This week of NFL preseason action will culminate with a nationally televised game between the New Orleans Saints and San Francisco 49ers. FOX will televise this contest between the two former bitter NFC West rivals.
As opposed to many of their meetings through the mid-1980s into the early 1990s, it doesn't matter who wins this Saints-49ers clash. However, there is still plenty to watch when these two former division foes take the field this evening. Several position battles and spots on the depth chart are still up for grabs.
Many of the healthy New Orleans first-teamers could see significant snaps, especially after scheduled scrimmages between the two teams were canceled this week. That said, there are specific units on each side of the ball that should be closely watched against the 49ers, expected to be a Super Bowl contender this season.
Obviously, most eyes will be on the New Orleans offensive line, which played poorly against Arizona last week and most of training camp after underachieving last season. The quarterback spot is certainly critical as well. Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler have played well, but more importantly will be how Derek Carr and the starters fare against an outstanding San Francisco defense.
Other positions may not garner as much attention, but are worth close attention against the defending NFC Champion 49ers.
WIDE RECEIVER
Rashid Shaheed (foot/toe) and A.T. Perry (ankle) likely won't play. Chris Olave will, and will go up against a San Francisco secondary led by CB Charvarius Ward that led the NFL in interceptions last season. Olave looks to take the next step into the elite wideouts of the league. For him to do that, he needs to show that he can consistently make plays as Derek Carr's go-to target despite a thinned out receiving corps.
It'll be an even bigger opportunity for the other wideouts on the roster.
