Goff struggles in 1st NFL action

The 2016 first overall pick got a rude awakening in his first action as a professional quarterback.

Los Angles Rams centerpiece Jared Goff took a hard hit from Dallas Cowboys linebacker Derek Akunne while attempting a throw on the third play of his debut. The hit knocked the ball out of Goff's hand and resulted in an easy interception for linebacker Mark Nzeocha.

After replacing starter Case Keenum in the second quarter, Goff completed four of nine passes for 38 yards and one interception before being removed for the second half in favor of Sean Mannion.

It was expected that Goff would play two quarters of the game, but he was removed by head coach Jeff Fisher after one quarter due to soreness in his non-throwing shoulder.

Goff did find some chemistry with fourth-round tight end Tyler Higbee, who caught three passes for 35 yards from his rookie quarterback.

Keenum, who went 6-of-7 for 58 yards, appears to have a strong hold on his starter spot with Goff putting forward a less-than-ideal performance in his first game action.