5 Keys To Victory: San Francisco 49ers At St. Louis Rams

Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The Rams enter a primetime Monday Night Football matchup at home against the San Francisco 49ers. The Rams are on a two game skid after two tough losses to the Eagles and Cowboys. They’ll look to swing positive momentum their way with a win on national television. Here are Ramblin’ Fan’s 5 Keys to Victory for the Rams as they take on the 49ers:

1.) Smother TE Vernon Davis

Davis has been slowed by a back injury that has him listed as questionable for his matchup with the Rams. It looks like he’ll play, however, and the Rams would be wise to make sure he doesn’t stretch the field with his freakish speed. Davis has historically been a Ram killer, as he has caught a touchdown is his last two games against them. LB Alec Ogletree and S TJ McDonald will need to keep constant tabs on him to help their team get a victory.

2.) Make the 49ers one-dimensional

When they are unable to establish the run, San Francisco struggles to find a rhythm offensively. The Rams will need to load the box and force QB Colin Kaepernick to beat them with his arm. If they are unable to do that, RB Frank Gore will put up some big numbers.

3.) Limit penalties

The Rams have a nasty habit of shooting themselves in the foot with boneheaded penalties. A recent unnecessary roughness infraction by Ray Ray Armstrong caused him to be released by the organization. Hopefully his departure will send a message to the team that undisciplined play will not be accepted any longer.

4.) Play physical

Rams vs. 49ers games are always smash mouth events. The key will be for the Rams to establish their identity as a tough team while also limiting penalties. If the front seven can hit the 49ers in the mouth and rattle them, they’ll force them to make mistakes and turnovers.

5.) Exploit the 49ers secondary

Aside from S Eric Reid, San Francisco is vulnerable in the back end of their defense. QB Austin Davis  should take some deep shots to WR’s Tavon Austin and Brian Quick. TE Jared Cook will also be given several opportunities to run up the seam and run routes against linebackers.

Check back with us after the game to see our Keys to Victory: Revisted