The implications of a victory for either the Rams or Panthers today on the NFC West, NFC South, and the overall NFL playoff landscape.

Billy Heyen

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What a Rams or Panthers win today means for NFC West, NFC South, NFL playoff picture image

TL;DR

  • Rams (9-2) aim to solidify NFC West lead over Seahawks (8-3) and 49ers (8-4).
  • A Rams win guarantees their divisional lead and maintains pursuit of top NFC playoff seed.
  • Panthers (6-6) need a win to stay within half-game of Buccaneers (6-5) in NFC South.
  • Carolina's playoff hopes hinge on winning the NFC South division race.

On paper, it doesn't stand out as a marquee matchup: Los Angeles Rams at Carolina Panthers.

However, during the thirteenth week of the 2025 NFL season, significant implications exist for both the NFC West and NFC South divisional contests, alongside the broader playoff landscape.

The Rams enter the day at 9-2.

The Panthers are 6-6.

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Here's what's at stake:

Why the Rams need a win

The Rams currently hold a one-game advantage over the Seahawks in the NFC West, with a record of 9-2 compared to their opponents' 8-3. The 49ers are also close behind, standing at 8-4.

So the only way for L.A. To guarantee a divisional lead at the end of the day is to win.

The Rams presently hold a half-game lead over the 9-3 Bears for the NFC's premier playoff position. Consequently, a victory for Los Angeles this Sunday would elevate their record to 10-2, maintaining their pursuit of the top seed and the accompanying bye week.

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Why the Panthers need a win

The Panthers enter the day at 6-6, a half-game back of the 6-5 Buccaneers in the NFC South standings.

With the intense competition for NFC wild card positions, it's improbable that the Panthers will secure one unless they achieve victories in all remaining games.

That leaves the divisional race as Carolina's best chance at the playoffs.

Sunday will see them as underdogs, no doubt, but the Panthers haven't been eliminated yet, meaning they'll definitely be aiming for a victory to keep pace with The Buccaneers.

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Staff Writer