Impact of Missing Players

So, what does this mean for both teams?

For the Rams: 58.6% of Their Pass Targets Gone

With Kupp, Nacua, and tight end Tyler Higbee sidelined, the Rams are left reeling with 58.6% of their passing targets missing from last year. Quarterback Matthew Stafford will now look to under-the-radar receivers like Demarcus Robinson and Tyler Johnson, who have only managed a combined 28 targets thus far—barely scratching the surface of Kupp's impressive 27 targets from the previous season. The trend of Stafford's reliance on these players raises concerns, as he is yet to throw more than one touchdown pass across the first two games, and the challenge of facing the 49ers' defensive lineup may only exacerbate his troubles.

For the 49ers: A Whopping 52.2% of Touches at Risk

On the flip side, the 49ers will find themselves without 52.2% of their offensive touches, a figure that could rise to as much as 70% if Kittle and fellow back Elijah Mitchell are also unable to join the action. In McCaffrey's absence, Jordan Mason has emerged as a potential substitute, showing capability in the running game. However, with two dynamic playmakers missing, the 49ers' passing game heavily relies on Brandon Aiyuk stepping up. Aiyuk shook off a disappointing start to the season, which included a frustrating dropped touchdown—a sign that he may just be waiting for the right moment to shine.

Defense Shows Vulnerabilities

The 49ers defense is also showing signs of struggle, allowing 59.1% of third downs to result in first downs, ranking second-worst in the league. This statistic is alarming, especially as they aim to stifle Stafford and a Rams offense that has had its own difficulties converting on third downs, managing only a dismal 30.4%.

A Running Call to Action

If there's one area where both offenses have an opportunity to capitalize, it's on the ground. The Rams have allowed 26 first downs on the ground, the most in the NFL, and they've struggled defensively against the run, giving up 394 rushing yards in just two games. This presents a prime opportunity for Mason, whose impressive 5.0 yards per carry could exploit the Rams' vulnerabilities and enable the 49ers to establish a rhythm, even without some star players.

As both teams prepare to hit the field, the stakes have never been higher. Will the 49ers manage to overcome these obstacles and continue their winning streak, or will the Rams make the most of their advantages, despite the missing firepower? Only time will tell—but one thing’s for sure: this game is shaping up to be an unpredictable clash of resilience and strategy.