McVay and Stafford: Everything on the line vs 49ers

Redemption for either Shanahan or McVay

Shanahan is still looking to redeem himself from the blown 28-3 lead with the Atlanta Falcons when he was the offensive coordinator in the Super Bowl LI loss to the New England Patriots. He also had a lead in Super Bowl LIV, the game played just two years ago against the Kansas City Chiefs. In that one, that same pattern repeated. Shanahan’s team had another offensive collapse coupled with more clock management issues.

Shanahan’s late-game tactics have been questionable at times and have caused his teams to hold their collective breaths with fourth-quarter leads.

Exorcising ghosts

The Dallas Cowboys almost came back in the divisional round, but they just ran out of time. Ghosts of the past haunt the 49ers team as well.

Although when the Rams and 49ers last met the roles were reversed with the 49ers erasing a 17-0 lead to come back and get into the NFL Playoffs. The Rams could’ve had a better seed and eliminated the 49ers. The Rams have the more talented roster, but it’s clear the 49ers present a difficult matchup for them.

Shanahan has done a great job of not asking QB Jimmy Garappalo not to do too much. He’s focused on maximizing his strengths in the offense. The defense and playmakers have largely carried Garappalo. Although Garappalo still deserves credit for being a winner. After all, he is 37-15 as a starter including the playoffs. His win percentage of .712 ranks fifth all-time among young quarterbacks in their first 50 starts. Despite his winning, this could very well be his last game as a 49er with Rookie QB Trey Lance waiting in the wings.

Bottom line, who will get it done on Sunday?