49ers vs. Rams preview: First-round bye, draft position at stake in Week 17

The visiting San Francisco 49ers face the Los Angeles Rams in Week 17 of the 2018 NFL regular season. Niner Noise previews the matchup, including key stats, players to watch, X-factors, odds, injury news and how to watch the game live.

After beginning the season with different expectations, the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams enter the final week of the 2018 NFL regular season with different intentions.

A victory over the rival 49ers is essential for the playoff-bound Rams and head coach Sean McVay, as a Week 17 win would ensure that Los Angeles receives a much-needed first-round bye in the playoffs. After peaking early in the season, the 8-0 Rams stumbled as the team faced…