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NFL MVP race: Rams' Matthew Stafford goes from injured to 'amazing'
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- NFL MVP race: Rams' Matthew Stafford goes from injured to 'amazing'
WOODLAND HILLS, CA. – Los Angeles Rams guard Steve Avila still finds it surreal that he's teammates with Matthew Stafford .
"There are times like I'm like, ' Wow, that's Matthew Stafford .' Like, I was 9 years old when he got drafted," Avila told USA TODAY Sports . "It is awesome. I mean, especially just with the season that he's had, and just being able to be a part of that is just amazing."
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Avila's elementary school recollection of Stafford might make the 37-year-old feel old, but the quarterback's performed this year like an aging fine red wine.
Stafford led the NFL and broke a franchise record with a career-high 46 touchdown passes to just eight interceptions. Those 46 touchdowns are the second-most thrown in a single season by an NFL quarterback age 37 or older. Additionally, he became the third player in NFL history with at least 45 touchdown passes and fewer than 10 interceptions in a season, according to NFL Research. His 4,707 passing yards also topped the league.
Stafford threw four touchdown passes in Week 18 alone and became third player in NFL history with multiple touchdown passes in 15 games in a season. He earned his fourth career player of the week honor for his performance in the team's season finale.
' He is the MVP '
The Rams quarterback's statistics indicate he's defying Father Time, and he might've just capped off the best regular season of his career.
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Stafford is the frontrunner to win MVP , courtesy of BetMGM as of Jan. 4. For all his plaudits, the Super Bowl 56 champion and three-time Pro Bowler has never won the award.
Super Bowl I (Packers 35, Chiefs 10): Green Bay Packers running back Jim Taylor (31) follows the blocks of Jerry Kramer (64), Marv Fleming (81) and Forrest Gregg (75) against the Kansas City Chiefs at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl II (Packers 33, Raiders 14): Green Bay Packers quarterback Bart Starr (15) drops back to pass against the Oakland Raiders at the Orange Bowl.
(Dick Raphael, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl III (Jets 16, Colts 7): New York Jets quarterback Joe Namath (12) looks to throw as Baltimore Colts linebacker Dennis Gaubatz (53) applies pressure during Super Bowl III at the Orange Bowl.
(Darryl Norenberg, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl IV (Chiefs 23, Vikings 7): Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Buck Buchanan (86) tackles Minnesota Vikings running back Dave Osborn (41) during Super Bowl VI at Tulane Stadium.
(Malcolm Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl V (Colts 16, Cowboys 13): Baltimore Colts running back Norm Bulaich (36) eludes Dallas Cowboys linebacker Lee Roy Jordan (55) during Super Bowl V at the Orange Bowl.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl VI (Cowboys 24, Dolphins 3): Dallas Cowboys running back Duane Thomas (33) carries the football against the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI at Tulane Stadium.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl VII (Dolphins 14, Washington 7): Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Manny Fernandez (75) tackles Washington running back Larry Brown (43) in Super Bowl VII at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Dolphins completed a 17-0 undefeated season with the win.
Super Bowl VIII (Dolphins 24, Vikings 7): Miami Dolphins running back Larry Csonka (39) scores on a 5-yard touchdown run against the Minnesota Vikings during Super Bowl VIII at Rice Stadium.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl IX (Steelers 16, Vikings 6): Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Dwight White (78) and linebacker Jack Lambert (58) stop Minnesota Vikings running back Dave Osborn (41) during Super Bowl IX at Tulane Stadium.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl X (Steelers 21, Cowboys 17): Pittsburgh Steelers running back Franco Harris (32) run against the Dallas Cowboys during Super Bowl X at the Orange Bowl.
(Malcolm Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XI (Raiders 32, Vikings 14): Oakland Raiders running back Clarence Davis (28) carries the ball against the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl XI at the Rose Bowl. Davis rushed for 137 yards in Oakland's win.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XII (Cowboys 27, Broncos 10): Dallas Cowboys defensive end Ed "Too Tall" Jones (72) sacks Denver Broncos quarterback Craig Morton (7) during Super Bowl XII at the Superdome.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XIII (Steelers 35, Cowboys 31): Dallas Cowboys tight end Jackie Smith (81) reacts to dropping a potential touchdown pass in the end zone during Super Bowl XIII against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
(Malcolm Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XIV (Steelers 31, Rams 19): Pittsburgh Steelers receiver John Stallworth (82) catches a 73-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at the Rose Bowl.
(Darryl Norenberg, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XV (Raiders 27, Eagles 10): Oakland Raiders quarterback Jim Plunkett (16) looks to throw against the Philadelphia Eagles during Super Bowl XV at the Superdome.
(Manny Rubio, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XVI (49ers 26, Bengals 21): San Francisco 49ers defensive back Ronnie Lott (42) celebrates a goal line stand against the Cincinnati Bengals during Super Bowl XVI at the Silverdome.
Super Bowl XVII (Washington 27, Dolphins 17): Washington running back John Riggins (44) breaks loose from Miami Dolphins defensive back Don McNeal (28) on a 43-yard touchdown run during Super Bowl XVII at the Rose Bowl.
Super Bowl XVIII (Raiders 38, Washington 9): Los Angeles Raiders running back Marcus Allen (32) carries the ball against Washington safety Mark Murphy (29) during Super Bowl XVIII at Tampa Stadium.
Super Bowl XIX (49ers 38, Dolphins 16): San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig carries the ball past Miami Dolphins linebacker Jay Brophy (53) in Super Bowl XIX at Stanford Stadium.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XX (Bears 46, Patriots 10): Chicago Bears linebacker Otis Wilson (55) hits New England Patriots quarterback Tony Eason (11) during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome.
(Malcolm Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XXI (Giants 39, Broncos 20): New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) carries the ball against the Denver Broncos during Super Bowl XXI at the Rose Bowl.
(Bob Deutsch, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XXII (Washington 42, Broncos 10): Washington quarterback Doug Williams (17) looks to throw against the Denver Broncos during Super Bowl XXII at Jack Murphy Stadium.
Super Bowl XXIII (49ers 20, Bengals 16): Over 11 plays, the San Francisco 49ers drove 92 yards to secure a narrow victory. Pictured above is wide receiver and game MVP Jerry Rice.
(Manny Rubio, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XXIV (49ers 55, Broncos 10) : San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig (33) celebrates with teammates against the Denver Broncos at the Superdome. The 55 points scored by the 49ers remains a Super Bowl record.
Super Bowl XXV (Giants 20, Bills 19): New York Giants running back Ottis Anderson (24) carries the ball against the Buffalo in Super Bowl XXV at Tampa Stadium.
(Frank Becerra Jr., The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK)
Super Bowl XXVI (Washington 37, Bills 24): Washington cornerback Alvoid Mays (20) hits Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly (12), causing him to fumble during Super Bowl XXVI at the Metrodome.
Super Bowl XXVII (Cowboys 52, Bills 17): Dallas Cowboys receiver Michael Irvin (88) celebrates in the end zone after scoring a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during Super Bowl XXVII at the Rose Bowl.
(Manny Rubio, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XXVIII (Cowboys 30, Bills 13): Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith (22) carries the ball against the Buffalo Bills during Super Bowl XXVIII at the Georgia Dome.
(James D. Smith, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XXIX (49ers 49, Chargers 26): San Francisco 49ers running back Ricky Watters (32) carries the ball against San Diego Chargers safety Stanley Richard (24) during Super Bowl XXIX at Joe Robbie Stadium.
(RVR Photos, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XXX (Cowboys 27, Steelers 17): Dallas Cowboys cornerback Larry Brown (24) runs with the ball after an interception at Sun Devil Stadium. Brown had two interceptions and was named game MVP as the Cowboys won their third Super Bowl in four seasons.
(The Arizona Republic)
Super Bowl XXXI (Packers 35, Patriots 21): Green Bay Packers return specialist Desmond Howard eludes the grasp of the New England Patriots on his way to a 99-yard kickoff return touchdown during the third quarter of Super Bowl XXXI at the Superdome.
(Rick Wood, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel-USA TODAY NETWORK)
Super Bowl XXXII (Broncos 31, Packers 24): Terrell Davis of the Denver Broncos in action during Super Bowl XXXII at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego. Davis scored three TDs and was named MVP.
(JEFF HAYNES, AFP via Getty Images)
Super Bowl XXXIII (Broncos 34, Falcons 19): Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7) attempts to avoid Atlanta Falcons linebacker Cornelius Bennett at Dolphin Stadium.
(RVR Photos, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XXXIV (Rams 23, Titans 16): Titans wide receiver Kevin Dyson tries to stretch across the goal line on the final play of the game. He is stopped by Rams linebacker Mike Jones.
(Eric Parsons, The Tennessean)
Super Bowl XXXV (Ravens 34, Giants 7): Baltimore Ravens defensive end Rob Bunett (90) celebrates after sacking New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins (5) at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The Ravens registered four sacks and four interceptions in the dominant defensive performance.
(PETER MUHLY, AFP via Getty Images)
Super Bowl XXXVI (Patriots 20, Rams 17): New England Patriots players Rod Rutledge (83), Ken Walter (13) and Adam Vinatieri (4) celebrate Vinatieri's game-winning field goal against the St. Louis Rams to win Super Bowl XXXVI at the Louisiana Superdome.
(Glenn Osmundson, Providence Journal-USA TODAY NETWORK)
Super Bowl XXXVII (Buccaneers 48, Raiders 21): Tampa Bay's Dwight Smith races into the end zone ahead of pursuing Oakland Raiders quarterback Rich Gannon on a 44-yard interception runback for a touchdown.
(JACK GRUBER, USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
Super Bowl XXXVIII (Patriots 32, Panthers 29): Game MVP Tom Brady throws a pass as he is pressured by Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers (90) at Reliant Stadium.
(MPS-US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XXXIX (Patriots 24, Eagles 21): Wide receiver Deion Branch catches a pass in front of the Philadelphia Eagles' Sheldon Brown (24)during the second quarter at Alltel Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida. Branch had 11 catches for 133 yards and was named the game's MVP.
(Jeff Gross, Getty Images)
Super Bowl XL (Steelers 21, Seahawks 10): Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward jumps in the air and scores after catching a 43-yard touchdown pass from fellow wideout Antwaan Randle El.
Super Bowl XLI (Indianapolis Colts 29, Bears 17): Indianapolis Colts safety Bob Sanders (21) intercepts a ball intended for Chicago Bears receiver Bernard Berrian (80) during the second half at Dolphins Stadium.
(Jason Parkhurst, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XLII (Giants 17, Patriots 14): New York Giants wide receiver David Tyree hauls in a catch against his helmet to sustain the game-winning drive.
(John David Mercer, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XLIII (Steelers 27, Cardinals 23): Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes catches the winning touchdown pass in front of Arizona Cardinals safety Aaron Francisco late in the fourth quarter.
(Matt Cashore, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XLIV (Saints 31, Colts 17): New Orleans Saints cornerback Tracy Porter (22) celebrates as he returns an interception for a touchdown as Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning looks on from the ground during the fourth quarter at Sun Life Stadium.
(Mark J. Rebilas, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XLV (Packers 31, Steelers 25): Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall (34) fumbles after being hit by Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews (52) during the second half of Super Bowl XLV at Cowboys Stadium.
(Matthew Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XLVI (Giants 21, Patriots 17): New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) makes a catch along the sideline in front of New England Patriots free safety Sterling Moore (29) and free safety Patrick Chung (25) during the fourth quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Kirby Lee, US PRESSWIRE)
Super Bowl XLVII (Ravens 34, 49ers 31): Baltimore Ravens return specialist Jacoby Jones (12) returns a kickoff for a Super Bowl record 108 yards against the San Francisco 49ers during the third quarter at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
(Kirby Lee, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XLVIII (Seahawks 43, Broncos 8): Seattle Seahawks linebacker Malcolm Smith (53) returns an interception for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium.
(Brad Penner, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl XLIX (Patriots 28, Seahawks 24): Patriots CB Malcolm Butler (21) intercepts a pass intended for Seahawks WR Ricardo Lockette at the goal line to secure New England's fourth title in the waning seconds of the fourth quarter.
(Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl 50 (Broncos 24, Panthers 10): Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) forces a fumble as he hits Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) during the fourth quarter at Levi's Stadium.
(Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl 51 (Patriots 34, Falcons 28 - OT): New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman hauls in a catch off a deflected pass that would help New England mount the largest comeback in Super Bowl history. The game also featured the first ever overtime in a Super Bowl.
Super Bowl 52 (Eagles 41, Patriots 33): Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles (9) catches a touchdown pass against the New England Patriots during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium.
(Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports)
Super Bowl 53 (Patriots 13, Rams 3): Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore makes a pivotal interception in the fourth quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With the win, the Patriots tied the Steelers for most Super Bowl victories (six).
Super Bowl 55 (Buccaneers 31, Chiefs 9): Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski spikes the football after catching a touchdown pass during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium.
Super Bowl 56 (Rams 23, Bengals 20): Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp catches the game-winning touchdown pass as Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Eli Apple defends at SoFi Stadium.
Super Bowl 57 (Chiefs 38, Eagles 35): The Chiefs' Kadarius Toney (19) is tackled by the Philadelphia Eagles' Nakobe Dean (17) and Arryn Siposs (8) after a Super Bowl-record 65-yard punt return at State Farm Stadium.
Super Bowl 58 (Chiefs 25, 49ers 22, OT): Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. (12) celebrates with quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) after the game-winning touchdown in overtime against the San Francisco 49ers.
Super Bowl 59 (Eagles 40, Chiefs 22): Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith (6) makes a touchdown catch against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half of Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on Feb. 9, 2025.
(Geoff Burke, Imagn Images)
Super Bowl 60 (Seahawks 29, Patriots 13): Seahawks defensive tackle Rylie Mills sacks Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. The Seahawks defense sacked Maye six times in a 29-13 victory.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl I (Packers 35, Chiefs 10): Green Bay Packers running back Jim Taylor (31) follows the blocks of Jerry Kramer (64), Marv Fleming (81) and Forrest Gregg (75) against the Kansas City Chiefs at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl I (Packers 35, Chiefs 10): Green Bay Packers running back Jim Taylor (31) follows the blocks of Jerry Kramer (64), Marv Fleming (81) and Forrest Gregg (75) against the Kansas City Chiefs at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl II (Packers 33, Raiders 14): Green Bay Packers quarterback Bart Starr (15) drops back to pass against the Oakland Raiders at the Orange Bowl.
(Dick Raphael, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl III (Jets 16, Colts 7): New York Jets quarterback Joe Namath (12) looks to throw as Baltimore Colts linebacker Dennis Gaubatz (53) applies pressure during Super Bowl III at the Orange Bowl.
(Darryl Norenberg, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl IV (Chiefs 23, Vikings 7): Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Buck Buchanan (86) tackles Minnesota Vikings running back Dave Osborn (41) during Super Bowl VI at Tulane Stadium.
(Malcolm Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl V (Colts 16, Cowboys 13): Baltimore Colts running back Norm Bulaich (36) eludes Dallas Cowboys linebacker Lee Roy Jordan (55) during Super Bowl V at the Orange Bowl.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl VI (Cowboys 24, Dolphins 3): Dallas Cowboys running back Duane Thomas (33) carries the football against the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI at Tulane Stadium.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl VII (Dolphins 14, Washington 7): Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Manny Fernandez (75) tackles Washington running back Larry Brown (43) in Super Bowl VII at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Dolphins completed a 17-0 undefeated season with the win.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl VIII (Dolphins 24, Vikings 7): Miami Dolphins running back Larry Csonka (39) scores on a 5-yard touchdown run against the Minnesota Vikings during Super Bowl VIII at Rice Stadium.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl IX (Steelers 16, Vikings 6): Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Dwight White (78) and linebacker Jack Lambert (58) stop Minnesota Vikings running back Dave Osborn (41) during Super Bowl IX at Tulane Stadium.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl X (Steelers 21, Cowboys 17): Pittsburgh Steelers running back Franco Harris (32) run against the Dallas Cowboys during Super Bowl X at the Orange Bowl.
(Malcolm Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XI (Raiders 32, Vikings 14): Oakland Raiders running back Clarence Davis (28) carries the ball against the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl XI at the Rose Bowl. Davis rushed for 137 yards in Oakland's win.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XII (Cowboys 27, Broncos 10): Dallas Cowboys defensive end Ed "Too Tall" Jones (72) sacks Denver Broncos quarterback Craig Morton (7) during Super Bowl XII at the Superdome.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XIII (Steelers 35, Cowboys 31): Dallas Cowboys tight end Jackie Smith (81) reacts to dropping a potential touchdown pass in the end zone during Super Bowl XIII against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
(Malcolm Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XIV (Steelers 31, Rams 19): Pittsburgh Steelers receiver John Stallworth (82) catches a 73-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at the Rose Bowl.
(Darryl Norenberg, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XV (Raiders 27, Eagles 10): Oakland Raiders quarterback Jim Plunkett (16) looks to throw against the Philadelphia Eagles during Super Bowl XV at the Superdome.
(Manny Rubio, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XVI (49ers 26, Bengals 21): San Francisco 49ers defensive back Ronnie Lott (42) celebrates a goal line stand against the Cincinnati Bengals during Super Bowl XVI at the Silverdome.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XVII (Washington 27, Dolphins 17): Washington running back John Riggins (44) breaks loose from Miami Dolphins defensive back Don McNeal (28) on a 43-yard touchdown run during Super Bowl XVII at the Rose Bowl.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XVIII (Raiders 38, Washington 9): Los Angeles Raiders running back Marcus Allen (32) carries the ball against Washington safety Mark Murphy (29) during Super Bowl XVIII at Tampa Stadium.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XIX (49ers 38, Dolphins 16): San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig carries the ball past Miami Dolphins linebacker Jay Brophy (53) in Super Bowl XIX at Stanford Stadium.
(Tony Tomsic, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XX (Bears 46, Patriots 10): Chicago Bears linebacker Otis Wilson (55) hits New England Patriots quarterback Tony Eason (11) during Super Bowl XX at the Superdome.
(Malcolm Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXI (Giants 39, Broncos 20): New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20) carries the ball against the Denver Broncos during Super Bowl XXI at the Rose Bowl.
(Bob Deutsch, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXII (Washington 42, Broncos 10): Washington quarterback Doug Williams (17) looks to throw against the Denver Broncos during Super Bowl XXII at Jack Murphy Stadium.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXIII (49ers 20, Bengals 16): Over 11 plays, the San Francisco 49ers drove 92 yards to secure a narrow victory. Pictured above is wide receiver and game MVP Jerry Rice.
(Manny Rubio, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXIV (49ers 55, Broncos 10) : San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig (33) celebrates with teammates against the Denver Broncos at the Superdome. The 55 points scored by the 49ers remains a Super Bowl record.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXV (Giants 20, Bills 19): New York Giants running back Ottis Anderson (24) carries the ball against the Buffalo in Super Bowl XXV at Tampa Stadium.
(Frank Becerra Jr., The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXVI (Washington 37, Bills 24): Washington cornerback Alvoid Mays (20) hits Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly (12), causing him to fumble during Super Bowl XXVI at the Metrodome.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXVII (Cowboys 52, Bills 17): Dallas Cowboys receiver Michael Irvin (88) celebrates in the end zone after scoring a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills during Super Bowl XXVII at the Rose Bowl.
(Manny Rubio, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXVIII (Cowboys 30, Bills 13): Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith (22) carries the ball against the Buffalo Bills during Super Bowl XXVIII at the Georgia Dome.
(James D. Smith, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXIX (49ers 49, Chargers 26): San Francisco 49ers running back Ricky Watters (32) carries the ball against San Diego Chargers safety Stanley Richard (24) during Super Bowl XXIX at Joe Robbie Stadium.
(RVR Photos, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXX (Cowboys 27, Steelers 17): Dallas Cowboys cornerback Larry Brown (24) runs with the ball after an interception at Sun Devil Stadium. Brown had two interceptions and was named game MVP as the Cowboys won their third Super Bowl in four seasons.
(The Arizona Republic)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXXI (Packers 35, Patriots 21): Green Bay Packers return specialist Desmond Howard eludes the grasp of the New England Patriots on his way to a 99-yard kickoff return touchdown during the third quarter of Super Bowl XXXI at the Superdome.
(Rick Wood, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel-USA TODAY NETWORK)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXXII (Broncos 31, Packers 24): Terrell Davis of the Denver Broncos in action during Super Bowl XXXII at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego. Davis scored three TDs and was named MVP.
(JEFF HAYNES, AFP via Getty Images)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXXIII (Broncos 34, Falcons 19): Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway (7) attempts to avoid Atlanta Falcons linebacker Cornelius Bennett at Dolphin Stadium.
(RVR Photos, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXXIV (Rams 23, Titans 16): Titans wide receiver Kevin Dyson tries to stretch across the goal line on the final play of the game. He is stopped by Rams linebacker Mike Jones.
(Eric Parsons, The Tennessean)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXXV (Ravens 34, Giants 7): Baltimore Ravens defensive end Rob Bunett (90) celebrates after sacking New York Giants quarterback Kerry Collins (5) at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The Ravens registered four sacks and four interceptions in the dominant defensive performance.
(PETER MUHLY, AFP via Getty Images)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXXVI (Patriots 20, Rams 17): New England Patriots players Rod Rutledge (83), Ken Walter (13) and Adam Vinatieri (4) celebrate Vinatieri's game-winning field goal against the St. Louis Rams to win Super Bowl XXXVI at the Louisiana Superdome.
(Glenn Osmundson, Providence Journal-USA TODAY NETWORK)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXXVII (Buccaneers 48, Raiders 21): Tampa Bay's Dwight Smith races into the end zone ahead of pursuing Oakland Raiders quarterback Rich Gannon on a 44-yard interception runback for a touchdown.
(JACK GRUBER, USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXXVIII (Patriots 32, Panthers 29): Game MVP Tom Brady throws a pass as he is pressured by Carolina Panthers defensive end Julius Peppers (90) at Reliant Stadium.
(MPS-US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XXXIX (Patriots 24, Eagles 21): Wide receiver Deion Branch catches a pass in front of the Philadelphia Eagles' Sheldon Brown (24)during the second quarter at Alltel Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida. Branch had 11 catches for 133 yards and was named the game's MVP.
(Jeff Gross, Getty Images)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XL (Steelers 21, Seahawks 10): Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward jumps in the air and scores after catching a 43-yard touchdown pass from fellow wideout Antwaan Randle El.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XLI (Indianapolis Colts 29, Bears 17): Indianapolis Colts safety Bob Sanders (21) intercepts a ball intended for Chicago Bears receiver Bernard Berrian (80) during the second half at Dolphins Stadium.
(Jason Parkhurst, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XLII (Giants 17, Patriots 14): New York Giants wide receiver David Tyree hauls in a catch against his helmet to sustain the game-winning drive.
(John David Mercer, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XLIII (Steelers 27, Cardinals 23): Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes catches the winning touchdown pass in front of Arizona Cardinals safety Aaron Francisco late in the fourth quarter.
(Matt Cashore, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XLIV (Saints 31, Colts 17): New Orleans Saints cornerback Tracy Porter (22) celebrates as he returns an interception for a touchdown as Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning looks on from the ground during the fourth quarter at Sun Life Stadium.
(Mark J. Rebilas, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XLV (Packers 31, Steelers 25): Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall (34) fumbles after being hit by Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews (52) during the second half of Super Bowl XLV at Cowboys Stadium.
(Matthew Emmons, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XLVI (Giants 21, Patriots 17): New York Giants wide receiver Mario Manningham (82) makes a catch along the sideline in front of New England Patriots free safety Sterling Moore (29) and free safety Patrick Chung (25) during the fourth quarter at Lucas Oil Stadium.
(Kirby Lee, US PRESSWIRE)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl XLVII (Ravens 34, 49ers 31): Baltimore Ravens return specialist Jacoby Jones (12) returns a kickoff for a Super Bowl record 108 yards against the San Francisco 49ers during the third quarter at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
(Kirby Lee, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl XLVIII (Seahawks 43, Broncos 8): Seattle Seahawks linebacker Malcolm Smith (53) returns an interception for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium.
(Brad Penner, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl XLIX (Patriots 28, Seahawks 24): Patriots CB Malcolm Butler (21) intercepts a pass intended for Seahawks WR Ricardo Lockette at the goal line to secure New England's fourth title in the waning seconds of the fourth quarter.
(Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl 50 (Broncos 24, Panthers 10): Denver Broncos linebacker Von Miller (58) forces a fumble as he hits Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) during the fourth quarter at Levi's Stadium.
(Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl 51 (Patriots 34, Falcons 28 - OT): New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman hauls in a catch off a deflected pass that would help New England mount the largest comeback in Super Bowl history. The game also featured the first ever overtime in a Super Bowl.
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Super Bowl 52 (Eagles 41, Patriots 33): Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles (9) catches a touchdown pass against the New England Patriots during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium.
(Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports)
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Super Bowl 53 (Patriots 13, Rams 3): Patriots cornerback Stephon Gilmore makes a pivotal interception in the fourth quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With the win, the Patriots tied the Steelers for most Super Bowl victories (six).
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Super Bowl 55 (Buccaneers 31, Chiefs 9): Buccaneers tight end Rob Gronkowski spikes the football after catching a touchdown pass during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium.
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Super Bowl 56 (Rams 23, Bengals 20): Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp catches the game-winning touchdown pass as Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Eli Apple defends at SoFi Stadium.
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Super Bowl photos: Most memorable moments from Super Sunday
Super Bowl 57 (Chiefs 38, Eagles 35): The Chiefs' Kadarius Toney (19) is tackled by the Philadelphia Eagles' Nakobe Dean (17) and Arryn Siposs (8) after a Super Bowl-record 65-yard punt return at State Farm Stadium.
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Super Bowl 58 (Chiefs 25, 49ers 22, OT): Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Mecole Hardman Jr. (12) celebrates with quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) after the game-winning touchdown in overtime against the San Francisco 49ers.
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Super Bowl 59 (Eagles 40, Chiefs 22): Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith (6) makes a touchdown catch against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half of Super Bowl LIX at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans on Feb. 9, 2025.
(Geoff Burke, Imagn Images)
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Super Bowl 60 (Seahawks 29, Patriots 13): Seahawks defensive tackle Rylie Mills sacks Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) during the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. The Seahawks defense sacked Maye six times in a 29-13 victory.
Rams players believe the award should be added this year to Stafford's already impressive resume.
"He is the MVP. There's no ifs ands or buts about it," Rams running back Blake Corum told USA TODAY Sports. "The season he's had is ridiculous. The career he's had is just tremendous."
MVP voting for the regular season concluded on Monday. The recipient of the award won't be revealed until the NFL Honors ceremony on Feb. 5.
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"I hope everybody has their head screwed on right and knows exactly that he's the most valuable person in the league," Avila said.
Stafford had a humble response when asked by USA TODAY Sports about his MVP candidacy and diverted the credit to the team.
"As far as being a candidate, I just wanted to play as good as I possibly can this year like I do every season," Stafford said. "Obviously, I have great football players around me and coaches around me that give myself and our offense a chance and opportunity to succeed. We were able to do that."
Stafford: 'I didn't know if I would get there'
What makes Stafford's stellar year even more impressive is what he's overcome this season – a campaign that almost didn't happen.
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The Rams granted Stafford's agent permission to speak to other teams about a trade last February, before the sides agreed to a contract restructure later that month . But a subsequent aggravated disk in his back would cause Stafford to miss most of training camp.
"There were some lean moments. It was touch and go there for a little bit," Stafford recalled. "A lot of treatments and things that I did to try and help myself get to this point. I didn't know if I would get there but I went out there and it was wait and see, let's see what happens. Luckily it turned out pretty good."
Pretty good is an understatement. Stafford started all 17 regular-season games, led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns and is an odds-on favorite to win MVP.
Stafford's now about to embark on another playoff journey in his fifth season as the Rams QB. Following a 2021 blockbuster trade with the Detroit Lions , Stafford led the Rams to a Super Bowl title his first season in Los Angeles . Stafford and the Rams have their sights set on another Lombardi Trophy, and maybe some additional hardware for the trophy case along the way.
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"What a guy that you just watch that is totally present. He's enjoying the moment and I think that's when we're at our best. I think this team has taken on a lot of the great traits, the toughness mentally and physically, and just the overall enjoyment for the chance to go compete, but also the ability to celebrate your teammates. He's elevated everybody that he's around, but it's been really impressive," Rams coach Sean McVay said. "I wouldn't say I'm surprised though. This has been consistent for him over the five years that we've been together. I'm just grateful to be able to have the opportunity to be partnered up with him."
Follow USA TODAY Sports' Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon .
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: LA Rams QB Matthew Stafford's MVP-type season almost derailed by injury
