Los Angeles Rams flex their dominance as Matthew Stafford leads the charge toward the NFL’s top seed. Are the Panthers able to halt the Rams surge and keep their NFC South title hopes alive?

Julian Council and Locked On Rams host Doug McKain break down key storylines, including the Rams' relentless pass rush, special teams upgrades, and Stafford’s MVP-caliber connection with Davante Adams and Puka Nacua. Insights include Carolina’s quarterback dilemma surrounding Bryce Young, mounting injury woes in the secondary, and the impact of upcoming divisional matchups. With the Panthers desperately seeking offensive balance and takeaway opportunities, the crew debates whether Carolina can capitalize on a cross-country holiday letdown or if LA will maintain its position atop the NFC. Don’t miss expert analysis on pivotal matchups, shifting narratives, and what it takes for both teams to secure victory in Week 13.

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Carolina Panthers squander prime opportunities in a frustrating 20-9 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, igniting fresh questions about Bryce Young’s future and Dave Canales’ playcalling. Can this team find any offensive balance as the season winds down, or is their identity already set? Julian Council breaks down the good (stellar defensive performances from Jaycee Horn and the resilient unit), the bad (minimal carries for running backs and another shaky outing for Young), and the ugly—highlighted by a costly suspension for Tre'von Moehrig after an on-field incident with Jauan Jennings.

Key topics include the Panthers continued struggles to sustain offensive drives, the fallout from a depleted secondary, and the addition of former Clemson standout Isaiah Simmons to the practice squad. With critical injuries mounting and only five games left, do the Panthers have any hope of turning it around before hard offseason decisions set in?

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Peloton

Let yourself run, lift, flex, and push forward. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ today at https://www.onepeloton.com.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

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In just over two weeks, the Carolina Panthers will draft what they hope to be their next franchise quarterback. But does that role involve more than just the on-field aspect? For a time, Cam Newton was the embodiment of Charlotte, NC, and the face of the city. Is there a prospect that could fulfill that same role that Newton played? Julian Council answers that among other listener questions in this week's edition of the Weekly Friday Mailbag.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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