Fansided

5 most interesting NFL matchups to watch Week 5

By Rucker Haringey

ORCHARD PARK, NY - SEPTEMBER 27: Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills during a game against the Los Angeles Rams at Bills Stadium on September 27, 2020 in Orchard Park, New York. Bills beat the Rams 35 to 32. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - SEPTEMBER 27: Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills during a game against the Los Angeles Rams at Bills Stadium on September 27, 2020 in Orchard Park, New York. Bills beat the Rams 35 to 32. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /
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Brandon Aiyuk, San Francisco 49ers, Marcus Epps, Philadelphia Eagles
Brandon Aiyuk, San Francisco 49ers, Marcus Epps, Philadelphia Eagles. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

3. 49ers receivers line up against Miami’s secondary

Admittedly, some of the intrigue here does hinge on whether or not Jimmy Garoppolo recovers in time to face the Dolphins. There’s some optimism that he’ll be ready to go this week, but the game plan won’t change significantly if Nick Mullens gets the start.

Either potential starting quarterback is going to need help from their receivers to move the football consistently. The Dolphins aren’t a strong team overall, but their collection of cornerbacks might be the most talented group in the NFL. That represents a tough matchup for San Francisco’s inexperienced group of wide receivers.

The 49ers aren’t without talent at wide receiver. Both Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel have flashed big-play potential during their relatively brief NFL careers. Kyle Shanahan also does an exceptional job in scheming ways to get them the ball in open space. Their ability to run with the ball is a staple of San Francisco’s offense.

The Dolphins’ defensive staff will feel comfortable lining Byron Jones, Xavien Howard, and rookie Noah Ighbinoghene up against any of the 49ers wideouts in single coverage. San Francisco might need to hit a big play or two over the top to loosen things up. Otherwise, this could turn into a cagey battle near the line of scrimmage.

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