What happens when you pair Stafford with a great defense?

The Los Angeles Rams are currently showcasing one of the top defenses in the NFL, ranking first in Defensive EPA (Estimated Points Added) through seven weeks, second in points allowed, and second in points per drive allowed. This marks the first time the Rams have achieved such a high defensive ranking since 2020, prior to acquiring quarterback Matthew Stafford. The team's strong defensive performance is highlighted by their 5-2 record heading into the bye week, with notable stats including top-10 rankings in yards per pass allowed (4th in NY/A at 7.1) and yards per carry allowed (7th in YPC at 4.1), as well as tying for the fewest rushing touchdowns allowed (2) and ranking eighth in takeaways.

Key players are driving this defensive success, with pass rusher Byron Young leading the league in sacks (9) and emerging as a dominant force alongside teammate Jared Verse, who has 4 sacks in 7 games and is on track for double digits; together, they form a formidable edge rusher duo with 17 QB hits each. In the secondary, Quentin Lake has stood out as a top nickel corner with 9 passes defensed and a forced fumble, while Nathan Landman has adapted well to the middle of the defense, contributing 67 tackles and numerous impactful plays.

This defensive unit is being compared to Stafford's previous teams, particularly the 2014 Detroit Lions, which ranked 3rd in points allowed and 2nd in yards allowed—the best defense of Stafford's 12-year tenure in Detroit, resulting in an 11-5 record but a wild card playoff loss. In contrast, during Stafford's time with the Rams, the defense never ranked higher than 15th until now, with past seasons including a 12-5 Super Bowl-winning year with a decent defense, followed by records of 5-12, 10-7, and 10-7. The current Rams defense is considered potentially the best of Stafford's 17-year career, raising speculation about their ability to contend for another Super Bowl, especially given Stafford's prior success with a lesser defensive unit.