Controlling the clock and the trenches, the Rams’ grind-it-out strategy secures a crucial win.
Los Angeles controlled the ball almost two times longer than San Francisco in last night’s road victory.
Rams Dominate Time of Possession with Gritty Yards in TNF Victory Over 49ers
In a pivotal NFC West matchup on Thursday Night Football, the Los Angeles Rams emerged victorious over the San Francisco 49ers, 23-17, thanks to a masterful second-half performance that saw them nearly double their opponent in time of possession. A combination of tough running, timely conversions, and relentless grit on both sides of the ball helped the Rams control the clock and secure the win.
Grinding Out the Gritty Yards
The Rams’ offense leaned heavily on their running game and short passing attack to chip away at the 49ers’ defense. Running back Kyren Williams shouldered the load, racking up 98 rushing yards and a touchdown on 23 carries. Quarterback Matthew Stafford complemented the ground game with quick, efficient throws, finishing the night 24-for-30 with 215 yards and a touchdown.
“It wasn’t flashy, but it was effective,” Stafford said after the game. “We knew we had to control the clock and keep their offense off the field. Everyone executed when it mattered.”
Second-Half Dominance
After trailing 10-7 at halftime, the Rams made adjustments that allowed them to dominate the second half. They maintained possession for nearly 20 minutes in the final two quarters, methodically marching down the field with long, sustained drives.
One standout series came midway through the third quarter, when the Rams put together a 15-play, 75-yard drive that lasted over eight minutes and culminated in a field goal. The ability to keep the 49ers’ defense on the field and their offense on the sideline proved to be the game’s turning point.
Defensive Stamina Seals the Deal
The Rams’ defense played a critical role in complementing the offense’s clock management. Aaron Donald and company kept relentless pressure on 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy, sacking him twice and limiting explosive plays. The secondary, led by Jalen Ramsey, locked down the 49ers’ receivers, forcing several three-and-outs that swung momentum in Los Angeles’ favor.
“We played team football,” Donald said. “Offense kept the ball moving, and we made the stops we needed to. That’s how you win tough games.”
Key Numbers
- Time of Possession (Second Half): Rams – 19:47, 49ers – 10:13
- Third-Down Conversions: Rams – 9/14 (64%), 49ers – 3/10 (30%)
- Total Plays: Rams – 67, 49ers – 52
What’s Next for the Rams?
The win propels the Rams to 8-7, keeping them firmly in the playoff hunt as they gear up for another crucial matchup next week. The team’s ability to execute a clock-dominating game plan could serve as a blueprint for success in the postseason.
“We’re building momentum,” head coach Sean McVay said. “This is the kind of football that wins in December and January.”
As the Rams continue their playoff push, fans will hope to see more of the gritty, determined football that allowed them to overcome a tough 49ers team in primetime.
