Rams vs. 49ers: Full Week 16 preview, analysis and breakdown

Quarterback Comparison: Jared Goff vs. Jimmy Garoppolo

Without diving too deep into the Xs and Os, head coaches Kyle Shanahan and Sean McVay run similar modifications of the West Coast offense.

A year ago, McVay polished his to great success by the way of play action, which helped quarterback Jared Goff post a career-best 101.1 passer rating en route to a Pro Bowl nod.

This year, however, play action hasn’t worked anywhere near as well, and Goff’s passer rating has dropped all the way down to 84.8.

Jared Goff

On top of the less-effective abilities in play action, Goff has shown a tendency to be prone to tossing interceptions, too, largely influenced by not reacting well under pressure. Goff’s 2.8 interception percentage this year ranks 10th, and his passer rating under pressure is a lowly 58.2 compared to 97.9 without it, according to Pro Football Focus.

The lack of play-action success has been apparent, especially considering Los Angeles is averaging 3.8 yards per carry. Defenses not respecting the Rams’ ability to run has cut down on Goff’s effectiveness.

Jimmy Garoppolo

Meanwhile, quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo has shown an ability to lead an offense at times when the 49ers’ own rushing attack isn’t working well. Like Goff, however, Garoppolo has been prone to tossing interceptions — 11 on the year, while Jimmy G’s 2.6 interception percentage ranks just one spot behind Goff’s.

Take a look at the splits, though, as they’re telling:

Garoppolo has cut down on interceptions, which has led to San Francisco’s passing game being much more effective in the wake of Shanahan’s rushing attack planing off a bit in recent weeks.

That’s good news for the Niners.