San Francisco 49ers End Regular Season Favored 7 Over St. Louis Rams

NFL News - December 29th, 2009 - Written by John

San Fransisco was knocked out of the playoff picture two weeks ago, but that did not stop them from defeating Detroit 20-6 in their last game. Their opponent this week, St. Louis, at 1-12, is well on their way to earning the top pick in next April's draft.

San Fransisco has had nice production from starting quarterback Alex Smith this season. Smith took over the starting job in week six. Last week in the win against Detroit, completed 20 of 31 passes for 230 yards and a touchdown.

Running back Frank Gore has battled the injury bug this season, but in the last few weeks he has been able to bring balance to the 49er offense. He has averaged over 100 yards in his last three games combined, scoring two touchdowns.

Defensively, the 49ers have struggled defending the pass. They are surrendering an average of 250 yards through the air. Fortunately, they are playing the Rams this week.

On the other sideline, St. Louis has one more week left in this abysmal 2009 season. They are a virtual lock for the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft.

The Rams have scored less than 17 points in each of their last six games.

Running back Steven Jackson has been the lone bright-spot on the team this season. For the year, he has rushed for nearly 1,400 yards. This is impressive considering opponents' defenses game plan specifically around Jackson. His physical running style allows him to get yardage after contact, a statistic that coaches love.

Jackson has been battling a lower back injury the last few weeks, but his competitive nature refused to throw in the towel on this season.

If the Rams have any hope of winning this match-up, the offensive line must win the line of scrimmage to allow Jackson to produce yardage on the ground. If Jackson is able to establish himself, it will give St. Louis a chance.

San Fransisco should take to the air and allow Smith to stretch the field on the vulnerable Ram secondary. The 49ers should be able to move the ball both on the ground and through the air against St. Louis.

Smith is a dual-threat quarterback who is capable of beating a defense with his legs. This presents a huge problem for the Rams. If Smith is able to create time with his legs, his receiver should be able to create space, resulting in a long day for anyone wearing a Rams uniform.

Getting Smith going in the passing game will create holes at the line of scrimmage for Gore to plow through. Gore is as healthy as he has been since the first couple weeks of the season and could have a big day against the Rams.

The 49ers are a touchdown favorite to defeat the Rams in the regular season finale according the NFL Betting Lines at BetUs. The over/under for the contest has been installed at 40 1/2 points.