49ers vs. Rams: 5 bold predictions for NFC Championship game

No. 4: Arik Armstead will sack Matthew Stafford 3 times

Heading into the NFC Championship game, the 49ers defense is firing on all cylinders. In fact, it’s as good now as it was prior to the departure of defensive lineman DeForest Buckner ahead of the 2020 season.

A big reason for that success is the emergence of defensive tackle Arik Armstead. Since his move to the inside, the Niners are No. 1 against the run and he’s seen a multitude of success.

Following San Francisco’s Super Bowl loss in February of 2020, many fans were skeptical on keeping Armstead over Buckner. The decision to give Armstead the long-term extension and let Buckner walk has certainly paid off, though.

Armstead’s combination of size and athleticism mixed with his burst of speed is overwhelming to say the least. He’s productive in every play, but he’s just as deadly against the pass as he is the against the run.

Read More: 5 ways 49ers make life miserable on Matthew Stafford

In the previous three, win or go home games, Armstead has sacked the quarterback 5.5 times, all but one of those coming on third down. But, his most important sack of the playoffs thus far, he forced the punt in the divisional round against the Green Bay Packers that was blocked by EDGE Jordan Willis.

Armstead is a difference maker, and his level of play is an absolute game-changer.

Look for his presence to make a huge difference on Sunday against the Rams.