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Rams' Resilience Fuels Playoff Push & Stafford's Leadership

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 9th 2026 at 11:24 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: California, North Carolina, UNITED STATES

The Rams' Resurgent Season & Stafford's Leadership

The Rams' journey to the playoffs has been a narrative of resilience. Many predicted a rebuilding year after significant roster changes, yet they've found a way to compete, largely due to the steady hand of veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford. Experts like Vinnie Iyer of Sporting News and Bill Bender also from Sporting News, highlight Stafford's improved game management as a key factor in their recent success. While the Panthers possess a formidable pass rush - a point consistently mentioned by analysts - the Rams' ability to mitigate pressure and utilize a balanced attack will be crucial. The emphasis on a 'balanced attack' isn't merely about running versus passing; it's about controlling the clock and dictating the tempo, limiting the Panthers' opportunities to unleash their defensive stars.

Panthers' Pass Rush: The X-Factor?

The Carolina Panthers' defense, particularly their pass rush, is the primary reason many believe they can challenge the Rams. David Newton of ESPN is the most prominent voice predicting a Panthers victory, citing their defensive prowess and the potential to exploit vulnerabilities in the Rams' offense. A disruptive pass rush can rattle Stafford, forcing errant throws and creating turnover opportunities. However, the Rams' offensive line has demonstrated an ability to adjust and offer protection, and they will likely prioritize double-teaming the Panthers' most dangerous pass rushers. The effectiveness of this strategy, and the Panthers' ability to generate pressure from different angles, will be a defining aspect of the game.

The Panthers' success isn't solely reliant on defense. Their offense, while facing a tough test against the Rams' defense, has been gaining momentum. If they can establish a consistent running game and limit turnovers, they can control possession and keep Stafford off the field.

Playoff Experience and Baker Mayfield's Debut

Several analysts, including Brooke Pryor of ESPN, point to Baker Mayfield's lack of playoff experience as a potential disadvantage for the Panthers. The heightened pressure and intensity of the postseason can affect even seasoned quarterbacks. While Mayfield has demonstrated flashes of brilliance, his ability to remain composed and make smart decisions under duress will be paramount. The Rams, boasting players with extensive playoff experience, could leverage this difference to their advantage.

The Expert Consensus & What It Means

The majority of experts - Donnie Yokum, Jordan Dajani, and Pete Prisco of CBS Sports alongside Iyer, Bender, and Pryor of Sporting News - are leaning towards a Rams victory. This suggests that, on paper, the Rams appear to have a slight edge in overall talent and experience. However, the relatively close predicted scores (most fall within a 24-21 to 28-20 range) and Newton's dissenting opinion underscore the competitiveness of this matchup.

The consensus isn't simply a prediction; it's an acknowledgement that the Panthers are a dangerous team capable of upsetting the Rams if they play to their full potential. A strong pass rush, a turnover-free offensive performance, and a bit of luck could be enough to send Carolina through to the next round. The game promises to be a hard-fought battle, and the team that can best execute its game plan and capitalize on opportunities will emerge victorious.