49ers vs. Raiders: 4 can’t-miss storylines for preseason finale

No. 1: Trey Lance getting field time with 49ers first-string offensive line

Yes, fans across the NFL will be paying attention to how rookie quarterback Trey Lance performs against the Raiders. That’s a given.

But the bigger looming question is whether or not Lance is closer to unseating the veteran, Jimmy Garoppolo, as San Francisco’s starter to begin the year. While Kyle Shanahan hasn’t confirmed anything either way, there have been signs Shanahan is leaning towards Garoppolo.

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Even if Jimmy G starting the regular season also comes with a short leash.

The bigger reveal, however, will be whether or not Lance gets in a lot of work with the 49ers’ starters, particularly the first-string offensive line. Or the majority of it, namely starting center Alex Mack.

To date, the bulk of Lance’s snaps during both training camp and preseason games has come with the second-string O-line. A play or two with the starters here and there certainly isn’t enough to generate the needed chemistry the rookie will require with players like Mack to solidify a starting role right out of the gate.

So, easily enough, Lance will need to play with the first-string O-line for at least a couple of drives against Las Vegas if anyone wants to consider his immediate role as a starter.

If that doesn’t happen during the game, it’s almost a guarantee the job remains in Garoppolo’s hands.

The Niners and Raiders kick off on Sunday, Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. ET from Levi’s Stadium.