In a showdown drenched in both rain and tension, the Los Angeles Rams edged out the San Francisco 49ers with a hard-fought 12-6 victory at Levi’s Stadium on December 12, 2024. This wasn’t a game for highlight reels but rather a test of grit, persistence, and resilience in the face of punishing weather conditions.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total | |
| LAR | 0 | 3 | 0 | 9 | 12 |
| SF | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 6 |
The Battlefield
Levi’s Stadium turned into a soaking arena as rain relentlessly poured throughout the match. With temperatures hovering around 53°F and a slick natural grass field, both teams struggled to establish fluidity in their play. The atmosphere was electric, however, with 71,201 fans braving the elements to witness this divisional clash.
The Game
The 49ers took an early 3-0 lead with kicker Jake Moody drilling a 53-yard field goal in the first quarter. However, it was evident that offensive fireworks would be scarce as defenses dictated the flow of the game. Rams kicker Jonah Karty answered in the second quarter with a 48-yard field goal, leveling the score at halftime.
The third quarter saw Moody regain the lead for San Francisco with another impressive 47-yarder. Yet, Los Angeles adjusted their strategy, leaning heavily on running back Kyren Williams and kicker Jonah Karty. Karty went on to deliver three consecutive field goals in the fourth quarter, showcasing his precision and composure under pressure.
Defensive Masterclass
The defenses were the true stars of the night. For the Rams, linebacker Christian Rozeboom led with nine tackles, consistently disrupting San Francisco’s rhythm. Rookie Quentin Lake and edge rusher Byron Young combined for critical stops, ensuring 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy had no room to maneuver.
San Francisco’s defense was no less impressive, with Fred Warner amassing 15 combined tackles. Nick Bosa, while not finding the sack column, constantly pressured Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, forcing errant throws and hurried decisions.
Key Turning Point
With under six minutes remaining, and the 49ers trailing 9-6, Brock Purdy threw a deep ball intended for Jauan Jennings. Rams cornerback Derion Kendrick made a pivotal interception, dashing San Francisco’s hopes of a comeback and setting up Karty’s final field goal to seal the game.
Player Highlights
- Rams: Kyren Williams carried the load offensively, grinding out 108 rushing yards on 29 carries. Receiver Puka Nacua chipped in with 97 yards, including a crucial 51-yard reception that energized Los Angeles in the final quarter.
- 49ers: Tight end George Kittle led the way with 61 receiving yards, his catches providing rare moments of offensive spark for San Francisco.
What’s Next?
This victory not only keeps the Rams’ playoff hopes alive but also cements their reputation as a team capable of grinding out wins in adverse conditions. For the 49ers, the loss highlights areas for improvement, particularly in their offensive execution under pressure.
Final Thoughts
It wasn’t pretty, but the Rams’ resilience shone through in a game where every yard felt like a battle. Both teams will look to regroup as the season intensifies, but for now, Los Angeles takes home the divisional bragging rights.
