Gabbert closes in on starting job as Kaepernick falters in debut

The San Francisco 49ers' 21-10 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Friday was the club's first chance to see Blaine Gabbert and Colin Kaepernick take the field together.

The veteran quarterbacks have been embroiled in a competition for the starting job all offseason, despite Kaepernick being sidelined with injuries prior to Friday's debut.

The 49ers made it clear that Kaepernick would get a fair shot at winning the starting job, but against the Packers he looked far from a player worth waiting for.

A 12-yard connection with wideout DeAndrew White was the highlight of Kaepernick's night. He otherwise looked uncomfortable in the pocket, as the Packers brought pressure early and often, and his lack of accuracy led to several incompletions.

Kaepernick's signature running ability was also lacking, with his indecisiveness leaving yards on the field. All in all, he finished 2-of-6 for 14 yards, adding 18 more on the ground.

For his part, Gabbert was only average on Friday. He finished 2-of-3 for 14 yards and 15 yards rushing, but led the 49ers on a scoring drive, tossing a backward pass to receiver Quinton Patton for a rushing touchdown.

With one preseason games left, it appears that - barring an otherworldly performance from Kaepernick - Gabbert will be lining up under center for the 49ers in Week 1.