Matthew Stafford returned to Ford Field, where he spent 12 seasons as the Detroit Lions’ quarterback, only to experience another heartbreaking defeat.
Now playing for the Los Angeles Rams, Stafford and his team lost 26-20 in an overtime thriller against the Lions in the season opener on Sunday. This marked Stafford’s sixth consecutive loss at Ford Field, a stadium where his last victory came in 2020 while still with the Lions.
The buildup to the game was filled with anticipation, particularly as Lions fans booed Stafford and chanted the name of their current quarterback, Jared Goff.
Despite the emotional atmosphere, Stafford remained composed, telling reporters he was “fine” with the boos and Goff chants. His performance was solid, completing 69% of his passes for 317 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, despite playing behind a weakened offensive line.
His teammate, Cooper Kupp, acknowledged the emotional challenge of returning to Detroit, praising Stafford for his ability to stay focused and lead the team in a hostile environment. The Rams’ head coach, Sean McVay, also expressed respect for the intensity of the Lions fanbase, which Stafford had warned him about after last season’s playoff loss.
