Bleacher Report handed out grades for every Week 3 starting quarterback across the league.
Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford received a C for his performance in a loss to the Broncos that dropped Los Angeles to 1-2.
“Will the real Matthew Stafford hold up? Last season, Stafford played the quarterback position at a higher level than anyone else. This year, the 38-year-old veteran has been more inconsistent,” wrote Brent Sobleski.
A Dynamic Start for Matthew Stafford
Stafford had its good and bad moments in a 30-26 Sunday Night Football loss at Denver. Without top weapon Puka Nacua, he once again leaned on Davante Adams, who had seven catches for 137 yards, his second straight 100-yard game with the Rams. He also relied on his tight ends and depth receivers like Konata Mumpfield.
Stafford completed 30 of 55 for 390 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He was just 9 of 22 under pressure, according to SumerSports.
Stafford also made expensive throws. The biggest was the fourth-quarter pick-six that gave the Broncos the lead. It was his 33rd pick-six, breaking a tie with Hall of Famer Brett Favre for the most in NFL history.
Stafford answered with a touchdown drive to regain the lead. After the Broncos regained the lead with 47 seconds left, his final drive ended with another interception.
From Worst to MVP to Mixed Bag
“Obviously, I’ve got to get better, and I’m going to get better,” Stafford said.
Stafford had his worst game as a Ram in a Week 1 loss to the 49ers. He looked like MVP last season in the Week 2 home opener against the Giants. Week 3 is a mix of both, making C a fair grade.
Stafford is the only quarterback to receive a straight C. His next chance to improve is in Philadelphia. The Eagles are also coming off a road loss to the Bears, and quarterback Jalen Hurts received a D grade.