Matthew Stafford message four word message to fans as he said
‘I Want the Ball!’ Stafford Reacts to Big Hit in Rams’ Win
Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford faced adversity in the fourth quarter of the Week 11 game against the Seattle Seahawks, enduring a powerful hit from defensive lineman Mario Edwards Jr. after a trick play went awry. Despite the setback, Stafford rebounded impressively, completing 7-of-11 passes for 111 yards and orchestrating two crucial scoring drives. In total, he completed 17-of-31 passes for 190 yards, including a touchdown and an interception. The Rams outscored the Seahawks 9-0 in the final quarter, securing a 17-16 victory.
Stafford, acknowledging the impact of the hit, expressed his resilience, stating, “It wasn’t great, but I just needed a second really more than anything.” The hit, initially appearing detrimental, spurred Stafford’s determination, leading him to deliver a standout performance in the later stages of the game. His tenacity was evident as he joked, “So I don’t know if I need to take that level of a shot every week to get going.”
Stafford’s standout play occurred shortly after Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock was intercepted by cornerback Derion Kendrick. In a critical response, Stafford connected with receiver Puka Nacua for a 32-yard gain, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion. This resilience was reminiscent of Stafford’s history, drawing parallels to his time in Detroit, where he exhibited toughness and led game-winning drives even after enduring significant hits.
Head coach Sean McVay emphasized Stafford’s crucial role in late-game situations, stating, “I want the ball… I obviously wasn’t at my best at certain points in this game and wanted to make sure that I did everything I could in my power to help lead this team.”
Stafford’s resilient performance, complemented by a strong defensive effort, not only dented Seattle’s playoff aspirations but also kept the Rams’ postseason hopes alive. With a 4-6 record, the Rams face challenges, but Stafford’s ability to thrive under pressure adds a layer of optimism. As they prepare for a Week 12 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, the Rams look to Stafford to continue his resilient and impactful contributions. McVay, in a lighthearted tone, even suggested, “Maybe we should punch him in the gut right before game time.”
Leave a Reply