Matthew Stafford, quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, has been selected for the Pro Bowl this season. Despite this accolade, he has long since stopped prioritizing such honors. Reflecting on his career, Stafford recalled a pivotal moment in 2011 when he felt he deserved a spot on the Pro Bowl roster after throwing for more than 5,000 yards and 41 touchdowns with the Detroit Lions. Ultimately, he lost out to notable quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees, and Cam Newton. “Wasn’t even close,” Stafford said with a chuckle. “At that point, I kind of reserved myself to just go play, have fun, and whatever happens, happens. But it is cool to be a part of it.”
Now at 37 years old, Stafford has not only been selected for the Pro Bowl in 2023 but also in 2014, and he is a frontrunner for the NFL’s prestigious Most Valuable Player award. This season, he leads the league with 4,179 yards and 40 touchdowns, while throwing just five interceptions. His performance has been instrumental in guiding the Rams to an impressive 11-4 record, positioning them as the No. 6 seed in the NFC as they prepare to face the Atlanta Falcons on December 25, 2023.
The Rams are currently averaging 30.5 points and 396.7 yards per game, both of which are the highest in the NFL. They rank second in passing yards at 270.5 yards per game and fifth in rushing yards at 126.3 yards per game. In a recent matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, Stafford showcased his skills by throwing for 457 yards and three touchdowns, but ultimately fell short in a 38-37 overtime loss.
Looking ahead, Stafford is preparing to face a Falcons defense that ranks 14th overall but is eighth against the pass, allowing only 195.1 yards per game. Rams head coach Sean McVay expressed surprise at Stafford’s limited Pro Bowl selections, recognizing the multiple layers surrounding such honors. “You talk to the real football people… I think he’s seen as a guy that’s one of the best ever to do it,” McVay stated. “I think it’s probably overdue.”
McVay praised Stafford for his impact on the team since the Rams traded for him in 2021, noting his humility and respect among teammates and opponents alike. “What he cares about are the respect of his teammates, his coaches, and the people he’s playing against,” McVay added.
In terms of player health, receiver Davante Adams (hamstring) and offensive lineman Kevin Dotson (ankle) are reportedly making good progress, although McVay did not provide a definitive update on their availability for the upcoming game against the Falcons. The Rams opened a 21-day window for cornerback Roger McCreary (hip) to return from injured reserve, with plans to possibly open a similar window for safety Quentin Lake (elbow) next week. Lake is expected to be ready for the playoffs, or potentially for the final game against the Arizona Cardinals.
The Rams will hold a practice on Friday at SoFi Stadium and will continue their training on Saturday at their Woodland Hills facility. As the team gears up for the final stretch of the season, Stafford’s performance will be crucial in their pursuit of postseason success.
