This Thursday, the San Francisco 49ers are set to face off against the Los Angeles Rams in a high-stakes NFC West matchup that could have major playoff implications. The 49ers (6-7) are currently on the outside looking in, sitting 11th in the NFC playoff standings. Meanwhile, the Rams (7-6) have a slightly better position at No. 8. With just a few weeks left in the regular season, both teams are fighting to stay alive in the race for the division and a spot in the postseason.
But with the Seattle Seahawks (8-5) leading the NFC West, this game is critical for both teams’ playoff hopes.
Let’s break down what to expect in this Thursday night showdown.
49ers Playoff Hopes Still Alive, But…
The San Francisco 49ers might be battling some internal and external challenges, but they’re still alive in the playoff race. Despite their 6-7 record, a win over the Rams could significantly improve their chances of sneaking into the postseason.
After a dominant win over the Chicago Bears last weekend, the Niners are hoping to carry momentum into Thursday’s game. However, the team has been dealing with some internal frustration, particularly from Deebo Samuel. Samuel tweeted and then deleted a post expressing his frustration over not getting enough touches in the win against Chicago. With only two catches and five carries in the blowout victory, it’s understandable that Samuel might feel overlooked, but his frustration could spur him to step up in this crucial NFC West clash.
The 49ers will also have to navigate through an injury-plagued season. While they could get linebacker Dre Greenlaw back after he missed most of last season following an Achilles injury, there are still key players like Nick Bosa and Trent Williams listed as questionable. Bosa is a game-changing force on defense, and Williams has been sorely missed on the offensive line.
Key Injuries to Watch
As of Wednesday’s injury update, the 49ers have several players on the injury report that could impact the outcome of Thursday’s game:
- Trent Williams (Ankle) – Out for the 4th consecutive game.
- Dre Greenlaw (Linebacker) – Questionable, but could return to play.
- Nick Bosa (Oblique) – Questionable, and could play a pivotal role in disrupting the Rams’ offense.
- Isaac Guerendo (Running Back) – Day-to-day with an ankle injury after filling in for Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason in Week 14.
The 49ers’ running back situation is particularly concerning, with both McCaffrey and Mason on injured reserve. If Guerendo is unavailable, the team will have to rely on Patrick Taylor, an undrafted player with limited career rushing yards, to carry the load.
Rams’ Resurgence: The “Big Four” Show Up
The Los Angeles Rams are experiencing a resurgence, thanks to the stellar performances of their key players, collectively known as the “Big Four” — Matthew Stafford, Kyren Williams, Cooper Kupp, and Puka Nacua. When all four are healthy and playing together, the Rams are 11-5, averaging 26.4 points per game.
However, when one of these stars is sidelined, the Rams struggle. Without one of their key offensive players, they drop to a 6-8 record with just 19.3 points per game.
- Matthew Stafford: The veteran quarterback has been in excellent form recently, throwing 10 touchdowns with zero interceptions in his last four games, all with the Big Four on the field.
- Kyren Williams: The versatile running back has become a key cog in the Rams’ offense, contributing both in the rushing and receiving game.
- Cooper Kupp: One of the NFL’s elite wide receivers, Kupp’s presence is a game-changer, making life much easier for Stafford.
- Puka Nacua: The rookie has been a revelation this season, showing excellent chemistry with Stafford and providing another big-play threat for the Rams.
If these four players are all active on Thursday, the Rams will pose a significant challenge to the 49ers’ defense.
How the 49ers Can Beat the Rams
The 49ers have faced the Rams three times since 2019, including in the playoffs, and they have won 9 of those 12 matchups. Despite their injuries and frustrations, the 49ers have an opportunity to avenge their Week 3 loss to the Rams, where they suffered a blowout defeat. Here are a few keys to the 49ers’ success:
1. Brock Purdy’s Consistency
Quarterback Brock Purdy has shown poise in big games, especially on Thursday Night Football, where he has an undefeated record. He will need to keep up his steady play, avoid turnovers, and make key throws, especially in the red zone.
2. Deebo Samuel’s Role
Samuel is a game-breaker, and his frustration could be just the motivation he needs to make a huge impact in this game. Getting him involved early and often in the offense will help keep the Rams’ defense on its heels. Whether as a receiver or a rusher, Samuel must be a focal point in the offense.
3. Defensive Pressure
Getting Nick Bosa and Dre Greenlaw back would significantly boost the defense. The 49ers’ defense must put pressure on Stafford and limit the impact of the Rams’ Big Four. Forcing Stafford into mistakes could be the key to victory.
4. Running Game
With injuries to the running back corps, the 49ers must establish a ground game. If Guerendo can’t go, it’s up to Patrick Taylor, Ke’Shawn Vaughn, or Israel Abanikanda to step up. Even with a banged-up backfield, the 49ers will need to control the clock and keep the Rams’ offense off the field.
What’s at Stake?
This game is crucial for both teams’ playoff chances. A loss for either side could essentially eliminate their chances of winning the NFC West or securing a wild-card spot. The 49ers are currently two games back of the Seahawks and one game behind the Rams. With just a few weeks left, there is no room for error.
Game Prediction
The 49ers will face a tough challenge on Thursday, but despite their injuries, they still have enough talent to edge out the Rams in a close battle. Look for Brock Purdy to manage the game effectively, with Deebo Samuel and George Kittle stepping up when needed. With the game being held at Levi’s Stadium, the home-field advantage should provide the 49ers with a slight edge.
49ers 27, Rams 24
Where to Watch
- Date: Thursday, Dec 12
- Time: 8:15 p.m. ET
- Location: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA
- Live Stream: Prime Video
- Odds: 49ers -3, Over/Under 49.5
This NFC West matchup is a must-win for both teams. For the 49ers, it’s a chance to stay alive in the playoff race while potentially improving their seeding. For the Rams, a victory could cement their place as a serious contender in the division. Expect a hard-fought game under the lights of Thursday Night Football, where every play could be the difference between continuing the season or watching the playoffs slip away.
