Fred Warner recently complimented Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford out of the blue

The Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers rivalry has been everything that the NFL has wanted since Sean McVay took over as head coach in LA. It's one of the passionate clashes that fills stadiums, sells merchandise, and creates a buzz around the world. But it only works if the players recognize the elite talent of their opponent.

Veteran 49ers linebacker Fred Warner certainly does:

When it comes to respecting opponents, Fred Warner is both generous and deserving. He has been one of the NFL's top producers, not only as a linebacker, but on defense overall. Like all masters of their craft, Warner's success is no accident. He studies footage and traits of his opponents so that he can anticipate what they'll do in the heat of battle

And he has learned not to trust quarterback Matthew Stafford's eyes.

No look passes are the dreams of every quarterback who has ever played the game. But only one quarterback can do it all day, every day. Rather than being butthurt over being bested by Stafford's subterfuge, Warner applauds him for dominating his craft.

And so will Australians.

Matthew Stafford is absolutely one of a kind in the NFL

There are elite quarterbacks in the NFL. Some quarterbacks possess a rocket launcher for a throwing arm. Others possess pinpoint accuracy, laying the football in a receiver's outstretched arms despite the presence of multiple defensive backs in the vicinity. But all face the same tell. They look at where they are throwing.

Except for Matthew Stafford.

His no-look passing is disorienting to defenders. Imagine waking up to a lawn where the grass has become a bright orange color. Or travel to England and attempt to drive on the left side of the street for the first time. You'll understand what I mean.

Stafford forces defenders to ignore looking at him, which affords him the advantage. And no matter who the Niners add to their roster, they all face the same challenge. Not one can get a clue where the football may be going by watching the quarterback.

Fred Waner is an elite football player who recognizes elite talent. And he paid a flattering compliment to Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay. Ironically, he was spot on.

As always, thanks for reading.