3 problems 49ers need to fix before Week 3 game vs. rival Rams

Sunday pits a pair of in-state rivals who share ambitions for a deep playoff run, a Week 3 showdown within the NFC West between the 1-1 San Francisco 49ers and the winless Los Angeles Rams.

Neither team looked like a championship contender last week, namely with the Niners looking sloppy and disjointed in a road loss to the Minnesota Vikings, while LA was blown out by another division rival, the Arizona Cardinals, 41-10.

If San Francisco looks to win in Week 3 and put the Rams in a 0-3 hole, some things need to change. Head coach Kyle Shanahan can't afford these gaffes to continue as the season progresses.

3. 49ers secondary needs to play stronger

The 49ers had a solid defense last year. After two games in the new season, they look shaky.

Entering Week 3, the Niners give up 227.5 yards a game, tied for 10th worst in the league. A year ago, San Francisco was closer to the middle of the pack.

Luckily, the opponent this weekend is slightly worse in the ninth spot.

Against the New York Jets back in Week 1, the 49ers secondary allowed a pair of touchdown receptions to wide receiver Allen Lazard. In the next game, the Niners couldn't fully contain the Vikings' Justin Jefferson or Jalen Nailor.

Of course, this is not the only area of concern for Shanahan and his 49ers. However, this is a good place to start as they face off against Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford.

Though the Rams will be without talented wide receiver Puka Nacua and quite possibly Cooper Kupp, who are dealing with injuries, the Niners need a strong showing by shutting down the opposing team's passing game.

Look for them to force an interception or two as they have done so already twice in as many games.

Preventing the Rams from scoring twice by air helps both the 49ers' defense and offense. Thus, the corners and the safeties need to take away the big plays including the ones leading to the end zone.