49ers’ winners & losers from Week 8 win versus Raiders
By Peter Panacy
Winner: Quarterback Nick Mullens
Well, duh.
Going into the game, Nick Mullens being announced as the starter likely convinced a lot of fans the 49ers would have zero chance pulling off a win against the Raiders. After all, Mullens had never seen a regular-season snap and had never started an NFL game, even in the preseason. And during those preseason appearances, he was largely going up against third- and fourth-string units — many of which were featuring players not on an NFL roster right now.
More from SF 49ers News
- DraftKings NFL Draft Promo – Win $150 Guaranteed on Any $5 Bet
- Updated 49ers salary cap space ahead of 2023 NFL Draft
- Deebo Samuel fully admits his hatred of LA Rams
- Brock Purdy jokingly says he’s learning to throw left-handed
- 49ers news: Trey Lance is in the dark regarding trade talk
The problem? No one told Mullens he was supposed to struggle.
Instead, the second-year undrafted quarterback finished with an impressive 16-of-22 line for 262 yards and three touchdowns, tossing zero interceptions and finishing with a passer rating of 151.9.
Again, against an inept Oakland defense. But it’s still a defense featuring NFL-roster material. Not practice squad bodies or training camp invitees.
Mullens might not have the strongest arm. Unlike C.J. Beathard, though, Mullens is more than capable getting the ball out quickly. And while it helped the Raiders pass rush had zero effect, the win certainly should build Mullens’ confidence when he surely starts against an also-bad Giants squad in Week 10.
Next. 49ers grades from Week 9 Thursday Night Football win vs. Raiders. dark
And it helps Mullens has now earned himself a little bit of stardom in the process.