The San Francisco 49ers head to Minnesota for their Week 2 NFL matchup. The Vikings, led by former 49ers quarterback Sam Darnold, are packed with talent. Who will the 49ers need to focus on in this game? Who are the five biggest threats they will face?
WR Justin Jefferson
The 49ers will have their hands full with the NFL's top wide receiver. Whether the 49ers play man or zone coverage, Justin Jefferson will look to feast on their secondary. In Week 1 against the Giants, Jefferson was held to four catches for 47 yards and a touchdown. Expect him to bounce back with a stronger performance in Week 2.
RB Aaron Jones
The last time the 49ers faced Aaron Jones was in the 2023 playoffs, where he rushed for 108 yards on 18 carries in the Divisional Round. He averaged six yards per carry, with a long run of 53 yards. In Week 1 against the New York Giants, Jones rushed for 94 yards on 18 carries. A dual-threat running back, much like the 49ers' Christian McCaffrey, Jones is most dangerous on outside runs, where he can use his explosiveness.
S Harrison Smith
Harrison Smith, a 12-year veteran and six-time Pro Bowler, is known for his versatility, playing both in the box as a strong safety and in coverage as a free safety. In the Vikings' Week 1 matchup, Smith recorded an interception, a pass deflection, and seven total tackles. Despite his age, Smith remains a presence all over the field. Expect him to play a key role in trying to stifle the 49ers' run game.
CB Byron Murphy
Byron Murphy is among the players most familiar with the San Francisco 49ers. For his first four years in Arizona, Murphy saw the 49ers twice a season. Murphy is known for his pass-deflection skills and tackling ability. In Week 1 against the Giants, he registered nine tackles, eight of which were solo. The Vikings now allow Murphy to move around the field, matching up against different receivers. Expect him to play physical and be a key factor in the secondary.
OLB Dallas Turner
Dallas Turner, the Vikings' first-round pick, is known for his speed on the edge. In his NFL debut against the Giants, Turner recorded three tackles, a sack, and a tackle for loss in just 36 snaps. As a rotational player with speed, he poses a threat. Expect Turner to line up against 49ers tackle Colton McKivitz, who has improved but continues to struggle against fast edge rushers.
In conclusion, the 49ers must be prepared for whatever the Vikings throw at them. Expect the 49ers to take on whatever Minnesota sends their way.