The Rams will be facing a rejuvenated Niners defense that shut down Arizona on Monday. San Francisco allowed an NFL-worst 412 points last season, but limited the Cardinals to just 261 yards.
"They did some great things against an explosive offense with some very good players," said coach Mike Nolan, who allowed rookie defensive coordinator Greg Manusky to call all the defensive formations. "You just have to be pleased."
Neither team lit up the scoreboard in Week 1, but San Fran did enough on their final drive of the game to beat Arizona 20-17 on Monday night. Picked by many to be the surprise team of the season, San Francisco struggled to move the ball before Alex Smith led the team on a 12-play, 86-yard drive that culminated with Arnaz Battle's one-yard touchdown on a reverse with 22 seconds remaining.
Frank Gore had 55 yards rushing and a touchdown in his first action since breaking his right hand in the preseason, but admitted he was rusty. Gore said Friday he is dedicating the season to his mother, Liz, whose long battle with kidney disease ended Wednesday. He practiced Friday and said he would play against the Rams on Sunday. After all, that's what his mom would have wanted.The 49ers will be looking for a better game from Gore, who was second to Jackson in the NFC in 2006 with 2,180 yards from scrimmage. Gore has four touchdowns in his last three games against St. Louis and rushed for 261 yards in two meetings last season. The Niners, who went 3-5 on the road last season, plays at Pittsburgh next week, then faces four straight 2006 playoff teams, so a good showing and a win would be a great boost heading into "Steeltown".
If the defense can contain the Rams vaunted offense and help with field position, Smith and company can have an easier time moving the ball. However, they have to get off to a good start and play mistake free football. If they have to play catch-up, it could be a long day.
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