Rams-Panthers weather forecast has two concerns for NFC Wild Card Round showdown

Mike Moraitis

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Rams-Panthers weather forecast has two concerns for NFC Wild Card Round showdown image

Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Rams and Carolina Panthers will square off at Bank of America Stadium on Saturday for the first playoff game of the weekend.

The Panthers managed to back their way into the postseason after losing to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 18. Carolina benefitted from the Atlanta Falcons beating the New Orleans Saints, which created a three-way tie for first place in the NFC South that propelled the Panthers to a division title via tie-breaker.

The Rams finished in second place in the NFC West behind the 14-win Seattle Seahawks but secured a wild-card spot that sets this meeting up.

This will be the second matchup between the Rams and Panthers this season. The two teams met in Week 13, with Carolina emerging victorious at home over Los Angeles, 31-28.

RELATED: Expert picks, predictions for Rams vs. Panthers

Ahead of kickoff, there are a few weather concerns that could impact this game. Let's take a look at the current forecast.

Rams-Panthers weather forecast

According to AccuWeather.com, thunderstorms are possible for the first two hours of the game, so we can't rule out a weather delay.

Any rain will obviously lead to slick conditions, which will make it more difficult for players to find their footing — which can impact the offenses, defenses and kicking games — and hold on to the football.

Wind could also be a factor for the passing attacks and kickers of both teams. Gusts are expected to reach anywhere from 27-30 MPH throughout the contest and anything over 20 MPH can create problems.

If there's one positive takeaway from the weather forecast, the temperature sit in the low 70s during the game, which is important for two teams not used to playing in cold weather.

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Contributing Writer