5 sneaky threats the Commanders should worry about vs. 49ers in Week 17

Brandon Aiyuk and Javon Hargrave lead the sneaky threats the Washington Commanders should worry about when they host the San Francisco 49ers.

Charvarius Ward
Charvarius Ward / Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
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What sneaky threats must the Washington Commanders contain in their pursuit of a shock upset over the San Francisco 49ers in Week 17?

Star names are aplenty for the San Francisco 49ers, but for every Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, Nick Bosa, and Chase Young, there's a sneaky threat who can also turn a game. Players like productive wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk and rugged nose tackle Javon Hargrave should be on the radar for the Washington Commanders at FedEx Field in Week 17.

Aiyuk and Hargrave could wreck the Commanders on both sides of the ball, but other hidden gems demand attention. Including a shutdown cornerback sure to provide a stern challenge for veteran wide receiver Terry McLaurin.

Terry McLaurin must win matchup with Charvarius Ward

Terry McLaurin remains the premier big-play threat in the Washington Commanders' passing game. His ability to stretch the field is likely to attract the attention of Charvarius Ward.

The latter is a standout cover man who can lock up an opponent's best receiver. He's done that to earn four interceptions and break-up 22 passes so far this season.

One of his best plays saw Ward knock away what looked like a sure touchdown for Philadelphia Eagles' wideout A.J. Brown in Week 13.

The play showed how effective Ward is in one-on-one situations. McLaurin must find ways to exploit those situations if the Commanders are going to have any chance of scoring an upset.