The 49ers have a tough challenge ahead facing one of the most productive defensive lines in the NFL, but the Los Angeles Rams also will offer plenty of opportunities on Thursday at SoFi Stadium.
The Rams’ defensive line is young and talented, generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks at a high rate, according to ProFootballFocus. Pass-rush specialist Jared Verse has racked up 18 pressures through four weeks — five in the Rams’ Week 4 win over the Indianapolis Colts.
The Rams’ defense as a unit tallied 25 total pressures in Week 4, three more than the 49ers have in a single game this season. Byron Young (16) and Kobie Turner (12) hold the next-highest pressures on the team behind Verse.
Los Angeles is tough defensively, but the 49ers’ offensive line has done a decent job, allowing just three quarterback sacks through four games. The 49ers’ offensive front, however, led by left tackle Trent Williams, allowed a season-high 16 pressures in their loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, 11 in the win over the Arizona Cardinals, six against the New Orleans Saints and 13 in the opener against the Seattle Seahawks.
Where the 49ers might have an advantage is with their own defensive line, but the group will need to produce more than they did in their Week 4 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, when they were unable to record a single quarterback sack or hit. The defense did record five hurries — their only single-digit pressure total this season.
Edge rusher Bryce Huff will suit up for his second game without Nick Bosa, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 3. The 49ers’ offseason addition will look to improve upon his two hurry-game against Trevor Lawrence.
The 49ers’ defense previously registered 22 pressures in two consecutive games — in Weeks 2 and 3, and 10 in the season opener.
Conversely, the Rams’ offensive line has struggled in protecting quarterback Matthew Stafford. The group also could be without starting right tackle Robert Havenstein, who is doubtful to play with an ankle injury.
The Rams’ offensive line allowed 25 pressures to the Indianapolis Colts after giving up 35 pressures through the first three weeks.
A productive game for the 49ers’ defensive line might not only tip the scales on the scoreboard, but give confidence to the young group that includes first-round pick Mykel Williams and second round selection Alfred Collins.
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