The NFL Playoffs are upon us. The road to Super Bowl 60 begins with the Rams traveling to Carolina to take on the Panthers. With LA being the overwhelming favorite in this game, it could be a rout. However, the last time these two teams played, Bryce Young and Carolina upset the Rams. Let’s dive into the keys to both teams’ victories and who advances to the divisional round!
Keys To A Panthers Win
If the Panthers are going to pull off a shocking upset, it starts with Bryce Young and the Carolina offense. They were 26th in the NFL in explosive passing plays, plays of 20+ yards. The Rams’ secondary is the weakness of their team. Good players, but none who are considered elite. Rookie receiver Tetairoa McMillan had an excellent campaign, surpassing the 1,000-yard mark. Young and T-Mac need to connect early and often down the field.
One of the Panthers’ strengths is their lines, both offensive and defensive. With Derrick Brown in the middle of that front, they must pressure and get to Stafford. In their regular-season win, they forced him into three turnovers, including a pick-6. In terms of the offensive line, if they can control the line of scrimmage, it keeps the Rams’ very talented offense off the field. Keeping the potential MVP off the field is a great place to start.
Lastly, this Panthers’ offense has been prone to turning the ball over. They were 7th in turnovers per game, 1.7. In their last four games, they have six turnovers, including three in last week’s game against the Buccaneers. Going against a great defensive coordinator, like Chris Shula, we know he is going to give the Panthers some exotic looks. Young must read, react, and trust his athleticism if all else fails.
Path To Victory For The Rams
Matthew Stafford needs to play at the MVP-level he had for the majority of the season. He led the NFL in passing yards (4,707) and passing touchdowns (46). This offense is one of the best, if not the best, in the league. There isn’t a defense the Panthers can throw at him that he hasn’t seen. Where he struggles is if you disguise coverage post-snap, which Carolina does at an above-average rate.
Puka Nacua is one of the most unguardable weapons the league has seen in recent memory. His ability to find the soft spot in zone coverage is almost quarterback-like. From making contested catches to jaw-dropping highlights, he is the whole package. Plus, reinforcements are coming. Davante Adams is making his return for the first time since Dec. 14th. He missed the previous three games with a hamstring injury.
The sermon that should have been preached this past week is on team defense. Rally to the football and don’t bail the Panthers out with boneheaded penalties. When you have the opportunity to get Carolina off the field, you have to take it. Their offense isn’t scary at all. Make them have to drive the length of the field every chance they get. This Rams defense is above average and top five in takeaways per game. Young will give you chances to force those turnovers. They must capitalize on them.
Who Wins?
The Los Angeles Rams will defeat the Carolina Panthers and advance. I don’t see any scenario in which Carolina can make Stafford play as poorly as he did in Week 12. This game could get out of hand early. If the Rams come out with the same intensity they did last week, they should roll. Stafford plays like the MVP as LA moves on to the Divisional Round.
Final Thoughts
After one of the best regular seasons I can remember, it’s time for the playoffs to begin. When the season started, there were 32; now, a mere 14 teams remain. Who do you see making and winning the Super Bowl this season?
As always, thank you so much for checking out my thoughts and preview of the Wild Card game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Carolina Panthers! Be sure to check out our other amazing content here at New Leaf News! We hope you’re enjoying your day and look forward to seeing you again soon.
