The Los Angeles Rams will begin their 2026 NFL campaign as one of the clear favorites to compete for a Super Bowl title, starting with Thursday night's international matchup against the division-rival San Francisco 49ers in Australia. Much noise has been made about the Rams defense, which added reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett and all-time great NFL pass rusher Aaron Donald this offseason. So much noise that it's begun to overshadow the hype surrounding Los Angeles' elite offensive unit.
Reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford is still leading the team from the quarterback position, throwing passes to superstar wide receiver Puka Nacua. During Wednesday morning's episode of "First Take" on ESPN, Stephen A. Smith advised fans to not forget that the Rams have one of the best offenses in the league.
"As much as we are fascinated by the Rams' defense because Myles Garrett has arrived and Aaron Donald eventually will be there, how can we ignore the fact that even before any of that happened, they were considered Super Bowl favorites this year?" Smith asked. "Their offense is that elite." The Rams led the NFL in both yards (394.6) and points (30.5) per game last season. Stafford led the league with 4,707 passing yards and 46 passing touchdowns.
Los Angeles will kick off against San Francisco at 8:35 p.m.
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