The NFC West rivalry is back this week as the 49ers and Rams meet for the second time this season. San Francisco took the first matchup but both teams have shifted since then. Some key players have gone down, and others have stepped up. Here are five offensive players to watch in this rematch. 

Christian McCaffrey, RB, 49ers

It feels redundant to say this every week but as usual, it starts with Christian McCaffrey. He’s the heartbeat of this San Francisco offense and remains nearly impossible to contain when healthy. His ability to find space, catch passes out of the backfield, and turn small gains into explosive plays forces defenses to respect him on every snap. Against a Rams front that’s had issues staying gap sound, McCaffrey could easily be the difference maker.

Mac Jones, QB, 49ers

Since being named the starter for San Francisco, Mac Jones has been playing with confidence. He lit up the Rams earlier this season, carving up their defense with quick reads and accurate throws. If the offensive line can give him a clean pocket, Jones has shown he can pick apart any coverage. The key for him this week is to stay in command against a Rams front that will test him.

George Kittle, TE, 49ers

George Kittle is one of the most complete tight ends in football, and his versatility gives San Francisco so many ways to attack. He hasn’t had his breakout game since coming back from injury, but something just feels like this will be the one. The Rams have had trouble containing athletic tight ends this season, and Kittle’s physicality after the catch could be a problem all evening. 

Puka Nacua, WR, Rams

The Rams’ rookie sensation is battling through injured ribs, but even that hasn’t slowed him much. Nacua’s toughness and reliability have earned him Matthew Stafford’s trust, and he continues to show up in big moments. Expect the Rams to move him around the formation to create missmatches, especially against a 49ers defense who is patching holes due to injury. 

Kyren Williams, RB, Rams

Kyren Williams has become the steadying force in Los Angeles’ offense. Through Week 9 of the NFL Williams has 132 carries for 586 yards and is averaging 4.4 yards per carry. If the Rams want to keep Stafford from being pressured all day, Williams will need to help them establish a run game early. 

Bottom line: The 49ers’ offensive core of McCaffrey, Jones, and Kittle will set the tone, but the Rams’ combination of Nacua and Williams could keep things interesting. If Jones stays sharp and McCaffrey continues his dominance, San Francisco has a strong chance to complete the season sweep, but underestimating this Rams offense would also be a mistake.