NFL fantasy football projections: Which 49ers to start against Rams?
Jimmy Garoppolo will need to use the 49ers' full complement of offensive weapons to offset the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday night.
SANTA CLARA – Here are the 49ers’ fantasy-football projections heading into Sunday night’s game against the Los Angeles Rams (4-1) at Levi’s Stadium:
Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo: Sit him
Projected stats: 250 yards, 2 TDs
Conventional wisdom says not to use Garoppolo when his ankle got him benched by halftime last game. However, don’t be surprised if he comes out and totally redeems himself, because the 49ers might need him to if Rams counterpart Jared Goff shreds the 49ers’ defense.
Running back Raheem Mostert: Start him
Projected stats: 100 yards, 1 TD
His 90-yard output last game made for not only a nice comeback from a knee sprain, but a great sign that the 49ers can rely on him in a run-oriented approach necessary to outlast the Rams.
Running back Jerick McKinnon: Sit him
Projected stats: 70 all-purpose yards, 1 TD
Last week’s instant failures in the first quarter made McKinnon an afterthought. They will need him more this game but Mostert’s presence makes McKinnon more of an RB3.
Running back Jeff Wilson: Sit him
Projected stats: 0
He is questionable with a calf injury. His opportunities were limited enough when he was healthy.
Tight end George Kittle: Start him
Projected stats: 10 catches, 130 yards, 1 TD
Prime-time players make prime-time plays. Kittle is the 49ers’ offensive catalyst and thrives in these night showcases, especially when the quarterback needs to unload quick passes.
Wide receiver Deebo Samuel: Start him
Projected stats: 100 all-purpose yards
Ready for his breakout game? So are the 49ers. He had a full week of practice, unlike last week when he was ill.
Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk: Start him
Projected stats: 5 receptions, 70 yards
If the 49ers get in a shootout and the Rams are blanketing Kittle, look for Aiyuk to become a popular target.
Kicker Robbie Gould: Start him
Projected stats: 4 PATs, 3 FGs
No faith in the 49ers’ offense? Look, the 49ers like to score a lot when facing the Rams, and Gould’s points are a byproduct than that.
Defense: Sit it
Projected stats: Over 400 yards, over 30 points
It’s Kwon Alexander’s turn to sit out with an injury, and while Dre Greenlaw should fill in fine if not better, the 49ers still lack a ferocious front to disrupt Goff and the Rams’ revitalized offense.