The San Francisco 49ers returned to the top of the NFC West and eliminated the Los Angeles Rams from playoff contention with a dramatic 34-31 win on Saturday.

Robbie Gould's 33-yard field goal as time expired at Levi's Stadium proved decisive as the 49ers improved to 12-3.

A nine-play, 60-yard drive led by quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo set up the opportunity for Gould as the 49ers climbed back above the Seattle Seahawks (11-3) in the division.

The Seahawks face the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday before meeting the 49ers next week.

The Rams, coming off a Super Bowl loss, slipped to 8-7 and out of playoff contention, while the Minnesota Vikings' spot was secured.

Rams quarterback Jared Goff went 27 of 46 for 323 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.

The 49ers led 24-21 at half-time but Goff's 22-yard pass to Cooper Kupp meant the Rams were in front heading into the fourth quarter.

However, Garoppolo (16 of 27 for 248 yards, one TD and two interceptions) and George Kittle combined and while Greg Zuerlein's 52-yard field goal brought the Rams level, Gould delivered late.

Robert Woods and Tyler Higbee finished with 117 and 104 receiving yards respectively for the Rams.