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Falcons vs. 49ers: 5 matchups to watch in Week 15

By Jeremy Wohlfart

SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 08: Shaun Draughn #24 of the San Francisco 49ers runs away from Kemal Ishmael #36 of the Atlanta Falcons at Levi's Stadium on November 8, 2015 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SANTA CLARA, CA - NOVEMBER 08: Shaun Draughn #24 of the San Francisco 49ers runs away from Kemal Ishmael #36 of the Atlanta Falcons at Levi's Stadium on November 8, 2015 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
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Austin Hooper, Falcons
Austin Hooper #81 of the Atlanta Falcons (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /

No. 3: Austin Hooper vs. Fred Warner

Tight end Austin Hooper is the top intermediate target of the Falcons, and if the 49ers secondary does its usual job of shutting down the receiver, it stands to reason Hooper will receive a lot of targets.

If so, the Niners’ top coverage linebacker, Fred Warner, will have the job of shutting him down.

Warner has had impressive plays in coverage this season, and with the injuries starting to pile up on the defensive front his plays are more needed than ever.

The job on Hooper will be a substantial one. Despite missing three games, Hooper has 58 catches for 640 yards and six touchdowns for the season. He’s been a favorite target of Matt Ryan and no doubt will be a focal point of Atlanta’s offense.

Warner will have help, but it will be his responsibility as the top coverage linebacker to cover Hooper and limit any damage he may cause against the 49ers.