Rivalry week is upon us and the upstart "Big Brother" Rams come into Levi's Staduim looking for revenge against their "Little Brother" for their Week 5 meltdown at SoFi. The Rams come into this game with advantages on both sides of the ball but not on Special Teams, where the 49ers rank near the top, while the Rams rank near the bottom. McVay has swapped out his kicker and long snapper this week in an attempt to shore it up. The 49ers special teams has contributed to wins for the 49ers and they just might do it again in this game with the emergence of BRob at kick returner last week.
Offensively the 49ers cannot afford to get into a shootout. They need their offensive line to set the tone early on the ground and dominate the time of possession. Pair that with an explosive play or two and they'll give themselves a chance. Look for Kittle to be heavily involved downfield in that endeavor.
Defensively the game within the game will come down to how much Bethune has learned since replacing Fred Warner. Will Stafford abuse him or can he up his game in coverage, because he's been a tackling machine against the run. Their defensive line could see a new face this week as the "Hulk" will see his first activation this year in an attempt to bolster the depth with week 5's hero, Alfred Collins whose availability is in question. I've got the Rams winning this game 27-20 but I hope like hell I'm wrong. Go Niners!
If I were a betting man I would take the Rams, but I am not so I am taking the Niners 23 - 21. In my case optimism overrules experience.
ReplyDeleteDitto
DeleteMy head says Rams, but my heart says 9ers..Shut up head. fixed it!
ReplyDelete