Two injury-plagued teams face off Sunday as the San Francisco 49ers visit the Los Angeles Rams. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Under 43 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
49ers vs. Rams
Sunday, September 22, 2024 – 04:25 PM ET at SoFi Stadium
San Francisco Falters in Minnesota
The 49ers put forth a lackluster performance in their 23-17 loss against the Vikings, marking the second consecutive season they were held to 17 points by Minnesota. In a surprising turn, former 49ers backup Sam Darnold, now with the Vikings, outperformed Brock Purdy during Minnesota’s eighth straight home win against San Francisco.
The Niners coughed up the ball twice, including one costly turnover that led to a Minnesota touchdown. Additionally, they gave up a 97-yard touchdown pass and had a punt blocked, which set up a Vikings field goal.
Despite the miscues, Purdy managed to throw for 319 yards, completing 26 of 38 passes with one touchdown and one interception. Meanwhile, Darnold completed 17 of 26 passes for 268 yards, delivering two touchdowns and one interception.
Running back Jordan Mason shouldered the load with 20 carries for 100 yards and a touchdown, while Deebo Samuel reeled in eight receptions for 110 yards. With Christian McCaffrey sidelined due to lingering calf and Achilles injuries and Samuel out for two weeks with a calf strain, the 49ers will look to Brandon Aiyuk to fill the void.
San Francisco found themselves down by 10 points at halftime, and several costly mistakes throughout the game kept them from mounting a comeback.
Rams’ Season Spiraling After Blowout Loss
The Rams were trounced 41-10 by the Cardinals in Week 2, with Kyler Murray showcasing his skills, including a highlight-reel touchdown pass while escaping pressure.
This marked the Rams’ second consecutive defeat, fueling concerns about their defensive unit.
Injuries continue to plague the team, with star wide receiver Cooper Kupp potentially headed to injured reserve due to an ankle injury. Head coach Sean McVay didn’t mince words, expressing frustration and emphasizing that no positives could be drawn from the loss.
The Rams allowed 231 rushing yards, with James Conner racking up 122 yards on 21 carries. Despite the blowout, rookie Jared Verse was a bright spot, tallying seven tackles and forcing a fumble, offering some hope for the future.
Still, the Rams’ defense couldn’t contain rookie wideout Marvin Harrison Jr., and with the 49ers looming, adjustments are critical if Los Angeles hopes to avoid a season-destroying skid.
NFL Pick
Both teams enter the game with key players nursing injuries. The 49ers will be without McCaffrey and Samuel, while the Rams could miss Puka Nacua (knee) for over a month. Kupp (ankle), guard Jonah Jackson (shoulder), and safety John Johnson III (shoulder) are also expected to miss extended time for the Rams.
Injuries have taken a toll on both sides, drastically limiting offensive firepower. San Francisco’s turnover struggles continue to undermine their scoring chances, while both defenses are capable of exploiting the offensive weaknesses, suggesting a low-scoring affair on Sunday.
NFL Pick: Under 43 (-110) at Bet365
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