Matthew Stafford’s numbers in the cold: The Rams QB’s statistics in bad weather don’t tell the whole story
Once again, the cold weather is a talking point ahead of the upcoming game.
Chicago’s Soldier Field is set to host an NFC Divisional Round clash between the Los Angeles Rams and the Chicago Bears, and headlines this week have been dominated by one, slightly strange, question: can the Rams’ offence, and more specifically quarterback Matthew Stafford, handle the winter conditions?
Forecasts are pointing to temperatures that would make a polar bear grab their coat, strong winds and a real chance of snow.
For Rams fans, Stafford’s track record in chilly weather has become a talking point, and believe it or not they’re not just making things up to cause a stir. Boffins have worked out that Stafford’s Rams tenure includes a 1-9 record in games impacted by rain or snow, with completion percentage reportedly dipping below his usual standard when the cold comes in.
However, temperature alone does not tell the whole picture of Stafford’s performance: analyses show that across many games under 40 degrees, Stafford is 7-11 and has completed over 260 yards per game with 30 touchdowns against nine interceptions.
In freezing conditions, Stafford is 3-3 with 1,519 yards with 15 touchdowns and three interceptions. And the conditions expected on Sunday represent a particularly harsh test.
Local meteorologists are emphasising that Mother Nature will be a major subplot on Sunday in Chicago. Forecasts call for temperatures in the high teens at kickoff, with readings likely dropping into the mid-teens and possibly even lower as the game progresses, and wind chills making it feel much colder.
There is also a chance of light snow showers during the afternoon and evening, which could impact Soldier Field while the teams are on the field. Gusty winds are expected to add to the bitter conditions; officials have urged fans to dress warmly and prepare for a classic winter football atmosphere.
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The game between the Rams and the Bears is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 p.m. ET (3:30 p.m. PT) and will be played at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. It will air nationally on NBC, with streaming options available via fubo.
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