Golden Nuggets: Injuries Abound

Good morning folks, and a happy Thursday to you. Tonight's game to kick off the fifth week of the season is one that would've been an absolute thriller just a few years back - but just doesn't have the same "oomph" this year. The New England Patriots and the Indianapolis Colts are two teams led by great quarterbacks, yet both teams have struggled through the first quarter of the season. Of course, this game could conceivably end up a wild shoot-out, so I'd say it's worth at least keeping an eye on. Also, this game marks the first time former 49er and current Colts Special Teams Coordinator Bubba Ventrone's will against go the Patriots as a coach - after beginning both his playing and coaching career under Bill Belichick.

As usual, Wednesday is injury report day - and the good news is absolutely dwarfed by the bad news. The good news is that Jaquiski Tartt is no longer limited, and is expected to play Sunday against the Cardinals. The bad news begins with Marquise Goodwin remaining limited - there's no telling when he might be back to 100%. Unfortunately, thigh injuries tend to linger and are especially tough for players whose primary asset is speed.

Worse yet is the news that Richard Sherman and Dante Pettis are completely out - and it looks like it'll be a while before they're back. Finally, we reach the pinncale of bad news - this week, only one starting offensive lineman was not listed in the injury report. Everyone other than Laken Tomlinson is dealing with something - some minor, some necessetating a few weeks' rest. Expect a rough day for Beathard on Sunday.

Kyle Shanahan's vote of confidence for Adrian Colbert | Madson, Ninerswire

Matt Breida's story | Maiocco, NBC Sports Bay Area

Jimmy Garoppolo underwent knee surgery | Inman, Mercury | Maiocco, NBC Sports Bay Area

Wednesday's injury report | Branch, SF Gate | Biderman, Sac Bee | Maiocco, NBC Sports Bay Area

CJ Beathard showing improvement in Shanahan's system | Biderman, Sac Bee