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Rams vs. 49ers: 5 Week 16 matchups to watch for San Francisco

By Peter Panacy

SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 21: Josh Reynolds #83 of the Los Angeles Rams makes a catch to the one-yard line against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA - OCTOBER 21: Josh Reynolds #83 of the Los Angeles Rams makes a catch to the one-yard line against the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi's Stadium on October 21, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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K'Waun Williams, 49ers
K’Waun Williams #24 of the San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

No. 5: K’Waun Williams vs. Cooper Kupp

The 49ers are going to be well represented at the 2020 Pro Bowl, although it’s a minor sham nickel cornerback K’Waun Williams wasn’t listed among either the starters or immediate alternates.

While he missed Week 15 with a concussion, a strong outing against the Rams could put him into consideration for a Pro Bowl reserve.

This won’t be an easy task, however. Williams’ primary responsibility on Saturday night will be covering Jared Goff’s favorite receiving option, third-year slot receiver Cooper Kupp, who leads Los Angeles’ offense with 83 catches for 1,031 yards with eight touchdowns.

And at 6-foot-2, Kupp automatically has the size advantage over the 5-foot-9 Williams.

Unlike what the 49ers experienced with Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones last Sunday, the Rams boast three prolific pass catchers, Kupp, Robert Woods and Brandin Cooks. Also unlike what the Niners dealt with last week, players like Williams and veteran cornerback Richard Sherman will be available and healthy.

One can hope that pitches the advantage back in San Francisco’s favor, although that doesn’t negate the matchup between Williams and Kupp will be one to watch.