5 NFL Stats to Know Through Week 9

Nick Mullens Had the Best Debut in 49ers History

One of the biggest questions being asked by the viewing public on Thursday night, ahead of the Oakland Raiders clash with the San Francisco 49ers, was simply “Who is Nick Mullens?” It is fair to say that his name is a lot more familiar to the footballing world after he led his team to victory in his NFL debut.

Mullens completed 16 of his 22 pass attempts for 262 yards and 3 touchdowns in the 49ers' 34-3 victory. He became the first 49ers quarterback ever to throw three touchdowns in their debut game. Mullens is also one of only four quarterbacks since 1970 to have at least 200 yards passing, 3 touchdowns and no interceptions in their first NFL outing, per Pro Football Reference.

Following the victory, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan was unwilling to immediately bestow the starting job on Mullens for Week 10, but reports peg Mullens as the likely starter this coming week.

The 49ers will be facing the New York Giants in Week 10, and the Giants are the 10th-worst pass defense, per our schedule-adjusted metrics. Mullens, if allowed to start again, could be an intriguing streaming option.