Wild Card Weekend Preview: Panthers vs. Rams

This Saturday at 4:30 PM, the Carolina Panthers and Los Angeles Rams will clash in a pivotal NFL Playoffs Wild Card matchup. One team is still in the process of rebuilding around a young quarterback, while the other has adeptly restructured its roster on the go, aiming to reclaim its place in the Super Bowl.

The Rising Panthers Built Around Bryce Young

The Carolina Panthers' expedition to this playoff appearance began with a significant choice. During the 2023 NFL Draft, the Panthers selected Bryce Young as the No. 1 overall pick, with a clear objective: to secure a franchise quarterback and construct the team's future around him.

Young's initial experiences in the league were challenging. He faced numerous obstacles as a rookie, yet everything transformed during the latter half of the 2024 season when head coach Dave Canales took the helm. Under Canales's guidance, Young gained confidence, demonstrated quicker decision-making, and began utilizing his athleticism to make pivotal plays. This growth extended into the 2025 season, playing a crucial role in propelling Carolina back into playoff contention.

The Panthers also concentrated on enhancing Young’s supporting cast. They drafted wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who swiftly emerged as the team’s primary outside target. Second-year receiver Xavier Legette evolved into a dependable second option, while Jalen Coker provided speed from the slot position.

In the rushing attack, Rico Dowdle leads the backfield, supplemented by Chuba Hubbard and rookie Trevor Etienne. Equally important, Carolina revamped its offensive line, providing Young with superior protection compared to his earlier seasons. This playoff appearance represents a significant milestone in the Panthers’ rebuilding journey.

Rams Hoping to Return to Super Bowl Glory

Conversely, the Rams embarked on a distinctly different trajectory. Following their Super Bowl victory in the 2021 season, the team encountered a sharp decline in 2022 due to injuries and salary cap constraints. Rather than completely starting anew, head coach Sean McVay and the front office opted for a restructuring strategy.

A pivotal moment in this retooling process occurred during the 2023 draft when the Rams selected Puka Nacua in the fifth round. Nacua quickly distinguished himself as a star and became an integral component of the offense. This clever drafting enabled the Rams to maintain competitiveness while simultaneously integrating younger, more cost-effective players into the roster.

Now in 2025, quarterback Matthew Stafford leads the offense, bolstered by new assets. The Rams transitioned away from Cooper Kupp, bringing in Davante Adams to provide Stafford with an elite receiving option alongside Nacua. Additionally, running back Kyren Williams drives the offensive efforts as younger talents continue to populate the roster.

What This Game Is Really About

This Wild Card matchup transcends the significance of a mere game. For the Carolina Panthers, it serves as validation of their decision to draft Bryce Young and the importance of exercising patience in his development. For the Los Angeles Rams, it underscores their ability to intelligently rebuild and remain formidable without commencing from scratch.

One team is experiencing a resurgence, while the other strives to sustain its dominance. On Wild Card weekend, only one of these narratives will persist.