The San Francisco 49ers entered Thursday night’s divisional matchup with the Los Angeles Rams as more than a touchdown underdogs. Missing several key starters, including Brock Purdy, Nick Bosa, and George Kittle, the Niners needed big performances from other names and according to Pro Football Focus, that’s exactly what they got.
Offensive Standouts
Kendrick Bourne (WR) — 80.6 (70 snaps)
No surprise here, after the week he had against the Jaguars. Kendrick Bourne was a catalyst in the 26–23 upset win. Bourne hauled in 10 catches for 142 yards and was nearly unstoppable on third downs. His 80.6 offensive grade led all Niners players and reflected both his energy and consistency.
Brian Robinson Jr. (RB) — 68.6 (12 snaps)
Even in limited action, Robinson made the most of his touches. His bruising style gave San Francisco a physical edge late in drives and kept the Rams’ defensive front honest. A 68.6 grade shows solid efficiency and vision from the newcomer.
Christian McCaffrey (RB) — 67.8 (76 snaps)
CMC remains the heart of the 49ers’ offense. He scored early, catching one of Mac Jones’ two touchdown passes, and continued to be a reliable safety valve throughout the game. His versatility as WR1, TE1, and RB1 (rushing, receiving, and blocking) helped steady the offense when it mattered most.
Mac Jones (QB) — 66.5 (86 snaps)
Jones’ stat line: 33-of-49 for 342 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions tells you everything you need to know. PFF rewarded his efficiency under pressure, particularly given the patchwork offense around him. His 66.5 grade reflects steady leadership in another test as San Francisco’s starter.
Trent Williams (LT) — 65.7 (86 snaps)
The veteran tackle once again anchored the left side of the line. Even while facing a strong Rams pass rush, Williams held his own and kept Jones upright for much of the night. His presence continues to be invaluable as the offensive unit adapts to its many moving parts.
Defensive Leaders
Yetur Gross-Matos (DE) — 89.5 (11 snaps)
With Nick Bosa out for the season, Gross-Matos stepped in and made an instant impact. Despite limited snaps, he was nearly unblockable when on the field, generating consistent pressure and showing strong edge discipline. His 89.5 PFF grade was the highest by any player in the game and a sign the 49ers might have found a reliable contributor off the edge.
Alfred Collins (DT) — 85.0 (40 snaps)
The rookie defensive tackle came up clutch. Collins forced and recovered a critical goal line fumble late in the fourth quarter that helped secure the victory. His disruptive presence inside earned him one of the top defensive grades of the week league wide.
Fred Warner (LB) — 78.1 (68 snaps)
The captain and heart of the defense, Warner held everything together amid a patchwork lineup. He was everywhere. His solid 78.1 grade underscores how vital his leadership remains with so many defensive starters sidelined.
Ji’Ayir Brown (CB) — 68.1 (12 snaps)
Brown made the most of his snaps, showing strong coverage technique and open field tackling. His growing reliability in the secondary is a good sign for the 49ers’ depth going forward.
Jason Pinnock (FS) — 65.7 (68 snaps)
A steady presence in the back end, Pinnock’s communication and range helped limit big plays from the Rams’ passing game. While not flashy, his dependability was key in closing out the game.
With so many starters injured, Thursday night’s win was all about depth stepping up to the plate. According to PFF, they did. Players like Bourne, Gross-Matos, and Collins stepped up when the team needed them most.