4 Cardinals weaknesses 49ers must attack in Week 5
By Peter Panacy
No. 3: 49ers can test CB Byron Murphy’s replacement
Cardinals third-year cornerback Byron Murphy has had himself an outstanding start to the season, already boasting six passes broken up with three interceptions and a defensive touchdown. For those who were worrying about Arizona moving on from veteran corner Patrick Peterson, it hasn’t been a bother. Murphy is a prime reason why.
If there’s good news for the Niners, though, Murphy is banged up with a ribs injury and already has missed practice time ahead of this weekend’s game, putting his status for starting in serious doubt.
Complicating the matter for the Cardinals is the fact the primary boundary backup, Antonio Hamilton, has also missed practice with an ankle injury. Should neither player be able to go, Arizona would likely have to field rookie sixth-round pick Tay Gowan, who has yet to see a regular-season defensive snap and showcased an unimpressive 56.1 Pro Football Focus coverage grade during the preseason.
If Murphy is out, even if Hamilton can go, San Francisco needs to match up wide receiver Deebo Samuel, the NFL’s leader in receiving yards through four weeks, against Murphy’s fill-in replacement.
Doing so might be the only way the 49ers pass attack works to a sufficient level.