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NFL fans made it through the long preseason. After watching, waiting, and preparing for the upcoming season, the league rewarded fans with a game on Wednesday to kick off the 2026-2027 season. The rematch between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks was the perfect way to kickstart the season before Thursday’s division battle between the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams. Here are four bold predictions for Thursday’s matchup between the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams. MORE: Bold NFL predictions for Week 1 of 2026 season Myles Garrett Starts Week 1 with Two Sacks The Rams wanted to beef up their defense this offseason and did so by adding Myles Garrett to the roster. Take it one step further, the team saw the return of Aaron Donald from retirement. Los Angeles enters week one with Myles Garrett and has a quick return on investment. Aaron Donald’s debut will have to wait until after the team’s return from Australia. Garrett records two sacks in his first game with the Rams. He gives the league a look at what to expect throughout this season. Christian McCaffrey Finishes with 100 Yards & Finds the Endzone McCaffrey enters this season slated to be the team’s workhorse yet again. He finished last season shy of 1,000 rushing and receiving yards and looks to reach the milestone during the 2026-2027 season. San Francisco gets the ball into McCaffrey’s hands throughout the game, and the running back does his best to lead the offense. Christian McCaffrey finishes the game with over 100 combined rushing and receiving yards, while finding the end zone in the first game of the season. Mike Evans Scores a Touchdown After spending his first 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the future first-ballot Hall of Famer joined San Francisco this offseason. Needing all the help they can get at wide receiver, the 49ers look to Evans early and often during their Week 1 matchup. After a dismal first drive, quarterback Brock Purdy and Mike Evans establish a rapport moving forward. The veteran finishes the game with five catches, 72 yards, and one touchdown. Evans’ first touchdown, as a 49er, gives the team a breath of fresh air heading into the long, grueling season. Kyren Williams Finishes with 100 Rushing Yards & Two Touchdowns While Myles Garrett and Aaron Donald have the attention on defense, running back Kyren Williams shines during the first game of the season. Los Angeles looks to establish the run game early and gives their workhorse his fair share of carries throughout the game. Williams has success immediately and becomes a focal point in passing situations. Kyren Williams finishes the victory with 100 rushing yards, 40 receiving yards, and two rushing touchdowns. He’s well on his way to a fourth consecutive season with 1,000 yards rushing. — Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —