4 reasons why SF 49ers have no chance vs. Cardinals in Week 16
By Peter Panacy
No. 2: SF 49ers will have a tough time defending DeAndre Hopkins
DeAndre Hopkins was a major thorn in San Francisco’s side way back in Week 1 when the team’s defense was almost entirely fully healthy.
Despite that being a factor, Hopkins still managed to record a career-high 14 receptions for 151 yards, regularly getting behind a disjointed SF 49ers secondary that had no answers for his prolific receiving abilities.
The Niners are relatively healthy at cornerback, capable of fielding veterans Richard Sherman, K’Waun Williams and Jason Verrett.
That’s good, but the over-the-top help is questionable at best.
With free safety Jimmie Ward out with a concussion, and starting strong safety Jaquiski Tartt on injured reserve with a toe injury, San Francisco will be forced to start reserve defensive backs Tarvarius Moore and Marcell Harris.
Neither are considered to be above-average coverage defenders, meaning Hopkins could again have himself a career-type game on Saturday.