It felt like heaven opened up for Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford on Friday with the return of wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua.
With the Rams getting the much-needed offensive firepower, they defeated the Minnesota Vikings, 30-20, for back-to-back wins. They improved to 3-4.
Stafford didn't waste time reconnecting with his usual targets, with Kupp tallying five receptions and a touchdown and Nacua rushing for 106 yards on seven receptions.
The 36-year-old Stafford threw 25-of-34 for 279 yards—his most since their first game—and a season-high four touchdowns. He only tallied three touchdowns in their first previous outings.
After the game, even Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell couldn't help but acknowledge Stafford's leadership and performance.
“I think we were close on some plays," O'Connell said in a report from the Associated Press. “But when you’re playing against that quarterback, and those receivers getting healthy and getting out there and making some plays for them, I just think it comes down to (whether we) can get enough rush and coverage working together to maybe not give a quarterback like that a couple extra clicks."
The Vikings suffered their second straight loss after a five-game winning streak to start the season.
Stafford acknowledged the energy that Kupp and Nacua brought to the Rams.
“It’s not only just the offense," the two-time Pro Bowler said. "I know the defense feels it too when those guys are out there making plays.”
Kupp returned from a four-game absence due to an ankle injury. Nacua, meanwhile, had missed their last five outings after injuring his knee in their season-opener against the Detroit Lions.
Rumors are swirling that the Rams might trade the 31-year-old Kupp due to his recent injuries. The former Super Bowl MVP, however, said he is just focusing on his return and the things he can control.
The Rams will return to action on Nov. 3 against the Seattle Seahawks.
