The postponed Wild Card game between the Rams and Vikings finally took place on Monday night, with the Rams winning easily 27-9. Despite the victory, QB Mathew Stafford faced criticism for a controversial play he made during the game, drawing attention and stirring up debate.
Not only was Stafford in the spotlight due to the win, but the NFL community was also aware of his children’s recent hospitalization due to the flu. Despite receiving some sympathy from the community, ex-Patriots coach Bill Belichick criticized Stafford following their victory.
In the second quarter, Stafford was being tackled by Vikings defenders. To avoid losing yards, he quickly flicked the ball forward without looking. The officials first called it a fumble, and the Vikings scored a touchdown. However, after reviewing the play, they changed the call to an incomplete pass.
"It's an offensive league. … There's no rules to help the defense in the NFL. You can get away with that and call it an incomplete pass." @OmahaProd
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) January 14, 2025
—Bill Belichick on Matthew Stafford's incomplete pass. pic.twitter.com/q2zeXZNHPK
Many people debated this decision, believing it should have been a fumble or intentional grounding. Former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, watching the game, was upset by the call. He said, “It’s an offensive league. What are you guys doing? There’s no rule to help the defense in the NFL. You can get away with that and call it an incomplete pass.”
Matthew Stafford reflects on their win
In the Monday night game, Stafford completed 19 out of 27 passes for 209 yards and two touchdowns. Following Higbee’s injury, Stafford’s touchdown pass to TE Davis Allen marked a pivotal moment in the game. In the press conference, Stafford seemed pleased with the win, saying he and his team were able to bring some joy to their fans.
“There was definitely every excuse in the book to come out here and be lethargic and woe is me and all that, but we knew we weren’t playing just for us. Playing for people back home that needed something to watch and enjoy and I’m glad we could give that to them.”
