One of the most interesting off-the-field-storylines circulating ahead of the wild-card game between the Lions and the Rams has everything to do with former Detroit quarterback Matthew Stafford.
Before Stafford joined Los Angeles by way of a trade in which the Lions received quarterback Jared Goff and three draft picks, he suited up for Detroit from 2009 through 2020.
He left as one of the best quarterbacks in team history. So far in his career, the signal-caller has completed 63.2% of his passes for 7,649 yards with 357 touchdowns and 180 interceptions. But he shouldn't expect a warm reception from Lions fans.
Here's a look into the situation surrounding his playoff homecoming at 8 p.m. ET Sunday.
Matthew Stafford jersey ban, Kelly Stafford responds
Despite some of the confusion and controversy that has come up regarding the "jersey ban" on fans wearing Stafford's Lions jersey to Sunday's game, it is not the team itself driving the effort.
In fact, the organization has nothing to do with the supposed ban.
The idea took shape with an Instagram post, which included a caption encouraging Detroit fans to leave their Stafford jerseys at home.
“Please don’t wear a Lions-Stafford jersey to the game," the post read. "This is not a time to be cute or funny. This is about business and putting the final nail in the SOL coffin. ... It ain’t personal. Just business!”
Kelly Stafford's response to the "jersey ban" pic.twitter.com/iDjXo8NVTQ
— Zac (Indianapolis Rams) (@ZacMaier) January 9, 2024
Stafford's wife, Kelly Stafford, responded to the post in the comments section, condemning it and showing disappointment in the Lions fans that supported the sentiment.
"Well this is sad because it’s the complete opposite of how we feel about this city, but Matthew has always been the bigger person and will continue to be that," she wrote. "Praying for an incredible game with zero injuries.”
It will be interesting to see if Detroit fans go along with the "ban" as the Lions and Rams are set for an 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff at Ford Field on Sunday.
