It’s Wild Card time, and the opening matchup delivers a fascinating rematch from earlier this season, one that ended in a shocking upset for the Rams at the Panthers. Carolina’s defense played inspired football, and Bryce Young looked like a different quarterback, showing the confidence and command Panthers fans have been waiting for.
Now the stakes are higher, the lights are brighter, and the Rams are out for revenge. Let’s break down how this one shakes out from a fantasy perspective.
Matchup Synopsis
The Rams enter the postseason with momentum and experience, led by a battle-tested Matthew Stafford and one of the league’s most dangerous skill-position groups. Carolina, meanwhile, has quietly improved down the stretch, riding defensive intensity and a young quarterback finding his rhythm.
Expect Los Angeles to push the pace offensively, while Carolina looks to keep things competitive through the air. Fantasy points should be available—especially in the passing game.
LOS ANGELES RAMS
- Start: Matthew Stafford
Start Meter: (5/5)
Stafford is gearing up for yet another playoff run and would love nothing more than to settle the score against Carolina. Expect aggressive play-calling, deep shots, and multiple scoring opportunities. When the Rams trust Stafford, fantasy managers benefit.
One can’t help but wonder how many championships Stafford might have if he hadn’t spent most of his prime elsewhere.
- Start: Puka Nacua
Start Meter: (5/5)
Nacua continues his weekly assault on opposing secondaries. His route running, physicality, and chemistry with Stafford make him matchup-proof. Lock him in as a WR1.
- Flex: Kyren Williams
Start Meter: (4/5)
The Buccaneers gashed Carolina for 140+ rushing yards last week, and Williams should find similar space. He’s a volume-driven back with touchdown upside, strong flex or RB2.
- Flex: Blake Corum
Start Meter: (4/5)
Corum continues to see significant touches and has breakaway speed that can flip fantasy matchups in an instant. He’s a high-upside flex who doesn’t need many carries to pay off.
- Sleeper: Tyler Higbee
Start Meter: (3/5)
Higbee has quietly put together a strong second half of the season. With Cade Otton posting solid numbers against this defense last week, Higbee is a sneaky TE play with red-zone appeal.
- Sit: Davante Adams
Start Meter: (2/5)
Adams is off the injury report, but there’s real concern about his usage and explosiveness, especially outside the red zone. In a playoff matchup, there are safer options.
Why Davante Adams’ return may not hurt Panthers as much as you think -Zach Roberts vis SI.com
CAROLINA PANTHERS
- Start: Bryce Young
Start Meter: (4/5)
Young has finally figured out how to maximize his weapons and play with confidence. He’s reading defenses better and making quicker decisions. Expect at least one passing touchdown and solid fantasy output.
- Start: Tetairoa McMillian
Start Meter: (4/5)
McMillian is a matchup nightmare with his size and catch radius. He should be heavily targeted, especially in key third-down and red-zone situations.
Former Holy Cross star Jalen Coker ready for playoff run with Carolina Panthers – Jennifer Roland via Telegram
- Start: Jalen Coker
Start Meter: (4/5)
If Carolina wants to pull this one off, Coker must be a major factor in the passing game. He’s carved out a reliable role and should see meaningful volume. Start him confidently.
- Flex: Tommy Tremble
Start Meter: (3/5)
Tremble flashed earlier in the year and has come on strong late. His physical style fits playoff football, making him a solid flex or deeper league tight end option.
- Sit: Chuba Hubbard & Rico Dowdle
Start Meter: (2/5)
Carolina’s run game struggled mightily last week, and this matchup doesn’t offer much relief. Until consistency returns, both backs are best left on the bench.
Final Fantasy Takeaway
This Wild Card matchup sets up as a passing-game-driven fantasy environment, with the Rams’ stars carrying league-winning upside and Carolina’s young playmakers offering sneaky value. Start your studs, trust the quarterbacks, and don’t be afraid to lean into upside, because Wild Card weekends are where fantasy seasons are won.
