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Lance appears likely to receive his second career start Sunday against the Texans with top quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo (thumb) listed as doubtful for the game, Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports.

Tending to a torn ligament to the thumb of his throwing hand, Garoppolo hasn't practiced or thrown this week, allowing Lance to pick up all the reps with the first-team offense. Head coach Kyle Shanahan isn't closing the door on Garoppolo playing Sunday, but in order for the veteran to be available, he'll need to show that his accuracy and velocity aren't compromised when he takes part in a throwing session Saturday. Even if Garoppolo looks good in the workout, the 49ers could still be inclined to limit him to a backup role behind Lance, who hasn't attempted a pass since he started and played every snap in a 17-10 loss to Arizona in Week 5. Lance generally struggled to move the offense through the air (15-of-29 passing for 192 yards, no touchdowns and an interception), but he proved to be a useful contributor from a fantasy perspective thanks to a 16-carry, 89-yard rushing performance. Shanahan noted that Lance has made strides in practice in the weeks since his spot start, offering hope that the rookie signal-caller can show more improvement as a passer if he does in fact receive the nod again Sunday.

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