A primetime rivalry showdown awaits the Rams in Week 5 as they host the 49ers on Thursday Night Football. Kickoff on Thursday from SoFi Stadium in Inglewood is scheduled for 5:15 p.m. pacific time on Amazon Prime Video.
Here are 3 Keys to Winning for the Rams against the 49ers, presented by The Law Offices of Jacob Emrani (CallJacob.com).
1) Minimize Christian McCaffrey's impact
The 49ers running back has been the engine powering their offense despite missing multiple key players due to injury. His 530 total yards from scrimmage are third-most in the NFL entering Week 5, and San Francisco's dependency on him will only increase with quarterback Brock Purdy (toe) and wide receivers Ricky Pearsall (knee) and Jauan Jennings (ankle/rib) ruled out for Thursday night's game.
2) Capitalize on takeaways
San Francisco's turnover differential of minus-5 (three takeaways to eight giveaways) is third-worst in the league going into Week 5. Just like last week against Indianapolis, Los Angeles will need to turn those takeaways into points when those opportunities arise.
3) Be strategic about attacking the second level of the 49ers' defense
All-Pro linebacker Fred Warner is one of the best in the game for many reasons, but especially his range, ability to occupy space and football IQ. Whether it's a run play in his direction or throwing passes over the middle, the Rams will need to know where he is at all times.
