The Rams host the 49ers in their 2024 regular season home opener on Sunday, with kickoff at SoFi Stadium scheduled for 1:25 p.m. pacific time on FOX.
In advance of the contest, here are 3 Keys to Winning for the Rams, presented by The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani (CallJacob.com).
1) Next man up
The Rams will be shorthanded going into this matchup, especially on offense with Cooper Kupp, Puka Nacua, Steve Avila, Jonah Jackson and Joe Noteboom all out.
So, for those stepping up at wide receiver or along the offensive line, it's critical for them to have full ownership and responsibility of their role – i.e. Demarcus Robinson, Tyler Johnson, Jordan Whittington, Tutu Atwell, Beaux Limmer, and whoever gets the nod at left guard.
2) Capitalize on absences of 49ers playmakers
Running back Christian McCaffrey and wide receiver Deebo Samuel being out takes away two of San Francisco's most valuable skill players when it comes to yards after the catch. In that same vein, tight end George Kittle is also doubtful to play with a hamstring injury. If Kittle doesn't end up playing, his absence combined with McCaffrey's and Samuel's would remove 55.6% of the 49ers' 471 targets from last season. In other words, that trio represents a sizable portion of quarterback Brock Purdy's weapons.
Of course, star receiver Brandon Aiyuk has that YAC capability, too, but taking advantage of a banged-up 49ers offense will be crucial for the Rams defense.
That also goes for the Rams offense, with defensive end Nick Bosa questionable to play with a rib injury and cornerback Charvarius Ward also questionable to play with hamstring/knee injuries.
3) Protect Stafford
San Francisco's defensive front annually presents one of the most physical and demanding matchups for Los Angeles' offensive line. Whether Bosa plays or not, giving quarterback Matthew Stafford a clean pocket to operate out of will be critical to L.A.'s offense operating efficiently.
