With their playoff future on the line, the Los Angeles Rams managed to secure a must-win over the Arizona Cardinals in the 2020 season finale with John Wolford under center.
Rams starting quarterback Jared Goff was forced to undergo surgery after fracturing his thumb in Week 16. This paved the way for former AAF star in Wolford to get his first taste of NFL action.
Wolford’s debut came at a crucial time with playoff implications on the line. Fortunately, he was able to do his part in helping the Rams keep their season alive with the 18-7 win.
Although the circumstances of his start came with an ample sense of pressure, and he even threw a bad interception on his first pass, Wolford was eventually able to settle in and find his footing, via Greg Beachum of the Associated Press:
Rams QB John Wolford: "I had a lot of fun, to be honest. A little anxious going in, and once I got rolling, I was just playing football again. It was fun that we got the win. … I felt good out there. I felt comfortable. I didn't feel overwhelmed." pic.twitter.com/aMrDRc89KB
— Greg Beacham (@gregbeacham) January 4, 2021
Wolford added that he is not focused on whether or not Goff will return next week for the playoffs:
John Wolford is asked whether he'll be disappointed if Jared Goff returns next week: "No. I’m here to do a job, and I have no idea where he’s at. I’m just trying to enjoy this win, and then I’ll put my head down and work on Seattle."
— Greg Beacham (@gregbeacham) January 4, 2021
Wolford’s afternoon got off to a rough start after his first pass off the game was intercepted in his own territory. It took the Cardinals just two plays to capitalize on the error with a touchdown to take an early 7-0 lead.
Fortunately, the defense ensured that this would be the only points Arizona scored all day and even scored some points of their own with a safety and pick-six. This would pay huge dividends for the offense as Wolford was eventually able to find a rhythm after gashing the defense with his mobility in and outside of the pocket.
Wolford finished the day completing 21-of-38 passes for 231 yards and finished as the team’s leading rusher with 56 yards on 9.3 yards per carry. More importantly, he was able to avoid any more crucial mistakes that could have resulted in L.A. being eliminated from the playoffs.
Head coach Sean McVay has not confirmed whether or not Goff will be back for their Wild Card matchup versus the Seattle Seahawks next week. It is safe to say that Wolford is going to continue approaching each day as if he is the starter moving forward.
