6 burning questions for 49ers to answer in preseason opener vs. Titans

The San Francisco 49ers are set to begin their preseason schedule against the Tennessee Titans at Levi's Stadium. Head coach Kyle Shanahan has indicated that most of the team's starters will not participate in the game. Here are six questions that will be addressed during the exhibition opener:

1. Can rookie De Zhaun Stribling carry over his success from practice to the game? Stribling has been a standout in training camp, despite missing a week due to a hamstring injury. His ability to translate his practice performance into a game setting will be crucial in securing a starting position alongside Mike Evans.

2. What is the current status at left guard? Robert Jones is likely to start after leading the first team in practices. How well he plays may determine whether the 49ers have a frontrunner to start at left guard. Connor Colby and rookie Carver Willis will also see time at this position, and their roles may provide insight into who will be next in line if Jones does not impress the coaching staff.

3. How does the pass rush depth look for the 49ers? This is an existential question for their Super Bowl aspirations. Nick Bosa is dealing with knee tendinitis, and it's possible that Osa Odighizuwa sits out as well. This leaves room for several players to step up and impress without the two biggest pass rushers on the field. If the pass rush is weak, it could be a significant problem for a team that struggled last season in pressuring opposing quarterbacks.

4. Will the 49ers be able to function without key WR George Kittle? The tight end corps has shown flashes of success during training camp. Backup Jake Tonges acquitted himself well last season when Kittle was sidelined with an Achilles tear. If Kittle misses time, the team's TEs have proven they can make an impact in games. It will be important to see if they can maintain this success in a live game setting.

5. Who will line up where at linebacker? Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw are expected to be out of action. If Nick Martin plays, it will be interesting to see if he starts at the Sam or Will LB spots. While he is likely a Will Long-Term, this season he may be the 49ers' best option at SLB. Rookie Jaden Dugger also deserves attention, as his versatility could make him a valuable asset in various defensive situations.

6. Which players are sitting out for the 49ers? The list of players not playing could be the most telling aspect of the game. Any healthy player who does not suit up is likely to play a significant role in the regular season. Veterans such as Warner, Trent Williams, and Brock Purdy are expected to sit, but the impact of rookies like Stribling or unestablished second-year players like Martin will be crucial to watch.