Takeaways From Stafford’s Debut
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford sends a message to the rest of the league in his debut. Stafford had SoFi Stadium up on their feet and shouting in joy on Sunday night. Stafford delivered a 67-yard pass to receiver, Van Jefferson, who went untouched behind the Chicago Bears defense and ultimately crossed the end zone for the touchdown.
On the opening drive, the Rams delivered a statement drive to the Bears and the rest of the league built momentum that the Rams sustained throughout the game. They went on to dominate the Bears 34-14. Safe to say Stafford is welcomed into Los Angeles with open arms and the keys to the kingdom.
“He did incredible,” commented Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey after the game. “His control, his confidence, everything was fantastic. It’s a debut that should definitely be remembered for the way he played.”
He recorded 321 yards completing 20 out of his 26 passes. Not to mention, he had a career-best 156.1 passer rating, making him the first player in NFL history to win his team debut. He also recorded 300 yards and three touchdowns without an interception, per Elias Sports Bureau research.
Los Angeles Rams Blockbuster Trade
Stafford’s long-awaited debut couldn’t come fast enough! After the Rams made that blockbuster trade last January. The trade involved their former starting quarterback Jared Goff, two-first-round picks, and third-round selection to the Detroit Lions in exchange for the one and only.
“There was so much excitement leading up to this game,” Stafford mentioned in a postgame press conference while wearing a sweater with a large smiley face on it. “It’s a fresh experience for me—new city, new stadium, new fans, the whole package. But this team has welcomed me with open arms, and I’m truly grateful for that.”
After being vertically challenged offensively last season, the Rams coach Sean Mcvay made emphasis on the offense. In fact, throughout training camp he honed in on the need for explosiveness this year. Stafford provides the big-play ability in his debut as he averaged 12.3 yards per attempt.
“We got exactly what we wanted, and it came from multiple players,” expressed McVay regarding the explosive plays made by Stafford, Jefferson, Kupp, Woods, and tight end Tyler Higbee, who caught a 37-yard pass.”Matt did an excellent job of distributing the ball to everyone,” commented Jefferson. “This offense is going to be dynamic, and we’re just following Matt’s lead.”
