Live In-Game Updates: Rams Pull Away in 4th, Beat Panthers 24-10
The Los Angeles Rams look to snap a two-game losing streak on Sunday, as they host the Carolina Panthers at SoFi Stadium.
The Panthers lead the all-time series 13-9 and have won six of the last eight. But the Rams won the last meeting in 2019, 30-27,
Despite a season that's been disappointing for the Rams, they come into Sunday with a real shot of gaining momentum against a Carolina team that just fired coach Matt Rhule after a 37-15 loss to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 5.
But first, LA will need to worry about itself after an abysmal offensive performance in a 22-10 loss to the Dallas Cowboys and their disruptive defense. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford leads the league with seven interceptions and will need a productive and turnover-free game against a reeling Panthers defense.
The Panthers will be without starting quarterback Baker Mayfield as PJ Walker will get the start. Carolina and interim coach Steve Wilks will likely continue to rely on star running back Christian McCaffrey in order to gain some offensive rhythm.
Live in-game updates will appear below at kickoff.
FIRST QUARTER
The Panthers put together a steady opening drive, going 12 plays in 51 yards. McCaffrey was responsible for seven touches for 58 yards on the drive, setting the Panthers up in field-goal range.
FIELD GOAL PANTHERS: Carolina kicker Eddy Pineiro nailed a 42-yard field goal to give the Panthers an early lead.
Panthers 3, Rams 0
change of possession
The Rams got things started with two completions to receiver Cooper Kupp, but the Rams offense continued its recent struggles and punted after five plays.
change of possession
The Panthers used a full complement of running backs on their next drive, but Rams linebacker Ernest Jones stopped McCaffrey short of the line to gain on third down at LA's 43-yard line. Carolina punted and pinned the Rams inside the 10-yard line.
change of possession
END OF FIRST QUARTER
SECOND QUARTER
The Rams quickly went three-and-out, but the attention went toward the injury to offensive lineman Joe Noteboom, who was carted off.
change of possession
The Panthers returned the favor, going three-and-out as well to give LA the ball back.
change of possession
TOUCHDOWN RAMS: After a drive that seemed dead before LA running back Darrell Henderson Jr. converted a third-and-long, Stafford found receiver Allen Robinson - who has struggled this season - for a five-yard touchdown on a fade toward the back left corner of the end zone.
Rams 7, Panthers 3
change of possession
The Panthers did next to nothing on their next drive, as three runs resulted in a three-and-out and another punt.
change of possession
TOUCHDOWN PANTHERS: Carolina defensive back Donte Jackson picks off Stafford and returns in 30 yards for the touchdown.
Panthers 10, Rams 7
change of possession
The Rams were unable to respond to the pick-six and punted after three plays.
HALFTIME: Panthers 10, Rams 7
THIRD QUARTER
The Rams' offensive woes continued into the second half, as LA went three-and-out.
change of possession
Carolina proved its offensive struggles weren't ending either, as the Panthers went three-and-out as well.
change of possession
Robinson continued his strong game, pulling in a tough 15-yard grab on the sidelines.
FIELD GOAL RAMS: After a 12-play, 87-yard drive that should have been extended due to a missed facemask penalty by the Panthers on the goal line against Robinson, LA kicker Matt Gay nailed a 21-yarder to tie the game.
Rams 10, Panthers 10
The Panthers then went three-and-out for the fourth straight possession, not counting the kneel down to end the first half.
change of possession
TOUCHDOWN RAMS: After four chunk plays for the Rams on multiple passes, receiver Ben Skowronek took a jet-sweep handoff 17 yards to the house.
Rams 17, Panthers 10
change of possession
END OF THIRD QUARTER
FOURTH QUARTER
It was rinse and repeat for the Panthers offense, as they went three-and-out once again.
change of possession
TOUCHDOWN RAMS: Henderson powered his way in for a two-yard touchdown to extend LA's lead. The Rams completed a 10-play, 61-yard drive.
Rams 24, Panthers 10
change of possession
The Panthers finally picked up a first down but punted three plays later.
change of possession
The Rams were unable to put together a game-sealing drive and went three-and-out.
change of possession
INTERCEPTION RAMS: As the Panthers were threatening at the goal line following a 49-yard catch-and-run by McCaffrey, Jacob Eason's pass was deflected and intercepted by Rams defensive back Nick Scott in the end zone.
change of possession
FINAL: Rams 24, Panthers 10
***
You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7
Want to see the Champs? Get your L.A. RAMS game tickets from SI Tickets here!
Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Rams? Click Here
Want to join in on the discussion? Click here to become a member of the Ram Digest message board community today!
