Stafford's Playoff Heroics Send Rams to Divisional Round

Matthew Stafford looked at receiver Davante Adams before the final drive and said, "Let's go snatch these guys' hearts." Two minutes later, his game-winning touchdown pass sent the Rams to the divisional round.

The 17-year veteran completed 12 of 15 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter alone. His passer rating of 146.0 in those final minutes helped overcome a 2:34 deficit against the Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on Saturday.

What made the performance even more remarkable? Stafford played through a finger injury on his throwing hand that happened in the second half. When asked about the pain, he brushed it off: "Once the ball's snapped, the adrenaline's pretty good."

Former teammate Golden Tate shared a perfect story on social media after the game. He recalled Stafford once hurting a finger and responding, "Bro I'm straight... I got nine other fingers." That mindset defines the quarterback his teammates have come to trust completely.

Defensive end Kobie Turner watched the clock tick down and thought about the opposing sideline. "I looked up, it said 2:34 with three timeouts left. My first thought is, 'Do you know who's on the other side? Do you guys not know who 9 is?'"

Stafford credits his calm approach to experience and faith in his teammates. "I trust all those guys go out there and make plays. I've been in that spot a lot in my life. I love that spot."

Why This Inspires

At 39 years old and in his 17th season, Stafford shows that experience and composure can triumph over youth and home-field advantage. His ability to stay collected under pressure while injured demonstrates leadership that goes beyond athletic talent.

Head coach Sean McVay summed it up simply: "He was steady. It was MVP type of stuff." Receiver Puka Nacua had even fewer words needed: "Never a doubt. Number nine is with us."

The game-winning drive marked Stafford's fourth postseason comeback and 54th overall across his career. For a quarterback who has faced countless pressure moments, this one showed his teammates and fans alike why they believe every time he touches the ball with the game on the line.