The Los Angeles Rams are seeking redemption against the longest long-shot remaining in the NFL playoff race for Super Bowl 60.

The 2025 NFL postseason opens on Saturday, Jan. 10, with a wild-card rematch between the Carolina Panthers and the Rams — a matchup fueled by unfinished business. Earlier this season, Carolina stunned Los Angeles with an upset victory that remains one of the Rams’ most surprising losses in a year otherwise filled with championship expectations.

That Week 13 meeting took place in Charlotte, where the Panthers handed the Rams their third loss of the season. Now, Los Angeles returns to North Carolina with a chance to even the score when it matters most.

Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford will look to bounce back after turning in his worst performance of the season against Carolina in the first meeting, when he threw two interceptions and lost a fumble. The veteran signal-caller aims to lead a far more efficient offense in this high-stakes playoff rematch.

Stay with USA TODAY Sports for live scoring updates, highlights, and real-time analysis throughout the opening game of the NFL postseason.

Panthers–Rams score update: Carolina ties the game in the third quarter

Carolina’s offense delivered the longest drive of the afternoon, marching 59 yards on 13 plays and chewing up more than seven minutes of game time. Although the Panthers stalled on third-and-7 from the Rams’ 32-yard line, kicker Ryan Fitzgerald calmly drilled a 46-yard field goal to even the score with 7:29 remaining in the third quarter.

Score: Rams 17, Panthers 17

Who is the Panthers’ backup quarterback?

Quarterback Bryce Young has settled in nicely during his playoff debut after an early interception. Should he be forced out of the game, Carolina can turn to experienced veteran Andy Dalton, a three-time Pro Bowler, as a reliable option off the bench.

Matthew Stafford’s stats so far

The Rams’ quarterback started the game strong before cooling off late in the second quarter. Here’s how his numbers looked at halftime:

• Completions: 10

• Attempts: 17

• Passing yards: 137

• Yards per attempt: 8.1

• Touchdowns: 1

• Interceptions: 0

• Passer rating: 104.3

Panthers–Rams score update: Bryce Young takes over

Carolina capitalized on another turnover on downs to seize momentum before halftime. The Panthers raced 81 yards in just five plays, capped by a clutch moment from Young. Facing third-and-10 at the Rams’ 16-yard line, the quarterback tucked the ball and sprinted into the end zone for a rushing touchdown.

The extra point was good, cutting into the Rams’ lead with less than a minute remaining before halftime and injecting new energy into the Panthers’ sideline.