With a depleted wide receiver corps, the San Francisco 49ers are primed to lean heavily on their run game against the Arizona Cardinals in a pivotal NFC West clash. Can Christian McCaffrey and Kaelon Black set the tone and exploit a Cardinals defense coordinated by former 49ers assistant Mike LaFleur? Efficient ground production could not only control the clock but also create favorable matchups for Brandin Cooks, Deebo Samuel, and emerging targets like Jordan Watkins. All eyes are on Watkins, the speedy 4th-round receiver, who’s set to get valuable snaps amid the injury crunch. Offensive coordinator Clay Kubiak’s comments suggest this is Watkins’ best opportunity to shine and possibly secure a long-term role. Will he capitalize and stretch the Arizona secondary, or will the 49ers be forced to turn to veteran reinforcements? Sunday in Santa Clara could shape the course of the 49ers’ season.