Packers coach Mike McCarthy discusses 49ers’ C.J. Beathard, George Kittle, and Richard Sherman

Green Bay Packers head coach Mike McCarthy spoke with the media via a conference call on Thursday morning and discussed a number of San Francisco 49ers players as the two teams prepare to play each other on Monday night.

McCarthy shared some thoughts on quarterback C.J. Beathard, tight end George Kittle, and cornerback Richard Sherman.

C.J. Beathard

McCarthy knows something about preparing a young backup quarterback to start in place of an injured star. That's exactly what the 49ers had to do with Beathard after Jimmy Garoppolo was lost for the season.

"I think the biggest thing with a backup quarterback, especially when he's young and just going through it last year, is his ability to keep the offense playing to the full menu of the game plan," McCarthy said. "And you just look at the production, and you have to say C.J. definitely does that. That's a compliment to him but, you know, also you've got to compliment their coaching staff for having the young man ready."

George Kittle

"I didn't watch a whole lot of George last year, but I'll tell you what, he's a fine player," McCarthy said. "He's definitely got all our attention. He's off to a great start, and he can do it all from the tight end position. I've been very impressed with George."

Richard Sherman

"People aren't targeting him so that always tells you a lot there about Richard," McCarthy said. "I just think, especially where he's at in his career, he diagnoses routes extremely well. I've always felt that he's so strong at the breaking points of routes and really does a great job of playing to his length. He's an excellent player, always has been, and I think he looks good."