The San Francisco 49ers’ regular season concludes with a 21-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. This is the 49ers’ first
regular-season loss versus the Rams since 2018. But I suppose this loss will be marked with an asterisk because it
means nothing at all. This game was always going to be boring to watch. Both sides had nothing to play for and
rested most of their starters before or early in the game.
It was essentially a preseason game between the 49ers and the Rams. Neither team was going to risk injuring a key
player and making their postseason battles more difficult. Furthermore, if the Rams advance to the divisional
playoffs, these two teams may face off again. Both sides’ game plans were almost likely going to be simple and
straightforward. Look no further than when Carson Wentz ran the ball 15 times. That reflects how disposable this
game was.
All that mattered in this game was to come out unhurt with no crucial players wounded. The 49ers did so, with one
exception. Defensive end Clelin Ferrell, who starts on early downs, left the game early on a cart due to a knee injury.
He did not return to the game, so his future status remains uncertain. Hopefully, his absence from the divisional
playoff round is not due to something major. Ferrell isn’t an impact player, but he’s been remarkably consistent for
the 49ers this season.
