A 29-20 loss in Atlanta stopped San Francisco’s unbeaten start, while Las Vegas ended a three-game skid with a wild 38-33 win over the Jets. Now the 6-1 49ers return to Levi’s Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 8, with a simple mission: turn one rough afternoon into a fresh charge toward the NFC West title. The 4-4 Raiders arrive with a different kind of momentum. They are trying to show that their rebuilding team can trade punches with one of the league’s strongest clubs.

The biggest question could be whether Christian McCaffrey is ready to lead San Francisco’s attack. McCaffrey missed Wednesday’s practice with a hamstring issue, so his status matters greatly. He has scored eight rushing touchdowns in seven games, and he also catches passes like a wide receiver. When he is on the field, the 49ers can attack in many ways. Coach Kyle Shanahan uses players moving before the snap and clever fake handoffs to make defenders pause. That pause can open a running lane or give Brock Purdy an easy throw.

Purdy has plenty of playmakers if they are available. George Kittle leads the 49ers with five touchdown catches and brings fierce blocking along with his receiving skill. Mike Evans, who also missed practice Wednesday, is a tall target who can win catches near the sideline and goal line. San Francisco averages more than 28 points per game because its stars make defenses defend every part of the field. Still, the Falcons forced four takeaways in the last game, including an interception and a fumble. The 49ers must protect the ball after that painful lesson.

Las Vegas can make this game noisy with its tight end, Brock Bowers. Bowers has 41 catches in only six games, a huge total that shows how often the Raiders look his way. He scored twice against the Jets and can line up in different spots, forcing defenders to find him before every play. Ashton Jeanty adds another challenge. His rushing numbers have been modest, but his 37 catches show he can help as a runner or a receiver. If Las Vegas gets Jeanty into open space, San Francisco’s defense will have to chase him all afternoon.

That task becomes even tougher if 49ers pass-rusher Nick Bosa cannot play through his knee issue. Bosa and linebacker Fred Warner are key leaders for a defense that allows under 300 yards per game. The Raiders, meanwhile, give up nearly 29 points per game and more than 380 yards. Maxx Crosby will need to create disruption against Purdy, because San Francisco’s offense is most dangerous when it finds an early rhythm.

The Raiders showed grit in New York, and Bowers gives them a star who can change a drive in one catch. But the 49ers have been steadier all season, play at home, and own more ways to move the ball. If McCaffrey and San Francisco’s key targets are active, the prediction is a 49ers win.

Christian McCaffrey and Brock Bowers Bring Big Questions to Levi’s Stadium