Puka Nacua continues to make his mark on the NFL whenever he stepson the football field, and the Los Angeles Rams are benefiting from it.
Nacua had an off night by his standards in the Rams’ win over the Chicago Bears in the NFC Divisional Playoffs, finishing with 5 receptions for 56 yards on 10 targets. That was still enough for him to continue his rapid ascension up the Rams’ franchise leaderboards.
His latest feat saw him surpass a member of The Greatest Show on Turf.
Rams Announce Puka Nacua Update
GettyMatthew Stafford #9 and wide receiver Puka Nacua #12 of the Los Angeles Rams look on against the Houston Texans.
“Puka Nacua passed Isaac Bruce (463) for the second-most receiving yards for a Rams player through five postseason games (489),” Los Angeles Rams PR posted on X on January 20.
Nacua led the NFL in receptions during the regular season.
He also led in receiving first downs. After beating the Bears, though, Nacua lamented his inefficiency, noting how much pride the Rams’ offense takes in moving the ball down the field efficiently.
The Rams were 5-for-16 on third downs, while quarterback Matthew Stafford was 3-for-2 to Nacua on those downs.
“I think of the opportunities, where, man, on some of those third downs, where the ball’s coming to me. Especially even on those early downs to get ahead of their sticks, and the opportunities for me to continue to help our offense stay ahead of the ball and, obviously, get first downs. I pride myself on being able to create separation on third down, and that’s the money down for a wide receiver,” Nacua told reporters on January 18.
“I’ll be better next week.”
Stafford also accomplished more history in the contest, with the PR team noting on January 1 that he “led the Rams on his second game-winning drive this postseason and the 55th of his career (fourth-most all-time). He also tied Eli Manning for the third-most postseason game-winning drives in NFL history (5).”
Next, Nacua, Stafford, and the Rams will look to continue their winning ways with a berth in the Super Bowl on the line.
Puka Nacua Looking Forward to Facing ‘All Father’ Cooper Kupp
GettyPuka Nacua #12 of the Los Angeles Rams celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks.
Nacua and the Rams will face the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game after splitting their two meetings in the regular season. Nacua had a 19-300-2 line on 24 looks in those contests.
He is looking forward to a rematch against the Rams’ NFC West rivals, who overtook them for the No. 1 seed late in the regular season.
Nacua is also eager to see former Rams teammate and fellow wideout Cooper Kupp again.
“I think there’s no way the football gods would rather have it be than for us to go back up there in Seattle, and see the ‘All Father’ (Kupp), and get a chance to right our wrong,” Nacua said. “It’ll be a great challenge for us, and we’re excited for it.
LA lost in overtime in Seattle for their second matchup against the Seahawks during the regular season. They are 6-4 in Seattle under head coach Sean McVay, including the postseason.
The Rams are 2-1 on the road against the Seahawks with Nacua.
Rams Issue Puka Nacua Update After Strong Message on Seahawks