Niner Noise
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49ers vs. Vikings: 5 biggest matchups to watch in Week 1

By Aaron Tan

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 18: Kirk Cousins #8 of the Minnesota Vikings warms up before the preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on August 18, 2018 at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - AUGUST 18: Kirk Cousins #8 of the Minnesota Vikings warms up before the preseason game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on August 18, 2018 at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – OCTOBER 15: Anthony Barr #55 of the Minnesota Vikings hits quarterback Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers during the first quarter of the game on October 15, 2017 at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – OCTOBER 15: Anthony Barr #55 of the Minnesota Vikings hits quarterback Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers during the first quarter of the game on October 15, 2017 at US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Adam Bettcher/Getty Images) /

No. 3: Offensive Tackle Mike McGlinchey vs. EDGE Anthony Barr

In reality, first-round rookie offensive tackle Mike McGlinchey will be facing more than linebacker Anthony Barr rushing along the edge. He will also be facing Everson Griffen and Danielle Hunter, more powerful edge rushers.

To put it simply, Mike McGlinchey’s first start as a 49er will be incredibly tough. He will be facing the Vikings’ nasty outside rushers full of talent and ready to make a Super Bowl run.

McGlinchey has looked great throughout preseason, even earning a 92 run-block grade from Pro Football Focus for the preseason, so hopefully he can hold up to protect Jimmy Garoppolo and to open up running lanes for tailbacks Alfred Morris and Matt Breida, but this Minnesota pass-rush is extremely talented.

Welcome to the NFL, McGlinchey.