-bm.jpg "Rams-at-49ers-(NFL)-bm")
Los Angeles has a slightly better team but the 49ers played very well last time out in a close loss to the Seahawks. This one could be a defensive slugfest, and since it will be on Thursday each side is going to have to recuperate quickly. The 49ers are in rebuilding mode but are showing some signs of life. While progress is good, the first win of their season would be better.
It’s not out of the realm of possibility as oddsmakers see a game that could come down to the wire. The Rams are 1-1 on the season, blowing out the Colts in their opener before losing a close one to Washington on Sunday.
This contest in Week 3 of the regular season will go down Thursday, September 21, 2017, at 8:25 p.m. ET at Levi’s Stadium.
Opening NFL Odds at BookMaker.eu
Los Angeles Rams -2.5
San Francisco 49ers +2.5
Over/Under 41.5
Odds Analysis
The Rams are slight road favorites and 70 percent of the early action is on them to cover. The spread is intriguing because a field goal margin would allow Los Angeles to cover.
The scoring total is low for this one, which isn’t a surprise since both teams are better on the defensive side of the ball. The “under” is the much more popular choice early on, and the day of the week could be a factor. The Thursday Night Football games have often been sloppy over the past couple of seasons.
Injury Report
Eric Reid -- The 49ers’ safety is one of the team’s best players, and he left the game against Seattle with a knee injury. It came on a non-contact play in the second quarter, and after returning for a short stint, left for good in the third quarter. It’s something to watch closely moving forward.
Reuben Foster -- San Francisco’s first-round pick played well in his debut but suffered an ankle sprain against the Panthers. He is expected to miss a few weeks, which would keep him out of action in this one.
Kayvon Webster -- The Rams’ starting cornerback missed the team’s Week 2 loss to the Redskins with a shoulder injury. He was listed as questionable so may be able to return for this contest, although the short week could put that somewhat in peril.
Player To Watch
Todd Gurley -- The defenses should have the advantage in most facets, but the Rams do have a potential ace up their sleeve in their standout running back. Gurley had a disappointing first couple of seasons but has looked good in 2017.
While he only had 40 yards rushing on 19 carries in the opener, Gurley added five catches for 56 yards. He had a big game last time out, finishing with 16 carries for 88 yards and a touchdown. If Gurley can run the ball with authority in this game, it will give the Rams a good chance of controlling this contest.
Free ATS Pick
The Rams had the big win in Week 1 and many believe they are much-improved, but it could be smoke and mirrors. It’s not easy playing on the road, even though the 49ers’ faithful won’t be very rowdy since it’s going to be another losing season.
San Francisco had a nice showing last time out in Seattle and should build on that here. Take the 49ers to pull off the upset in a game that will be ugly from start to finish. The “under” is the easy call on the scoring total.
NFL Odds: 49ers 17, Rams 13
BookMaker offers play-by-play betting odds for live sporting events every day! The user-friendly wagering interface on your smartphone provides an easy way to place bets on the go. Mobile betting lines are updated by the minute, so click here to start gambling on thrilling live action at BookMaker Sportsbook!
