Rams vs Saints Prediction & Betting Tips for NFL Preseason Week 2 on 8/22/2026

The preseason continues as the New Orleans Saints travel to California to take on the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium on August 22, 2026. This Week 2 preseason game is set for a 4:00 PM kickoff and will be televised on ESPN. Both teams will be looking to fine-tune their rosters and strategies as they prepare for the regular season.

The New Orleans Saints, under the guidance of head coach Kellen Moore, are coming off a narrow loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in their first preseason outing. With a current preseason record of 0-1, the Saints are eager to improve and assess their roster depth. Their coaching staff, including offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier and defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, will be key in making necessary adjustments.

Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams, led by seasoned head coach Sean McVay, secured a victory against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 1 of the preseason. The Rams, with a 1-0 record, look to build on their positive start as they play at home. Their performance last regular season, which ended with a 12-5 record and a deep playoff run, sets high expectations for the upcoming season.

The game odds favor the New Orleans Saints with a moneyline of -130, while the Rams sit at +109. The spread sees the Saints at -1.5 and the Rams at +1.5, with an over/under total set at 37.5. Both teams will aim to deliver a strong performance as they continue preparations for the challenges of the 2026 NFL season.

Rams vs Saints At a Glance (Preseason Week 2)

• The game is set for the 2026 Preseason Week 2.
• The New Orleans Saints have a current preseason record of 0-1-0.
• The Los Angeles Rams hold a preseason record of 1-0-0.
• SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA will host the game.
• The Saints are slightly favored with a moneyline of -130 against the Rams' +109.
• The over/under for the game is set at 37.5 points.

Rams Ready: Los Angeles Rams Preseason Insights

Offensive Overview

In the 2025 regular season, the Los Angeles Rams boasted the top-ranked offense in the league. They scored an impressive 518 points, averaging 30.5 points per game, and accumulated 6,709 offensive yards. However, during the 2026 preseason, the Rams' offensive performance has been more modest, with an average of 20 points per game, ranking them 8th.

The Rams' passing game has shown potential, with 228 passing yards per game in the preseason, placing them 8th in the league. However, the rushing attack has struggled, ranking 20th with just 93 rushing yards per game. This duality in their offensive performance will be a key factor in the upcoming games.

Defensive Dynamics

Defensively, the Rams were solid in 2025, ranking 10th in opponent scoring, allowing only 20.4 points per game. They also ranked 5th in takeaways with a total of 26. This defensive strength seems to be carrying into the preseason, where they have allowed only 12 points per game, ranking 4th.

Despite their strong showing in points allowed, the Rams' defense ranks 16th in opponent offensive yards allowed in the preseason. The team has been effective at limiting passing yards but has struggled against the run, ranking 22nd in opponent rushing yards allowed. The defense's ability to adjust and improve against the run will be crucial.

Key Players to Watch

Ty Simpson, the backup quarterback, has been a bright spot with 190 passing yards and 2 touchdowns in the preseason. On the ground, Jordan Waters leads the rushing attack with 37 yards. Brennan Presley has been a reliable target, recording 58 receiving yards in their opening preseason game.

Defensively, Desjuan Johnson and Tim Keenan III have made significant contributions with a sack each. Nick Andersen stands out in the secondary, contributing with 8 total tackles. These players will be pivotal as the Rams continue their preseason campaign.

Injury Concerns

The Rams face some challenges with injuries, particularly on the offensive line and at outside linebacker. Justin Dedich is out with a hand injury, while Eddie Walls III will miss the entire season due to a leg injury. These absences could affect both their offensive line stability and defensive versatility.

Betting Trends

• Last 6 regular season games went over the total.
• Last 5 games as regular season favorites went over the total.
• Won all 5 recent home games in the regular season.
• Preseason games have been favorable against the spread, with a 4-0 record as underdogs.
• After a loss in the preseason, they have a perfect 3-0 record.

New Orleans Saints: Ready for the Rams Challenge

Quarterback Position

The New Orleans Saints' quarterback situation is led by Tyler Shough, who currently holds the starting position. Last week, Zach Wilson showcased his abilities with 145 passing yards and a touchdown in the preseason opener. Spencer Rattler adds depth to the position, having contributed 42 passing yards in the previous outing.

Wilson's performance in the preseason opener indicates he could be a vital asset, especially if Shough needs support. Rattler's experience from last season adds another layer of stability in the quarterback room.

Running Back Unit

Travis Etienne Jr. leads the Saints' rushing attack with Alvin Kamara and Devin Neal providing depth. Kamara brings an established skill set, having recorded 471 rushing yards and 33 receptions last season. Devin Neal, who had 206 rushing yards last season, will look to carve out a bigger role this year.

Etienne's versatility as both a runner and receiver out of the backfield could be crucial against the Rams. The combined efforts of Kamara and Neal can help maintain a balanced offensive approach.

Receiving Corps

Chris Olave is the standout receiver, having tallied 1,163 receiving yards and nine touchdowns last season. Kevin Austin Jr., who recorded 140 receiving yards last year, provides additional options alongside Olave. Devaughn Vele, with his 293 receiving yards from last season, will aim to enhance the passing game.

With Olave as the primary target, the Saints' receiving unit aims to capitalize on their dynamic playmaking abilities. Austin Jr. and Vele's contributions could be pivotal in diversifying the passing attack.

Defense and Special Teams

The Saints' defense is anchored by Kaden Elliss and Pete Werner, offering a blend of tackling prowess and coverage skills. Carl Granderson and Chase Young bring pressure off the edge, enhancing the pass rush. Special teams are in good hands with Charlie Smyth and Tanner Brown handling kicking duties.

Defensive consistency will be vital against the Rams, with Granderson and Young expected to disrupt the opposing quarterback. On special teams, reliable kicking from Smyth and Brown can provide the necessary edge in tight games.

Team Betting Trends

• The Saints are 6-0 against the spread (ATS) in their last six regular season games.
• They are 5-0 ATS in their last five regular season games as underdogs.
• In their last five regular season away games, they are 5-0 ATS.
• They are 5-0 ATS in games with totals of 42 or less in their last five regular season outings.
• The Saints are 4-0 straight up (SU) in games with totals of 42 or less in their last four regular season games.

Rams vs Saints Prediction: Rams +1.5

The Los Angeles Rams have a strong track record in the preseason, especially when labeled as underdogs. With a 4-0 ATS record in their last four preseason games, the Rams have consistently outperformed expectations, making them a solid pick against the Saints.

Playing at SoFi Stadium, the Rams will look to leverage their home advantage, where they have shown dominance in recent seasons. The Rams' impressive home record, combined with a strong preseason performance, suggests that they are well-positioned to cover the spread.

The New Orleans Saints, under new head coach Kellen Moore, are still finding their rhythm, as indicated by their 0-1 preseason record. This transition phase might pose challenges in their game against the Rams, who have been consistent performers under Sean McVay.

With the Rams' recent victory over the Saints in their head-to-head matchup during the 2025 regular season, winning 34-10, they have proven their capability to handle the Saints effectively. Expect the Rams to win this preseason game 24-20.

• Rams vs Saints Prediction: Rams +1.5
• Rams vs Saints Score: Rams 24 - Saints 20

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