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Rams vs. 49ers: 5 Reasons San Francisco Wins in Week 1

By Peter Panacy

January 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers kicker Phil Dawson (9) is congratulated after kicking the game-winning field goal during overtime against the St. Louis Rams at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Rams 19-16. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
January 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers kicker Phil Dawson (9) is congratulated after kicking the game-winning field goal during overtime against the St. Louis Rams at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Rams 19-16. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Torrey Smith (82) is tackled by St. Louis Rams cornerback Trumaine Johnson (22) after making a catch in the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Torrey Smith (82) is tackled by St. Louis Rams cornerback Trumaine Johnson (22) after making a catch in the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 3: Rams Don’t Have the Best Secondary

If there ever was a game in which the 49ers questionable passing offense was to take advantage of a less-than stellar secondary, Week 1 is it.

Few doubt the Rams have a tremendous front seven on defense. But Los Angeles’ defensive backfield is vulnerable, especially after losing cornerback Janoris Jenkins this offseason.

The Rams gave up 4,065 passing yards a year ago, which ranked 23rd in the NFL.

And while L.A.’s pass rush is formidable, head coach Chip Kelly’s offense is predicated on quick releases and not allowing pass-rushers to converge. This was evident during the preseason, as San Francisco gave up just six sacks — tied for fourth lowest in the league.

Oh, and the revamped 49ers offensive line should allow more time too. We’ll get to this unit in a second.

True, cornerback Trumaine Johnson is a force. At least according to Pro Football Focus:

But his supporting cast isn’t great. And nickel corner E.J. Gaines (thigh) didn’t practice during the week, per CBS Sports.

So maybe wide receiver Jeremy Kerley winds up making an impact out of the slot. And Kelly loves to use three-wide receiver sets.

Next: 49ers O-Line Outplays Rams Front-Seven Defense