Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers Preview: Backup Bowl With Playoff Implications

The Los Angeles Rams will visit the San Francisco 49ers in Week 18, but fans won't get to see many of the regulars. How will the regular-season finale shape the playoffs?

The Los Angeles Rams successfully played themselves out of a do-or-die game against the San Francisco 49ers. As it turns out, the Week 18 finale won’t be as threatening as once anticipated, with the NFC’s top seed secure in San Francisco’s hands.

Unsurprisingly, the 49ers will not push any of their stars further than they feel necessary. Star running back Christian McCaffrey is out and Sam Darnold will be under center. Veterans like receiver Deebo Samuel, tight end George Kittle, and left tackle Trent Williams may see limited action, too.

The Rams, meanwhile, have clinched a playoff spot, but not the highest seed possible. A Week 18 loss could send them to the seventh seed, depending on how the Green Bay Packers fare against the Chicago Bears. Even so, head coach Sean McVay has elected to sit quarterback Matthew Stafford, receiver Cooper Kupp, and running back Kyren Williams. Two keys to the defense – Aaron Donald and Ernest Jones – will also sit.

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Subsequently, it’ll be Carson Wentz commanding the offense.

McVay’s decision deserves to be examined. With a team so reliant on its veteran stars, the extra rest is lucrative. That alone is enough justification (clearly, as the decision has already been made). But would falling to the seventh seed put a dent in Los Angeles’ chances at a deep playoff run?

Facing the Dallas Cowboys in Jerry World means taking on an elite quarterback and defense, in a place no visiting team has won this year. Clinching the six seed, though, means a trip to Michigan and a storybook duel with the Detroit Lions. However poetic that may be, the Rams match up better against a Lions team with a shakable passer and questionable secondary.

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Given that the 49ers are also taking their foot off the pedal, Los Angeles still has an opportunity to find another divisional win. It’s a task made more difficult considering the necessary rest its stars have been given but could prove crucial by this time next week.

WHAT: Los Angeles Rams (9-7) vs. San Francisco 49ers (12-4)

WHERE: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, CA (68,500)

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, 1:25 p.m. (PT)

TELEVISION: FOX

RADIO: ESPN LA 710 AM, Tu Liga 1330 AM

ODDS: Rams +4.5 (-118), Moneyline: +165, Total: 40.5 (o -125,u +100)