Rams host Giants on Monday Night Football as Aaron Donald returns
The Los Angeles Rams face the New York Giants in Week 2, with defensive tackle Aaron Donald expected to play limited snaps after missing the opener, while both teams look to improve after contrasting first-week performances.
Los Angeles will host New York on Monday Night Football at SoFi Stadium on Sept. 21, with the game televised on ESPN/ABC and streamed on Fubo. The Rams, who lost 27-7 to the San Francisco 49ers in their season opener, are hoping to rebound after a sub-par offensive showing and a defense that allowed 5.9 yards per play. Defensive end Myles Garrett is out on injured reserve, but interior defensive tackle Aaron Donald is slated to return for about 30 snaps, though he is not expected to be at full strength.
The Giants entered the matchup after a 38-10 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, controlling time of possession and posting a 60.3% offensive success rate, the second-best in the league last week. Quarterback Jaxson Dart completed 23 of 29 passes for 230 yards and three touchdowns, while receivers Cam Skattebo, Malik Nabers and Isaiah Likely each contributed significant yardage and scores.
Analysts note that the Rams' offensive line and running backs, including Kyren Williams and Blake Corum, will need to reestablish the production that helped the team lead the NFL in yards and points last season. The Giants' defensive front, which limited the Cowboys to 165 rushing yards, could test the Rams' interior defense, especially if Donald’s snap count is limited.
New York’s secondary will also be a factor, as the Rams' cornerbacks Trent McDuffie, Jaylen Watson and Quentin Lake have yet to find consistency after a shaky debut. Injuries on the Giants’ side—tight end Kamren Kinchens (hamstring) and safety Kamren Curl (ankle) —may affect coverage against the Rams’ passing attack, which could rely on receivers Davante Adams, Puka Nacua (if cleared) and tight ends Terrence Ferguson and Tyler Higbee.
Betting lines list the Rams as 6.5-point favorites with an over/under of 47.5 points. The game will determine whether the Rams can correct early-season deficiencies or if the Giants will improve to 2-0.