Breaking down 49ers offensive game plan for Week 18 vs. Rams

Deebo Samuel: Swiss Army knife

Wide receiver Deebo Samuel is heading to his first Pro Bowl this year and will receive other recognition, thanks to his all-around skill and production over the course of the season. Samuel has done his damage in a variety of positions, lining up out wide, in the slot, or taking carries in the backfield.

Samuel has had success in virtually every game, with the first meeting between the Rams and Niners being no different. He had five carries for 36 rushing yards and a touchdown, along with five receptions for 97 yards and another score through the air.

The Rams did not have an answer for his skill set and cannot feel good about slowing him down on Sunday.

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Samuel is more dangerous when the 49ers are having success in the running game with the featured backs, like Elijah Mitchell. The defense is lulled to sleep, when suddenly, Samuel takes the pitch, turns upfield, and is at full speed before the defense is even remotely able to make a tackle.

Lining him up in the backfield has its benefits, but splitting him out wide is also a consistent way to target him. The variety of ways Samuel has to frustrate defensive coordinators when game-planning against San Francisco.

For this game, running the ball is the most important key to victory, and Samuel is versatile enough to be a huge contributor in that aspect.