Story perspectives

Playoff Controversy: Rams' Kickoff Error Sparks Debate

1/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

An error occurred during the wild-card playoff game between the Los Angeles Rams and Carolina Panthers on January 14, 2026, when the second-half kickoff was incorrectly placed at the Rams' 40-yard line instead of the 35-yard line.
Both teams and the officiating crew failed to notice the mistake, leading to the Rams going three-and-out.
The Panthers subsequently tied the game with a field goal, but the Rams won 34-31.
The Rams later acknowledged the error, while the Panthers did not report it to the NFL for review.

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Story summary

An error occurred during the wild-card playoff game between the Los Angeles Rams and Carolina Panthers on January 14, 2026, when the second-half kickoff was incorrectly placed at the Rams' 40-yard line instead of the 35-yard line.
Both teams and the officiating crew failed to notice the mistake, leading to the Rams going three-and-out.
The Panthers subsequently tied the game with a field goal, but the Rams won 34-31.
The Rams later acknowledged the error, while the Panthers did not report it to the NFL for review.