Niner Noise
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Cowboys vs. 49ers: 5 Matchups to Watch for San Francisco

By Peter Panacy

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Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers cornerback Chris Davis (43) reacts after forcing an incomplete pass against the Houston Texans in the first quarter at Levi
Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers cornerback Chris Davis (43) reacts after forcing an incomplete pass against the Houston Texans in the first quarter at Levi /

No. 5: CB Chris Davis vs. WR Cole Beasley

So Cowboys No. 1 wide receiver Dez Bryant (knee) is questionable for Week 4, per head coach Jason Garrett (h/t Brandon George of the Dallas Morning News), but that doesn’t mean Dallas’ passing attack is completely lost.

Bryant isn’t even quarterback Dak Prescott’s favorite receiving target this season anyway. It’s slot receiver Cole Beasley, who leads the Cowboys with 20 receptions for 213 yards.

With 49ers defensive back Jimmie Ward (quad) likely sidelined Sunday, the primary nickel role will likely fall upon the shoulders of fellow corner Chris Davis.

Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers strong safety Jimmie Ward (25) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Cole Beasley (11) at AT&T Stadium. San Francisco beat Dallas 28-17. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; San Francisco 49ers strong safety Jimmie Ward (25) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Cole Beasley (11) at AT&T Stadium. San Francisco beat Dallas 28-17. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /

Davis owns a 40.4 overall mark on the season, per Pro Football Focus, and has seen only 33 snaps over three games.

Rookie Rashard Robinson could also see time in the slot. But he’s likely a candidate to assume outside duties if Ward is unable to go.