Rams' title hopes carried on Stafford's back

The 37-year-old quarterback still makes offense fearsome. But has he overcome health issues?

- Gary Klein

JUSTIN HERBERT, top left, seeks his first playoff win in his sixth season with the Chargers. Matthew Stafford, top right, keys the Rams' Super Bowl aspirations.

Davante Adams did not make any bold declarations.

After the three-time All-Pro receiver signed with the Rams, he modestly described what he could provide a team that advanced to the NFC divisional round last season.

"I'm just here to be another piece to hopefully get over the hump," he said.

Coach Sean McVay has grander designs for a team that will be led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, and an offense also featuring Adams, receiver Puka Nacua, running back Kyren Williams and as many as four tight ends.

After Stafford worked through a back issue and finally began practicing for the Sept. 7 opener against the Houston Texans, the 17th-year pro like Adams many months before-kept it simple.

"I'm just happy I get to be back out there," he said.

As are the Rams, a team regarded as a legitimate threat to make a third Super Bowl appearance under McVay.

"Having Matthew back is just like, 'Yeah, all right, we're ready to roll,' " Williams said.

Stafford, 37, remains the key for an offense aiming to score much more than last season.