Duo of Thrillers: Panthers Upset Rams, Broncos Survive Overtime Thriller

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Sunday’s NFL action concluded a dramatic Week 13 with two games that had massive implications for the playoff picture in both conferences. The Carolina Panthers pulled off a statement upset against the streaking Los Angeles Rams, while the Denver Broncos clung to a stunning overtime victory in the nation’s capital.

Panthers 31, Rams 28: Bryce Young’s Clutch Day Spoils Rams’ Streak

The Carolina Panthers (7-6) ended the Los Angeles Rams’ (9-3) six-game winning streak with a thrilling 31-28 upset in Charlotte. The Panthers’ victory was fueled by an opportunistic defense and brilliant, clutch play from quarterback Bryce Young.

Turnover Woes: The Rams’ offense committed three critical turnovers, uncharacteristically costing them points. Quarterback Matthew Stafford threw two first-half interceptions, including a 48-yard pick-six by cornerback Mike Jackson that gave Carolina the lead. Stafford’s NFL-record streak of 28 straight touchdown passes without an interception ended in the first quarter.
Clutch Conversions: After the Rams took a brief lead late in the fourth quarter, Young answered by finding rookie Tetairoa McMillan for a go-ahead 43-yard touchdown on fourth-and-2 with 6:34 left—Young’s second fourth-down touchdown pass of the second half.
The Final Stand: Defensive tackle Derrick Brown delivered the final blow, stripping Stafford on a sack deep in Panthers territory with 2:25 left, allowing Carolina to recover the fumble and seal the victory.

The loss knocked the Rams out of the NFC’s coveted No. 1 seed, elevating the Chicago Bears to the top spot.

Broncos 27, Commanders 26 (OT): Bonitto’s Bat Preserves Denver’s Streak

In the Sunday Night Football thriller, the Denver Broncos (10-2) survived a heroic comeback attempt by the Washington Commanders (3-9), winning a nail-biting overtime classic 27-26. The Broncos extended their remarkable winning streak to nine consecutive games, often winning with late-game heroics.

Overtime Thriller: After the Commanders rallied late in the fourth quarter to force overtime with a field goal, Denver received the ball first and immediately marched down the field, scoring on a 5-yard touchdown run by running back RJ Harvey (who finished with 105 yards and two scores).
Going For The Win: Washington answered with a touchdown drive of their own, pulling within one point. Commanders coach Dan Quinn boldly decided to go for a two-point conversion and the win. Quarterback Marcus Mariota found an open receiver, but Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto leaped at the last second, batting the pass away to secure the 27-26 victory for Denver.
Nix and Harvey: Broncos quarterback Bo Nix threw for 321 yards in an up-and-down performance, while the consistent play of RJ Harvey proved the ultimate difference in the high-stakes game.

The dramatic win solidifies the Broncos’ hold on the AFC West lead and continues their surprising run as one of the league’s top teams.