Matthew Stafford already has a bumpy road to retaining his MVP crown after a season-opening clunker against the San Francisco 49ers. The Los Angeles Rams began the 2026 campaign as runaway Super Bowl favorites, but they must quickly regroup after Thursday's stunning 27-7 loss in Australia. Stafford struggled throughout the international game, completing 15 of 25 passes for 155 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception.
Dan Orlovsky recently made waves by claiming that Stafford could solidify himself as a top-five quarterback in NFL history by winning another championship. Thursday's outing wasn't what he had in mind. The ESPN analyst crushed Stafford and the Rams on Friday's "Get Up." "Rams, total dud," Orlovsky said.
"We're not paid to talk about jet lag and travel plans. I have no idea, but I do know this. Matthew Stafford, coming off the MVP season, one of the worst games that I've seen him play in years.
A statue in the pocket, terrible decision-making, forcing the football, refusing to move, could not find any rhythm." Orlovsky felt the Rams offense should have been "completely in sync" with most of their key starters returning. The former backup quarterback was only impressed by the interior of their offensive line, which helped them avoid any sacks. Meanwhile, Orlovsky also sees issues on the other side of the field.
He's "very concerned" by a defense that allowed 5.9 yards per play to San Francisco. Brock Purdy tossed three touchdowns, a troubling sign after the Rams relinquished 79 combined points in three games last postseason. "The last four games that we have watched this defense on the field, with all kinds of talent, they have stunk," Orlovsky claimed.
"Bryce Young lit them up. Caleb Williams lit them up. Brock Purdy lit them up." The Rams will look to rebound in a Monday Night Football matchup against the Giants on Sept. 21.
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