What we learned as 49ers begin preseason play with loss to Titans

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Coach Kyle Shanahan decided there was no reason to play any of the 49ers' A-listers in their 2024 NFL preseason opener. While some of their recognizable players remained in the Bay Area, Brock Purdy, George Kittle and Deebo Samuel made the trip. But their most activity came before kickoff when they signed autographs behind the 49ers' bench for appreciative fans. Playing mostly backups and individuals battling for roster spots, the 49ers struggled in a 17-13 loss to the Tennessee Titans on Saturday night at Nissan Stadium. Quarterback Brandon Allen drew the starting assignment. He did not appear in a game last season as the 49ers' No. 3 quarterback behind Purdy and Sam Darnold. Allen is in competition with Josh Dobbs for the backup job this season after Darnold signed with the Minnesota Vikings as a free agent. Allen played the entire first half. He completed seven of 13 pass attempts for 98 yards with no touchdowns and no interceptions. Allen's best throw came on a third-and-9 play deep in 49ers' territory. He hit newly signed receiver Frank Darby on a 33-yard pass down the middle. Dobbs took over at the start of the second half. Dobbs completed 14 of his 20...