Grades, analysis from 49ers ‘get right’ win over division rival Rams
49ers defensive grades vs. Rams
Defensive Line
Six sacks, 11 quarterback hits, a forced fumble, allowing only 3.2 yards per carry on the ground… a masterpiece by the 49ers defensive line, led by its star, Nick Bosa.
There’s little to be said when a unit is this dominant. Just know it’s not a one-time occurence.
Grade: A+
Linebackers
The Niners linebackers continue to lack the flashy plays, but they also continue to do what is necessary to win every week in and out. Tackle numbers are not inherently a sign of good linebacker play, but when your top two linebackers get 15 and nine apiece, and the team wins a defensive masterpiece, it’s a sign they were active and aggressive.
Grade: B+
Secondary
Cooper Kupp had 14 catches for 122 yards on 19 targets. That should mitigate a lot of praise for this secondary, but yet it becomes a happy footnote. The secondary came up strong when it had to, resulting in more paper cuts than gashes from the Rams.
San Francisco not allowing a 20-yard play the entire game is proof of the discipline. Then, when adding in the superb play by Talanoa Hufanga on his pick-six, a remarkable display of athletic ability and pure football acumen, this grade is deservedly high.