[theramswire.usatoday.com] Sean McVay expects Jimmy Garoppolo to play Sunday but is also preparing for Trey Lance

Cameron DaSilva
January 4, 2022 11:38 am PT
The 49ers turned to rookie Trey Lance at quarterback in Week 17 against the Texans after Jimmy Garoppolo suffered a thumb injury the week prior against the Titans, and he led them to a 23-7 win at home. Garoppolo has had an up-and-down season for San Francisco, but when healthy, he’s expected to be the starter.

It’s just unclear if he’ll be available on Sunday when the Rams host the 49ers. Sean McVay said on the “Coach McVay Show” Monday that he expects the Rams to face Garoppolo, but his team is also preparing for Lance to at least contribute in some certain packages.


Here’s what he said of preparing for Lance and Garoppolo.

“I think you take some of the film that they’ve accumulated with (Lance), the way they’ve utilized him and I think you have to be ready for either or,” McVay said. “I would expect to see Jimmy, wouldn’t be surprised if there was packages that they utilized Trey. But we’ve got to be ready for either or.”

Against the Texans, Lance earned his first career win, throwing for 249 yards and two touchdowns with one interception. He also carried it eight times for 31 yards, looking more and more comfortable as the game went on.

He’s a more dynamic playmaker than Garoppolo, with better mobility and a stronger arm, but he’s also still learning the offense and lacks experience.

Kyle Shanahan still isn’t sure who will start on Sunday, but whether it’s Garoppolo or Lance, the 49ers will try to extend their winning streak against the Rams to six games.