NFL Playoffs: Rams vs. Panthers - A Wild Card Showdown (2026)

NFL play-offs LIVE: Wildcard Weekend - Rams vs. Panthers and Packers vs. Bears, team news, live text, radio commentary & score updates

Live Reporting

• Scores:

Summary

• The first two games of the NFL play-offs' Wildcard Weekend are underway.

• Los Angeles Rams 14-7 Carolina Panthers: The Rams take an early lead with two touchdowns by Puka Nacua, but the Panthers respond with a touchdown by Chuba Hubbard.

• Green Bay Packers (7) vs. Chicago Bears (2): A historic NFC rivalry match-up is set for Sunday at 01:00 GMT.

• Read more:

  • NFL play-off preview by Ben Collins (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/american-football/articles/c2e1gk03k84o)
  • Wildcard Weekend predictions by Phoebe Schecter (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/american-football/articles/c3wz1x1wwe3o)
  • Full play-off schedule and Wildcard Weekend explained (https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/american-football/articles/cdrexd2yk17o)

Live Commentary

1. Panthers' Deservingness:

   • A reader, Liam from Vienna, Austria, comments, 'Panthers don't deserve to be in the play-offs. I think the Rams will win by a mile.'
   • The commentator responds, 'The Panthers may not deserve to be here, but they're making a game of it now...'

2. Panthers' Touchdown:

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   • Chuba Hubbard scores a touchdown from the one-yard line, bringing the Panthers back into the game.

3. Flag Controversy:

   • A flag is thrown on a Rams' play, sparking debate about the rules and the referee's decision.

4. Panthers' Response:

   • Bryce Young leads the Panthers down the field, connecting with Tetairoa McMillan for two big completions.

5. Puka Nacua's Dominance:

   • Former NFL cornerback Jason Bell praises the Rams' strategy of utilizing Puka Nacua's versatility.

6. Defensive Struggles:

   • Greg Olsen highlights the Panthers' struggles against Puka Nacua, suggesting they need to force red-zone field goals.

7. Rams' Second Touchdown:

   • Puka Nacua scores his second touchdown of the game, showcasing his strength and ability to break tackles.

8. Nerves and Excitement:

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   • Greg Olsen observes the Panthers' nerves and excitement, noting their first-time playoff experience.

9. End of First Quarter:

   • The first quarter ends with a one-handed catch by Colby Parkinson for 15 yards, a notable contrast to the first meeting.

10. Interception:

    • Bryce Young's pass is intercepted by Cobie Durant, leading to a defensive play.

11. Game Outlook:

    • Ryley Easton predicts an easy Rams win, provided they don't over-aggress with deep balls.

12. Bryce Young's Pass:

    • Young's pass to Tommy Tremble is highlighted as a good play.

13. Sack and Stuffed:

    • Bryce Young is sacked, and Blake Corum is stuffed by the Panthers' defense.

14. Puka Nacua's Catch:

    • Puka Nacua's fourth catch of the game showcases his YAC (yards after catch) ability.

15. Panthers' Punt:

    • Carolina punts the ball, resulting in a high 55-yarder.

16. Get Involved:

    • Readers are encouraged to share their thoughts on the game using the 'Get Involved' button.

17. Panthers' Progress:

    • Chuba Hubbard's runs and catches help the Panthers move the chains.

18. Strategic Move:

    • Greg Olsen explains Sean McVay's strategy of moving Puka Nacua around to create better match-ups.

19. Panthers' Points Difference:

    • Carolina's poor points difference of -69 is discussed, ranking 23rd in the NFL this season.