Highlights of Game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Las Vegas Raiders, 2023 Preseason Week 1

"Football has officially returned! The San Francisco 49ers kicked off their preseason action in Las Vegas against the Raiders on a Sunday afternoon, following a week of joint practices earlier with the opposing team. Although many of the 49ers' anticipated starters participated in practice sessions, most of the first-string offense and defense did not suit up for the preseason opener. This matchup showcased emerging players, draft selections, fresh team additions, and undrafted talents.

"We had two productive practices facing them. I always find value in that, and we pushed hard during the second day with the main players so we didn't dress them for today's game," commented head coach Kyle Shanahan. "I can't say I enjoyed today's game in any way, but numerous individuals gained valuable reps, providing them an opportunity to secure a spot on our team, and giving us a chance to fine-tune our coaching tomorrow."

Here are six key insights from the Sunday showdown:

1. The competition for San Francisco's starting quarterback role remains intense.
Third-year quarterback Trey Lance took the field as the starter for Sunday's game. After settling into the game, he heightened his performance in the second quarter. Lance orchestrated an impressive drive down the field during the team's fourth possession, culminating in a nine-yard touchdown pass to tight end Ross Dwelley. The pass was initially deflected by Raiders cornerback Duke Shelley, only to be snatched by Dwelley for the score.
Reflecting on the play, Lance remarked, "Dwelley ended up making a fantastic play. The defense made a solid effort, and I didn't think they could reach it. The guys executed great plays, and the touchdown materialized as a result."
Lance's standout moment of the game was a third-down conversion to wide receiver Chris Conley, as he threw a 17-yard pass over the middle. By the end of the day, Lance's stat line read 10-of-15 passes completed for 112 yards, one touchdown, and an impressive passer rating of 111.0."