Matthew Stafford knew exactly what he was doing when he dumped the ball at Puka Nacua’s feet during a controversial play in the second quarter of Monday night’s game. Though it was originally ruled a fumble and returned for a touchdown by the Vikings,

The Los Angeles Rams got off to a hot start against the Minnesota Vikings in Monday night's wild-card playoff game. Their quarterback, Matthew Stafford, may have also gotten away with a fumble, or at least intentional grounding, when he pulled off a dangerous pass attempt to avoid a first-half sack.

The significance of Monday's 27-9 win over the Minnesota Vikings beyond its playoff consequences wasn't lost on members of the Los Angeles Rams. The NFC

On first down, Stafford was being brought to the ground but before he hit the turf, he flicked the ball out of his right hand. It was initially ruled a fumble, which was scooped up and brought back for a touchdown by the Vikings.

The Rams jumped out to a 10-point lead, but the Vikings were chipping away. First, Minnesota got on the board with a field goal; then, the Minnesota defense seemed to make a splash play that flipped the entire game.