5 Keys to Victory: Rams At 49ers

Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

The Rams meet the 49ers for the second time this season after losing 31-17 the first time around. Now the Blue and Gold are on the road against a tough division rival. Here are Ramblin’ Fan’s 5 Keys to Victoy for when St. Louis battles against San Francisco:

1.) Get the O-line solidified

Now that LT Jake Long is out for the season with a torn ACL, it will be paramount for the Rams to maintain a solid offensive line. RG Rodger Saffold and C Scott Wells should be able to play against the 49ers after they left the game last Sunday with injuries. Greg Robinson will move over to left tackle and G Davin Joseph should be inserted on the inside. St. Louis struggled to block edge rushers last time against San Francisco. This time around they’ll need to be prepared for stunts and blitzes off the edge if they want to have a chance to win.

2.) Step up for WR Brian Quick

Just as he began to break out and realize his immense potential, Quick’s season came to an end last week. The rest of the wideout group will need to fill the void he left. The front office signed WR Damian Williams from Miami this week. It will be interesting to see how involved, if at all, he will be against the 49ers.

3.) Contain QB Colin Kaepernick

Kaepernick shreds defenses with his arm and his legs if he is allowed to get outside the pocket. DE’s Robert Quinn and William Hayes must not get too far outside on their pass rush. If they do it will leave gaping holes on the edge that Kapernick can exploit. LB Alex Ogletree needs to play faster and take care of his responsibilities when he is asked to “spy” on the quarterback.

4.) Focus on WR Anquan Boldin

Boldin caught seven of nine targets for 94 yards and a touchdown earlier this year against the Rams. Due to TE Vernon Davis’ struggles, Boldin is Kapernick’s security blanket. He makes plays on third down and in the redzone. It will be important for the Rams to focus on taking him away in those situations.

5.) Offensive consistency

The Rams have a habit of starting strong and finishing flat (see weeks 3, 6 and 7). If they want to beat a talented and well-coached team like the 49ers they will need to play 60 minutes of good football. A strong quarter or half will not be enough to knock off a division rival on the road.

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