15

The Los Angeles Rams edged out the Las Vegas Raiders 20-15 on Sunday, relying on a strong defensive performance to secure their second win of the season, improving their record to 2-4. Despite struggling offensively, the Rams capitalized on key turnovers, particularly from Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew, who stepped in after Aidan O’Connell left the game with a suspected broken thumb.

Minshew's day was plagued by mistakes, beginning with an interception thrown to Rams cornerback Cobie Durant, which led to a 13-yard touchdown run by Kyren Williams, giving the Rams a 7-3 lead. Shortly thereafter, Durant strip-sacked Minshew, allowing safety Kam Curl to return the fumble for a touchdown, extending the Rams' lead to 14-3. The Raiders managed a 47-yard field goal from Daniel Carlson before halftime, bringing the score to 14-6.

In the second half, Minshew's struggles continued as he threw another interception, setting up Williams for a 2-yard touchdown run and pushing the score to 20-6. Although Carlson added two field goals to narrow the gap, the Raiders were unable to capitalize on crucial opportunities, including a potential game-tying drive late in the fourth quarter.

As time wound down, Minshew's turnover problems culminated in a third interception, effectively ending the game for the Raiders. Minshew finished with 154 yards and three picks, while tight end Brock Bowers shone for the Rams with 10 receptions for 93 yards.

With this win, Rams head coach Sean McVay tied John Robinson for the most wins in franchise history, while the Raiders fell to 2-5 and will prepare to face the Chiefs in their next matchup.

Rams Defeat Raiders 20-15: Defense Shines as Minshew Struggles After O'Connell's Injury