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49ers vs. Broncos: 5 San Francisco Players to Watch in Denver

By Peter Panacy

January 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers strong safety Jimmie Ward (25) runs the football during the fourth quarter against the St. Louis Rams at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Rams 19-16. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
January 3, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers strong safety Jimmie Ward (25) runs the football during the fourth quarter against the St. Louis Rams at Levi's Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Rams 19-16. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 8, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers inside linebacker Gerald Hodges (51) walks onto the practice field during minicamp at the San Francisco 49ers Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 8, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers inside linebacker Gerald Hodges (51) walks onto the practice field during minicamp at the San Francisco 49ers Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Linebacker Gerald Hodges

The 49ers have a three-way competition open for the starting inside linebacker gig alongside All-Pro NaVorro Bowman.

Linebacker Gerald Hodges appeared to be the favorite to win this job over fellow insiders Michael Wilhoite and Ray-Ray Armstrong. But Armstrong was far more the defensive standout from this cast last Sunday.

According to Pro Football Focus (h/t David Fucillo of Niners Nation), Armstrong finished the day as the best-graded 49ers defender. He had three tackles on five run stops, and this video — courtesy of PFF’s Steve Palazzolo — helps illustrate why:

Comparatively, Hodges didn’t even crack the stat sheet, aside from his snap count.

How Hodges bounces back and makes an impact will be worth watching Saturday.

Based off one game’s worth of numbers, Armstrong leads the competition.

Next: Running Back Mike Davis