LA Derby: Rams Defeat Winless Chargers 24-9

Los Angeles residents saw a change in their local football fortunes on Sunday. The Rams defeated the Chargers 24-9 at SoFi Stadium. This win gave the Rams their first consecutive victories of the season. The Chargers remained winless, extending their worst start since 2000.

The Rams faced a difficult opening. They gained only 24 yards on their first 15 plays. Coach Sean McVay had never seen his team go without a first down on its first five drives before. The Rams trailed 9-3 before their first first down. That break came on a 40-yard pass to Tutu Atwell.

Kyren Williams broke the logjam with a one-yard touchdown run with 19 seconds left in the first half. The Rams then took control in the second half. Blake Corum rushed for 73 yards, including a 23-yard score. Puka Nacua caught an 18-yard touchdown pass late in the third quarter. Matthew Stafford passed for 157 yards and one score.

Justin Herbert struggled for the Chargers. He passed for 257 yards but threw two interceptions. The Bolts are the only NFL team without a win. Their offense, led by play-caller Mike McDaniel, gained 295 yards. However, the defense could not stop the Rams. The Chargers have lost their first seven games.

Both teams started slowly with early interceptions. Quentin Lake picked off a short Herbert pass and returned it 45 yards to set up the Rams' opening field goal. McDaniel retained play-calling duties despite the losing streak. He called two successful flea-flickers to help the Chargers score their second field goal in the second quarter.

Injury reports show Daiyan Henley injured his shoulder in the first quarter but returned for the Chargers. Derwin James went on injured reserve Saturday after missing four games with a hamstring injury. For the Rams, Jaylen Watson hurt his shoulder and did not return. Trent McDuffie injured his back but stayed on the sideline wearing his helmet.

The Chargers host the Houston Texans on Sunday. The Rams travel to Washington for their game the same day.