Los Angeles Rams QB Matthew Stafford hasn’t thrown an interception in five games, and his efficient play could be a big factor in LA’s 7-2 mark since the bye week. Stafford has always been known as a gunslinger who isn’t afraid to shoot deep or place a shot into a tight window, but that type of play can occasionally lead to turnovers. However, Stafford has been the epitome of consistency of late, boasting ten touchdown passes and zero interceptions since the team’s Week 10 loss to the Miami Dolphins.

Many will walk away from the Rams’ 12-6 victory over the 49ers on Thursday night upset with the offense and its lack of ability to score points, but the fact remains that in a close game where defense mattered, a Quarterback turned the ball over one key moment and one not. With 5:20 left in the 4th quarter, 49ers QB Brock Purdy threw the only interception of the game while also wasting his team’s opportunity to score the game-winning field goal. It was an important turning point in the dynamics of the game.

The turnover would lead the Rams to survive the final five minutes of the game and tie the game for the game-winning field goal with just 18 seconds left. Yes, Stafford didn’t play his best game statistically, but he shot when he needed to without putting the ball in danger most of the night.

At the postgame press conference, Stafford was asked how important his efficient play was, even in a game in which he threw no touchdown passes.

“I mean, it was the difference in the game, right? Dwill has a pick for us and we go down and get some points and that’s huge.” Stafford said, “I’ve got to do my best by staying aggressive but also taking care of the football.” I have on everyone Case some things I can look at and work on in this football game, but you know, I’m always going to be aggressive and try to make plays for our team.”

As Stafford eluded to, a single LA interception in such a close game could have been the difference between leaving Levi Stadium with a loss rather than a win. With this division win, Los Angeles defeated San Francisco for the first time since 2018, extending its three-game winning streak over the team in the North.

The Rams’ signal-caller has quietly put together a really nice 2024 after a difficult start to the season. Currently, Stafford has 3,303 passing yards with 19 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. He also completes 66.7% of his passes.

In fact, Stafford as a whole has made Los Angeles late in the season every year since joining the Rams in 2021. Including the playoffs, Stafford has gone 16-3 with 40 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in December or later during that span. He was at his best when the pressure was at its highest in the playoffs and postseason. With three games left and LA in control of its postseason fate, the team will have to hope Stafford can continue his December magic.