49ers' playoff hopes dealt critical blow with loss to Rams

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (KRON) -- The San Francisco 49ers' chances of making the playoffs are in serious peril after they lost 12-6 to the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night.

The 49ers (6-8) now sit 2.5 games behind the NFC West-leading Seattle Seahawks (8-5). The Rams improved to 8-6 with their win.

San Francisco's offense could never find a rhythm Thursday night in the rain. Brock Purdy completed less than half of his passes and threw a key interception as the 49ers were driving in the fourth quarter.

Deebo Samuel also struggled, notably dropping a pass on a key third down in the third quarter. Samuel sounded off about not getting the ball after last week's win over the Chicago Bears. He gained 19 yards on five offensive touches on Thursday.

The 49ers' defense held strong for most of the first half, forcing punts on the Rams' first five possessions. However, they had trouble stopping the Rams' long, meticulous drives in the second half.

While the 49ers held Rams star wide receiver Cooper Kupp without a catch, running back Kyren Williams and wide receiver Puka Nacua each racked up more than 100 total yards. George Kittle led the 49ers in receiving with 61 yards.

The 49ers finish the season with games at the Miami Dolphins, against the NFL-best Detroit Lions in Santa Clara and at the Arizona Cardinals.