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Packers vs. 49ers: 5 San Francisco Players to Watch in Third Preseason Bout

By Peter Panacy

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Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) talks to fullback Bruce Miller (49) in the game against the Houston Texans in the third quarter at Levi’s Stadium. The Texans won 24-13. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 14, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) talks to fullback Bruce Miller (49) in the game against the Houston Texans in the third quarter at Levi’s Stadium. The Texans won 24-13. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports /

Quarterback Colin Kaepernick

No, Christian Ponder isn’t going to be the 49ers’ starting quarterback in 2016. A strong effort against Denver — against primarily third- and fourth-string players — in his first action with the Niners doesn’t do anything to guarantee him a roster spot.

For now, the starting job belongs to quarterback Blaine Gabbert, even if Gabbert hasn’t exactly wowed in two preseason games.

But quarterback Colin Kaepernick (arm), who hasn’t played at all this preseason, could make his run against the Packers.

According to Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee, Kap is on pace for a return — one which would make the “equal” competition between he and Gabbert truly impartial.

If things go according to plan, Kaepernick will face off against a Packers team against which he’s (mostly) had incredible success.

To date, Kap owns a career-100.5 passer rating against Green Bay.

Most of the previous context won’t matter though. Kaepernick is trying to rediscover his career under head coach Chip Kelly. And a strong outing against the Packers is merely the next step in trying to reclaim his starting gig.

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With Gabbert’s struggles, maybe this competition is closer than initially anticipated.

Kap still has a long way to go, and there’s no guarantee a strong effort will put the embattled quarterback anywhere closer to the starting slot.

But a horrid performance certainly will set Kaepernick back a long way.

Next: Why Colin Kaepernick Will Win the 49ers Starting QB Job

All statistics, records and accolades courtesy of ESPN.com, Pro-Football-Reference.com and Sports-Reference.com unless otherwise indicated.