SANTA CLARA -- In back-to-back weeks, the 49ers have been destroyed by a couple of generational talents.
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers proved to be the difference in Week 6, as the 49ers lost a heart-breaker to the Green Bay Packers. On Sunday, the 49ers didn't have much of a chance against the Los Angeles Rams, but they were torn apart the best defensive player in the game.
Defensive tackle Aaron Donald recorded four of the Rams’ seven sacks of 49ers quarterback C.J. Beathard, as Los Angeles remained unbeaten with a 39-10 victory at Levi’s Stadium.
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Bay Area and California sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.
“I don’t think there’s ever been anyone like him in the NFL,” 49ers left tackle Joe Staley said of Donald. “He’s in a class of his own.
“But at the end of the day, he’s still an NFL player, and it’s our job is to block him. He was really impactful today. We’ll go back and watch film and see what we can do better next time we play him.”
[RELATED: Potential rainbow emerging for 49ers]
The 49ers next play the Rams in Week 17, but it seems likely at this point that coach Sean McVay will be resting his starters in that regular-season finale to have his team geared up for the playoffs. The Rams (7-0) own a sizable NFC West lead over the Seattle Seahawks (3-3), the 49ers (1-6) and the Arizona Cardinals (1-6).
San Francisco 49ers
In addition to his sack totals, Donald recorded nine tackles and five quarterback hits. He also forced and recovered a fumble when he ripped the ball out of 49ers running Matt Breida's hands in the second quarter. Los Angeles turned four San Francisco turnovers into 24 points.
“When you just play football, really play football, good things are going to happen,” said Donald, who leads the NFL with eight sacks.
Donald, a fifth-year pro, was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year last season. He signed a six-year, $135 million contract on Aug. 31 after sitting out training camp.
“He’s a baller -- one of the best D-linemen, if not the best D-linemen, out there,” 49ers left guard Laken Tomlinson said.
“It’s how dynamic he is as a pass rusher. Very quick, very powerful and plays very low. That’s just him.”