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Sean McVay Facing Backlash For Costly Fourth Down Call vs. 49ers

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Oct 3, 2025 2:07 PM ET

Sean McVay is undoubtedly one of the best coaches in the NFL, but make no mistake, he cost the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night against the San Francisco 49ers.

Despite dealing with a plethora of injuries, the 49ers secured a 26-23 victory over the Rams in overtime. Backup quarterback Mac Jones played through a knee injury, completing 33-of-49 pass attempts for 342 yards with two touchdowns. His top target was Kendrick Bourne, who hauled in 10 passes for 142 yards.

The Rams, meanwhile, received an epic performance from Matthew Stafford. He completed 30-of-47 passes for 389 yards with three touchdowns. There was a point in the fourth quarter where he simply couldn't be stopped.

And yet, with the game on the line, McVay called a designed run for Kyren Williams. The 49ers were ready for that play, that's for sure. Rookie safety Marques Single, star linebacker Fred Warner and a few others made the game-winning tackle in overtime.

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - JANUARY 13: Head coach Sean McVay of the Los Angeles Rams reacts during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings during the NFC Wild Card Playoff at State Farm Stadium on January 13, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)Norm Hall/Getty Images

McVay taking heat for that call.

Unsurprisingly, the NFL world had an issue with McVay taking the ball out of Stafford's hands.

"Game on the line… you go for it instead of tying field goal… and THIS is the playcall by Sean McVay?? This is probably the worst call of his career," one person said.

"Can't believe THAT was the 4th down play call by Sean McVay," Kevin O'Connor of Yahoo Sports wrote on X.

"I can appreciate Sean McVay going for the win. But taking the ball out of Matthew Stafford’s hands was quite a choice," Anthony DiBona of ThePhillySpecialShow.com said.

"If you are gonna go for it right there, you HAVE TO have a better play than that," former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III wrote.

Game on the line… you go for it instead of tying field goal… and THIS is the playcall by Sean McVay??

This is probably the worst call of his career
pic.twitter.com/1eHNN0fHmc
— John Frascella (Football) (@NFLFrascella) October 3, 2025