Matthew Stafford doesn't need another MVP to lead the Rams to the top

Before Matthew Stafford won a Super Bowl in Year 1 with the Los Angeles Rams, many NFL fans pointed to his 0-3 playoff record as reason enough to exclude him from any discussion of elite quarterbacks. As well as the girl-dad QB played for the Detroit Lions, he tried and failed to get them over the top. He seldom had much support from his rushing attack. He seldom had a dependable defense.

In many ways, it was all on him and a handful of trusted receivers.

For 12 seasons, Stafford was all-in on the Lions. But after a 5-11 record in 2020, something snapped. He wanted a chance to compete in the playoffs. Since arriving in Los Angeles in 2021, he has missed the postseason just once in five years, during a disastrous 2022 derailed in part by Stafford's midseason back injury.

Stafford has a 7-3 playoff record with the Rams. He's enjoyed a stronger rushing offense. Most seasons, he's enjoyed a stronger defense. And he's certainly enjoyed the luxury of throwing to a steady stream of elite receivers.

In 2026, Stafford may have the best supporting cast of his career. But for argument's sake, let's break it all down for fans.

Matthew Stafford needn't do it all for the Rams this season

Stafford led the Lions to an 11-5 record in 2014. That team averaged 88.8 rushing yards per game. The defense dominated by allowing just 300.9 yards and 17.6 points per game. But that was Detroit's peak under Stafford. The Lions lost to the Dallas Cowboys in the playoffs that year, 24-20.

When Stafford arrived in LA, he still didn't have much of a running game; the Rams averaged 99 rushing yards per contest. The defense was not as stout as the 2014 Lions', but Raheem Morris's bend-don't-break crew was effective enough. LA's 21.9 points allowed per game ranked 15th in the league.

Not great, but not absurdly bad either.

Last year's offense fired on all cylinders, scoring a jaw-dropping 30.6 points per game. But it was not all about Stafford's arm. LA averaged 126.5 yards and put up 17 rushing scores. Better still, Rams running backs only lost two fumbles.

On the other hand, special teams were anything but special and the defense struggled to close out games late last season. The cornerback room devolved into disaster.

Fans have every reason to expect better. Early indications are that the offense should be even more potent. Catch rates improved across the board in training camp. Running backs Kyren Williams and Blake Corum are both eyeing 1000-yard seasons.

And head coach Sean McVay will again lean on multiple tight ends, with five on the roster.

The Rams also invested in the defense this offseason to compete with the stout NFC West. Add Myles Garrett, Aaron Donald, Trent McDuffie, and Jaylen Watson into a group that was already on the rise.

In theory, Stafford will be tasked with attaining a lead and then supporting a strong rushing attack as the defense tees up to pursue the pass. That's exactly the strategy that general manager Les Snead is counting on.

LA doesn't need MVP Matthew Stafford in 2026. And that's why he will be doubly dangerous. He has far too many weapons to shut him down this year. And now, he has the support of a defense that will prevent opponents from forcing him into a shootout.

As always, thanks for reading.

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