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Jared Verse adds scoop and score TD to extend Rams’ lead over Vikings
Jared Verse has been one of the best rookie defenders in the NFL this season.
The former Florida State pass-rusher made a huge play in his first playoff game on Monday night. Rams’ defender Akhello Witherspoon sacked Vikings’ quarterback Sam Darnold and forced a fumble. Verse picked up the fumble and rumbled to the end zone for a 57-yard touchdown.
The score and extra point put the Rams up 17-3 over the Vikings.
It was the 1st TD and 3rd fumble recovery of Verse’s young career.
Verse is the only rookie defensive player to be selected for the Pro Bowl this season. During the regular season, Verse collected 66 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, 2 pass deflections, and 2 forced fumbles. The Florida State product helped the Rams win the NFC West and finish with a 10-7 record.
Before starring for the Rams, Verse was a playmaker at Florida State. In 24 games with the Seminoles, Verse racked up 89 tackles, 29.5 tackles for loss, and 18 sacks. The pass rusher was considered one of the top defenders in the 2024 NFL Draft and was selected by the Rams with the No. 19 pick.
Verse’s Rams went into halftime on Monday night with a 24-3 lead over the Rams. Verse collected 1 tackle in the first half to go with his fumble recovery and TD. If the Rams hold on to win, the team will travel to Philadelphia to take on the No. 2 Eagles. A Rams’ win on Monday would be the team’s first playoff win since 2021.
Bryce Lazenby covers college football for Saturday Down South. A Nashville native, his previous stops include FanSided, Dimers, and The Leaf-Chronicle.