The 2026 NFL playoffs kicked off, and Saturday’s games showcased that perfectly. Against all odds, the Carolina Panthers proved to be a worthy opponent for the Los Angeles Rams, who, relying on the experience of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford">Matthew Stafford</a> and Davante Adams, secured a hard-fought victory to advance to the next round.



Wins like this often come when a team has a quarterback experienced in high-stakes games. Stafford, before the final stretch where his <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Rams</a> ultimately turned the game around, told his offensive teammates, “Let’s go snatch these guys’ hearts.”



After the game wrapped up, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/davante-adams">Davante Adams</a> spoke with the media and shared an interesting reflection on his QB’s words during a critical moment of the matchup, when the tide ultimately turned in its favor.



“That was pretty cold, just to hear that,” Adams said, via <a href="https://www.therams.com/news/feature-matthew-stafford-snatches-panthers-hearts-to-send-rams-to-divisional-round-2025-playoffs">the team’s website</a>. “And I actually literally smiled in the moment, because I thought that was like one of the most gangster things you could say in that moment, honestly. And to hear him say that, and the look on his on his face, and then throw the touchdown, and then the look on his face after that, was just MVP stuff.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/11094254/matthew-stafford-davante-adams-1920x1080.webp" alt="Matthew Stafford with Davante Adams" class="wp-image-559889"></figure><figcaption>Matthew Stafford #9 of the Los Angeles Rams celebrates with Davante Adams.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Stafford’s MVP-worthy performance against the Panthers</h2>



In a performance that solidified his case for the league’s highest individual honor, Matthew Stafford delivered an absolute masterclass in the clutch to lead the Los Angeles Rams past the Carolina Panthers. 


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/matthew-stafford-gets-important-update-on-his-nfl-career-even-if-rams-lose-to-panthers-in-2026-playoffs"></div>


After a mid-game slump, the ageless veteran turned into a fourth-quarter assassin, completing 12-of-15 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns in the final frame alone. His surgical precision was most evident during the game-winning 71-yard march, which he capped off with a perfectly placed 19-yard strike to Colby Parkinson with just 38 seconds remaining. 



This MVP-type display not only secured a 34-31 victory but also broke Kurt Warner’s franchise record for postseason passing touchdowns, proving once again that Stafford remains one of the most dangerous late-game quarterbacks in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> history.



<h2>What’s next for the Rams?</h2>



Following their thrilling Wild Card victory, the Los Angeles Rams’ next destination depends entirely on the outcome of the 49ers-Eagles matchup. If the Eagles win, the Rams will travel to Seattle to face the top-seeded Seahawks in a division rivalry showdown. However, if the 49ers pull off the upset, Los Angeles will instead head to Soldier Field to take on the Chicago Bears.

Davante Adams makes something clear about Matthew Stafford after Rams’ big win in the 2026 NFL playoffs

Davante Adams makes something clear about Matthew Stafford after Rams’ big win in the 2026 NFL playoffs - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The 2026 NFL playoff picture was updated after a dramatic Wild Card weekend, highlighted by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bears">Chicago Bears</a>’ thrilling victory over the Green Bay Packers and the Los Angeles Rams’ narrow win against the Carolina Panthers.



The Bears defeated the Packers in a tightly contested Wild Card matchup, earning a spot in the Divisional Round. With the loss, Green Bay was officially eliminated from the postseason, bringing its playoff run to an end.



Chicago sealed the 27–24 victory in the final quarter thanks to a clutch and decisive deep pass from quarterback Caleb Williams. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/green-bay-packers">Packers</a> had late opportunities, but the Bears’ defense held firm, leaving Green Bay just a field goal away from forcing overtime.



With the win, the Bears advanced as the No. 2 seed in the NFC and are now set to face either the Philadelphia Eagles or the Los Angeles Rams in the Divisional Round, depending on the remaining conference results.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1586" height="736" data-id="559826" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/10234114/Screenshot-2026-01-10-234050-1586x736.webp" alt="Playoff bracket updated." class="wp-image-559826"></figure><figcaption>Playoff bracket updated.</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



Meanwhile, the Rams eliminated the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Panthers</a> with a 34–31 victory in the Wild Card Round. Carolina was officially knocked out of the playoffs, while Los Angeles moved on as the No. 5 seed in the NFC. Los Angeles’ next opponent will be determined by the rest of the Divisional Round outcomes, with potential matchups against the Seattle Seahawks, Philadelphia Eagles, Chicago Bears, or San Francisco 49ers.



<h2>Rams stay alive as contenders</h2>


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Los Angeles once again showed resilience, surviving despite late-game adversity against Carolina. Matthew Stafford’s leadership proved decisive as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Rams</a> overcame mistakes and advanced, reinforcing their status as one of the most dangerous teams remaining in the NFC.


 

 


<h2>What remains to be decided in the Wild Card</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> Wild Card Round continues on Sunday and Monday, with matchups featuring the Buffalo Bills vs Jacksonville Jaguars, the San Francisco 49ers vs the Philadelphia Eagles, the Los Angeles Chargers vs the New England Patriots, and the Houston Texans taking on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

2026 NFL playoff bracket updated after Bears-Packers and Rams-Panthers in Wild Card round

Are Panthers officially eliminated from 2026 NFL playoffs after game with Rams in Wild Card round?

The Browns are interested in a HC who fits well with Shedeur Sanders to replace Kevin Stefanski

2026 NFL playoff bracket updated after Bears-Packers and Rams-Panthers in Wild Card round - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a> entered the 2026 playoffs as the biggest underdog in the NFL. After winning the NFC South thanks to a result that did not depend on them, the Falcons’ victory over the Saints, no one believed in miracles.



However, in the Panthers’ memory was the fresh reminder of Week 13, when they surprised the Rams, their opponent in the Wild Card Round of the postseason. They already knew the formula to defeat Matthew Stafford.



Now, as double-digit favorites, Sean McVay and his players had to prove all those expectations as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> contenders despite a second half of the schedule in which they were very inconsistent.



<h2>Are Panthers out of the 2026 NFL playoffs?</h2>



Yes. The Panthers are officially out of the playoffs after losing 34–31 to the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round. Bryce Young had the opportunity to tie the game on the final drive, but he was unable to complete the epic comeback.


 

 


Now, as the No. 5 seed, the Rams will be waiting for their next opponent in the Divisional Round. They have many possible options: the Seattle Seahawks, the Chicago Bears, the Philadelphia Eagles, or the San Francisco 49ers.



In this scenario, the only way they could have a home game in the Divisional Round is if the 49ers and Packers win their games in Wild Card round. That would result in Seattle vs Green Bay at Lumen Field and Rams vs San Francisco at SoFi Stadium.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/are-the-panthers-eliminated-from-nfl-playoffs-with-loss-to-buccaneers"></div>

Matthew Stafford gets important update on his NFL career even if Rams lose to Panthers in 2026 playoffs

NFL Playoffs 2026: What happens if Carolina Panthers lose, win or tie today against Rams in Wild Card round?

Are Panthers officially eliminated from 2026 NFL playoffs after game with Rams in Wild Card round? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford">Matthew Stafford</a> has achieved another huge milestone in his NFL career. It has been confirmed that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Los Angeles Rams</a> star was named First-Team All-Pro. The AP confirmed that the veteran received more votes than Drake Maye of the New England Patriots.



This accolade could give him a very important boost to win the MVP award. That race also appears to be only between two players: Stafford and Maye. Nevertheless, being a First-Team All-Pro is a very significant edge for potential voters.



At the moment, Matthew Stafford and the Rams are trying to win a second <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> in the playoffs. The quarterback had a great 2025 season with 4,707 yards, 46 touchdowns, and only 8 interceptions.



<h2>Will Matthew Stafford retire if Rams lose to Panthers?</h2>



Matthew Stafford has shown no signs that he plans to retire, even if the Rams lose to the Panthers. Although he is 37 years old, the level he has shown allows him to play several more seasons at a high level.


 

 


<h2>Rams can win the Super Bowl</h2>



Despite entering the playoffs as the No. 5 seed, the Rams are favorites for many experts to be the NFC representative in the Super Bowl. This is ahead of other teams such as the Seahawks, Bears, or Eagles.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-news-puka-nacua-clarifies-post-on-x-about-referees-after-matthew-stafford-and-rams-lost-to-seahawks"></div>

Puka Nacua and Sean McVay send clear message to NFL and referees after Matthew Stafford’s Rams overtime loss against Seahawks

Matthew Stafford gets important update on his NFL career even if Rams lose to Panthers in 2026 playoffs - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a> lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 18, but thanks to a victory by the Atlanta Falcons over the Saints, they were able to win the NFC South and clinch a spot in the playoffs.



That means the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/are-the-bucs-eliminated-from-nfl-playoffs-with-loss-to-panthers">Buccaneers were officially eliminated</a> and the Panthers will have a postseason game at home as division champions. A huge break of luck, or destiny, that very few expected with that three-way tie at the top of the standings.



Now, despite being the biggest underdog in the NFL to win the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>, the Panthers will host <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/puka-nacua-and-sean-mcvay-send-clear-message-to-nfl-and-referees-after-rams-overtime-loss-against-seahawks">Matthew Stafford and the Rams</a>. It is important to remember that in Week 13, Carolina pulled off the upset by defeating Los Angeles. Anything is possible.



<h2>What happens if the Panthers lose against the Rams in the Wild Card round?</h2>



If the Panthers lose to the Rams in the Wild Card Round of the NFL playoffs, Carolina will be officially eliminated. Then, as the No. 5 seed in the NFC, Los Angeles would advance to the Divisional Round, and their next opponent could be the Seattle Seahawks, the Philadelphia Eagles, the Chicago Bears or the San Francisco 49ers.


 

 


<h2>What happens if the Panthers and Rams tie in 2026 playoffs?</h2>



If the Carolina Panthers and the Los Angeles Rams tie, the game will go to overtime under playoff rules. In this scenario, each team will necessarily have at least one possession, unless the defense records a safety on the first drive. The game cannot end in a tie.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/what-happens-if-buccaneers-win-today-against-panthers-in-week-18-of-2025-nfl-season"></div>


<h2>What happens if the Rams lose today against Panthers in Wild Card round?</h2>



If the Rams lose today to the Panthers, they will be eliminated in a huge upset, considering it is a roster with names like Matthew Stafford, Davante Adams, and Puka Nacua.



In case the Panthers beat the Rams, their No. 4 seed would give them many possible options for opponents in the Divisional Round. They could face the Seahawks, Bears or the Eagles, or even have another home game against the 49ers.

Are the Panthers eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss to Buccaneers?

What happens if Panthers lose or win today against Buccaneers in NFL Week 18 of 2025 season?

NFL Playoffs 2026: What happens if Carolina Panthers lose, win or tie today against Rams in Wild Card round? - Bolavip US

During the 2025 NFL regular season, the Carolina Panthers stunned the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a>. Now, the two teams are set to meet again in the 2026 playoffs, and head coach Sean McVay has made one thing clear about that costly loss to Carolina.



In Week 13, the Panthers shocked the league by defeating the Rams. Now, the teams will face off again in a win-or-go-home scenario, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sean-mcvay" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McVay</a> knows Los Angeles cannot afford to repeat the same mistakes they made in that matchup.



“They did a great job,” McVay said of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panthers</a>‘ win in Week 13. “They made the plays to win the game and we came up short. We had our chances but there’s a lot of learning opps. There’s a lot of learning opps even when we’ve gotten the results we wanted in those 12 wins we had. But this was a good, humbling day.



“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.”



<h2>The pressure is on the Rams</h2>



For their 2026 Wild Card matchup against the Panthers, the Rams are listed as 10.5-point favorites. Los Angeles is clearly the more talented team on paper, but this is not a game they can take lightly.



The Rams finished the regular season with a 12–5 record, while the Panthers went 8–9. However, Carolina will host the playoff matchup after winning their division, giving them a home-field advantage that could play a significant role in the outcome.


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For many fans, it is <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Super Bowl</a> or bust for the Rams, while expectations are far lower for the Panthers. That imbalance puts enormous pressure on Sean McVay’s squad, as a loss to a team with a losing record would raise serious questions about whether Los Angeles was ever truly a championship contender.



<h2>Is Matthew Stafford retiring after the 2026 NFL playoffs?</h2>



Before the 2025 NFL season, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matthew Stafford</a> agreed to a two-year, $84 million extension with the Rams. However, his future could hinge on how far Los Angeles goes in the playoffs.



According to rumors, the 37-year-old quarterback could consider retirement depending on the postseason outcome. Stafford could either walk away from the game with another Super Bowl title—or return for one final run with the Rams in 2026.

Rams HC Sean McVay makes candid admission about costly regular-season loss to Panthers

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Rams HC Sean McVay makes candid admission about costly regular-season loss to Panthers - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a> are facing the Arizona Cardinals in Week 18 of the 2025 NFL season. While they already locked up their spot in the playoffs, this game matters for seeding within the NFC.



If the Rams win this game, they will become the fifth seed in the NFC, going against the Panthers (8-9) in the Wild Card Round. Hence, it’s important for them to win the game. Also, it would help them as they suffered two-straight losses in the worst possible time of the year.



If the Rams lose, they will remain as the sixth seed, which would make them visit either the Eagles or the Bears. Both matchups are way tougher than visiting a team under .500 like Carolina.



<h2>McVay wants to see some spark again</h2>



The Rams have been arguably the best team in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> this season. However, the last two weeks were tough for them. A shocking loss to the Falcons on Monday Night Football after losing an OT barnburner to divisional rivals Seahawks were not how the Rams envisioned they’d end the season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_556562_Los-Angeles-Rams-head-coach-Sean-McVay_357e7675.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay" class="wp-image-520539" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay</figcaption></figure>



While losing to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seattle</a> is not a sin by any means, it was how bad the team looked against the Falcons that sent shockwaves within the building. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matthew Stafford</a> might have thrown away his MVP chances during that game, where he suffered three interceptions. A win against Arizona not only gives them the best possible matchup in the Wild Card Round, but also gives some momentum back to the team.


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<h2>Arizona has nothing to play for</h2>



Besides always wanting to give a divisional rival pure trouble, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arizona-cardinals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardinals</a> have nothing to play for. Already eliminated from playoff contention, the team has no major motivation for this Week 18.



This team will be one to watch in the offseason as a major shakeup could occur. Head coach Jonathan Gannon might not return for another season, and quarterback Kyler Murray could very well be on the trade block.

What happens if Rams lose or win vs Cardinals today in 2025 NFL Week 18?

What happens if Rams lose or win vs Cardinals today in 2025 NFL Week 18? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a> have enjoyed a stellar regular season, notwithstanding their five losses. With a commendable 11 victories in the NFL, the Rams have sustained their solid performance throughout the 2025 regular season, following their playoff appearance last year. They are now set to conclude Week 18 against the Arizona Cardinals.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/davante-adams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Davante Adams</a> is uncertain to play today for the Los Angeles Rams and the Arizona Cardinals in NFL Week 18. According to the latest injury report, Adams is listed as questionable due to a hamstring injury.



Adams has been a standout player for the Rams this season, making a significant impact with a league-leading 14 touchdowns in 14 games. His performance has been instrumental to the team’s success.



The Rams are gearing up for the playoffs and need Adams, along with the rest of the roster, to be at the top of their game to tackle the upcoming challenges. The team is determined to advance beyond where they did in 2024, when they were eliminated in the Wild Card round.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Sunday Supreme 🏈 <a href="https://t.co/iVoGcvtMpt">pic.twitter.com/iVoGcvtMpt</a>— x – Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/RamsNFL/status/2007240491134558607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Rams’ injury report for this game</h2>



The Rams will be without three players for their game against the Cardinals: Kevin Dotson, Quentin Lake, and Josh Wallace. Additionally, several players, including Adams, are listed as questionable.


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Here is the complete injury report for the Rams:



<ul><li>Davante Adams, WR, Hamstring – Questionable</li><li>Blake Corum, RB, Ankle – Questionable</li><li>Kevin Dotson, G, Ankle – Out</li><li>Tyler Higbee, TE, Ankle – Questionable</li><li>Alaric Jackson, T, Knee – Questionable</li><li>Quentin Lake, S, Elbow – Out</li><li>Omar Speights, LB, Ankle – Questionable</li><li>Josh Wallace, CB – Out</li><li>Kyren Williams, RB – Questionable</li></ul>



<h2>Cardinals’ injury report for this game</h2>



Conversely, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arizona-cardinals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardinals</a> are focused on their draft position for the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> Draft, with a loss potentially benefiting them. While they aim to avoid ending the season with a loss, Arizona has reported just one player out for this game, with another listed as questionable.



Here are the two players on the Cardinals’ injury report:



<ul><li>Evan Brown, G – Out</li><li>Josh Sweat, LB, Ankle – Questionable</li></ul>

Is Davante Adams playing today for Rams vs Cardinals in 2025 NFL Week 18?

Is Davante Adams playing today for Rams vs Cardinals in 2025 NFL Week 18? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/drake-london">Drake London</a> has six touchdowns this season, but he has gone two straight weeks without finding the end zone. The Atlanta Falcons, already eliminated from playoff contention, are still looking to play spoiler against the Los Angeles Rams, a team pushing to climb the NFC standings.



London has not yet been confirmed as available for the Week 17 matchup between the Falcons and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Rams</a>. While the game carries little significance for Atlanta, fans are eager to see London return to the field, even if only to snap his touchdown drought that dates back to Week 10.



If London is unable to play, Chris Blair could step in after recently being elevated from the practice squad along with several teammates to help fill the roster for the game. Still, there remains a real chance that London will be active, based on recent comments from head coach Raheem Morris.



<h2>Raheem Morris on London’s status</h2>



As most are aware, London has been dealing with a knee injury that kept him sidelined for four games. He returned in Week 16 and recorded 27 receiving yards. Based on Morris’ latest remarks, the likelihood of London playing for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a> vs Rams appears to be strong.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Falcons?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Falcons</a> WR Drake London on playing football this year: "I&apos;m safe to say we&apos;re eliminated from the playoffs, right? So, I&apos;m probably not going to be able to play football until… deep into next year. I want to play as much football as I can until it&apos;s done for this year." <a href="https://t.co/1FfuWUCryM">pic.twitter.com/1FfuWUCryM</a>— Off Peachtree (@OffPeachtree) <a href="https://twitter.com/OffPeachtree/status/2002430042958361017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2025</a></blockquote></div> 



“Falcons head coach Raheem Morris said he feels ‘great’ about wide receiver Drake London playing Monday against the Rams, even though he’s listed as questionable on the game report,” Terrin Waack reported on X.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/nfl-playoffs-how-many-teams-make-the-postseason"></div>


Prior to Week 16, London played in three games during November, all losses for the Falcons. Despite the results, he posted more than 100 receiving yards in each of those contests. There was optimism that he could provide a significant boost in December before the injury forced him out of the lineup.

Is Drake London playing tonight for Falcons vs Rams on MNF 2025 NFL Week 17?

Is Drake London playing tonight for Falcons vs Rams on MNF 2025 NFL Week 17? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Los Angeles Rams</a> face the Atlanta Falcons in a decisive Week 17 matchup of the 2025 NFL regular season, a game that carries major implications for postseason positioning on both sides. With the playoff picture tightening, Los Angeles enters the week aware that its path is no longer tied to the NFC West title, but rather to securing the best possible wild-card seed.



After the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Chicago Bears on Sunday Night Football, the Los Angeles Rams were officially eliminated from contention for winning the NFC West division. That result locked the Rams into either the No. 5 or No. 6 seed in the NFC playoff bracket, a distinction that has historically meant little in terms of approach for head coach Sean McVay.



The Rams’ blown fourth-quarter lead against the Seattle Seahawks earlier in the season looks even more costly now, as it removed their remaining margin for error within the division race. That loss guaranteed Los Angeles would open the postseason on the road, regardless of how the final two games play out.



At this point, Los Angeles is locked into either the fifth or sixth seed in the NFC, no matter what happens elsewhere. The most likely scenario places the Rams in the No. 5 spot, which would send them on the road to face the eventual winner of the NFC South in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> wild-card round.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="527401" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251229_BUS_553405_drake-london_14ad48b7.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Drake London #5 of the Atlanta Falcons" class="wp-image-527401"></figure><figcaption>Drake London #5 of the Atlanta Falcons</figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>What happens if Rams win vs Falcons?</h2>



If the Rams beat the Falcons on Monday night and then defeat the Arizona Cardinals in Week 18, they will clinch the No. 5 seed and draw the NFC South champion in the first round. That division winner will be decided by a high-stakes showdown between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers in the regular season finale.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/shedeur-sanders-teammate-calls-out-mike-tomlin-aaron-rodgers-after-steelers-loss-to-browns"></div>

 

 


The Rams’ simplest path to the fifth seed is winning their final two games. By taking care of business against Atlanta and Arizona, Los Angeles eliminates all external variables and secures a wild-card matchup against either Carolina or Tampa Bay.



<h2>What happens if Rams lose vs Falcons?</h2>



If the Rams lose to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a>, the door opens for a slide to the No. 6 seed. Should Los Angeles fall to Atlanta but rebound against Arizona, and if the 49ers beat the Seahawks, the Rams would drop to sixth place and face a more challenging road matchup, most likely against the Philadelphia Eagles rather than the NFC South winner.



In that scenario, San Francisco would win the NFC West, Seattle would move into the No. 5 seed, and the Rams would enter the playoffs as the No. 6 seed. That outcome would send Los Angeles on the road to face either the Eagles or the Bears in the first round, with Philadelphia remaining the most probable opponent based on current standings.

What happens if Rams win or lose vs Falcons tonight on MNF in 2025 NFL Week 17?

Bad news for Rams: Matthew Stafford could lose key weapon for the end of the NFL regular season

What happens if Rams win or lose vs Falcons tonight on MNF in 2025 NFL Week 17? - Bolavip US

One of the standout stories at the end of Week 16 in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> was the controversial officiating in the game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Los Angeles Rams. Sean McVay’s team was far from satisfied with the calls, with Puka Nacua being one of the most outspoken critics on the matter.



After showing his frustration over what happened at Lumen Field, Nacua was outspoken on social media, prompting the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/nfl-takes-action-against-la-rams-star-puka-nacua-after-harsh-criticism-towards-officials-after-week-16-loss-to-seahawks">NFL to take action against the LA Rams star</a>. After accepting the fine, the wide receiver broke his silence on the matter.



“That one, it definitely hurt,” <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/puka-nacua">Nacua</a> told reporters, in his first media availability since the fine was imposed. “I think it was something I was expecting. It was a learning moment and an experience to learn from and to never let happen again. 



“There are going to be moments of frustration later on in my career whether it’s ups and downs on my personal half or on the team’s half so being able to manage those emotions and send that energy in the right direction.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251227_BUS_552081_puka-nacua_759f791c.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Puka Nacua #12 of the Los Angeles Rams" class="wp-image-545206"></figure><figcaption>Puka Nacua #12 of the Los Angeles Rams</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Nacua’s frustration</h2>



Following the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Rams</a>‘ tough overtime loss to the Seattle Seahawks on December 18th, Puka Nacua sparked controversy by openly criticizing the officiating. In a since-deleted post on X, Nacua sarcastically thanked the “stripes” for their “contribution” to the game, later admitting his comments stemmed from frustration over a controversial two-point conversion reversal and inconsistent calls. 


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These remarks, combined with a prior livestream where he called referees “the worst” and suggested they make calls just to get “camera time,” resulted in a $25,000 fine from the NFL.



<h2>Puka Nacua takes a leading role in the offense</h2>



With Davante Adams likely sidelined for the remainder of the regular season due to injury, the Rams’ offense will rely even more heavily on Puka Nacua to carry the passing game. While this provides <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/bad-news-for-rams-matthew-stafford-could-lose-key-weapon-for-the-end-of-the-nfl-regular-season">bad news for Matthew Stafford</a> as he loses his top veteran target, it forces Nacua into a clear primary role where his playmaking ability will be the deciding factor in the team’s playoff push.

Rams star Puka Nacua breaks silence after fine for criticizing officiating - Bolavip US

If there’s one team that has truly stood out this <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season, it’s the Los Angeles Rams. An offense led by veteran Matthew Stafford has been a force to be reckoned with, and it’s one of the team’s biggest strengths as they aim for the top seed in the NFC.



However, an interesting setback emerges for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sean-mcvay">Sean McVay</a> heading into the final stretch of the season, as one of his key offensive players might sit out to be 100% ready for the playoffs.



The Underdog NFL account, via X, reported that insider Jeremy Fowler shared details about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/davante-adams">Davante Adams</a>’ health situation, who could be “shut down” for the final two regular-season games in an effort to be fully healthy for the playoffs.



This significant absence would give much more prominence to Puka Nacua, who, following Adams’ injury, has been one of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford">Matthew Stafford</a>’s primary targets in recent games. The Rams might lose an important player for the final stretch of the season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251225_BUS_551382_Davante-Adams-shouting_dd81bbb6.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Davante Adams #17 of the Los Angeles Rams" class="wp-image-499816" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Davante Adams #17 of the Los Angeles Rams</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What injury is Adams dealing with?</h2>



Davante Adams is currently battling a persistent hamstring injury that has placed his availability for the final two games of the regular season in serious doubt.


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With the Rams already having clinched a postseason berth, the coaching staff is taking a cautious approach, making him a major question mark for the upcoming matchups against the Falcons and Cardinals.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251225_BUS_551382_davante-adams-1-1_b6f4d293.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Davante Adams #17 of the Los Angeles Rams" class="wp-image-547716"></figure><figcaption>Davante Adams #17 of the Los Angeles Rams</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Davante Adams’ stats this season with the Rams</h2>



Davante Adams has been a touchdown machine in his first season with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford">Rams</a>, leading the league in that category despite his recent injury. Over 14 games, he has hauled in 60 receptions for 789 yards, averaging a reliable 13.1 yards per catch.



His most remarkable contribution has been his scoring efficiency, racking up 14 touchdowns and serving as the primary red-zone threat for the Los Angeles offense.

Bad news for Rams: Matthew Stafford could lose key weapon for the end of the NFL regular season - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a> suffered a painful OT loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday Night Football of Week 16 of the NFL season. But it was more than just that, since star wide receiver Puka Nacua criticized the officials and now received a hefty fine.



According to Jeremy Bergman of NFL.com, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> fined Puka Nacua a total of $25,000 for his comments on the officiating. This was also reported by Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. Nacua made multiple comments about the referees.



First, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/puka-nacua" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nacua</a> appeared on a livestream with influencers Adin Ross and N3on. He said the NFL officials were “the worst” and also said, “These guys want to be … these guys are lawyers. They want to be on TV too,” Nacua said. “You don’t think he’s texting his friends in the group chat like, ‘Yo, you guys just saw me on&nbsp;Sunday Night Football. That wasn’t P.I., but I called it.‘” Then after the game, he tweeted another critic and soon thereafter deleted it.



<h2>Nacua is incredible on the field, but he’s a problem outside of it</h2>



Puka Nacua has made it an argument to be the best wide receiver in football. Just against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seahawks</a> alone, Nacua had 12 catches for 225 yards and two touchdowns. He has undoubtedly become the best wideout in football.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Puka Nacua just tweeted this immediately after the game: <a href="https://t.co/RvfQgvla5E">pic.twitter.com/RvfQgvla5E</a>— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) <a href="https://twitter.com/MySportsUpdate/status/2001879779126186434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Outside of the football field, it was a bad week for Nacua filled with controversies during the livestream, and now the fine. After the post, reporters told head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/sean-mcvay" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sean McVay</a> about it and he was not happy. “I love him, we’re going to continue to put our arm around him and help him learn and grow, but we never want to do things that ever offend anybody, and I know he feels that same way.” While he defended him, he was visibly frustrated.


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<h2>The Rams are glad Nacua isn’t suspended though</h2>



It’s a heavy fine, but the Rams will count on Nacua for the next game. Nacua is the best weapon in the NFL and his chemistry with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matthew Stafford</a> is immaculate. Puka is putting historic numbers during his young career.



Nacua leads the NFL in catches with 114 and in first downs received with 73. He also leads the NFL in yards per game with 113.7. In fact, Nacua is so great, that he has the best all-time record in yards per game with 96.9.

NFL takes action against LA Rams star Puka Nacua after harsh criticism towards officials after Week 16 loss to Seahawks - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/puka-nacua">Puka Nacua</a> sparked a frenzy on social media after the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Los Angeles Rams</a> suffered a stunning loss to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seattle Seahawks</a> in an epic game that could decide the NFC West champion.



The star wide receiver posted a message on X about the referees that was deleted minutes later. “Can you say I was wrong. Appreciate you stripes for your contribution. Lol.”



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford">Matthew Stafford</a> and Puka had an amazing night, but it was not enough. During the postgame press conference, Nacua clarified what happened. “Just a moment of frustration after a tough and intense game like that. Just think of the opportunities that I could have done better, take it out of their hands. It was just a moment of frustration.”



<h2>What happened with Puka Nacua?</h2>



Puka Nacua had previously criticized NFL referees during the week, saying that with their calls they wanted to be on television. Now, after a controversial backward pass by Sam Darnold on a two-point conversion, the wide receiver once again took a shot at the officiating crew.


 

 


<h2>Puka Nacua could be punished or suspended</h2>



Puka Nacua could be fined or suspended because, in recent days, he has taken several actions that could violate the NFL’s conduct policy. The player had a controversial episode on a livestream and has now committed another mistake on X.


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“Just the opportunities that we didn’t take advantage of. Some of the moments that we put in the officials hands. The two-point extra plays. Just felt like we could have executed to not put ourselves in those situations. I know that’s something we’ll improve on.”

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Puka Nacua clarifies post on X about NFL referees after Matthew Stafford and Rams lost to Seahawks - Bolavip US

Puka Nacua clarifies controversial post on X about referees

NFL News: Puka Nacua clarifies post on X about referees after Matthew Stafford and Rams lost to Seahawks

Puka Nacua and Sean McVay could not hide his frustration after the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams">Los Angeles Rams</a> lost to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks">Seahawks</a> in overtime. Obviously, the main talking point was the two-point conversion by Seattle that initially failed but was overturned by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/nfl-news-jerry-jones-says-referees-have-affected-cowboys-during-2025-season-after-loss-against-lions">referees</a> after instant replay confirmed it was a backward pass.



The Rams’ head coach didn’t understand what happened. “Very interesting. I didn’t get a clear explanation of everything that went on just because of some of the timing of it. I’ve never seen anything or never been a part of anything like that and I’ve grown up around this game. I’m not making excuses. We don’t do that. I don’t believe in that. It doesn’t move us forward, but we do want clarity and an understanding of the things that we can do to minimize that when we rejected the 2-point conversion.”



The Rams controlled their own destiny to win the NFC West and also to secure the No. 1 seed in the conference. Now, the path to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> has become much more complicated, as it appears they will have to play on the road.



<h2>Puka Nacua sends controversial tweet</h2>



At the end of the game, Rams wide receiver <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/puka-nacua">Puka Nacua</a> sparked another major controversy on social media with a post on X about the referees that he later deleted. “Appreciate you stripes for your contribution. Lol.”


 

 


<h2>Can the Rams win the NFC West?</h2>



The Rams can win the NFC West if they secure victories against the Atlanta Falcons and the Arizona Cardinals. They also need the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">49ers</a> to lose to the Chicago Bears and for the Seahawks to lose to San Francisco in the final week.


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