Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson were not the problem in Rams' loss vs 49ers

An NFL defense needs time to gel. While there was little to love about the Los Angeles Rams sleepwalking through their disastrous Week 1 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, some areas did flash promise despite being overshadowed by the gloomy outcome.

Of course, in terms of the defensive line, the story fizzles out pretty quickly. Myles Garrett was a non-event, generating no measurable impact in the box score. But cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson provide some reasons for optimism.

No, their statistical production was not extraordinary: eight tackles, two pass breakups, no interceptions. On five targets, however, they allowed just two receptions for 15 yards, although one resulted in a touchdown for 49ers receiver Mike Evans.

The Niners executed the perfect game plan against a low-energy LA defense, grinding out the clock with 30 runs and 34 passes. Only one pass sailed farther than 20 yards: a touchdown strike to DeMarcus Robinson, the former Ram. Last season's stout run defense was completely dominated.

In short, San Francisco took the fight to the Rams and they wilted.

Rams' problem was predominantly the offense

49ers quarterback Brock Purdy was an efficient 25-of-34 passing, but for only 205 yards. The damage was done with three touchdown passes, one to three different receivers.

Purdy averaged 6.2 yards per attempt and 8.2 yards per completion. San Francisco focused on using short and intermediate routes to sustain drives. Unfortunately for the Rams defense, that strategy worked.

LA's offense did nothing to help out. Despite an effective rushing attack of their own, the Horns failed to commit to the run. Kyren Williams and Blake Corum combined for 95 yards and a touchdown on just 21 carries.

Matthew Stafford looked like the 38-year-old he is. He got no relief from a change in offensive strategy until the game was lost. Ultimately, he was benched for the final 3:29 as backup Stetson Bennett saw his first live action.

In addition to an interception and a fumble, perhaps the most costly Rams giveaway was turning the ball over on downs after failing to score on a fourth-and-goal from the one-yard line. Including the turnover on downs, the Niners scored 17 points on three giveaway while wiping seven LA points off the scoreboard.

The outcome was ugly. But the game provided some flashes worth optimism. The Rams' new two cornerbacks were better than the rest. Hopefully, that will help fuel better collective performances in the future.

As always, thanks for reading.

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