Rams playing waiting game with Matthew Stafford
At 3-5, the Los Angeles Rams have overachieved, based off preseason prognostications from pundits, so far. And they need their starting quarterback, Matthew Stafford, to keep the ball rolling against the reeling Green Bay Packers (2-5). The only problem is it's still unknown as to whether or not Stafford will play when the two teams meet […]
At 3-5, the Los Angeles Rams have overachieved, based off preseason prognostications from pundits, so far.
And they need their starting quarterback, Matthew Stafford, to keep the ball rolling against the reeling Green Bay Packers (2-5).
The only problem is it's still unknown as to whether or not Stafford will play when the two teams meet at 1pm ET on Sunday.
Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, Stafford is "unlikely to play", though he wants to be on the field. The team understands that it will be highly challenging for him to play at an effective level, but Sean McVay and co. are giving the former No. 1 overall pick all the time he needs before they have to make an official decision. Brett Rypien is expected to start if Stafford can't go.
The good news, on the other hand, is rookie sensation, Puka Nacua, is expected to play.
Overall, it's a tough decision to make when it comes to Stafford. As mentioned earlier, this is a great week to get back on track in terms of winning. The Packers are not a good team and the Rams, with Stafford, certainly have a chance to win this game.
And, the Rams' bye week is in Week 10, so, he'll have extra time to heal up for the next game.
But, if Stafford's injury somehow worsens against the Packers, it could have serious implications that could really derail the season. The situation, as a whole, is certainly something to consider.
Rypien is 2-1 as a starter in his career. He's completed 60.7% of his passes for 820-yards, four touchdowns and eight interceptions. He has one game-winning drive and one fourth quarter comeback under his belt. It came back in 2020 when he helped lead the Denver Broncos past the New York Jets in a 37-28 win.