Vikings continue to struggle with Rams version of Matthew Stafford

GLENDALE, ARIZ. – Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford hasn’t had a problem with the Vikings since they were traded out of the NFC North.

Stafford, 36, looked nothing like an old, aging passer as he ripped two throws for 50 yards to start the game. His 124 yards in the first quarter are the third-most against the Vikings in franchise playoff history as the Rams built a 10-0 lead.

The Vikings couldn’t sack Stafford until the third quarter. Including the Vikings’ 30–20 loss to the Rams on October 24, Stafford completed 72% of his throws against them for 488 yards, six touchdowns and one interception. He took two sacks.

Vikings fans will likely argue that Stafford was sacked in the first half by the edge rusher Jonathan Greenardas Los Angeles led 10-3. Blake Cashman picked up a suspected fumble and returned it for a touchdown. But judge John Hussey ruled that Stafford had thrown an incomplete pass while being thrown to the grass. The many Vikings fans at State Farm Stadium rained down on Hussey’s crew after the call.

Stafford threw two touchdown passes, both in the first half. His first score capped the opening drive when he rolled out to his left and found himself running back Kyren Williamswho faked receiving a pass, blocked and then leaked into a wide open middle of the end zone for a 5-yard grab.

Rams receiver Puka Nacua was largely held in check after catching the game’s first pass for a 27-yard gain over the middle of the field. He finished with five catches for 44 yards. But the Vikings offense couldn’t score a touchdown until its seventh drive, in the third quarter.

The Vikings defense continued to play without an edge rusher Pat Jones IIwho hasn’t practiced since making a low block in the Dec. 29 win over the Packers. Jones, who had a career-high seven sacks this season, is a free agent in March.