4 reasons 49ers must stick to starting Trey Lance, not Jimmy Garoppolo

Reason No. 4: 49ers can give Trey Lance some valuable experience

This goes beyond just the idea of giving Trey Lance more reps, an argument that has been bubbling towards the surface all season long.

It’s pressure time now, perhaps kicked off with the realization the 49ers had to take their Week 17 matchup seriously despite the Texans’ four-win season to date. Essentially, the Niners’ playoff campaign has already begun, and that kind of pressure will be just as crucial for Lance’s maturation process as are the increased reps and on-field experience.

Should Lance start in Week 18 against the Rams, he’ll face off against a pass rush that includes perennial first-team All-Pro defensive tackle Aaron Donald, as well as having to challenge five-time Pro Bowl cornerback Jalen Ramsey.

If San Francisco does make the playoffs, there’s a good chance Lance will have to take to the road and face off against a team that has a quarterback like Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers on the opposite end.

Even if the 49ers lose a game in that context, it’ll be a valuable teaching point for Lance no matter what the outcome.

And considering the Niners are going to ride with Lance for the long term anyway, there’s no reason for him to be back at No. 2 on the depth chart behind Jimmy Garoppolo.