49ers' game review: How Kyle Shanahan dinked, dunked and KO'd the Rams' vaunted defense
The San Francisco 49ers faced a formidable challenge from a Rams defensive front that added All-Pro Myles Garrett in the offseason. Quick, short passes proved to be the way to get the job done.
The San Francisco 49ers' head coach, Kyle Shanahan, crafted a game plan that led to a dominant 27-7 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne during the regular season opener. Despite being sidelined early in training camp due to a concussion sustained in a car accident, Shanahan delivered an exemplary performance. The Rams' vaunted defense was rendered ineffective through a series of short, deceptive plays - dinking, dunking, and screening.
Rams defensive end Kobie Turner praised Shanahan's ability to provide a blueprint for attacking the star-studded Rams defense, which registered zero sacks and two quarterback hits on Brock Purdy's 37 dropbacks. Shanahan's strategic use of bunched formations, chip blocks, and chip-blocks on edge rushers left the Rams' defensive line helpless.
The 49ers' relentless attack culminated in a 99-yard touchdown drive, starting with a daring seven-step drop by quarterback Brock Purdy when faced with defensive star Myles Garrett. Purdy's precision was remarkable, completing six screen passes with an average of only 11 yards gained. Running back Jordan James' rib injury during a training camp practice proved fleeting, as Warner returned with a vengeance, leading the way in tackles and pass breakups.
With Warner's leadership and Shanahan's masterful play-calling, the 49ers ran roughshod over the Rams, cementing a memorable victory.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
