49ers @ Cardinals: 5 Key Matchups

Here are five key matchups to watch when the 49ers face the Cardinals in Arizona on Sunday.

1. George Kittle vs. Budda Baker

Baker is the best player on the Cardinals defense, and he didn't play in the 49ers' first game against the Cardinals this season. In that game, Kittle had 9 receiving yards. Now he'll have to face Baker, who will make life difficult for Kittle. To be fair, Kittle has made life miserable for Baker in the past as well. This is a great matchup.

2. Ji'Ayir Brown vs. Tre McBride

McBride is the Cardinals starting tight end and go-to guy in their passing game. He has three more catches than Kittle this season, which means he's ascending. He'll match up with 49ers rookie safety Ji'Ayir Brown, who also is ascending. These two could match up twice a season for the next decade.

3. Deommodore Lenoir vs. Rondale Moore

Starting cornerback Charvarius Ward is questionable with a groin injury. If he plays, then Deommodore Lenoir will be the nickelback and match up with Rondale Moore, who runs a 4.3. That's a good matchup. If Ward doesn't play, then Lenoir will line up outside and Isaiah Oliver will be the nickelback, and he's not fast enough to cover Moore. So if Ward can't play, look for the 49ers to try Samuel Womack in the slot, because he's fast.

4. Nick Bosa vs. Paris Johnson Jr.

When these teams faced each other in Week 4, Johnson Jr. limited Bosa to zero sacks and 1 tackle. Johnson Jr. was the sixth pick in this year's draft -- he's a premium athlete. He matches up as well with Bosa as any offensive tackle in the NFL.

5. Javon Kinlaw vs. Will Hernandez

Arik Armstead will miss his second straight game with a knee injury, which means Kinlaw will make his second start in a row. And he'll have to face Will Hernandez, a veteran who's a good run blocker. The Cardinals offense ranks 9th in rushing attempts and 3rd in yards per carry -- they're an excellent rushing team. Kinlaw will have to play terrific run defense or the 49ers will get gashed.