Puka Nacua Shines as Rams Secure Playoff Berth
Puka Nacua delivered a standout performance as the Los Angeles Rams clinched their playoff berth. The Rams edged the Detroit Lions 41-34 at SoFi Stadium, becoming the first NFC team to secure a spot in the postseason.
Puka Nacua’s Record-Setting Day
Nacua was instrumental in the victory, catching nine passes for a career-high 181 yards. His previous best was 170 yards, achieved against the Indianapolis Colts earlier in the season. He also recorded two carries for 8 yards.
This remarkable performance marked Nacua’s seventh regular-season game with over 150 receiving yards. He has now surpassed 100 receptions for the 2025 season, totaling 102 catches for 1,367 yards and six touchdowns. These figures place him second in the NFL for receptions and receiving yards.
Crucial Contributions During the Game
Throughout the game, Nacua made several key plays:
- Converted back-to-back fourth-down attempts with receptions of 6 and 10 yards, extending the Rams’ initial touchdown drive.
- Made a pivotal 36-yard catch, moving Los Angeles into the red zone for a go-ahead touchdown.
- Caught a 37-yard pass, setting up a field goal just before halftime, narrowing the score to 24-17 in favor of the Lions.
- Had a 39-yard reception leading to an 11-yard touchdown run, giving the Rams a 34-24 lead.
- His final reception, a 12-yard catch, set up another touchdown that extended the lead to 41-27 late in the game.
A Historical Moment for Nacua
This game was significant for Nacua, as it marked the first time he recorded back-to-back games with 120 or more receiving yards. He previously caught seven passes for 167 yards and two touchdowns against the Arizona Cardinals.
Nacua’s performance also aligned him with Rams legend Torry Holt. The 336 receiving yards he accumulated in the last two games are the highest by a Rams receiver since Holt did so in 2003. By surpassing 100 receptions this season, Nacua joined Holt as the only player in franchise history to achieve this milestone in two different seasons.
Looking Ahead: Rams’ Playoff Prospects
As the Rams prepare for their final three games of the regular season, they currently hold the NFC’s No. 1 seed. Their path to home-field advantage throughout the playoffs hinges on winning these matches:
- Week 16: December 18, at Seattle Seahawks
- Week 17: December 29, at Atlanta Falcons
- Week 18: TBD, vs. Arizona Cardinals
With Nacua’s exceptional form, the Rams are poised to make a deep playoff run this season.
