Matthew Stafford snatched the Panthers’ hearts

With just over two minutes remaining in Saturday’s NFC Wild Card game between the Carolina Panthers and the Los Angeles Rams, Bryce Young connected with Jalen Coker on a seven-yard touchdown to stake Carolina to a 31-27 lead. The connection sent Bank of America Stadium into a frenzy, as the Panthers were on the verge of a massive upset after trailing early 14-0.

But more than two minutes remained for Matthew Stafford, who earlier in the day had secured First-Team All-Pro honors.

And as the Rams began their ensuing drive, the veteran quarterback had a simple message in the huddle.

“Let’s go snatch these guys’ hearts,” was the message, as relayed by wide receiver Davante Adams.

“One of the most gangster things I’ve heard,” described Adams.

That is exactly what Stafford and the Rams did. After beginning their next drive on their own 21-yard line, Stafford and the Rams worked their way down the field to get into the red zone. One of the first big plays on the drive was this connection with Puka Nacua, the tenth catch of the game for the standout wide receiver:

A few plays later came the game-winner, this 19-yard connection to tight end Colby Parkinson along the right sideline, featuring a perfectly placed throw by Stafford, and an incredible adjustment from Parkinson:

Here’s another look at the catch:

The connection gave Los Angeles a 34-31 lead, but the Panthers had time for one final effort. But Carolina was stopped on fourth down, and the Rams ran the clock out.

Having snatched the Panthers’ hearts.

Speaking after the game, Stafford conceded that it was not a perfect game. He did throw an interception earlier in the game, but finished the contest having completed 24-of-42 passes for 304 yards and three touchdowns, along with the interception:

“Yeah, total team effort,” Stafford said. “Obviously had some mistakes along the way. I turned it over, we had a punt blocked, didn’t score before the half when we probably should have. So, a lot to clean up, but found a way to win it late. I believe in my teammates, I know they believe in me.”

The Rams absolutely believe in Stafford, especially after a “gangster” moment like that final drive.