So much of the talk surrounding the 49ers is about who will be their starting quarterback next season. But based on the way Nick Mullens played in the first half on Sunday against Washington -- and, more generally, the season at large -- San Francisco might be in search of a new backup QB for next season, too.
Mullens was awful. There's no way to spin it. In a half in which Washington totaled 57 passing yards, Mullens was the worst quarterback on the field. He completed just 10-of-20 passes for 103 yards with zero touchdowns and zero interceptions. He did, however, commit a crucial fumble late in the first half that Washington returned for a go-ahead touchdown. It was the exclamation point on Mullens' half to forget.
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Yes, Washington has a tremendous defensive line, and it didn't help Mullens that Deebo Samuel was hurt on the first play of the game. But even still, Mullens has to give the 49ers more than what he did, which has been a recurring theme throughout a season in which he has been thrust into the spotlight.
If the 49ers lose to Washington, they can kiss what little remains of their playoff hopes goodbye. Trailing 13-7, perhaps San Francisco gives C.J. Beathard a shot in the second half.
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