The Los Angeles Rams and Tampa Bay Buccaneers meet Sunday in an NFC matchup carrying significant mutual respect. Quarterback Matthew Stafford and Baker Mayfield have emerged as MVP contenders this season, drawing considerable attention heading into their showdown.
The narrative surrounding their meeting extends beyond typical divisional intrigue, shaped by Mayfield’s candid assessment of his counterpart’s abilities entering the week. Mayfield did not hesitate when discussing Stafford’s career trajectory and excellence. His perspective on the veteran quarterback carried genuine appreciation for his sustained performance at the highest level.
“As long as he was in Detroit, he didn’t get credit for how good he really was. To me, he’s always been a top 3–5 QB in the league and one of the best, if not the best, pure passer ever in the history of the NFL,” Mayfield said of Stafford.
#Bucs QB Baker Mayfield was asked about Matthew Stafford:
“As long as he was in Detroit, he didn’t get credit for how good he really was. … To me, he’s always been a top 3–5 QB in the league and one of the best, if not the best, pure passer ever in the history of the NFL.”
(?… pic.twitter.com/jmOkBz5Alw
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 20, 2025
Mayfield has compiled impressive statistics since arriving in Tampa Bay, accumulating 10,909 passing yards, 86 touchdowns, and 29 interceptions across nearly three seasons. His production has been substantial, yet he openly recognizes the caliber of play Stafford consistently delivers week after week.
Stafford’s tenure with Los Angeles has redefined his legacy. He captured a Super Bowl championship while establishing himself as one of football’s most reliable contributors. Through 10 games this season, he has thrown 27 touchdown passes against just two interceptions while completing 66 percent of his attempts for 2,557 yards.
Mayfield faces a formidable challenge traveling to Los Angeles, where Stafford’s precision and decision-making limit defensive opportunities. The quarterback rarely hands opposing defenses easy moments or critical mistakes.
Mayfield and Stafford previously occupied the same quarterback room in 2022, giving him direct insight into Stafford’s preparation and consistency. That familiarity reinforces what is already evident across the league: Stafford remains among the league’s elite at his position.
NEXT: Ryan Clark Gets Honest About Buccaneers' Super Bowl Hopes
