5 49ers who must prove themselves in NFC divisional round vs. Vikings
By Peter Panacy
No. 1: Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon
Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon told reporters he was planning on starting Saturday’s game against Minnesota after something of a forgettable effort in Week 17 against the Seattle Seahawks — a game in which Witherspoon was eventually benched for depth corner Emmanuel Moseley.
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Witherspoon’s 2019 campaign has been up and down, starting off with a red-hot start to the season, then an elongated foot injury and then followed by some noticeable regression since his return to the field.
The Vikings present two legitimate receiving threats on the outside in wideouts Stefon Diggs and Adam Thielen, meaning Witherspoon is going to have to bring his A-game against whichever player lines up on the weak side of the formation.
It’s likely Witherspoon is on a short leash on Saturday, indicated by how the Niners pulled him on what could have been Seattle’s game-winning drive two weeks ago.
That said, there’s the better-than-average chance Witherspoon, like the rest of San Francisco’s defense, reverts back to its early season form, considering the return of so many previously injured players, all of whom should assist Witherspoon’s coverage efforts.
Either way, the Niners will need Witherspoon to be on point and prove his effectiveness.
Next. Vikings vs. 49ers: 5 San Francisco players to watch in divisional round. dark
The 49ers and Vikings kick off on Saturday, Jan. 11 at 4:35 p.m. ET from Levi’s Stadium.