Image Source: Tyler Greenawalt, Rams Wire
Key Takeaways
- Matthew Stafford is the most experienced quarterback left in the field and has proven himself to be the best fourth-quarter quarterback among his conference peers.
- Stafford led in three of four categories, including quarterback expected points added (EPA) per passing attempt, yards per attempt, and success rate.
- He has 39 fourth-quarter comebacks and 50 game-winning drives, both of which rank first among all active quarterbacks in the NFL.
- Stafford’s experience and ability to execute in high-pressure situations make him a reliable choice for the Los Angeles Rams.
Introduction to Matthew Stafford’s Performance
Matthew Stafford, the quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, has once again proven his worth in the wild-card round. As reported, he "orchestrated a sensational 71-yard game-winning drive in the final moments of the win over the Carolina Panthers that ended with a go-ahead touchdown pass to Colby Parkinson." This impressive display of skill and composure under pressure has solidified his position as a crucial player for the Rams. With his experience and ability to perform in high-stakes situations, Stafford has demonstrated that he is an invaluable asset to the team.
Analyzing Stafford’s Statistics
According to analytics expert @JoshiosTweets on X, using NFLfastR, Stafford’s statistics are a testament to his exceptional performance. As the expert notes, Stafford led in three of the four categories, including quarterback expected points added (EPA) per passing attempt, yards per attempt, and success rate. Specifically, his "0.34 EPA per attempt, 8.0 yards per attempt and 55.1% success rate were all higher than the other three NFC quarterbacks — Caleb Williams, Sam Darnold and Brock Purdy." These numbers demonstrate Stafford’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality performances, even in the face of intense pressure.
The Value of Experience
Stafford’s experience is a significant factor in his success. As the article highlights, "he has been in a litany of scenarios and simply knows how to execute in the moments that matter the most." With 39 fourth-quarter comebacks and 50 game-winning drives, both of which rank first among all active quarterbacks in the NFL, Stafford has a proven track record of delivering under pressure. As the article notes, "when the lights are brightest and their backs are against the wall, the Rams can count on Stafford to deliver." This level of experience and composure is invaluable, and it is a key reason why the Rams can rely on Stafford to perform in high-stakes situations.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
In conclusion, Matthew Stafford has proven himself to be a vital component of the Los Angeles Rams. His exceptional performance in the wild-card round, combined with his impressive statistics and extensive experience, make him a reliable choice for the team. As the article notes, Stafford is "the most experienced quarterback left in the field, but he’s also the best fourth-quarter quarterback among his conference peers." With his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, the Rams can count on Stafford to lead them to success in the future. As the team moves forward, it is clear that Stafford will play a crucial role in their prospects, and his experience and skill will be essential in driving them towards victory.
https://theramswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/rams/2026/01/17/matthew-stafford-leads-remaining-nfc-qbs-in-4th-quarter-metrics/88222687007/
