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December 17, 2025 By  NFL, Los Angeles Rams

“Fake Hug”: NFL Fans React to Sean McVay’s Postgame Moment With Jared Goff After Rams-Lions

Jared Goff’s return to face the Los Angeles Rams ended in defeat, but the postgame moment he shared with Sean McVay became the night’s most-discussed highlight. A brief exchange between the former coach‑quarterback duo quickly spread across social media, sparking mixed reactions from NFL fans.

As Goff crossed midfield after the Rams’ 41-34 win, McVay approached him, tapped his hand for attention and pulled him into a quick handshake and hug. The interaction looked cordial, but some viewers felt it lacked warmth, calling it stiff or forced. Others saw it as a sign that both men had moved past the difficult ending to their partnership.

Detroit Lions, Jared Goff
Nov 27, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) and Detroit Lions center Trystan Colon (57) prepare to snap the ball against the Green Bay Packers during the first quarter at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: David Reginek-Imagn Images

Goff’s history with the Rams adds weight to every encounter. He spent five seasons in Los Angeles and helped the team reach a Super Bowl before being traded to the Detroit Lions in the blockbuster deal that landed Matthew Stafford. The two parted in a way that left lingering questions about communication and loyalty, making Sunday’s brief embrace a focal point for fans.

On the field, Goff did everything possible to spoil the Rams’ playoff‑clinching night. He threw for 338 yards and three touchdowns, maintaining rhythm and poise throughout a strong first half. Despite the offensive surge, Detroit stalled after halftime and managed only 125 yards the rest of the way. The Lions slipped to 8-6 but remain firmly in the postseason race.

NFL Fans Share Their Thoughts About Los Angeles Rams Coach Sean McVay’s Moment With Jared Goff

Los Angeles Rams, Sean McVay
Dec 14, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay looks on during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Fans have reacted to McVay’s postgame moment with Goff. These reactions can be seen in a video shared by NFL on Fox’s official Instagram account.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by NFL on FOX (@nflonfox)

“Fake hug,” a fans said. “McVay don’t matter to him. He threw him to the curb,” another added.

A supporter mentioned, “Sean is first class dude, hope goff finally stops crying!!!”

“Sean should’ve shook hands with the refs instead, 3rd time in a room,” a follower remarked.

“If I’m Goff, I know McVay got rid of me. If I’m McVay, I know I made the right trade. No need to think there’s love between these 2,” a commenter posted.

“I’m surprised he even did that, the dude despises Goff for some reason,” a sixth social media user reacted.

Stafford and the Rams surged in the second half, scoring 20 straight points to secure another playoff berth. Puka Nacua’s explosive production and Kyren Williams’ scoring plays fueled the comeback, while Stafford delivered 368 passing yards in one of his most efficient outings of the season.

While the scoreboard favored Los Angeles, it was Goff and McVay’s understated reunion that captured the online conversation. Whether fans saw the hug as genuine or awkward, the moment symbolized closure between two figures whose careers will always be linked.

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About Angelo Guinhawa

Angelo Guinhawa is a veteran sports writer and editor who has been working in the industry for over 10 years now. He has worked for FOX Sports PH and several other reputable sports publications. His specialty is the NBA and the NFL, though he also covers the MLB, NHL and European top-flight football.

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