The San Francisco 49ers are set to face the Los Angeles Rams for the second time this season, this time at Levi’s Stadium, in another defining divisional matchup.

When these two teams met earlier in the year in Los Angeles, the 49ers stunned the Rams. Led by quarterback Mac Jones, the Niners torched the L.A. defense as an eight point underdog. Now, San Francisco looks to repeat that performance on home turf, but they’ll have to do it with a defense that’s becoming increasingly thin.

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Mac Jones and the 49ers Offense Finding Rhythm

Mac Jones delivered one of the best games of his career in the first meeting between these teams, commanding Kyle Shanahan’s offense with poise and precision. Since then, he’s grown more comfortable in San Francisco’s system, showing sharper timing and better chemistry with his receivers.

The 49ers’ offensive unit remains their greatest weapon this season. Christian McCaffrey continues to be the engine. Expect the game plan to once again run through McCaffrey, with Jones leaning on him in both the run and passing game to open up opportunities downfield.

The offensive line also turned in one of its best performances of the season against New York, led by standout rookie guard Dominick Puni and right tackle Colton McKivitz. If they can replicate that effort against Kobie Turner and the Rams’ front, they should have a chance to stay efficient and effective.

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Defense Pushed to Its Limits

While the 49ers’ offense is trending upward, the defense faces more adversity. The unit was already banged up heading into last week’s win over the Giants, and things got even worse when rookie edge rusher Mykel Williams went down with a torn ACL. The loss further depletes a defensive front that’s already been rotating heavily to manage fatigue and injuries. San Francisco elected to stand pat at the trade deadline and move forward with what they have.

Without Williams, depth will be tested again. Young players like Robert Beal Jr. and Kevin Givens will be asked to take on larger roles, while the secondary will once again need to hold strong against an experienced Los Angeles passing attack. To contain Matthew Stafford and the Rams’ receivers, the 49ers will need their front seven to generate consistent pressure and prevent Stafford from getting comfortable in the pocket.

Rams Outlook

Los Angeles enters this matchup on a three-game win streak, with their last loss coming from San Francisco. Matthew Stafford remains as tough as ever, and his connection with standout receivers gives the Rams one of the more dynamic passing games in the conference. Expect Sean McVay to test the Niners’ shorthanded defense early and often, using quick throws and motion to keep San Francisco guessing.

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If the Rams can neutralize McCaffrey and force Jones into tough situations, they’ll have a chance. But if the 49ers’ offensive line holds up and McCaffrey finds space, San Francisco could once again control the game from start to finish.

Outlook

The 49ers have shown they can beat the Rams even when the odds are stacked against them. However, doing it twice in the same season will require discipline, creativity, and another strong showing from Mac Jones. Despite the growing list of injuries, San Francisco’s offense has kept them squarely in the NFC playoff picture.

If Jones stays poised and McCaffrey continues to dominate, the 49ers have every reason to believe they can pull off another win.

Prediction: 49ers 27, Rams 23.