NFL
Why isn’t Matthew Stafford playing against the Seahawks in week 18?
The Rams are looking further down the field ahead of their season closer against Seattle and will sit several key players.
As the Los Angeles Rams prepare to host the Seattle Seahawks at SoFi Stadium today, it comes as no surprise that quarterback Matthew Stafford won’t be taking the field. In a decision taken earlier in the week, head coach Sean McVay has decided to rest several key starters, including Stafford, in anticipation of the upcoming playoffs.
The Rams have already clinched the NFC West division title, boasting a 10-6 record. With their playoff berth secured, McVay is opting to prioritize player health over potential seeding advantages. “Fortunately for us, we’ve been relatively healthy,” McVay noted. “Guys are banged up, but they’d be able to go if it was a normal game, so we’re going to err on the side of caution with those guys.”
In Stafford’s place, veteran quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo will make his first regular-season start for the Rams. Garoppolo, who joined the team as a free agent in March 2024 after his release from the Raiders, has yet to see regular-season action this year. This game offers him a valuable opportunity to showcase his skills and maintain his readiness as a reliable backup heading into the postseason.
Alongside Stafford, other offensive stalwarts like wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, running back Kyren Williams, and offensive linemen Alaric Jackson and Kevin Dotson will also be rested. This strategy underscores McVay’s commitment to preserving the health of his core players for the challenges that lie ahead.
While today’s game against the Seahawks holds less significance for the Rams, it’s a pivotal matchup for Seattle, who are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Rams' decision to rest starters could influence the dynamics of the game, potentially impacting the broader playoff landscape.
As the Rams look beyond this regular-season finale, their focus shifts to potential playoff opponents, which could include teams like the Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, Washington Commanders, or Green Bay Packers. Resting key players now aims to ensure they’re at peak performance when it matters most.
In the meantime, fans can look forward to seeing how Garoppolo and other second-string players perform against a determined Seahawks squad. It’s a chance for these players to step up, make their mark, and contribute to the team’s momentum heading into the postseason.
Kickoff is scheduled for 1:25 p.m. PT, and the game will be broadcast live on Fox. For those unable to watch on television, streaming options are available through FuboTV and YouTube TV via NFL Sunday Ticket.
As the sun sets over SoFi Stadium, the Rams' strategy reflects a calculated balance between caution and competitiveness, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting playoff journey.
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