49ers X-factors and players to watch
While the competition between Garoppolo and Cousins will be center stage during today’s matchup, there are a number of important players to watch in Week 1.
RB Alfred Morris and RB Matt Breida
The loss of McKinnon, who added value as a pass-catcher as well as a runner, is a significant one for San Francisco’s offense. Veteran running back Alfred Morris and second-year runner Matt Brieda will split time in the 49ers’ backfield, but neither is an experienced receiver.
Morris averaged less than 12 receptions per season in his four years as an NFL starter, and Breida logged just 1.3 receptions per game in his rookie year, after averaging 11 catches per season in college. Since Shanahan’s offensive scheme utilizes RBs heavily in the passing game, both backs will be need to be ready to contribute through the air, as well as on the ground.
LB Fred Warner
With 49ers star linebacker Reuben Foster suspended for the first two games of the season, rookie LB Fred Warner will get the start in his place. And now that Smith is doubtful for today’s game, Warner will need to play a more active role for the 49ers’ defense.
The third-round draft pick will need to be effective in run defense against both second-year RB Dalvin Cook — who is scheduled to play today after a close family member was shot on Friday — and veteran running back Latavius Murray. Warner will also need to be active in the passing game, where he will line up against Cook, as well as Pro Bowl tight end and red-zone threat Kyle Rudolph.
49ers’ pass rushers
In order for San Francisco to leave Minnesota with a victory today, the 49ers will need to pressure Cousins, and force the quarterback into making mistakes. In a surprise move, the Niners released EDGE Jeremiah Attaochu during last weekend’s final roster cuts; without Harold and Watson, the relatively unproven Cassius Marsh is the only traditional third-down edge rusher on the team’s roster.
The 49ers will be forced to use their base defensive ends Solomon Thomas and Arik Armstead, and perhaps 3-technique defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, to provide QB pressure from the 9-technique on obvious passing downs. The Vikings’ offensive line is the team’s weakest link — with injuries depleting the group even further — so San Francisco will need to exploit Minnesota’s makeshift OL in today’s matchup.
49ers’ cornerbacks
If the 49ers are unable to provide a consistent pass rush, San Francisco’s secondary will need to pick up the slack. If Minnesota’s offensive line gives Cousins the time he needs to throw, veteran cornerback Richard Sherman, second-year CB Ahkello Witherspoon and nickel corner K’Waun Williams will be called on to keep the Vikings’ two top wideouts — Adam Thielen and Stefon Diggs — in check.
T Mike McGlinchey and the 49ers’ offensive line
While the Vikings’ offensive line is their worst unit, their defensive line and linebacking corps rank among the league’s elite. Rookie tackle Mike McGlinchey will have a difficult NFL debut, as he will face a top front seven, led by pass-rushing specialist Everson Griffen, who had a breakout 13-sack 2017 season. Fellow defensive end Danielle Hunter is no slouch either, and is effective against both the run and the pass. With multiple standouts along the Vikings’ DL, each member of San Francisco’s offensive line will have his hands full today.