SANTA CLARA – Blaine Gabbert ran unopposed Sunday afternoon in the 49ers’ quarterback competition.
But it was not until his final snap of the team’s exhibition opener that he tasted even a little success.
Gabbert hit tight end Vance McDonald on a crossing route in the first quarter after Houston Texans linebacker Brandon McKinney fell to the ground. McDonald made a move up-field, cut back and turned the play into a 43-yard touchdown.
The play produced the 49ers’ only touchdown in their 24-13 loss to the Texans in front of a sparse crowd at Levi’s Stadium.