NFL Playoffs 2024: Lions’ Jared Goff Joins Rams’ Matthew Stafford With a “Chip” on His Shoulder as Former QBs Prepare for Wildcard Bout

When Jared Goff and Matthew Stafford face each other at Ford Field, scenes are bound to get emotional. The Lions and the Rams are going against each other after three years. QB Jared Goff started his career with the Los Angeles Rams and stayed with the team for five years before getting traded with the veteran Matthew Stafford in 2021.

On the other hand, Matthew Stafford has spent his first 12 years with the Lions. The Lions are hosting a home playoff game after 1993. The Lions lost that wildcard game against the Packers. It was in 1991 when the Lions won a playoff game. Jared Goff is performing better than ever with 12 wins and would like to change the Lions’ history by securing a win against his former teammates.

Jared Goff’s heartfelt admission before the wildcard game

Dov Kleiman shared Jared Goff’s emotional message on X, “Lions QB Jared Goff says the ‘chip’ on his shoulder from being traded by the Rams will never leave.” He repeated Goff’s recent statement, “I think it will never leave me, and I think that’s a good thing.”

Kleiman spoke about the exciting matchup, “Goff and Stafford will match up this Sunday in the NFL Wild Card Round in what will be an emotional reunion.” QB Jared Goff was acquired by the Lions in 2021, a 2021 third-round pick, a 2022 first-round choice, and a 2023 first-round selection to the Lions in exchange for Stafford. Both QBs have exceptional skills required to win the wildcard round. Let’s make a quick comparison.

Jared Goff vs. Matthew Stafford: Who holds ace?

Stafford has almost double the experience. While Goff joined the Rams in 2016, Stafford started his career with Detroit in 2009. Goff (93.6) has a better career rating than Stafford (91) and a better TD-to-interception ratio. After trading with the Rams, Stafford took the team to Super Bowl glory in his first year. The last time the teams faced each other, the Rams won 28-19. Stafford secured 3 TDs, and Goff was intercepted two times.

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Goff has his chance now after taking the Lions to the playoffs after more than 30 years. Another thing favoring the Lions is the benefit of home conditions and the home crowd’s support. Goff will feel the emotions facing his former side, which is the case with Stafford. The one who keeps the emotions in check and performs better on the given day will win the wildcard round and move forward.

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