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Rams vs. Panthers: Stafford's MVP Bid Meets Underdog Grit
11 Jan
Summary
- Matthew Stafford leads league in passing yards and touchdowns.
- Carolina Panthers upset Rams in Week 13 with aggressive defense.
- Panthers host their first playoff game in over a decade.

The NFL playoffs commence with a compelling Wild Card matchup featuring the Los Angeles Rams against the Carolina Panthers. The Rams, boasting a 12-5 regular season record and significant Super Bowl experience, are heavily favored. Their offense is spearheaded by quarterback Matthew Stafford, who is having a career-best season, leading the league with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns, placing him in the MVP conversation. This game represents a crucial step for Stafford in solidifying his legacy.
Conversely, the Carolina Panthers (8-9) secured the NFC South title and a playoff berth despite a sub-.500 record. Their path included a notable 31-28 upset victory over the Rams in Week 13, where their defense forced multiple turnovers, exposing a rare vulnerability in Stafford's play. Despite entering the postseason on a two-game losing streak, the Panthers are fueled by the energy of their home crowd, eager to witness a playoff game after more than a decade's absence.




