Matthew Stafford’s back responds well to one-hour workout, enabling him to practice with more confidence as Rams prepare for season opener.

Leavitt, a redshirt sophomore, showed plenty of promise in his first year as the Sun Devils' starter. The 20-year-old QB threw for 2,885 yards, 24 touchdowns and six interceptions, and he rushed for another 443 yards and five touchdowns.

With Stafford back on the field, Jimmy Garoppolo and Stetson Bennett would return to their backup roles. Stafford leads a Rams starting unit that last year went 10-6 behind his 65.8% completion rate, 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He guided the Rams to the playoffs but fell in the divisional round.