In a gripping Thursday Night Football matchup, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua achieved a significant milestone, though his record-setting performance couldn’t prevent a 26-23 overtime loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Nacua was already on pace to challenge Calvin Johnson‘s single-season receiving record. He continued his impressive start by catching 10 passes for 85 yards and his second touchdown of the season.
With these 10 catches, Nacua now has 52 receptions through the first five games of the season, setting a new NFL record for the most catches in that span.
This performance not only marked his first touchdown since Week 1 but also set a new NFL record for the most receptions through a team’s first five games.
Previously, the record was held by Michael Thomas, who had 49 receptions in 2019. Nacua‘s rapid ascent in the league is a testament to his exceptional talent and work ethic.
Despite the historic individual achievement, the Rams were unable to secure the win. Late in regulation, running back Kyren Williams fumbled near the goal line, a costly turnover that ultimately gave the 49ers a chance to extend the game into overtime.
Backup quarterback Mac Jones led San Francisco with 342 passing yards and two touchdowns, while Kendrick Bourne contributed 142 receiving yards.
Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 389 yards and three touchdowns, but costly mistakes, including Williams’ fumble, hindered the team’s comeback efforts.
Despite tying the game late in regulation, the Rams couldn’t capitalize in overtime, leaving them with a 3-2 record.
Nacua’s exceptional play continues to highlight his rapid ascent in the NFL, and his performance against the 49ers further cements his status as one of the league’s most promising young talents.
Late-game drama in San Francisco
The game reached a crescendo in overtime, where Eddy Pineiro drilled a 41-yard field goal to give the 49ers the lead. On the Rams’ ensuing possession, their drive stalled on a fourth-down attempt, cementing San Francisco’s victory.
The win brought the 49ers’ record to 3-2, matching the Rams, who also fell to 3-2.
Nacua’s performance, while overshadowed by the loss, continued to showcase his elite talent and remarkable consistency.
Good news for the 49ers
The 49ers managed to snap a three-game losing streak in the series against the Rams while navigating a short-handed roster that included absences of Purdy, Nick Bosa, George Kittle, and several receivers.
Yet, the team’s defense and opportunistic playmakers demonstrated why the 49ers remain a force in the NFC West.
San Francisco opened the scoring with touchdown passes to Jake Tonges and McCaffrey, while Los Angeles responded with Williams’ 14-yard touchdown reception before halftime.
The teams traded leads through a tense second half, with each side’s quarterbacks battling injuries and relentless defensive pressure.
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