With multiple starters out tomorrow versus the Jets, there's no surprise that the 49ers' depth will be tested. Here are 3 players who will step up to propel the 49ers to their first win of the season.
1. Ross Dwelley
Ross Dwelley did well filling in for George Kittle when the latter missed a few games in 2019, including 2 touchdowns against the Cardinals. Jordan Reed will undoubtedly be more involved, but I'd expect Ross Dwelley to be more engaged in both the run and pass game. Raheem Mostert and Tevin Coleman should be featured all game long, setting up easy play action passes to Dwelley.
Prediction: 4 catches for 45 yards, 1 TD
2. Emmanuel Moseley
Expect Emmanuel Moseley to rebound from Week 1's matchup with DeAndre Hopkins. Why?
They're the Jets. Sam Darnold's favorite target in Jamison Crowder is out with a hamstring injury. Crowder reeled in 7 catches for 115 yards and a score last week against a strong Bills defense. Adam Gase will now have to rely on Breshad Perriman, Chris Hogan, and rookie Denzel Mims--all first year players for the Jets.
This is the perfect setup for Moseley to regain confidence (we'll see about Witherspoon). Sam Darnold is a risk taker, so look for Moseley to capitalize on one of Sam's mistakes downfield.
Prediction: 1 INT, 1 PBU
3. Tevin Coleman
Let's not forget that Tevin Coleman was our lead back before Mostert burst onto the scene. Coleman was limited last week due to the poor air quality at Levi's Stadium, and only got 4 carries on the ground averaging 4.5 yards per rushing attempt.
The new three-headed monster in Mostert, Coleman, and McKinnon will be the headline of Week 2. Expect Coleman to gain a size-able share of the workload as Kyle Shanahan will lean on the run to exploit the Jets' below average run defense.
Prediction: 12 carries for 70 yards, 1 TD