49ers vs. Lions: 4 matchups that determine who wins Week 1

No. 2: 49ers receivers vs. Amani Oruwariye

While Detroit has a solid offensive line in the making, one could argue its secondary is nowhere close to being a completely filled-out unit.

Cornerbacks Jeff Okudah and Amani Oruwariye are the two “elder statesmen” of this bunch, and both have a combined three years of experience between them. After that, the Lions’ cornerback depth chart is awfully thin.

Okudah might have the name recognition, but it wouldn’t be shocking to see quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo target Oruwariye frequently and often, meaning whichever 49ers wide receiver lines up opposite Oruwariye might have some juicy opportunities.

This could mean either Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel, perhaps both in various rotations and pre-snap movements.

Regardless, Oruwariye is someone worth targeting, as he allowed opposing quarterbacks a passer rating of 99.2 last year and was credited with giving up three touchdowns. Even though Garoppolo might look at targeting some of the Lions’ lesser-experienced defensive backs, there should be plenty of opportunities against Oruwariye.

The Niners’ crop of pass-catchers better take advantage of those chances.