Kyren Williams carries Rams to key win over rival 49ers

Not only did the Los Angeles Rams earn a much-needed win over the San Francisco 49ers in Week 3, but they escaped the game unscathed in terms of injuries. 

A loss would have left the Rams buried in the NFC West basement. Instead, they kept pace with the 49ers and Cardinals in chasing the 3-0 Seahawks. The Rams, Cardinals and 49ers are all at 1-2.

After suffering numerous injuries in their first two games, getting out of the contest against their in-state rival with a clean bill of health was a blessing almost as welcome as the win.

ESPN concluded its recap of the game with a note that is music to the ears of the Rams and the team's fans: "Los Angeles didn't report an injury after losing multiple players to significant injuries in each of its first two games."

Like the Rams, the 49ers came into the game with numerous key players sidelined with injuries. While the Rams played without their top wide receivers (Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua) and other starters, the 49ers played without running back Christian McCaffrey (Achilles tendinitis), WR Deebo Samuel (calf) and tight end George Kittle (hamstring).

In the absence of these stars, others stepped up. 

WR Jauan Jennings was spectacular for the 49ers, hauling in 11 receptions for 175 yards and three touchdowns. 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy repeatedly found Jennings in the passing game as the Rams defense focused on containing WR Brandon Aiyuk.

For the Rams, WR Tutu Atwell and RB Kyren Williams were outstanding. Atwell had 93 critical receiving yards, and Williams was the leading rusher in the game.