The San Francisco 49ers finished their second preseason game late Saturday evening after spending the week in Minnesota participating in multiple joint practices with the Vikings at their practice facility. The 49ers beat the Vikings 17-7. Although the outcome of the game is meaningless, there were still essential takeaways that the coaching staff will keep in mind while making the 53-man roster before the regular season begins.
The Starters Sat
Before the game, the 49ers announced that 27 of their starters and key players would not play. A few key players that didn’t play were quarterback Trey Lance, wide receiver Deebo Samuel, tight end George Kittle, defensive end Nick Bosa, linebacker Fred Warner, left tackle Trent Williams, wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, and cornerback Charvarius Ward.
The 49ers Defensive Line Shined
49ers defensive linemen Javon Kinlaw and Drake Jackson led the defensive line unit. Both players made impressive plays during their time on the filed, Kinlaw with a sack on QB Kellen Mond, and Jackson with many exceptional veterans plays on the ball. The defensive line is loaded with Bosa, Armstead, Ebukam, Hyder Jr, and Kevin Gives. If Kinlaw and Jackson can be productive on the field, San Francisco’s defense will reap havoc on opposing offenses.
The Backup QB Battle
Nate Sudfeld and Brock Purdy have been battling for the backup QB role behind Lance during training camp. Sudfeld has solidified himself as the backup to Lance. He led the first touchdown drive with a pass to running back Jamychal Hasty in the third quarter. He looks more accurate and polished as the backup to Lance compared to Purdy. Purdy’s accuracy and ball placement on the run was impressive, though. His command of the offense and ability to lead the offense as a rookie at 22 years of age is encouraging for the 49ers.
The San Francisco 49ers Running Back’s Shined
The third-round draft pick Tyrion Davis-Price, out of LSU, and undrafted Rookie running back Jordan Mason, out of Georgia Tech, shined their opportunities on the field with multiple explosive plays on the ground in the air. The running back room is deep with Mitchell, Wilson Jr., Sermon, Davis-Price, and Mason. They will have a tough decision to keep either four or five running backs on the roster.
What’s next for the San Francisco 49ers?
Unlike the game in Minnesota, where 27 starters didn’t suit up for the, the next game for San Francisco will be a dress rehearsal. They are concluding their preseason with a match with the Houston Texans Thursday next week in Houston, Texas. Expect Lance and most of the offense and defensive starters to play a half or more during their preseason finale on Thursday.
For More Great NFL & 49ers Content
Follow me on Twitter at @b_eglesia
