“Former Georgia Bulldogs Star Stetson Bennett Proves His NFL Worth With Stellar Performance in Rams’ Preseason Showcase”

Former Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Stetson Bennett has long been a figure of intrigue in the football world. Despite leading Georgia to back-to-back national championships and becoming a fan favorite with his scrappy style of play and leadership, Bennett entered the 2023 NFL Draft with questions about his ability to transition to the professional level. But with each throw he makes, each decision he executes, and each game he plays, Bennett is answering those questions and proving that he belongs in the NFL.

The 2023 NFL preseason was a crucial opportunity for Bennett to demonstrate his worth to his new team, the Los Angeles Rams. As an undersized quarterback with a chip on his shoulder, Bennett needed to show that his college success wasn’t a fluke and that he could thrive in the NFL, a league that tends to favor physical attributes like arm strength and size over the intangibles Bennett brings to the table. But against all odds, Bennett’s play in the Rams’ preseason opener proved to be a compelling argument for his spot on an NFL roster.

The Making of Stetson Bennett

Before diving into Bennett’s performance with the Rams, it’s essential to understand the journey that led him to this point. Bennett’s college career was far from conventional. After originally walking on at Georgia, he found himself in a tough battle for playing time with higher-profile quarterbacks. Yet, his work ethic, leadership qualities, and ability to perform under pressure eventually earned him a starting role. He led the Bulldogs to a national championship victory in 2021 and repeated the feat in 2022, solidifying his legacy as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in Georgia’s storied history.

Despite his success, Bennett’s transition to the NFL has always been met with skepticism. Standing at 5’11” and weighing in at 190 pounds, Bennett’s size didn’t match the typical NFL quarterback mold. His arm strength, while adequate, wasn’t the cannon that some other quarterbacks possess. However, Bennett’s success in college was built on his ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and elevate his teammates around him. These qualities would have to be enough for him to make a successful transition to the next level.

The Rams took a chance on Bennett, drafting him in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. They saw something in the former Georgia star that others may have overlooked—a tenacity, an understanding of the game, and an ability to perform in clutch moments. Bennett’s leadership was something the Rams hoped could add depth and stability to their quarterback room, particularly behind starter Matthew Stafford, who has been dealing with injuries in recent seasons.

Preseason Game: The Spotlight on Bennett

When the Rams took the field for their first preseason game, many eyes were on Stetson Bennett. While the preseason is typically about evaluating younger players and those battling for roster spots, it also serves as a platform for rookies to showcase their talents. For Bennett, it was a chance to prove that he had the skills and poise to play at the NFL level.

Early on, Bennett didn’t disappoint. In his first series, he looked sharp, executing a quick-paced offense and showing his poise in the pocket. One of his standout qualities in this game was his ability to read the defense and quickly make decisions. He wasn’t afraid to go through his progressions and wasn’t rattled by pressure—something that could have been a weakness for him early in his career. The quick release of his passes and his ability to move within the pocket allowed him to avoid the rush, keeping the offense moving efficiently.

Bennett also displayed his accuracy on short and intermediate throws, threading passes into tight windows with precision. While his deep ball isn’t his greatest strength, he didn’t need to showcase that aspect of his game in the preseason opener. His quick decision-making and precision with the football stood out. One particular throw that caught the attention of scouts and fans alike was a perfectly placed pass along the sideline to a receiver who was closely covered. The ball arrived on time and in stride, giving the receiver an opportunity to make a play after the catch.

Bennett’s ability to read defenses and go through his progressions was apparent throughout the game. He didn’t force throws and instead opted for safer, smarter decisions when things weren’t immediately open. This patience and maturity are traits that are often associated with more experienced quarterbacks, yet Bennett displayed these qualities with the poise of a seasoned veteran.

The Leadership Factor

Another key element that Bennett showed in the preseason game was his leadership. For the Rams, having a backup quarterback who can keep the team engaged, communicate well, and maintain morale in the huddle is just as important as any physical attribute. As the game progressed, Bennett’s leadership became even more evident.

There were moments during the game when Bennett faced adversity—whether it was an offensive line that gave him little time to throw or a missed assignment that led to a sack. In these instances, Bennett kept his composure. He didn’t hang his head or show frustration. Instead, he kept encouraging his teammates and remained focused on executing the next play. This attitude is exactly what NFL teams want in a backup quarterback—someone who can come in at a moment’s notice and not be rattled by the pressure of the situation.

His leadership on the field wasn’t just about what he said in the huddle but also how he carried himself. He exuded confidence, and that confidence radiated to the players around him. Bennett knew when to take control of the offense and when to trust his teammates to make plays. This balance is something that can’t be taught—it’s a natural quality that separates the good quarterbacks from the great ones.

Proving Himself in a Competitive QB Room

With the Rams’ quarterback depth chart including veteran Matthew Stafford, as well as backup QB Brett Rypien, the battle for the No. 2 spot behind Stafford was already intense. Rypien, who has seen time as a starter in the NFL, brings experience to the table, while Bennett brings the “it” factor that’s hard to quantify. While Rypien has shown his ability to execute in a backup role, Bennett’s performance in this game made it clear that he wasn’t just a developmental project—he was a legitimate competitor for the No. 2 job.

As a fourth-round pick, Bennett was not guaranteed a roster spot, especially with Rypien having more experience. However, his performance in the preseason game gave head coach Sean McVay and the Rams’ front office something to think about. While preseason performances don’t always guarantee regular-season success, Bennett’s ability to step in and perform under pressure showcased his potential. In the NFL, where quarterbacks often get injured and the ability to stay calm under pressure is vital, a player like Bennett could be more valuable than initially expected.

Bennett’s role as a backup quarterback isn’t to win games by himself—it’s to provide stability when called upon and be ready to step up if needed. His performance in the preseason was a clear indication that he is more than capable of fulfilling that role. His leadership, decision-making, and overall poise under pressure all point toward a bright future in the NFL.

As Stetson Bennett continues to make his case for a spot on the Rams’ roster, it’s clear that he’s more than just a product of Georgia’s championship-winning teams. He’s a quarterback who has the tools to succeed in the NFL—not because of overwhelming physical traits but because of his mental acuity, leadership, and understanding of the game.

The road ahead won’t be easy. Bennett will continue to face criticism and doubt from those who question whether he can transition to the professional level. However, his performance in the Rams’ preseason game demonstrated that he has the ability to overcome those challenges and find success in the NFL.

Whether or not Bennett secures a spot on the Rams’ roster or elsewhere, his performance has undoubtedly earned him a place in the conversation of NFL quarterbacks. And for fans of the Georgia Bulldogs, watching their former star continue to succeed at the next level is an exciting prospect. With his head on straight and his heart in the game, Stetson Bennett has proven he’s ready for the challenge of the NFL.