Having lost each of their last two games, the Los Angeles Rams need to bounce back with a win over the 4-0 San Francisco 49ers. Doing so won’t be easy, given the talent on San Francisco’s roster and the injuries that are mounting for the Rams.
Here are the biggest causes for concern facing Los Angeles this weekend as Sean McVay’s team takes on one of its biggest rivals.
Injuries piling up
Todd Gurley is doubtful and Aqib Talib has already been ruled out as both players came out of last week’s loss to the Seahawks banged up. Those are two significant blows to the Rams as they’ll be without two key starters. Gurley will be replaced by Malcolm Brown and Darrell Henderson, while Troy Hill will take Talib’s spot.
Gurley hasn’t been his usually explosive and playmaking self this season, but he’s such a well-rounded running back who can do everything he’s asked. Brown has a similar skill set, but there will still be some drop-off from Gurley to the backup.
Talib has had his share of struggles this season, but Hill is as inconsistent as any corner in the league. The 49ers could target him early in coverage, testing him after getting very little playing time this season.
It’s also worth mentioning that Clay Matthews isn’t available, either, after breaking his jaw last week. Samson Ebukam will get the start at outside linebacker, replacing the Rams’ leader in sacks.
49ers’ relentless pass rush
The 49ers pass rush is one of the best in the league, boasting a defensive line that has five former first-round picks: Dee Ford, Nick Bosa, DeForest Buckner, Arik Armstead and Solomon Thomas. The Rams’ offensive line has not done a good job protecting Jared Goff this season and the running lanes haven’t been gaping like in years past.
Blocking the 49ers’ deep group of pass rushers will be a challenge for Los Angeles, particularly on the interior with Brian Allen, Joseph Noteboom and Austin Blythe. Without good protection, Goff won’t be able to hit deep passes or capitalize on play-action passes.
Stopping the NFL’s best rushing attack
The 49ers have averaged an even 200 yards rushing per game this season, doing it with a committee of running backs. Matt Breida is one of the faster backs in the league, as is Tevin Coleman. They can both score from anywhere on the field, which was proved on Monday night when Breida ripped off an 83-yard run on the 49ers’ first play from scrimmage.
The Rams’ linebackers need to be disciplined in their gaps and not bite on pre-snap motion or play fakes. Cory Littleton and Bryce Hager will be a big part of this game with the number of times San Francisco figures to run the ball.
Of course, the defensive line will be responsible for stopping the run, too, but the backs are bound to get to the second level. That’s where Littleton and Co. come into play.
