Matthew Stafford vs. Aaron Rodgers: Big gap between signal-callers?
Stafford résumé 2011-2014
Since Stafford’s breakout year of 2011, where he eclipsed 5,000 passing yards, his reputation has taken a hit. Stafford had 41 touchdowns and 16 picks that year.
The couple of years that followed have forged a narrative that has stuck in the heads of some Lions fans and everyone who doesn’t watch Stafford every game. His interceptions grew, touchdowns and completion percentage went down.
More from SideLion Report
- Top 5 revenge games on the Detroit Lions 2023 schedule
- Lions center Frank Ragnow optimistic about continuing to play through toe injury
- Detroit Lions 2023 preseason schedule: Dates, times and opponents
- A new contract extension projection for Lions quarterback Jared Goff
- 4 wide receivers the Detroit Lions could still look to acquire this offseason
Those three years after 2011, Stafford did not average 60% completions, had 48 interceptions, but had a respectable 71 touchdowns.
The Lions also didn’t win either playoff game he played in. Although hardly Stafford’s fault, the losing is always attributed to quarterbacks, even when good enough to win. Two losing seasons were partly attributable to the play from the quarterback position.
In the 2014 loss to the Cowboys, for example, he didn’t have a great second half. The revoked pass interference call, and allowing Dez Bryant onto the field to lobby refs without penalty, hid what was an otherwise forgettable three turnover second half.
Fans who do not believe in Stafford often criticize other fans for not placing any blame on him, or for making excuses for him.
I actually did criticize him for inconsistency, too many turnovers, locking in on Megatron (wide receiver, Calvin Johnson), accuracy, and just not looking like he was the leader in the huddle.