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49ers vs. Panthers: 5 Players to Watch for San Francisco

By Peter Panacy

Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Torrey Smith (82) misses the catch against the Los Angeles Rams during the first quarter at Lev'i's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 12, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Torrey Smith (82) misses the catch against the Los Angeles Rams during the first quarter at Lev'i's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 20, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Ray-Ray Armstrong (54) prior to the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 20, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Ray-Ray Armstrong (54) prior to the game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 4: Linebacker Ray-Ray Armstrong

Earlier this offseason, linebacker Ray-Ray Armstrong might have been the least favorite to win out the inside job to start alongside fellow ILB NaVorro Bowman. Many perceived either Michael Wilhoite or Gerald Hodges winning out here.

But Armstrong — thanks, in large measure, to his versatility — ended up being the first-choice guy. He can play on the outside and also doubles as a safety.

Armstrong picked up three tackles in Week 1, second only to Bowman, and also recorded one of the 49ers’ two interceptions against Los Angeles. While Armstrong figures to be a critical piece to the Niners’ Week 2 defense, it’s his matchup versus Carolina tight end Greg Olsen that will be worth watching.

Olsen is one of quarterback Cam Newton’s favorite targets. We know this. And Armstrong’s ability to play well in coverage makes this a unique matchup.

Olsen was targeted nine times against the Broncos in Week 1 and hauled in seven passes for 73 yards. Like wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin, limiting Olsen’s offensive impact will be crucial for San Francisco’s defensive efforts.

Next: DEs Arik Armstead and DeForest Buckner