49ers vs. Rams: 5 Key Stats from the First Half

Today the San Francisco 49ers take on the St. Louis Rams, playing for the second seed in the NFC. 

We've seen a great half thus far, but the Niners need to keep their foot on the gas to fend off the Saints and clinch a first-round bye. 

Before action starts in the second half, let's take a quick look at five key stats from the first two quarters of this game. 

4: Missed tackles on Kellen Clemens' TD run

I wish this was a joke, but on the Rams' opening drive QB Kellen Clemens eluded four SF tackles on his way to an 18-yard touchdown scamper. This marks the second rushing TD allowed by the Niners' defense this season. 

8: Yard TD run by Alex Smith

Late in the first quarter, QB Alex Smith answered Clemens' rushing TD with an eight-yard run of his own, giving him four career touchdowns on the ground. Smith is definitely one of the most underrated athletes in the NFL. Look for him to continue to use his quick feet and awareness to punish the Rams in the second half. 

37: Takeaways this season for SF 

The Niners notched their 37th takeaway this season when Tarell Brown intercepted a failed Jerious Norwood pass. The Rams' questionable trick play perfectly set up SF with great field position on their way to taking an early 14-7 lead. 

110.0: Smith's QB rating 

The Niners passing game has looked solid today, as Smith has hooked up with Vernon Davis and Crabtree for a couple of huge gains. Look for Alex to continue to torch the Rams' sluggish secondary as SF looks to build some critical momentum for the playoffs. 

1-2: SF's red zone efficiency in the first half

The Niners have continually struggled to finish in the red zone this season and have not shown much change today. SF continues to manage risks and not take chances in near the goal line. Although this is not the most popular play calling, it's hard to argue with SF's 12-3 record.