Heading into Monday night, it was widely acknowledged that the 49ers had to win this game if there would be any realistic hope of making a push for a playoff spot this season. Not only did the 49ers defeat the Los Angeles Rams, but they also appeared to completely demoralize them in a 31-10 beatdown on national television. A Niners victory came as a surprise to many after how flat they came out at home only a week prior.
One of the many criticisms of the 49ers season thus far was that they had yet to look the part against a quality opponent, racking up all their wins against teams below .