THURSDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
Thursday, October 2, 2025 8:15 PM EST
SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA
Rams -8.5 | Over/Under: 43.5
Both teams 3–1 and fighting for early NFC West control. This Thursday night matchup sets the tone for the division.
Snapshot
All Time Series
49ers lead 78–71–3
Recent Games
Dec 12, 2024: Rams 12, 49ers 6
Sep 22, 2024: Rams 27, 49ers 24
Jan 7, 2024: Rams 21, 49ers 20
Trends
Rams have won the last three meetings, signaling a psychological advantage at home.
Divisional Impact
NFC West standings depend heavily on this game
the loser could fall behind early.
Week 4 Recap
49ers 3–1
Wins vs. Saints and Titans, loss to jags in Week 4. As Offensive struggles without Brock Purdy started to show.
Rams 3–1
Wins vs. colts, titans, and texans, losing to the Eagles week 3. Defense has been more consistent than offense, but Stafford leads a dangerous passing attack.
Injuries
49ers Injuries
QB Brock Purdy questionable likely out (turf toe)
WRs Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall, Jordan Watkins OUT
TE George Kittle IR
DL Robert Beal Jr. OUT
DL C.J. West QUESTIONABLE
DL Nick Bosa IR
Rams Injuries
TE Tyler Higbee DOUBTFUL
OT Rob Havenstein DOUBTFUL
49ers will lean heavily on McCaffrey and secondary receivers
Rams may shuffle the O line depending on Havenstein’s status.
Offensive Breakdown
49ers
Christian McCaffrey is the centerpiece
Mac Jones will rely on quick passes and screens.
Offensive line depth could limit long developing plays.
Rams
Stafford uses tempo and quick reads to counter pressure.
Kyren Williams offers a dual threat backfield presence.
Defensive Breakdown
49ers
Injury weakened D line could struggle against Rams running game.
Secondary is solid but will be tested against Stafford’s passing schemes.
Rams
Pass rush led by a young core will test Mac Jones’ mobility and the 49ers backup O line.
Coverage in the secondary is opportunistic, likely to target inexperienced 49ers WRs.
X-Factors
McCaffrey vs. Rams Front Seven
Will the 49ers be able to run effectively to open play action opportunities?
Stafford vs. 49ers Secondary
Mac Jones may have to throw under pressure if Rams win the line battles.
Special Teams
Punt and kick coverage could flip field position in a low scoring affair.
Schemes
49ers
Run Heavy Attack
Paired against Rams aggressive front seven
success depends on McCaffrey’s versatility and Jones mobility.
Rams
Quick Passing Game
Designed to exploit 49ers depleted secondary
short throws and tempo can neutralize 49ers pass rush.
Adjustments
Both teams likely to mix zone and man coverage
defensive substitutions critical for Rams to maintain pressure while covering McCaffrey in open space.
Keys to Victory
49ers
Protect Mac Jones, establish the run, limit turnovers, convert 3rd downs.
Rams
Pressure the QB, stop the run, control clock, capitalize on short field opportunities.
Edge
The Rams' three game streak over 49ers provides confidence 49ers must play disciplined, clean football.
49ers Rookie Secondary Starters
Upton Stout (CB)
Drafted: 3rd Round, 2025 NFL Draft
In Week 4, Stout allowed just 8 yards in coverage and executed a key interception, though it was negated by a controversial pass interference penalty.
Ji'Ayir Brown (S)
Drafted: 2nd Round, 2025 NFL Draft
Brown's versatility has been increasingly utilized, with his role expanding to support both run defense and pass coverage.
Turnover Margin Impact
49ers Secondary
The rookie cornerbacks will be under pressure to generate turnovers.
Their ability to read the quarterback and make plays on the ball will be crucial.
Rams Defense
With a strong pass rush and experienced secondary, the Rams are likely to force turnovers. Capitalizing on these opportunities will be key to their success.
Pressure Situations
3rd Down Conversions
Both teams will focus on converting third downs to sustain drives. The performance of the rookie cornerbacks in critical situations will be a determining factor.
Red Zone Efficiency
Scoring touchdowns in the red zone will be vital. The 49ers ability to execute with a backup quarterback and limited receiving options will be tested.
Hidden Statistical Advantages
Rams' Pass Rush
Ranked 9th in the NFL with 14 sacks and 20 tackles for loss, the Rams defensive line can disrupt the 49ers offense, especially with a backup quarterback under center.
49ers Rushing Attack
Led by Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers ground game ranks in the
top 5
Establishing the run will be essential to control the clock and alleviate pressure on Mac Jones.
Momentum Factors
49ers Resilience
Despite numerous injuries, the 49ers depth and coaching staff's ability to adapt will be tested. A strong performance could bolster team morale.
Rams Confidence
With a healthy roster and recent successes, the Rams enter the game with confidence. Maintaining composure in high pressure situations will be key.
Props
Mac Jones
Over/under on passing yards. Given the 49ers depleted receiving corps, Jones may lean heavily on short to intermediate throws.
Kyren Williams Over on rushing touchdowns. With the 49ers defensive line banged up, Williams could have opportunities to find the end zone.
Total Points Over/under on total points scored
With both teams dealing with injuries and adjustments, the game could lean towards a lower scoring affair.
Prediction
Prediction: Rams 27, 49ers 20