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The Rams shut down Saquon Barkley. They neutralized Jonathan Taylor.
Now right here comes Christian McCaffrey.
On Thursday evening, the Rams’ protection will get one other alternative to show it ought to be regarded among the many NFL’s greatest when the San Francisco 49ers and their multidimensional star operating again go to SoFi Stadium.
The injury-riddled 49ers (3-1), with victories over the Seattle Seahawks (3-1) and Arizona Cardinals (2-2), are in first place within the NFC West. The Rams (3-1) can transfer into first place with a victory within the division opener.
A key will likely be giving McCaffrey the identical remedy Barkley obtained in a crushing defeat by the Philadelphia Eagles, and that Taylor endured throughout the Rams’ victory over the Indianapolis Colts final Sunday.
Barkley, the reigning NFL offensive participant of the 12 months, gained solely 46 yards in 18 carries. Taylor, the NFL’s main rusher, gained 76 yards in 17 carries.
McCaffrey is averaging 56.3 yards speeding and 76.3 yards receiving per recreation. However the Rams are well-acquainted along with his breakaway risk.
“He’s a fast dude who can bounce it outside,” Rams edge rusher Jared Verse mentioned. “He can run downhill, he can make you pay if you leave even the smallest crease just like we faced the past two weeks.
“I think the biggest threat that he adds is his ability to receive, like he’s leading them in receptions for a reason. He’s leading them in yards for a reason. He’s a dangerous back when you get to it.”
For the reason that 49ers outbid the Rams to accumulate McCaffrey on the commerce deadline in 2022, McCaffrey has performed in opposition to the Rams twice.
In 2022, he rushed for 94 yards and a landing, caught eight passes — together with one for a landing — and handed for a landing within the 49ers’ 31-14 victory.
In 2023, he rushed for 116 yards and a landing in a 30-23 victory for the 49ers.
“We know they’re going to target him,” Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula mentioned. “He’s going to be the focal point of their offense and it’s just a huge challenge.”
McCaffrey, nevertheless, will likely be working in an offense that will likely be with out key a number of gamers due to accidents.
Quarterback Brock Purdy and receivers Ricky Pearsall, Jauan Jennings and Jordan Watkins won’t play. Star tight finish George Kittle stays on injured reserve for not less than another recreation.
Mac Jones will begin instead of Purdy.
