Rams strike first with Puka Nacua touchdown catch on fourth-down gamble

Sarah Barshop, ESPN Staff WriterDec 21, 2023, 08:45 PM ET
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INGLEWOOD, Calif. — The Rams’ early success continued on “Thursday Night Football” against the New Orleans Saints, as Los Angeles scored 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 the drive, connecting with four different players.

The game has significant playoff implications for the Rams, who entered with a 54% chance to reach the postseason. That jumps to 78% if they beat the Saints and falls to 17% with a loss.