49ers Prepare for Rams Matchup as Mac Jones Leads Offense Again

The San Francisco 49ers will face the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday with quarterback Mac Jones starting in place of Brock Purdy, who continues to recover from a toe injury. Coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed after Friday’s practice that Jones, who has led the team to a 5-2 record, will look to improve against a Rams defense that is among the toughest in the NFL, allowing just 15.9 points per game. Purdy’s status for the game remains uncertain, as he is listed as questionable.

In addition to Purdy, several key players are also dealing with injuries. Defensive linemen Alfred Collins, Kalia Davis, and Keion White are all questionable, as are linebackers Dee Winters and Tatum Bethune. Left guard Ben Bartch is expected to return from Injured Reserve, while Collins, Davis, and White sustained injuries during Thursday’s practice. Wide receiver Ricky Pearsall will miss his sixth consecutive game due to a knee injury.

Jones has demonstrated significant growth in his connection with Shanahan’s play-calling, which is communicated directly to him via headset. He describes this communication as “very business casual,” emphasizing the importance of quick decision-making on the field. “Kyle does a great job just keeping me on track,” Jones noted. He recently showcased his abilities against the Rams, completing a season-high 33 passes on 49 attempts during an overtime victory earlier this season.

In his last outing against the New York Giants, Jones achieved a passer rating of 135.2, marking the second-best performance of his five-year career. He completed 19 of 24 passes for 235 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to lead effectively after a challenging tenure with the New England Patriots and Jacksonville Jaguars.

As the 49ers prepare for Sunday’s game, the team’s special teams have also seen changes. The Rams have decided to bench kicker Joshua Karty, opting to start Harrison Mevis, an undrafted player from Missouri. Since the 49ers made their own kicker switch earlier this season, Eddy Piñeiro has successfully converted all 19 field-goal attempts, inching closer to the franchise record set by David Akers in 2011.

Game Day Details and Salute to Service

This matchup will serve as the 49ers’ Salute To Service game, honoring military veterans and active-duty personnel. The national anthem will be performed by Kathryn Dobyns of the U.S. Navy Band’s Sea Chanters Chorus, while the halftime show will feature The Resilient, a rock band made up of wounded veterans.

Fans attending the game at Levi’s Stadium are encouraged to arrive early, with parking lots scheduled to open at 09:55 and gates opening at 10:25 for suite and club ticket holders. General admission for all ticket holders begins two hours before the 1:25 p.m. kickoff.

The 49ers, currently holding a record of 6-3, are looking to maintain their momentum as they prepare to take on the Rams, who stand at 6-2. With key players on both teams nursing injuries, the outcome could hinge on the performance of those stepping into pivotal roles.