Los Angeles Rams vs New Orleans Saints Match Player Stats

The Los Angeles Rams vs New Orleans Saints Match Player Stats have a storied NFL rivalry, with their matchups often delivering thrilling moments and standout performances. Their most recent clash on December 1, 2024, at the Caesars Superdome was no exception, ending with a tight 21-14 victory for the Rams. This article dives into the player stats from that game, offering an easy-to-read, comprehensive look at the key performers, their contributions, and what the numbers tell us about this exciting game. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to football, this breakdown is designed to be clear, engaging, and packed with insights to help you understand the action.

Game Overview: Los Angeles Rams vs New Orleans Saints Match Player Stats, December 1, 2024

The Rams (6-6) faced the Saints (4-8) in a Week 13 showdown that had playoff implications for Los Angeles and pride on the line for New Orleans. Despite trailing 6-0 at halftime, the Rams rallied in the second half, powered by a strong rushing performance from Kyren Williams and clutch fourth-quarter touchdown passes from Matthew Stafford. The Saints, under interim coach Darren Rizzi, showed resilience but were hampered by injuries and missed opportunities, ultimately falling short.

This game was a tale of two halves: the Saints dominated possession and field position early, but the Rams’ adjustments and execution in the final 30 minutes sealed the win. Let’s break down the player stats to see who made the difference and how their performances shaped the outcome.

Key Player Stats: Los Angeles Rams

Matthew Stafford (Quarterback)

• Passing: 183 yards, 15/26 completions, 2 touchdowns, 0 interceptions

• Key Moment: Stafford’s poise in the fourth quarter was crucial. His 3-yard touchdown pass to Demarcus Robinson and 7-yard score to Puka Nacua flipped the game in the Rams’ favor.

• Analysis: Stafford didn’t light up the stat sheet with massive yardage, but his efficiency (57.7% completion rate) and zero turnovers kept the Rams in control. His ability to deliver in crunch time, especially on the Nacua touchdown with 8:54 left, showcased his veteran leadership. Stafford’s performance was a reminder of why he’s the backbone of this Rams offense, even in a game where the passing attack took a backseat to the run game.

Kyren Williams (Running Back)

• Rushing: 104 yards on 15 carries, 1 touchdown (4-yard run)

• Key Moment: Williams’ 4-yard touchdown in the third quarter gave the Rams their first lead (7-6), shifting momentum.

• Analysis: Williams was the spark the Rams needed, averaging 6.9 yards per carry. His “instinctive” running, as he described post-game, allowed him to exploit gaps in the Saints’ defense. His season-high 104 yards underscored his importance as a workhorse back, especially in a game where the Rams leaned heavily on the ground game to control the clock late. Williams’ energy, praised by coach Sean McVay, was infectious and set the tone for the second half.

Puka Nacua (Wide Receiver)

• Receiving: 7-yard touchdown catch

• Key Moment: Nacua’s touchdown reception in the fourth quarter put the Rams ahead 21-14, a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

• Analysis: While Nacua’s stat line wasn’t eye-popping, his clutch catch in the end zone was a game-changer. The second-year receiver continues to be a reliable target for Stafford, especially in high-pressure situations. His ability to get open in tight coverage was critical in securing the victory.

Demarcus Robinson (Wide Receiver)

• Receiving: 3-yard touchdown catch

• Key Moment: Robinson’s score early in the fourth quarter extended the Rams’ lead to 14-6, putting pressure on the Saints’ offense.

• Analysis: Robinson’s touchdown was a testament to the Rams’ balanced attack. Though his overall yardage was modest, his ability to find the end zone on a quick strike from Stafford highlighted his role as a complementary weapon in the passing game.

Defensive Standouts

• Team Defense: Limited Saints to 14 points, forced 1 turnover (fumble recovery negated by officiating)

• Key Moment: The Rams’ defense stood tall on a fourth-and-3 late in the fourth quarter, stopping Derek Carr’s pass attempt and securing possession to run out the clock.

• Analysis: The Rams’ defense didn’t generate gaudy stats but was effective when it mattered most. They held the Saints to 2-for-3 on field goals in the first half and prevented big plays in the passing game, aside from a 28-yard touchdown to Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Their pressure on Carr, especially late, disrupted New Orleans’ rhythm.

Key Player Stats: New Orleans Saints

Derek Carr (Quarterback)

• Passing: 246 yards, 22/32 completions, 1 touchdown, 0 interceptions

• Key Moment: Carr’s 28-yard touchdown pass to Marquez Valdes-Scantling in the fourth quarter tied the game at 14-14, giving the Saints a chance to stay in it.

• Analysis: Carr had a solid outing, completing 68.8% of his passes and avoiding turnovers. However, his inability to convert on the final fourth-down attempt with 1:13 left was costly. Carr’s performance was efficient but lacked the explosive plays needed to overcome the Rams’ second-half surge. The Saints’ offensive line injuries didn’t help, as Carr faced consistent pressure in key moments.

Alvin Kamara (Running Back)

• Rushing: 112 yards on 23 carries

• Receiving: 11 yards on 2 catches

• Key Moment: Kamara’s steady running kept the Saints in the game, with multiple 10+ yard runs setting up field-goal attempts in the first half.

• Analysis: Kamara was the Saints’ workhorse, averaging 4.9 yards per carry. His 112 yards were a bright spot for New Orleans, but the lack of a touchdown run limited his impact. Kamara’s versatility as a runner and receiver kept drives alive, but the Saints’ inability to finish in the red zone meant his efforts didn’t translate to enough points.

Marquez Valdes-Scantling (Wide Receiver)

• Receiving: 28-yard touchdown catch

• Key Moment: Valdes-Scantling’s fourth-quarter touchdown tied the game, showcasing his speed and ability to stretch the field.

• Analysis: Since joining the Saints midseason, Valdes-Scantling has been a deep-threat weapon, and his fourth touchdown in four games proved his value. His 28-yard score was the Saints’ only trip to the end zone, highlighting their struggle to convert yardage into points.

Taysom Hill (Tight End/Utility)

• Rushing: 2 yards on 1 carry (before injury)

• Key Moment: Hill’s fourth-and-1 conversion late in the fourth quarter kept a Saints drive alive, but he was carted off with a knee injury shortly after.

• Analysis: Hill’s injury was a turning point for New Orleans. The versatile playmaker, coming off a career-best performance the previous week, was limited before exiting. His absence in the final minutes hurt the Saints’ chances of mounting a comeback, as his unique skill set often sparks their offense.

Blake Grupe (Kicker)

• Field Goals: 2/3 (54 yards, 54 yards; missed 36 yards)

• Key Moment: Grupe’s two 54-yard field goals in the first half gave the Saints a 6-0 lead at halftime.

• Analysis: Grupe’s long-distance kicking was a highlight, but his miss from 36 yards was a missed opportunity that could have changed the game’s trajectory. His performance was solid but not enough to keep pace with the Rams’ second-half scoring.

Defensive Standouts

• Team Defense: Held Rams to 21 points, sacked Stafford once

• Key Moment: Cameron Jordan’s negated 87-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the second quarter was a controversial call that could have shifted momentum.

• Analysis: The Saints’ defense kept the game close, holding the Rams scoreless in the first half. However, they couldn’t stop Williams’ big runs or Stafford’s fourth-quarter heroics. Injuries to key players like Erik McCoy and Nick Saldiveri weakened the offensive line, indirectly putting more pressure on the defense to perform.

Los Angeles Rams vs New Orleans Saints Match Player Stats Head-to-Head Comparison

Analysis: The Saints slightly outgained the Rams and controlled the ball longer, but their inability to score in the red zone (0/1) was a glaring weakness. The Rams, meanwhile, were perfect in the red zone (3/3), capitalizing on every opportunity. Both teams played clean football with no turnovers, but the Rams’ efficiency in critical moments—especially in the fourth quarter—made the difference.

What the Stats Tell Us

Rams’ Second-Half Dominance

The Rams’ zero points at halftime didn’t reflect their potential, as Kyren Williams noted post-game. Their 21 second-half points, driven by Williams’ rushing and Stafford’s passing, showed their ability to adjust and exploit weaknesses. The Rams’ 100% red-zone efficiency was a masterclass in finishing drives, something they’ve struggled with in other games this season.

Saints’ Missed Opportunities

New Orleans’ 6-0 halftime lead came from field goals, not touchdowns, highlighting their red-zone struggles. The controversial negated fumble return by Cameron Jordan and Grupe’s missed 36-yard field goal were pivotal moments that could have changed the game’s outcome. Injuries to Hill, McCoy, and Saldiveri further hampered their chances, disrupting both offensive and defensive cohesion.

Standout Performers

• Kyren Williams (Rams): His 104 rushing yards and touchdown were game-changers, earning him praise from McVay for his “decisive” running.

• Alvin Kamara (Saints): His 112 rushing yards kept the Saints competitive, but the lack of a touchdown limited his impact.

• Matthew Stafford (Rams): His two fourth-quarter touchdowns were the difference, showcasing his clutch gene.

• Derek Carr (Saints): A solid but unspectacular performance, with his lone touchdown pass keeping the Saints in contention until the final minutes.

Historical Context: Los Angeles Rams vs New Orleans Saints Match Player Stats Rivalry

The Rams lead the all-time series 44-34 in the regular season, with a 1-1 tie in postseason matchups. Their rivalry, dating back to 1967, has seen intense battles, from Archie Manning facing the Rams’ “Fearsome Foursome” in the 1970s to the controversial 2018 NFC Championship Game. The December 1, 2024, game added another chapter, with the Rams’ victory reinforcing their edge in recent years.

Why This Game Matters

For the Rams, the win kept them in the NFC West race at 6-6, showcasing their resilience despite a first-half shutout. For the Saints, the loss dropped them to 4-8 and marked interim coach Darren Rizzi’s first defeat. The game highlighted both teams’ strengths—rushing attacks and veteran quarterbacks—but also their flaws, with the Saints’ injuries and red-zone woes proving costly.

Looking Ahead

• Rams: They face the Buffalo Bills next, aiming to build on their momentum and stay in the playoff hunt. Williams’ running and Stafford’s passing will be key.

• Saints: They travel to face the New York Giants, hoping to overcome their injury setbacks. Kamara’s consistency and a healthier offensive line will be crucial.

Conclusion

The Los Angeles Rams vs New Orleans Saints Match Player Stats on December 1, 2024, was a thrilling display of grit, strategy, and standout performances. Kyren Williams and Matthew Stafford led the Rams’ second-half surge, while Alvin Kamara and Derek Carr kept the Saints competitive despite setbacks. The stats tell a story of efficiency (Rams) versus missed opportunities (Saints), with the final score reflecting the fine margins in the NFL. Whether you’re a fan of explosive runs, clutch passes, or defensive stands, this game had it all. Stay tuned for more NFL action as both teams chase their goals in the 2024 season!