49ers-Raiders preview: C.J. Beathard or Nick Mullens to QB final Battle of the Bay

49ers X-factors and players to watch

QB C.J. Beathard

If Beathard is able to fight through the game despite his wrist injury, he needs to play to win tonight. Given that most of the quarterback’s recent issues have been mental, the addition of a physical injury doesn’t help his chances for success — but no one questions Beathard’s toughness.

QB Nick Mullens

If Mullens gets the start, he should ignore the bright lights and the big stage of Thursday Night Football and the Battle of the Bay, and simply execute. And even if Mullens begins the showdown on the Niners’ sideline, he should be ready for potential game action at a moment’s notice.

49ers’ starting WILL linebacker

With Foster sidelined, the 49ers need a strong replacement at the position next to rookie MIKE linebacker Fred Warner. The obvious replacement is Lee, who has played extremely well in 2018. But Shanahan and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh could also opt to replace Foster with Malcolm Smith, given their affinity for the linebacker — and especially if the Niners activate SAM LB Dekoda Watson from injured reserve.

49ers’ secondary

The 49ers will miss both of their starting safeties, and potentially their top cornerback, in tonight’s Thursday Night Football matchup. Defensive back Jimmie Ward will likely start at free safety, with Powell at strong safety, and D.J. Reed is also an option at both free safety and corner. Cornerback Tarvarius Moore could play on the outside, and rookie safety Marcell Harris may see action at safety as well:

Assembling a respectable secondary is going to be a challenge for Shanahan and Saleh tonight, so an improved pass rush should be a priority for the Niners’ coaching staff.