Not a single touchdown was scored, but the Los Angeles Rams picked up a crucial NFC West victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday night, 12-6. The Rams moved to 8-6, while the 49ers fell to 6-8.
Both quarterbacks, Matthew Stafford for the Rams and Brock Purdy of the 49ers, had fantastic Week 14 performances, leading many to believe that this game would be an offensive onslaught. However, with some first-half rain not helping matters, both offenses were out of sync, and big defensive plays were being made to stymie some of the game’s best weapons with the ball in their hands.
The Rams’ Puka Nacua, who had two scores and over 170 yards last game, broke out for a 51-yard catch to immediately get back in 49ers’ territory. However, Los Angeles was unable to convert from two yards out for a first down.
The 49ers were dying to respond, but Purdy took a shot deep downfield to Jauan Jennings, who was intercepted by Darious Williams. Stafford and head coach Sean McVay were looking to be methodical to churn the clock and hoped they could close out the game.
Rams kicker Josh Karty nailed his fourth field goal with just 20 seconds left to force the 49ers to score a touchdown for the win. With not enough time left to make that happen, the Rams moved themselves into great playoff chances, while the 49ers’ hopes got even slimmer than they already were.
