49ers vs. Buccaneers: 5 matchups to watch in Week 12

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SANTA CLARA, CA – OCTOBER 23: Jameis Winston #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers breaks a tackle from Aaron Lynch #59 of the San Francisco 49ers during their NFL game at Levi’s Stadium on October 23, 2016 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Five key matchups in the San Francisco 49ers verus Tampa Bay Buccaneers game this Sunday. What needs to happen for a 49ers win? Who needs to perform to increase job security?

On Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, the first San Francisco 49ers game after Thanksgiving, what will the team be thankful for?

They should be thankful that they are playing a 3-7 Tampa Bay Buccaneers team in last place in the NFC South.

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan made it clear over last week’s bye that virtually everyone on the roster is playing for a spot on what is expected to be a team with a winning record in 2019. Each and every active person on the team Sunday should be thankful they are getting a chance to perform. They have all been put on notice. The fact the opponent is 27th in the NFL in rushing yards per game, or has the 32nd ranked scoring defense in the NFL, should simply be gravy on what is already an appetizing matchup.

With the team’s emphasis being on talent evaluation for the remainder of the season, which matchups, in this game specifically, are the ones to be watching?

The matchups are ranked based on the battles that need to be won in order for the 49ers to get a victory.