Jimmy Garoppolo is the Los Angeles Rams' No. 2 quarterback, but that doesn't mean the former 49ers signal-caller is playing a huge role in helping his team prepare for Sunday's matchup at SoFi Stadium.
While Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur believes Garoppolo's knowledge of San Francisco's organization gives LA a boost, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan downplayed the significance of the intel that his former QB can provide. Instead, he was more concerned with former 49ers passing game coordinator LaFleur’s insight.
"I think it's way overblown," Shanahan told reporters Friday. "I mean, a little bit more from Mike LaFleur. That started last year, though. But no, not that much."
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While speaking to reporters Thursday, LaFleur lauded Garoppolo's impact in assisting the Rams' game plan.
“Probably more so between Jimmy and Matthew [Stafford] maybe even just in the locker room in general,” LaFleur said. “Anytime you got a little more information when you’ve been in the locker room and had the success that Jimmy has had in that locker room, I’m sure that there are a few things that I’m not getting told and things like that. But just having Jimmy back right now has been great and it’s a benefit.”
Garoppolo spent parts of six seasons with the 49ers, posting a 38-17 record in 55 starts.
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It remains to be seen whether or not Garoppolo's 49ers intel will make a difference in Sunday's matchup, but it's clear Shanahan isn't fazed by it.
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