OAKLAND -- Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford thought he’d have to do “a little bit of gymnastics.” In his head, he knew what play he wanted to get to. Fourth down. One yard to go. Needing a touchdown on the final play to tie the game. He was ready. In so many cases throughout his career, he’s converted these last-minute situations.
He was starting to get ready, spreading his receivers and tight ends out across the field when the Oakland Raiders changed everything. The Raiders called timeout. Gave the Lions a chance to regroup.