Sarah Barshop, ESPN Staff Writer
INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The Los Angeles Rams’ early success continued on “Thursday Night Football” against the New Orleans Saints, scoring for an NFL-high 11th time on the opening drive.
On fourth and goal from the 2-yard line, Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford found rookie receiver Puka Nacua for the first score of the game.
4th and NACUA!@RamsNFL open up the scoring on TNF. #RamsHouse#NOvsLAR on Prime Video
Also available on #NFLPlus https://t.co/Nz8Z54zYm0 pic.twitter.com/V5ZIWx9SAf— NFL (@NFL) December 22, 2023
The 95-yard touchdown drive was the Rams’ longest drive of the season. Stafford completed 5 of 7 passes for 68 yards on a touchdown on the opening drive, connecting with four different players.
The game has significant playoff implications for the Rams, who entered the game with a 54% chance to reach the postseason. That jumps to 78% if they can beat the Saints on Thursday night and falls to 17% with a loss.