In a game that feels like a mismatch, the Los Angeles Rams (12-5) will take on the Carolina Panthers (8-9). (date just today or tomorrow)

Here's everything you need to know before going into the playoff opener.

When did the two meet before this?

Carolina was one of the few teams able to hand a loss to the Rams in the 2025 regular season. That game was more embarrassing for Matthew Stafford as he threw two touchdowns and interceptions each for 243 yards, one of his poorer performances this season.

The Panthers' QB, Bryce Young, had three touchdowns, but he has had mixed performances ever since. The game ended 31-28 in favor of the Panthers.

Injury Update

Davante Adams has recovered from his injury and practiced this week in his full capacity. However, Rams’ guard Kevin Dotson and tight end Terrance Ferguson might be out of the game. Dotson has been absent from practice because of an ankle injury. Ferguson sustained a hamstring injury.

From the Panthers, only Derrick Brown is out due to rest.

What the coaches think

Dave Canales definitely managed to improve the Panthers from their 5-12 record last season. But will that be enough to win the Wild Card game? According to Canales:

"It is special, and it’s important that we recognize that, we lean into it and we feed off that energy. At the same time, we’ve got to keep our head about us and execute on the most fundamental parts of it. Because if you get too excited and caught up in the moment, you can sacrifice technique, and sometimes you can go too far and that’s not what I want either."

On the other hand, Sean McVay and company will be cautious, especially after losing the regular-season game. It makes more sense, considering they lost two out of their last three games this season.

"You don’t take away anything — they earned that win, but we do have a very clear understanding of what’s going to be required for us to be at our best, to do the things that are necessary first and foremost starting with ourselves, and then geared toward the opponent and the scheme. Our players have a lot of respect for these guys. We’ll be ready to go, but we know what a great challenge it’ll be."

Prediction

Carolina stunned the NFL with their win last time around, but the Rams will flip the script this time. Matthew Stafford will dominate in the air as the Rams win the opening Wild Card game.

Kickoff

The matchup is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. CT on 10th January, from the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. 

Broadcasting Details

FOX is set to broadcast the matchup across the US. For radio users, ESPN will broadcast on LA 710 AM, and fans can also tune into local radio on 93.1 Jack FM. 

Who do you think will win this Wild Card game? Let us know in the comments!

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar