49ERS VS. RAMS

THREE KEYS 1. Garoppolo Magic, Part V:

Niners quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo already has proved his worth for a long-term contract, especially after beating a powerful Jaguars defense last Sunday. The linemen need to protect him one more game as he tries maintaining the offense’s rhythm with third-down conversions and a saintly presence.

2. Mental fortitude:

The 49ers really want to finish on a five-game win streak, and they can’t take for granted a playoff-bound Rams team that is sitting Jared Goff, Todd Gurley, Aaron Donald and many other starters. Don’t look for the 49ers to force their backups into action, not after playing so many amid an injury-strewn season.

3. Beware of the pass:.

With Gurley not expected to add to his NFL rushing lead, the Rams may want to attack a 49ers secondary that looked vulnerable up until last game’s three interceptions. Quarterback Sean Mannion, a Bay Area native, is making his first career start in three seasons, so he brings an element of the unknown to this regularseason finale. With the Rams missing a couple of key linemen, perhaps the 49ers pass rush has a banner game.

INJURIES

49ers: All expected to play. Listed during week were: TE Garrett Celek (knee, rib), FS Adrian Colbert (shoulder), WR Marquise Goodwin (back), WR Trent Taylor (shoulder).

Rams: Doubtful: LB Mark Barron (Achilles). Questionable: WR Cooper Kupp (knee).