Niner Noise
FanSided

These 4 49ers need to play well in preseason Week 1 vs. Cowboys

By Akshaj Dwivedula

SANTA CLARA, CA - AUGUST 09: Aldrick Robinson #19 of the San Francisco 49ers catches a pass over Duke Thomas #26 of the Dallas Cowboys in the second quarter of their NFL preseason football game at Levi's Stadium on August 9, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA - AUGUST 09: Aldrick Robinson #19 of the San Francisco 49ers catches a pass over Duke Thomas #26 of the Dallas Cowboys in the second quarter of their NFL preseason football game at Levi's Stadium on August 9, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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GLENDALE, AZ – OCTOBER 28: Quarterback C.J. Beathard #3 of the San Francisco 49ers runs off the field during the NFL game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on October 28, 2018 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the 49ers 18-15. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

QB C.J. Beathard

The battle for the backup quarterback spot, and most likely the only other quarterback spot on the roster, has been competitive but clearly slanted in Nick Mullens‘ favor. The 49ers unofficial depth chart, however, has Mullens and C.J. Beathard tied in the race right now (h/t 49ers Webzone).

Mullens has outperfomed Beathard based off game situation. Even last preseason, when “overreacting” to games, I constantly noted how Mullens had been outperforming Beathard. That only continued into the regular season.

But Beathard has many external factors working for him. Being a third-round pick of the regime, Beathard has a much longer leash than Mullens will. The level of commitment is much higher for a day two pick than an undrafted free agent.

As I pointed out a year ago breaking down his value for the 49ers, Beathard has had a lot invested in him. But at a certain point, a player needs to produce.

A strong start against the Cowboys is crucial to keep the competition close.