As the San Francisco 49ers’ 2024 season draws to a close, the team is left to ponder what might have been.
Thursday’s 12-6 loss to the Los Angeles Rams was the final nail in the coffin, all but mathematically eliminating the defending NFC champions from playoff contention.
A Lackluster Performance Seals the 49ers’ Fate
The 49ers’ offense was unable to muster a single touchdown, while the special teams unit was plagued by penalties.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan’s conservative play-calling was also a point of contention, as the team settled for a 53-yard field goal in the first half.
Quarterback Brock Purdy’s struggles in the rain were compounded by a brutal end-zone interception, effectively ending the 49ers’ chances.
De’Vondre Campbell’s Stunning Refusal to Play
In a shocking turn of events, veteran linebacker De’Vondre Campbell declined to enter the game in the third quarter, citing his dissatisfaction with losing his starting job to Dre Greenlaw.
Campbell’s decision was widely criticized by his teammates, with Charvarius Ward and George Kittle labeling it “selfish.”
A Season Marked by Trauma and Tragedy
The 49ers have faced their fair share of adversity this season, with players like Ward and rookie wide receiver Ricky Pearsall dealing with personal tragedies.
Ward opened up about the challenges he has faced since the loss of his daughter, Amani Joy, and acknowledged that football has taken a backseat in his life.
Reckoning and Rebuilding Ahead for the 49ers
As the 49ers look to the future, Shanahan and general manager John Lynch will be tasked with reckoning with the team’s shortcomings and rebuilding for the 2025 season.
With several key players set to become free agents, the team’s roster will likely undergo changes in the coming months.
Sean McVay’s Rams Prove Resilient in Victory
The Rams, meanwhile, demonstrated their resilience in the face of adversity, with head coach Sean McVay praising his team’s mental toughness.
The Rams’ victory was a testament to their ability to win in different ways, with McVay highlighting the team’s defensive performance as a key factor in their success.
A Changing of the Guard in the NFC West
As the 49ers’ era of dominance comes to a close, the Rams are poised to take their place as a leading contender in the NFC West.
With the Seattle Seahawks also in the mix, the division is set to undergo a change in power dynamics in the coming seasons.
