In a game in which there were no touchdowns scored, it was the defense and special teams that carried the Los Angeles Rams to a huge 12-6 victory over the division rival San Francisco 49ers on Thursday night. Sean McVay’s team held the 49ers to under 200 yards and came up with big stops every time they needed it.
All of the Rams’ points came courtesy of kicker Joshua Karty, who was a perfect 4-of-4 on the night. Defensive tackle Kobie Turner was in the backfield all night as well and had two big sacks to bring his team-high total to seven on the season. Meanwhile, Darious Williams got his first interception of the season in an absolutely crucial time late in the game to help the Rams bring home the win.
The locker room was full of excitement after the victory and it was no surprise that McVay gifted the game balls to Turner, Karty and Williams for their huge performances in the win over the 49ers, via Rams on X:
Three wins in a row! Let's keep it going! 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/7nBa5tefdB
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) December 13, 2024
Even though the Rams moved the ball relatively well, they just couldn’t punch it in the end zone so Karty being perfect on this night was very much needed. But the Rams’ defense was the star on this night as Kobie Turner continued what has been an excellent second season after his outstanding rookie year.
But Williams’ interception was the play of the night. With the Rams holding on to a 3-point lead, the 49ers were threatening with a chance to tie or take the lead. But Turner got pressure on Brock Purdy and overthrew Juaun Jennings with Williams being there to pick off the pass in the end zone. The Rams would then go down and add one more field goal for the final score.
This win puts the Rams in great position to potentially take over the NFC West as they hold a victory over the division-leading Seattle Seahawks and will face them in the final week of the season. But for now, they will bask in sweeping the 49ers and McVay made sure the right people got proper recognition.
Sean McVay says Blake Corum will continue getting opportunities to keep Kyren Williams fresh
Even though the Rams offense struggled, running back Kyren Williams still eclipsed the 100-yard mark, while rookie Blake Corum, who had seen an uptick in carries recently, only got three rushes. It was a bit surprising as McVay had recently spoken about continuing to give Corum more touches as he has earned them, and it helps to keep Williams fresh throughout the game.
“You can really maximize… obviously, Kyren [Williams] is our starter, but continue to take advantage of Blake. I think he’s done a nice job each of the last two weeks getting a few more opportunities. I think it keeps Kyren fresher throughout the course of the game. Obviously, as games go on, there are some different scenarios, especially when you’re in a tight game like what yesterday was that elicits a little bit different response.
“Blake being out there is something that I think’s been earned and I think it’s best for the group overall while keeping Kyren as fresh as possible while still allowing him to impact the game. You’re accurate on that for sure.”
