The Rams and 49ers have a longstanding rivalry, historically favoring the San Francisco team, yet still highly anticipated. Both teams are facing challenges with key players sidelined due to injuries as they gear up for Sunday’s matchup at the Rams’ home opener in Inglewood. The 49ers are without Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, and possibly George Kittle, while the Rams will be missing Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua.

Quarterbacks Matthew Stafford and Brock Purdy will be leading their teams, aiming to navigate through the game despite the absence of key offensive playmakers. The 49ers are regrouping after a recent loss to Minnesota and are adapting their offensive strategy without McCaffrey and Samuel, who were major contributors last season.

Both teams’ coaches, Sean McVay for the Rams and Kyle Shanahan for the 49ers, are adjusting their game plans to compensate for the missing star players. Veterans Tyler Johnson and Demarcus Robinson are expected to step into pivotal roles for the Rams in the absence of Kupp and Nacua.

The absence of Aaron Donald, who retired after last season, has shifted the focus for the 49ers’ offensive preparation, as the three-time AP Defensive Player of the Year was a significant factor in previous matchups. Former 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, now with the Rams, will experience a different perspective as he faces his former team for the first time since departing San Francisco.

Although the 49ers have dominated recent meetings, the Rams clinched key victories, including the NFC championship game in January 2022 and the teams’ last meeting in Week 18 of the previous season. Despite missing McCaffrey and Samuel, the 49ers still have talent in players like Brandon Aiyuk, Jordan Mason, and Jauan Jennings stepping up in their absence. The game promises to be a thrilling continuation of the storied rivalry between these two California teams.