INGLEWOOD, Calif. – Puka Nacua’s attention to detail paid off in a big way for the Los Angeles Rams in their 44-42 upset win over the Buffalo Bills on Sunday.
The young receiver, known for his meticulous approach, worked on his toe-tapping skills with coaches, including position coaches and quarterback Matthew Stafford, to improve his ability to stay in bounds.
Nacua’s training paid off with two highlight-reel catches, including a 19-yard reception and another diving, toe-dragging catch in the second half.
“I just try to make the plays when the ball comes my way,” Nacua said. “No. 9 [Stafford] does a great job of orchestrating our offense, putting the ball in the place where it needs to be for us to make plays. I’m grateful to that guy, and all of our guys for contributing to this win.”
Nacua finished with 12 receptions for 162 yards on 14 targets, 178 total yards, and two touchdowns, earning him Tom Brady’s LFG Player of the Game.
Nacua’s performance marked his second history-making game, as he became just the second player in league history with at least 150 receptions, 2,000 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns through his first 25 games.
Head coach Sean McVay praised Nacua, saying, “An igniter is one of the biggest compliments I can give somebody. You elevate everyone around you, and you bring an energy to this football team. And he certainly did that today.”
The Rams’ 44-point performance was a season high, and they remain in the hunt for a division title after their win.