Matthew Stafford knew exactly what he was doing when he dumped the ball at Puka Nacua’s feet during a controversial play in the second quarter of Monday night’s game. Though it was originally ruled a fumble and returned for a touchdown by the Vikings,

The Los Angeles Rams got off to a hot start against the Minnesota Vikings in Monday night's wild-card playoff game. Their quarterback, Matthew Stafford, may have also gotten away with a fumble, or at least intentional grounding, when he pulled off a dangerous pass attempt to avoid a first-half sack.

Matthew Stafford saved himself eight yards by shoveling a forward pass toward Puka Nacua while in the grip of Minnesota Vikings pass rusher Jonathan Greenard. It was a savvy veteran play -- one that nearly cost the Los Angeles Rams seven points.

On first down, Stafford was being brought to the ground but before he hit the turf, he flicked the ball out of his right hand. It was initially ruled a fumble, which was scooped up and brought back for a touchdown by the Vikings.

The significance of Monday's 27-9 win over the Minnesota Vikings beyond its playoff consequences wasn't lost on members of the Los Angeles Rams. The NFC

During the first half of Monday's game against the Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford left football fans baffled by attempting a shovel pass while in the process of being sacked.

Matthew Stafford connects with an open Davis Allen for a 13-yard touchdown to give the Rams a 24-3 lead in the first half on Watch ESPN, first streamed on Monday, January 13, 2025.