CHICAGO — Matthew Stafford stood on the sideline in his team-issued camouflage hoodie and khaki winter hat.
He grabbed a tablet and counseled Jeff Driskel when he came off the field. He talked to David Blough as plays were going on. And he greeted his receivers with helmet pats and words of encouragement in between series.
Stafford missed his first football game in more than eight years Sunday, and the back injury that he and Detroit Lions downplayed during the week had a devastating effect on the only good thing this team has going for it right now – it’s passing offense.