Sean McVay faces criticism for Matthew Stafford quarterback sneak attempt

Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay faced scrutiny following a failed short-yardage play call in the team's matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. During the NFL's first regular-season game in Melbourne, Australia, McVay called for a quarterback sneak involving Matthew Stafford. San Francisco stopped the play, leading to widespread questioning of the decision given Stafford's minimal history as a short-yardage runner. Statistics show Stafford finished the 2025 season with only one rushing yard on 29 carries and no rushing touchdowns. Critics highlighted that the 38-year-old quarterback lacks the rushing profile typically associated with successful sneak attempts. The 49ers previously stopped a similar Stafford sneak during the 2021 NFC Championship Game.

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