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LMU93
In game one vs. SF, the RBs ran the ball fairly well- 9 carries for 51 yards. Problem was, of course, 9 attempts....
Game two, Michel had 21 carries for 43 yards. McVay was much smarter and stuck with it longer. In the first half the running game didn't generate much but it set up the pass simply because they kept running. Of course, 3rd and 1 and all that...
This game has to be a mix of both. The Rams don't need (nor will they get....) 150 yards rushing. But I think they do need 25 carries combined from Akers and Michel. And yes, both should be involved. And I would say 75+ yards (3.0 ypc).
In 2020 Akers actually ripped off a 61-yard run vs. SF (9-84) and Henderson ran well in the earlier game (14-88).
Whether it's screens, swings, whatever I do think the RBs need 4-5 receptions. Something to slow down or offset the 49ers rush. Rams cannot 7-step drop all day. At all.
Agreed.
I don't think it's about run potency in this game but about the carries. The calls. McVay just has to call enough runs to keep that defensive front guessing a little bit. Most of the damage should be done with the Rams pass game which is in a really nice place. You just aren't gonna throw it well if those guys are teeing off with pass rush on first downs.
There was some complaining last game when the Rams ran it so much and ineffectively on first down vs the Bucs front. But that dedication to running the ball kept things in check.
It's really weird how confident I am about this game. Surprising to me given how the last one went down. But I just have a lot of faith in this team, I think they have the pieces and I think they're gonna get this done. It's gonna be ugly because SF has a great defense, however I think we will overcome that and advance.
