As the NFL playoffs approach, the spotlight is on rookie kicker Harrison Mevis of the Los Angeles Rams, who finds himself in a pivotal position. In critical postseason games, outcomes can often hinge on the skill of kickers, as evidenced by the recent exit of the Baltimore Ravens, whose rookie kicker, Tyler Loop, missed a crucial 44-yard kick in the dying moments of their game. Despite a strong performance throughout the season, Loop’s miss underscores the pressure that accompanies playoff scenarios for young players.
The Rams have a storied history of relying on kickers in high-pressure situations. Kickers like Greg Zuerlein and Matt Gay have previously delivered in clutch moments, propelling the team to significant victories. The question now is whether Mevis can rise to the occasion when it matters most.
So far in the 2025 season, Mevis has performed admirably, successfully converting all extra points and hitting 12 of 13 field goals, including one from over 50 yards. However, he experienced a moment of struggle during a critical game against the Seattle Seahawks, where he missed a game-tying kick before redeeming himself with another attempt that took the game into overtime. Despite this, the Rams ultimately lost, a situation exacerbated by their ongoing special teams issues throughout the season.
While it’s unfair to place the blame solely on Mevis for the Rams’ standings and playoff outcome, fans are left wondering if he could face similar pressure as Loop did for the Ravens. Fortunately for the Rams, they are significant favorites against the Carolina Panthers, which may reduce the chances of the game coming down to a last-minute field goal.
However, for Rams fans, the uncertainty surrounding Mevis’s ability to handle playoff pressure remains. As they gear up for the upcoming matchup, all eyes will be on the rookie kicker to see if he can deliver when the stakes are highest, potentially cementing his place in Rams lore if he performs well. The hope is that his previous experiences, both good and bad, will prepare him for this critical juncture.