Panthers Pull Off Stunning Upset Against Rams
In a remarkable turn of events, the Carolina Panthers (7-6) delivered a spectacular performance to defeat the Los Angeles Rams (9-3) with a 31-28 victory, abruptly ending the Rams' impressive six-game winning streak. The game's standout performer was undoubtedly quarterback Bryce Young, who completed 15 of 20 passes for 206 yards and three touchdowns, with two of those crucial scores coming on fourth down.
Defensive Dominance Seals the Win
Carolina's defence was equally instrumental in this shock result, forcing three turnovers from veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford. The defensive unit intercepted Stafford twice, with Mike Jackson returning one pick for a 48-yard touchdown. This interception also ended Stafford's NFL record streak of 28 consecutive touchdown passes without an interception. The game was ultimately sealed by Derrick Brown, who first tipped a ball leading to an early interception and then produced a critical strip-sack with just 2:25 remaining on the clock to preserve the Panthers' lead.
Despite the loss, Stafford managed to complete 18 of 28 passes for 243 yards, connecting with Davante Adams for two touchdown passes, bringing Adams' season total to 14.
AFC South Transforms Into Three-Horse Race
The landscape of the AFC South has dramatically shifted following the Houston Texans' 20-16 victory over divisional rivals, the Indianapolis Colts. This marks the Texans' fourth consecutive win, propelling them right back into the heart of the division championship conversation.
With quarterback CJ Stroud back in the lineup, the two-time defending champions completed a vital divisional match. Stroud threw for 276 yards from 22 of 35 passes, while Nico Collins was a key weapon, catching five passes for 98 yards and adding a rushing score. The Texans' defence delivered an exceptional performance, holding the NFL's top-scoring offence to under 20 points for the first time this season and successfully containing star running back Jonathan Taylor, limiting him to 85 rushing yards.
The result means the Texans are now 7-5 and remain undefeated in division play this season. They sit just one win behind both the Colts and the Jacksonville Jaguars (8-4), setting up a thrilling climax to the season.
Other Notable Results
San Francisco 49ers 26 – 8 Cleveland Browns
The San Francisco 49ers (9-4) overcame an early deficit to comfortably defeat the Cleveland Browns (3-9), spoiling Shedeur Sanders' first home start. Quarterback Brock Purdy rushed for one touchdown and passed for another, leading a charge of 19 unanswered points. The 49ers capitalised on turnovers and a long punt return, with all three touchdowns coming from short fields.
Arizona Cardinals 17 – 20 Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Baker Mayfield returned from injury to guide the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-5) to a victory that snapped their three-game losing streak. Mayfield threw a two-yard touchdown pass and the Buccaneers' defence held firm in the final moments to secure the win and maintain their lead in the NFC South.
Jacksonville Jaguars 25 – 3 Tennessee Titans
Trevor Lawrence threw for 229 yards and two touchdowns as the Jacksonville Jaguars (8-4) dominated the Tennessee Titans (1-11). The win moves the Jaguars into a tie for first place in the AFC South alongside the Indianapolis Colts.
New Orleans Saints 17 – 21 Miami Dolphins
Rookie De'Von Achane rushed for 134 yards and a touchdown, powering the Miami Dolphins (5-7) to their third straight victory. Despite a challenging day for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, the Dolphins never relinquished their early lead.
