Los Angeles Rams 0-28 San Francisco 49ers
Tuesday 13 September 2016 10:16, UK
An impressive defensive performance from the 49ers saw the LA Rams shut out as Carlos Hyde scored two touchdowns, helping San Francisco to a 28-0 week one victory.
In 140 characters...
Rams offense swallowed up by NaVorro Bowman and the 49ers defense as Gabbert does enough upfront to give San Francisco a week one win.
MVP
The 49ers defensive unit swarmed Los Angeles every time they has possession and if one defender missed a tackle, there were three or four in support. Holding running back Todd Gurley to a longest run of 10 yards showed a complete team performance.
Game-changer
Five minutes into the second quarter, Gurley makes the first down in 49ers territory but is penalised for taunting and the line is sent back 15 yards. On the next play, NaVorro Bowman intercepts and the 49ers go on to get their second touchdown of the night.
Stat of the Night
10 - it took 10 attempts for the Rams to convert a third down. When they finally did it, deep into the third quarter, quarterback Case Keenum immediately threw an interception and gave possession back to the 49ers.
The Game
After a shaky start from both offenses, the 49ers took an early lead, Carlos Hyde converting an 11-yard drive and completing a 10 play, three-minute drive. The Rams struggled to move the offense, linebacker NaVorro Bowman marshalling the San Francisco defense and neutralising any attacks.
Although he struggled passing the football, 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert was opportunistic on his feet, running into space and with eight minutes left in the half, Gabbert's movement was rewarded as he picked up 15 yards and advanced to the Rams' five-yard line. A hand off to running back Shaun Draughn gave the 49ers a three yard TD and a 14-0 lead going into the break.
The Rams offense, ranked last in the NFL last year, showed no signs of improvement, and they were swallowed up each drive by the 49ers defense. Even 2015 offensive player of the year Todd Gurley was unable to make a play happen, with his longest drive of the night only 10 yards.
The 49ers extended their lead at the start of the fourth quarter, Gabbert leading a 77-yard drive before tight end Vance McDonald caught the eight-yard end zone pass.
With seven minutes left, frustration boiled over and Aaron Donald was ejected, after the Rams' leading defensive tackle took issue with an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty against him and remonstrated with the referee. The resulting penalty led the 49ers to the edge of the end zone, and Hyde took the opportunity to grab his second touchdown of the night.
Live NFL returns on Thursday night with New York Jets @ Buffalo Bills (Friday 1:25am, Sky Sports 1 HD).
