San Francisco 49ers: 3 Can’t-miss games on the 2021 schedule
By Xavier Dixon
2. San Francisco 49ers at Arizona Cardinals (Week 5)
The Arizona Cardinals made several splashes with their offseason acquisitions. Uniquely, adding Rodney Hudson may prove to be the best move for the 2021 season. In relation to the 49ers, though, it’s inescapable that Kliff Kingsbury is 1-3 against Kyle Shanahan.
Focusing on the Week 5 matchup, it’s fair to address how the new Arizona additions can affect the game. San Franciso’s offensive line will be tested with JJ Watt’s brute strength and ability to rush the passer. A.J. Green, meanwhile, is looking, to reinvent himself after a disastrous 2020 season. Moreover, Malcolm Butler is coming off of a season where he led the Tennesse Titans in pass deflections. On the other hand, all of these players are over the age of 30.
Arizona’s additions alone made them a fun opponent to see this year. Other than rookie Aaron Banks potentially getting a rude awakening by Watt, there are many positives 49ers fans have heading into the game.
Both Kingsbury and Shanahan have something to prove. Kingsbury has to show he leads his team with consistency while Shanahan needs to convince everyone that the three first-round picks were worth it for Trey Lance.
Neither coach made the playoffs last year, although both franchises put themselves in a win-now mode in the offseason. It’s a big game for the franchises, the coaches and everyone who will be involved.