6 Things I Learned in the Rams’ Week 3 Upset over the 49ers
John Canady
Host · Writer
The Rams Cannot Let Sean McVay Retire
Over the offseason, rumors emerged that Rams coach Sean MçVay could be looking to retire soon. However, the coach returned for another year and proved on Sunday why he’s one of the best football minds in the game. McVay outcoached Kyle Shanahan down the stretch of this NFC West rivalry game and his team clinched their first division win of the year.
Matthew Stafford is Still Elite
At 36, many wonder how much longer Matthew Stafford can continue performing at a high level. However, in Sunday’s win, the Georgia product played one of his best games of late. No, not in terms of touchdowns or flashy passes, but with the shortage of pass-catching options, the quarterback got the job done. Stafford made play after play to extend the team’s drives and kept the offense on the field. His ability to not force the issue, understand the situation, and still lead his team to a victory is just another reason the quarterback remains one of the best in the game.
Jauan Jennings Needs a Bigger Role
Jauan Jennings has been with the 49ers for the past four seasons, but unless you’re an avid football fan, you probably have never heard his name. With Deebo Samuel and George Kittle out of the lineup, the former Tennessee star showcased just how talented he is. With 11 receptions for 175 yards and three touchdowns, Jennings made his case for a more significant role in the San Francisco offense. As Brandon Aiyuk's struggles continue, he could very well get more opportunities.
Kyren Williams is Good at Finding the Endzone
Kyren Williams may not have put on a show-stopping performance in Sunday’s win, but the running back found the endzone twice in timely situations. Despite his 3.7 yards per carry, Williams finished the day with 89 rushing yards and 27 receiving yards ultimately giving his team the chance to win.
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Brock Purdy Managed the Game Well Without Key Stars
Brock Purdy has dealt with the narrative that he’s nothing more than a game manager since the former Mr. Irrelevant found success. However, the Iowa State alum proved that “game managers” can be crucial to a team’s success. Purdy finished the game completing 22 of 30 passes for 292 yards and three touchdowns. While the 49ers lost, the quarterback kept his team in the driver's seat for the majority of the game while down key pieces of the offense.
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The Rams' Secondary is a Glaring Weakness
Through three weeks of regular season play, one of the biggest concerns for the Rams has been their lack of consistency in the secondary. After a bad loss to the Cardinals last week, the issue presented itself yet again as the Niners' third-best wide receiver had a career day. Although Los Angeles won, the team will need the secondary to figure their issues out as it could be a long season for LA’s offense.
The Rams Cannot Let Sean McVay Retire
Over the offseason, rumors emerged that Rams coach Sean MçVay could be looking to retire soon. However, the coach returned for another year and proved on Sunday why he’s one of the best football minds in the game. McVay outcoached Kyle Shanahan down the stretch of this NFC West rivalry game and his team clinched their first division win of the year.
Matthew Stafford is Still Elite
At 36, many wonder how much longer Matthew Stafford can continue performing at a high level. However, in Sunday’s win, the Georgia product played one of his best games of late. No, not in terms of touchdowns or flashy passes, but with the shortage of pass-catching options, the quarterback got the job done. Stafford made play after play to extend the team’s drives and kept the offense on the field. His ability to not force the issue, understand the situation, and still lead his team to a victory is just another reason the quarterback remains one of the best in the game.
