The Los Angeles Rams delivered a statement performance Sunday at Wembley Stadium, dismantling the Jacksonville Jaguars 35-7 in what became a showcase of offensive precision despite missing star wideout Puka Nacua, who sat out with an ankle injury sustained in Week 6.
Stafford Commands the Field, Makes International History
Without his top target available, quarterback Matthew Stafford showcased why he’s considered one of the league’s elite passers, distributing the ball to eight different players—seven receivers among them—before the first quarter clock hit zero. The veteran signal-caller, who entered Sunday leading the NFL in passing, carved up Jacksonville’s defense early and often, completing 15 of 20 attempts for 127 yards and three touchdowns by intermission, staking Los Angeles to a commanding 21-0 advantage.
When the final whistle sounded, Stafford had etched his name in the record books as the first quarterback to throw five touchdown passes in an international NFL contest. Veteran receiver Davante Adams, the three-time All-Pro, proved instrumental in Nacua’s absence, hauling in five catches for 35 yards while finding the end zone on a game-high three occasions.
Defensive Front Creates Chaos for Lawrence
Los Angeles entered Sunday’s contest ranked among the league’s premier pass-rushing units with 19 sacks through six games. That relentless pressure translated seamlessly to the international stage, as the Rams defense brought down Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence seven times while the secondary chipped in with 10 pass deflections. Jacksonville’s struggles were compounded by sloppy play, accumulating 13 penalties throughout the afternoon.
Lawrence managed to complete 23 of 48 passing attempts for 296 yards and a single touchdown, but the damage was done early. The victory improves Los Angeles to 5-2 on the season, while Jacksonville drops to 4-3 heading into their bye week.
Jaguars’ London Legacy Continues Mixed Results
Sunday’s appearance marked Jacksonville’s 14th game on British soil, maintaining an even 7-7 record across Wembley and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium appearances. Despite managing just three winning campaigns over the past decade, the Jaguars continue their unique relationship with international play as their designated overseas \”home.\” Interestingly, Los Angeles arrived in England just Saturday, yet appeared far more prepared than Jacksonville, who touched down Tuesday and implemented three early practice sessions at The Grove.
The departure from their typical Friday arrival strategy didn’t produce the desired results this time around. Still, Jaguars owner Shahid Khan could take solace in the passionate turnout, as 86,152 supporters filled Wembley Stadium—marking the third-largest attendance in venue history.
Jacksonville’s Attack Sputters After Strong Start
Coming off an impressive showing against Kansas City in Week 5, Jacksonville’s offense has hit a rough patch in recent outings. Receiver Brian Thomas Jr. let two crucial passes slip through his hands, while running back Travis Etienne mustered only 44 yards on the ground. Two-way standout Travis Hunter, the reigning Heisman Trophy recipient, saw limited action early on—just two targets for zero yards and minimal defensive snaps in the opening half.
Once Jacksonville fell into their 21-0 hole, Hunter’s involvement increased significantly as the team abandoned their rushing attack. He eventually broke through for his first professional touchdown in the fourth quarter, posting career bests with 13 targets, eight receptions, and 101 receiving yards. Still, the Jaguars have managed a paltry 19 points across their last two contests, providing offensive coordinator Liam Coen plenty to address during the upcoming break.
Veteran Signal-Caller Shines Without Star Receiver
Playing overseas without their primary receiving threat presented a legitimate challenge for the Rams. Stafford, now in his 17th professional campaign, rose to the occasion with surgical precision, connecting on 21 of 33 attempts for 182 yards while tossing five touchdowns without an interception and posting a 117.7 passer rating. Using effective play-action concepts and varied personnel packages, Stafford found 10 different pass-catchers, including multiple looks toward three tight ends.
Touchdown passes found their way to rookies Terrance Ferguson and Konata Mumpfield—both recording their first career scores—along with Adams’ trio of red-zone connections. The chemistry between Stafford and Adams continues to develop, particularly in scoring situations. At 37 years old, Stafford remains a driving force behind Los Angeles’ impressive 5-2 start entering their bye week.
Lake Steps Up as Secondary Playmaker
Building on his recent surge that included two turnovers and his first career interception, Rams safety Quentin Lake delivered another impactful performance. Lake registered two pass breakups—including a pivotal third-down stop—forced a fumble, and brought down Lawrence on a well-timed blitz.
Now in his fourth NFL campaign and second full season as a starter, Lake is flourishing within the team’s intricate defensive system. His range and coverage ability help compensate for the absence of outside cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon, giving the Rams’ secondary multiple looks and disguised coverages. Lake is building an early case for his first Pro Bowl recognition.
