Detroit Lions: Is Matthew Stafford the $25 Million Dollar Man?

The Caldwell Era

Since, Stafford;s attempts per game have dropped by approximately five attempts per game. Over the course of a season this equates to roughly 60-100 less throws per season, depending on the season.

In my mind these trends represent the bedrock of any good Stafford comparison or defense of his game.

Stafford has thrown 78 touchdowns and 35 interceptions in the last three years, combined. His attempts have been reduced; the offense under Jim Bob Cooter, the current Detroit Lions offensive coordinator, have focused on what Stafford does well.

Consequently, his completion percentage and overall numbers have improved. The team has 27 wins in the last three years; in part due to more consistency from their trigger man. Two trips to the playoffs in the last three years, notably, show that he is contributing to overall team success.

Historic Perspective

His string of consecutive 4,000 yards passing seasons sits at six. He is tied for the second longest streak in NFL history with Matt Ryan of the Atlanta Falcons.

Drew Brees (New Orleans Saints) has outpaced everyone at eleven consecutive 4,000 yard seasons. Peyton Manning (Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos-retired) has a record a total of fourteen, non-consecutive such seasons.

Stafford is also one of only four men to ever throw for 5,000 yards in a single season. Dan Marino,(Miami Dolphins-Retired), Tom Brady, Drew Brees, who has done it three of the six times, are the others.

Those numbers don’t support the idea that Stafford is average or less. Only a very few men have accomplished what he has.