The Rams lost their first home game of the season, falling 23-20 to the visiting 49ers. It was a game that came down to who’s defense could make the big stop late, and San Francisco answered the call. Here’s what we learned from SoFi Stadium:

Rams Offense Spoils Defensive Efforts

A week after taking down Tom Brady, the Rams fell flat on offense. By the end of the first half. Los Angeles found themselves trailing 7-3, with less than 200 yards of total offense. That’s what happens when you turn the ball over three times (one interception, two fumbles). On the second play of the second half, Jared Goff threw his second interception, which rookie Javon Kinlaw ran in for a pick-six to give San Francisco a 14-3 lead. Neither offense played exceptionally well, with both teams unable to move past their opponent’s 30 yard line in the first half. After scoring a field goal thanks to a 33 yard Cooper Kupp catch-and-run, things seemed to be moving in the Rams’ favor. On the following San Francisco drive, Aaron Donald strip-sacked quarterback Nick Mullens, which led to a scoop and score by Troy Hill to make it a 17-13 game. Following a Rams touchdown to take the lead, both teams traded punts before San Francisco tied the game at 20. Any hopes of staying undefeated at home were washed away when Goff missed Kupp on a deep third down pass, paving the way for San Francisco’s final gaming winning drive.

Deebo Clutch for 49ers

The snake bitten 49ers had to have been elated to have their star players return to the field. Cornerback Richard Sherman, in his first game back since the season opener, picked off a wayward Jared Goff pass; Raheem Mostert steadied a rushing attack that totaled over 100 yards on the ground. But it was Deebo Samuel (11 catches, 133 yards) who came up clutch for his team late in the game. Following a Rams punt, the 49ers found themselves facing 3rd&2 with 1:55 left in regulation. Nick Mullens found Samuel on a 24 yard slant, setting up Robbie Gould’s 42 yard game winning field goal.

The loss against San Francisco makes it four straight losses against their division rivals, going back to last year. Luckily, the Rams face the Arizona Cardinals next week, who are coming off a tough loss against New England. Since Sean McVay took over in 2017, the Rams are 6-0 against the Cardinals. They’ll face off at State Farm Stadium at 1:05 pm PST.