Trey Lance: 3 bold predictions for 49ers QB in 2021

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Jimmy Garoppolo, Trey Lance, San Francisco 49ers

Jimmy Garoppolo #10 and Trey Lance #5 of the San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

No. 3: Trey Lance takes over as 49ers starter early

I’m sure a lot of fans are hoping for this one, but what if Jimmy Garoppolo is unable to stay healthy, or if his play just isn’t up to par in the first half of the season?

Well, that would surely thrust Trey Lance into the starting role, and would undoubtedly cause an earthquake in the NFL world.

Chances are if Garoppolo even misses just one or two games, he will presumably lose his job forever to Lance. While I do think Jimmy G gives the Niners their best chance to win consistently, especially at the current moment, Lance’s electric play will no doubt be enough to keep head coach Kyle Shanahan from ever going back to Garoppolo once the rookie starts to get in a rhythm.

The 49ers did give up quite a bit of NFL Draft compensation to acquire Lance, including two future first-round picks and a 2022 third-rounder, so it would be understandable if they feel continuing their season with Lance at the helm is their best bet going forward.

Exactly when? Well, that’s a tough call. But early would be the assumption.