Injuries and veteran leadership clash as key defenders aim to dominate this crucial NFC West showdown. Keep your eyes on these defensive standouts.
As the San Francisco 49ers prepare for a critical NFC West matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, both defenses will play major roles in determining who controls the game. The 49ers are dealing with a wave of injuries on defense, while the Cardinals are leaning on their veterans to steady a young unit. With both teams searching for consistency, these are the defensive players to keep an eye on this weekend.
Dee Winters, LB, 49ers
Rookie linebacker Dee Winters has been one of the few constants on a 49ers defense hit hard by injuries. He’s put together an impressive stretch of performances, showing range, instincts, and physicality against both the run and the pass. This week, he’ll play a key role in containing Jacoby Brissett, who’s expected to use short passes and checkdowns to keep drives alive. Winters’ has been coming into his ability more and more each week.
Upton Stout, CB, 49ers
Nickel corner Upton Stout continues to gain confidence with every snap. The rookie has been tested in recent weeks but has responded well.. Against the Cardinals, he’ll likely see plenty of action covering Marvin Harrison Jr. on inside routes or when Arizona moves its top receiver around the formation. If Stout can hold his ground and keep the middle of the field under control, the 49ers’ secondary will have a much easier afternoon.
Sam Okuayinonu, DE, 49ers
Edge rusher Sam Okuayinonu has emerged as a bright spot on San Francisco’s depleted defensive line. His motor and strength have helped him become one of the defense’s more reliable playmakers, especially in stopping the run. With several key linemen out, Okuayinonu will be counted on to create pressure on Brissett and help seal the edges against designed rollouts and screens. Expect him to see heavy snaps once again in this matchup.
Budda Baker, S, Cardinals
Budda Baker remains the heartbeat of Arizona’s defense. The veteran safety’s versatility and leadership make him a constant threat, whether he’s dropping deep in coverage or flying downhill to stop the run. Against the 49ers’ versatile offense, Baker will have to play a perfect game. He will need to balance between the aggressive pursuit of Christian McCaffrey and Brian Robinson Jr. while keeping an eye on George Kittle and Ricky Pearsall over the middle.
Zaven Collins, LB, Cardinals
Linebacker Zaven Collins has transitioned into a more hybrid role this season, lining up as both an edge rusher and off-ball defender. Expect Arizona to rely heavily on him to contain the perimeter and force the 49ers into obvious passing situations.
Both teams enter Sunday’s matchup needing defensive stability, the 49ers to overcome injuries, and the Cardinals to compensate for offensive absences. Whichever defense can create turnovers and win key downs could decide this NFC West battle.