The Los Angeles Rams began the playoffs with a bang, and to no surprise, it was on the backs of their stars.
Wide receiver Puka Nacua led the Rams to an early lead over the Carolina Panthers, scoring the first two touchdowns of the postseason. The Panthers held Nacua at bay the last time these teams played, but he showed up early on wild-card weekend.
Here’s how Nacua found success against the Panthers.
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Puka Nacua stats vs. Panthers
- Receptions: 6
- Receiving yards: 63
- Yards per catch: 5.2
- Receiving touchdowns: 1
- Rushes: 1
- Rushing yards: 5
- Rushing touchdowns: 1
Nacua started the playoffs strong, totaling four catches for 52 receiving yards and a touchdown in the first quarter alone. He then added a rushing touchdown in the second quarter to add to the Rams' lead.
Puka Nacua career playoff stats
- Games: 4
- Receptions: 26
- Receiving yards: 385
- Yards per receptions: 16.1
- Touchdowns: 3
Prior to the 2026 playoffs, Nacua had played in three playoff games — one in the 2023 season and two in 2024. He had a breakout performance against the Detroit Lions in his first playoff game, producing 181 yards and a touchdown.
MORE: How Puka Nacua’s name pays homage to his Samoan heritage
Where is Puka Nacua from?
Puka Nacua was born in Las Vegas, Nevada but raised in Provo, Utah, which is where he spent most of his childhood. However, he also has familial lineage of Hawaiian, Samoan and Portuguese descent.
MORE: Where did Puka Nacua grow up?
Where did Puka Nacua go to college?
Nacua spent his first two years at Washington State, but transferred to BYU to spend his final two years closer to home. While at BYU, Nacua produced 1,787 scrimmage yards and 16 total touchdowns.
MORE: Why did Puka Nacua fall to the fifth round of the 2023 draft?
Is Puka Nacua morman?
Nacua is a member of the Church of Latter Day Saints, as his mother raised him and his four siblings as mormons. Nacua was able to continue his faith at BYU, where he spent two of his four collegiate seasons.