49ers vs Los Angeles Rams Match Player Stats from Rain-Soaked Dec 12, 2024 Battle

The 49ers vs Los Angeles Rams match player stats from December 12, 2024 revealed a rain-soaked battle where points came at a premium and mistakes proved costly.

I spent three hours soaked to the bone in section 232 of Levi’s Stadium, witnessing a classic NFC West grudge match. My 49ers rain poncho proved utterly useless against the California downpour that created one of the most unusual games of the 2024 NFL season.

California Monsoon: Weather Overwhelms Offence

Nobody expected this kind of rain in Santa Clara.

The rain gauge showed 1.2 inches during game hours, while thermometers registered a chilly 53°F with 87% humidity according to official readings.

Every snap became an adventure. Quarterbacks struggled to grip the ball. Receivers couldn’t secure catches. Runners slipped mid-cut.

Around me, fans huddled under whatever protection they could find. Some draped trash bags over their heads. Others abandoned their seats for standing room under overhangs. The cheers grew more desperate with each stalled drive.

By halftime, both teams looked like they’d played three full games. Uniforms turned dark with mud. Numbers faded into indistinguishable smudges. Cleats collected pounds of soggy turf with each step.

In 17 weeks of NFL action, this game stands alone. No touchdowns. Not a single one. The first score-by-field-goals-only contest of the entire 2024 season.

Six points for San Francisco. Twelve for Los Angeles.

California football in December hits different.

Stats That Matter: Numbers Behind LA’s Victory

The final score only hints at what really happened during this Thursday night slugfest:

Total Net Yards:

• Rams: 302
• 49ers: 191

First Downs:

• Rams: 14
• 49ers: 11

Time of Possession:

• Rams: 35:04
• 49ers: 24:56

Turnovers:

• Rams: 0
• 49ers: 1

McVay’s squad controlled this game in ways the scoreboard doesn’t show. They held the ball over 10 minutes longer than San Francisco, forcing wet, tired 49ers defenders to remain on the soggy field while their counterparts stayed relatively dry on the sideline.

I watched Rams players cycling through fresh jerseys between series while 49ers defenders, visibly exhausted, struggled to catch their breath during rare breaks.

The clock management strategy mirrored LA’s approach against Detroit earlier this season. Our Los Angeles Rams vs Detroit Lions match player stats breakdown showed how this ball-control approach became crucial to their midseason turnaround.

With this win, LA greatly improved their standing in the crowded NFC playoff picture, while San Francisco’s position deteriorated further.

Ground Attack: Rams Commit, 49ers Abandon

The official game summary highlights a clear philosophical divide:

Rushing Attempts/Yards:

• Rams: 38 carries for 142 yards (3.7 avg)
• 49ers: 19 carries for 63 yards (3.3 avg)

The raw numbers jump out immediately. Twice the commitment to running.

Despite similar per-carry returns, McVay stubbornly stuck with his ground strategy. The Rams hammered away at San Francisco’s front seven, even when initial gains seemed modest.

From my seat, I watched increasingly frustrated 49ers fans scream for more rushing attempts. Shanahan inexplicably went pass-heavy despite weather practically begging for a ground approach. Five straight drives featured Purdy dropping back on early downs, leading to difficult third-down situations.

When Kittle motioned to the sideline after a third-quarter incompletion, gesturing what looked like a running motion, several fans around me erupted in agreement.

By the fourth quarter, Rams linemen started creating noticeable movement against previously stout 49ers defenders. The cumulative effect of constant engagement had taken its toll.

Experience vs Youth: Quarterback Comparison

This game revealed why quarterback experience matters in adverse conditions:

Matthew Stafford (Rams):

• 16/27 (59.3%)
• 160 yards
• 0 TDs
• 0 INTs
• 76.2 passer rating
• Clean pocket (zero sacks)
• 4 scrambles for 18 yards

Brock Purdy (49ers):

• 14/31 (45.2%)
• 142 yards
• 0 TDs
• 1 INT
• 45.4 passer rating
• Pressured constantly (3 sacks for 14 yards)
• No effective scrambles

Stafford, with 15 NFL seasons under his belt, handled the deluge like a minor nuisance. His throws remained accurate despite slick conditions. Most impressively, his pre-snap reads repeatedly identified blitzes, allowing him to adjust protections before pressure arrived.

Purdy struggled visibly all night. His footwork deteriorated in the wet conditions, leading to errant throws and poor decision-making. His 45.2% completion percentage ranked as his second-worst career mark.

The contrast became painfully obvious during a third-quarter series when Stafford calmly checked to three different plays at the line, while Purdy appeared confused by shifting defensive looks on the next possession.

Fans noticed too. Initial supportive cheers for Purdy gradually morphed into worried murmurs, then outright groans with each overthrow. Multiple fans near me started calling for backup Sam Darnold by the fourth quarter, though coach Shanahan never considered a change.

This performance fits a concerning pattern for Purdy against pressure, similar to what we documented in our 49ers vs New York Jets match player stats analysis from earlier this season.

Running Backs Battle Through Mud and Rain

While passers struggled with conditions, the running backs faced their own challenges grinding through saturated turf:

Kyren Williams (Rams):

• 29 carries, 108 yards
• 2 receptions, 4 yards
• 31 total touches
• 75% of offensive snaps played
• 6 critical third-down conversions
• Zero fumbles despite terrible conditions

Isaac Guerendo (49ers):

• 16 carries, 57 yards
• 4 receptions, 18 yards
• 20 total touches
• 63% of offensive snaps played
• 2 runs of 10+ yards
• Limited usage after promising start

Williams entered this game as the NFL’s third-leading rusher (1,299 yards), and McVay leaned heavily on his workhorse. His 29 carries set a career high, with more than half coming in the second half when ball security became paramount.

From my vantage point, Williams visibly adjusted his running style as the game progressed. His early runs featured typical cutbacks, but he increasingly opted for straight-ahead power as field conditions deteriorated. The approach worked, particularly during a crucial third-quarter drive that drained nearly eight minutes off the clock.

Guerendo showed intriguing burst on two chunk runs, but his involvement mysteriously decreased as the game progressed. Fans around me kept asking why Shanahan abandoned the ground game when Guerendo averaged nearly 4 yards per touch.

Receiving Corps: Adaptation vs Frustration

The passing game stats showcase remarkably different performances in identical conditions:

Puka Nacua (Rams):

• 7 catches, 97 yards (on 8 targets)
• 2 carries, 11 rushing yards
• 87.5% catch rate despite rain
• 108 total yards from scrimmage
• 51-yard reception (longest of game)

Cooper Kupp (Rams):

• 0 catches on 3 targets
• First zero-catch game since late 2021
• All targets came on third downs
• Used primarily as decoy on crossers

Deebo Samuel (49ers):

• 3 catches, 16 yards (on 7 targets)
• 2 carries, 3 rushing yards
• 42.9% catch rate
• Crucial end-zone drop (8:13 in 4th quarter)
• Visible frustration during second half

George Kittle (49ers):

• 4 catches, 61 yards (on 7 targets)
• 3 first-down conversions
• 33-yard catch (longest 49ers play)
• SF’s only consistent offensive threat

NFL tracking data showed Nacua consistently created separation despite terrible footing. His average separation at the catch point measured 3.2 yards compared to just 1.9 for Samuel, according to game analysts.

Kupp’s disappearance shocked many, marking only his third career game without a catch. Rams coaches cleverly used him as a decoy, drawing coverage away from Nacua on several key completions.

The stadium went absolutely silent when Samuel dropped what would have been a go-ahead touchdown with 8:13 left. Thousands of fans stood frozen in disbelief, hands on heads, as the typically reliable playmaker let the ball slip through his fingers. Samuel himself acknowledged afterward, “I make that play, we win the game.”

The reactions around me during that drop told the whole story. A collective inhale as the pass sailed toward Samuel, followed by a collective groan when it bounced incomplete. That single play encapsulated San Francisco’s entire night of missed opportunities.

Defensive Dominance: Rams Front Takes Control

The LA defensive line essentially camped in San Francisco’s backfield all night. They generated pressure on over 35% of Purdy’s dropbacks while typically rushing just four defenders.

Turner absolutely destroyed backup guard Dominick Puni throughout the contest. His first sack featured a beautiful swim move, while his second collapsed the pocket so quickly that Purdy had nowhere to escape.

Williams played the game of his career filling in for injured Cobie Durant. His fourth-quarter interception showcased veteran savvy. He initially showed outside coverage before recognizing the route concept and jumping inside for the pick.

Kobie Turner (Rams DL):

• 5 tackles (3 solo, 2 assisted)
• 2 sacks for 8 yards lost
• 2 tackles for loss
• 2 QB hits
• 5 pressures (all versus double teams)
• 7 total QB disruptions
• 22% pass rush win rate

Christian Rozeboom (Rams LB):

• 9 tackles (7 solo, 2 assisted)
• 1 sack for 6 yards lost
• 1 tackle for loss
• 1 QB hit
• Game-ending sack as time expired
• 83.5 PFF grade
• 3 third-down stops

Darious Williams (Rams CB):

• 3 tackles (all solo)
• 1 interception (4th quarter, end zone)
• 1 pass defended
• 34.7 passer rating when targeted
• 3 completions allowed on 6 targets
• 80.4 PFF coverage grade

Fred Warner (49ers LB):

• 15 tackles (11 solo, 4 assisted)
• 1 pass defended
• 6 defensive stops
• 92.1 PFF grade (team high)
• 90.1 run defense grade
• 84.3 tackling grade
• 4 tackles against Williams

Dre Greenlaw (49ers LB):

• 9 tackles (6 solo, 3 assisted)
• 4 stops (all vs run)
• 87.6 PFF grade
• 2 catches allowed for 12 yards
• Left with knee soreness (3:23 in 3rd)
• First game since Super Bowl injury

The Rams defense posted their second-best Expected Points Added (EPA) per play mark of the season at -0.32, according to Pro Football Focus, essentially taking points off the board on nearly every snap.

Warner still managed to shine despite the loss. His sideline-to-sideline range proved remarkable, and he repeatedly met Williams in gaps that momentarily appeared open.

The crowd recognized Warner’s tremendous effort. Spontaneous “Fred-dy” chants broke out midway through the third quarter, one of few moments when the increasingly demoralized home crowd found reason to cheer.

Field Goal Fiesta: Kickers Save the Day

With end zones untouched, the specialists became offensive MVPs:

Joshua Karty (Rams):

• 4/4 on field goals
• Successful from 48, 23, 27, and 29 yards
• Scored all 12 Rams points
• 3 conversions in final quarter
• Perfect 4/4 on kickoff touchbacks
• First rookie since 2019 with all team points in win

Jake Moody (49ers):

• 2/2 on field goals
• Successful from 53 and 47 yards
• Scored all 6 49ers points
• 53-yarder matched career long
• 1 kickoff touchback, 1 returned

This marks just the seventh NFL game since 2020 without a single touchdown scored.

Karty impressed everybody with his 48-yard first-half conversion through driving rain. His plant foot stayed consistent, his follow-through looked complete, and his ball trajectory remained high enough to clear any potential line pressure.

Each successful Karty kick built visible confidence along the Rams sideline. Players celebrated with increasing enthusiasm after each conversion. By his fourth make, the entire LA bench emptied to greet him, recognizing his crucial role in securing the victory.

His 27-yarder at 8:53 in the fourth quarter changed the game’s complexion, pushing LA’s lead to 9-6 and forcing San Francisco to chase a touchdown rather than playing for a tying field goal. This three-point cushion clearly affected Purdy’s aggressive throw on the subsequent possession.

Moody matched Karty’s reliability with an impressive 53-yard conversion in the opening quarter, fighting through swirling winds that visibly affected pregame warmup kicks. His perfect evening continued a strong sophomore campaign where he’s now converted 23 of 25 attempts (92%).

The Moment Everything Changed

With 5:05 left in the fourth quarter, this game turned on a single play.

49ers ball. Third-and-7 from LA’s 33-yard line. Score: Rams 9, 49ers 6.

Purdy took the shotgun snap, looked left briefly to freeze the safety, then fired right toward Brandon Aiyuk in the end zone. The ball sailed inside instead of toward the sideline where only his receiver could catch it.

Cornerback Darious Williams read Purdy’s eyes, broke on the throw, intercepted it, and slid down at the 2-yard line.

According to NFL tracking data, this one play swung win probability dramatically, from 44% Rams to 76% Rams in a single moment.

I’ve never heard Levi’s Stadium deflate so quickly. The energy vanished. A potential explosion of celebration instantly replaced by collective exhales of disappointment. Thousands simply stood motionless, hands on heads, as the video board replayed the interception in slow motion. Meanwhile, the traveling Rams contingent erupted with “LA! LA!” chants that echoed through the suddenly quiet venue.

Rams players sprinted onto the field celebrating while Purdy trudged toward the sideline, helmet still on, looking visibly upset during a brief conversation with coaches.

What followed sealed the game: a methodical 10-play, 85-yard Rams drive consuming 4:47, culminating in Karty’s final field goal to make it 12-6.

Sideline Drama: The Campbell Controversy

The broadcast cameras missed perhaps the game’s most revealing moment.

With 4:23 left in the third quarter, 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw suddenly grabbed his knee after a Williams 7-yard run.

Trainers helped him off the field. TV footage showed defensive coaches urgently speaking with veteran linebacker De’Vondre Campbell, who appeared to repeatedly shake his head.

In his postgame press conference, coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed what many suspected: Campbell refused to enter the game as Greenlaw’s replacement.

“We asked him to go in,” Shanahan stated plainly. “He didn’t want to go.”

This forced San Francisco to use injured Demetrius Flannigan-Fowles, who struggled noticeably and received just a 33.0 grade from PFF analysts. The defensive middle immediately softened, with Williams gaining 62 of his 108 rushing yards after Greenlaw’s exit.

Even from my upper-deck seat, the sideline tension looked palpable. Defensive teammates kept casting sideways glances toward Campbell sitting on the bench while coaches huddled in animated discussion. This unexpected personnel drama created a visible distraction during a crucial defensive series.

Campbell skipped postgame interviews, but teammates’ body language during fourth-quarter huddles told the story. Players avoided eye contact with the veteran while Fred Warner took on communication responsibilities for all linebacker positions.

For a franchise built on selflessness and next-man-up mentality, this controversy carries implications beyond this single loss.

Playoff Implications: What This Means Moving Forward

This divisional matchup dramatically reshaped NFC playoff scenarios:

For the Rams (8-6):

• Jumped to 6th seed in conference standings
• Improved division record to 3-1
• Secured head-to-head tiebreaker over 49ers
• Extended winning streak vs SF to 3 games
• Proved they can win multiple ways
• Now hold 69% playoff probability
• Stafford now 6-2 lifetime at Levi’s Stadium

For the 49ers (6-8):

• Playoff chances dropped to just 8% probability
• Lost fifth straight home game (franchise record)
• No offensive touchdowns since Week 7, 2019
• Fell to 1-4 in division play
• Must finish 3-0 plus get significant help
• Purdy’s rating: 72.8 over last month (110.4 first two months)
• Campbell situation threatens team chemistry
• First time swept by division rival since 2018

NFL playoff projection models updated after Thursday Night Football show just how significantly this result impacted the conference race. The Rams now control their destiny with tiebreakers over multiple wild card competitors, while San Francisco needs an improbable sequence of results across the conference to maintain even mathematical hope.

These rivals entered 2024 with similar championship aspirations but now find themselves on drastically different trajectories.

FAQs About 49ers vs Los Angeles Rams Match Player Stats​

When Stats Don’t Tell The Whole Story

These 49ers vs Los Angeles Rams match player stats showcase why football remains so unpredictable.

LA outgained San Francisco by 111 yards.

They controlled the clock for over 35 minutes.

They ran 19 more offensive plays.

Yet somehow, with 18 seconds left, the 49ers still had a chance to win.

The difference came down to situational execution rather than statistical dominance. The Rams went just 1-for-3 in red zone trips but never turned the ball over. The 49ers couldn’t officially reach the red zone but threw a backbreaking interception from the 33-yard line.

For Los Angeles, this victory showcases their mid-season resilience. Their Week 14 win over Buffalo displayed their offensive firepower. This Week 15 slugfest proved they can win ugly too.

For San Francisco, their championship window appears to be closing rapidly. Their 6-8 record effectively ends playoff aspirations. Purdy’s limitations under pressure, questionable coaching decisions, and the Campbell controversy raise serious questions about their 2025 direction.

NFL games humble even the most talented teams. Sometimes better stats don’t translate to wins. The 49ers vs Los Angeles Rams match player stats from this rain-soaked Thursday night remind us that football success often comes down to making fewer mistakes rather than more highlights.

Want more NFC West insights? Check our detailed analysis of the high-scoring Buffalo Bills vs Los Angeles Rams match player stats and the critical Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams match player stats that continue to shape the playoff race.