Amazon broadcaster and former NFL QB Ryan Fitzpatrick referred to Detroit Lions QB Jared Goff as a “poor man’s Matt Ryan,” and the Lions signal-caller not only heard the remarks but didn’t take too kindly to them.
Goff and the Lion’s ferocious defense and running game took it to the Green Bay Packers in a 34-20 road victory on Thursday Night Football. Following the game, Amazon had the winning QB to the broadcasting desk for a post-game interview, and Goff didn’t pull his punches.
“I thought I played better throughout the rest of the game. I hope it’s up to your standards. I didn’t know I was a poor man’s anything, but I heard about it.”
Fitzpatrick appeared to be a bit shellshocked, being called out by the Lions QB, but retorted, “Matt Ryan’s a pretty good player.” Goff agreed, and the two seemed to move on from it.
Is Goff a ‘Poor Man’s’ Matt Ryan?
Did Ryan Fitzpatrick make those remarks about Goff in a disparaging way? That doesn’t appear to be the case, as both the Amazon broadcaster and the Lions QB seem to have respect for the former Atlanta Falcons and Indianapolis Colts signal-caller.
Jared Goff is a GANGSTA!!!!
Shots fired at Fitzpatrick 🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/lJZ39ilKJg— awthentik (@awthentik) September 29, 2023
Ryan is one of the better pocket-passer QBs of his generation. The 2016 NFL MVP offered little mobility but won with accuracy, intelligence, and sound decision-making. Goff is similar in many regards. He’s an accurate QB, he’s intelligent and commands the offense, and, when he’s at his best, makes sound decisions.
Like Ryan, Goff needs a pocket to succeed and is flustered when pressure is in his face or off the edge. Many QBs in the NFL struggle when facing pressure, especially those who lack mobility. Ryan and Goff have similar games, and I agree with Fitzpatrick that Ryan was the better player. But maybe leave the “poor man’s” part out next time, Fitzmagic.
Where Do We Go From Here With the Detroit Lions?
The Lions are a cut above the other teams in the NFC North. Heading into Thursday Night, many analysts thought the contest between the Lions and Packers would be an equally weighted battle, with both teams emerging as the class of the division. The Lions put that to bed as they thoroughly thrashed the Packers all night.
MORE: Thursday Night Football Winners and Losers
Green Bay remains on the mend, but the eye in the sky doesn’t lie. The Lions are the more skilled and physically imposing team. It would be a shocking turn of events if the Lions don’t win the NFC North.
