1) Great defensive effort
Up until Aaron Donald changed the game, the Niner defense completely stifled the Rams. Kerry Hyder provided edge pressure, the defensive backs made plays and prevented big ones, and Javon Kinlaw scored on an interception return.
Jared Goff was completely off-balance and the Rams had no ground game to speak of. Despite the offense giving the ball back twice to the Rams in the first half after the defense forced a turnover, Robert Saleh's unit never wavered and kept pounding.
In the second half, it was more of the same as the Rams could not score more than 2 field goals until Raheem Mostert fumbled late in the third quarter, resulting in a Rams' touchdown to cut the lead to 17-13.
After the 49ers were able to tie the game at 20, it was the defense again which came up with a big stop and gave the offense a chance. The entire defense deserves a game ball.
2) Deebo Samuel makes this offense so much better
There were not a ton of big plays for the San Francisco offense today, but of the handful that there were, most were by Deebo Samuel.
Samuel finished with 11 catches for 133 yards and so much of that yardage was after the catch. He finishes plays better than anyone in the league and was the spark on the final drive. His 24-yard catch and run on 3rd down was the big play that set up the field goal. He would have another two catches on that drive as the team set up Robbie Gould for the game winner. It was great to have Deebo back in the lineup. Next week, we will get to see Brandon Aiyuk and Samuel together.
3) Nick Mullens
While Mullens struggled today, he was also able to do just enough to get the win. Hopefully he will play better next week, but despite missed throws, he hung in there and led the 49ers to a win.
4) The offensive line
It was a rough outing for the offensive line, most notably, Mike McGlinchey. If the 49ers are going to mount any kind of run to the Wild Card, the offensive line has to do a better job.
It doesn't get much easier next week with the Bills coming to town. Hopefully Ben Garland will be back.
Extra Points
- Jimmie Ward was outstanding today with two forced fumbles, five tackles and one pass defensed. He played well all day. Hopefully, this continues.
- Javon Kinlaw had a monster pick six. It has been great to see him continue to improve each week. He is turning into a terrific pick, despite some writing him off before he ever played a down.
- Raheem Mostert did not have a great day. In fact, his fumble completely changed the game. Despite that, his presence gives the 49ers a legit run threat and he opens up the play action. He did score and had a number of good runs, including a 4-yarder which set up Gould for the winner.
- Kyle Juszczyk and Richie James each came up with big plays. Hopefully, they both will be utilized more in the passing game.
- Richard Sherman is back and had a nice interception. This secondary is deep and is now much better with him out there.
This was a great team win and it showcased the grit and heart of this team. Next up are the Buffalo Bills. The 49ers are only a game out of the final Wild Card spot and more guys are coming back from injury. Stay tuned!