Brandon Allen Gets His Shot: A Chance to Shine

Injuries have been a part of the game for the 49ers this season, and this week is no different. With Brock Purdy's right shoulder still sore, he won't be playing in Sunday's game against the Packers. This opens the door for Brandon Allen, the backup quarterback, to step into the spotlight. Allen hasn't started a game since the end of the 2021 season, but he's ready. "It's an opportunity, " Allen said, "to go out and play well, to put our guys in a good position to win. " Allen, now 32, has been with the 49ers for a while. Last season, he was the third-string quarterback. When Sam Darnold left for the Vikings, Joshua Dobbs was signed, but Allen beat him out for the backup job. "I feel very comfortable in the offense, " Allen said. He's been in the system for a while, and he knows the plays. Allen hasn't had many starts in his career. In fact, he's only started nine games and has played in 16. Over the past three seasons, he's thrown just three passes. But he's not worried about that. He's focused on the present. "For me, it's my opportunity now, " he said, "so I'll take advantage of it. "