The Sporting News
For over 15 years, Matthew Stafford has been a cornerstone of late-game drama, effortlessly leading game-winning drives. On Saturday night in Charlotte, Stafford delivered yet another career-defining performance, overcoming three quarters of inconsistency to guide the Rams down the field in the final minute against a tough Panthers defense. His nineteen-yard pass to tight end Colby Parkinson provided the Rams with the lead just 38 seconds before the end of the game, securing a 34-31 victory over Carolina and advancing to the NFC Divisional Round.
The Los Angeles offense started strong, scoring 14 points in the first 16 minutes, including two touchdowns from Puka Nacua. However, the Panthers rallied back, with Bryce Young and the team putting up a valiant fight, taking the lead multiple times in the fourth quarter. Second-year receiver Jalen Coker had a standout performance, making nine receptions for 134 yards and a touchdown that nearly sealed the game for Carolina.
But Stafford, the ultimate fourth-quarter assassin, orchestrated a seven-play, 71-yard drive in the closing minutes, regaining the lead with Parkinson's touchdown. He completed 24 of 42 passes for 304 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception, helping the Rams avenge their earlier loss to Carolina this season. With these three touchdown passes, Stafford increased his career total to 423, solidifying his position as the NFL's all-time 9th-leading passer in touchdowns and moving further up the list of all-time passing yard leaders.
With this victory, Los Angeles advances to the final eight in the NFL playoffs. Although their next opponent is yet to be determined, the Rams will be on the road regardless. The outcome of the 49ers-Eagles game on Sunday will decide whether Sean McVay's squad faces the Seattle Seahawks in a short trip up north or travels back east to play the defending Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles.
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