J.T. O'Sullivan Is the Front-Runner As the San Francisco 49ers Starting QB

Since the first preseason game, J.T. O'Sullivan has taken all of the reps with the first-team offense. Alex Smith has been the No. 2, and Shaun Hill has only seen action during individual periods.

In the postgame press conference, Nolan told the media that, "Without question, the game in not big for J.T. O'Sullivan. He’s a competitor. A few times he tried to do too much from a tough situation rather than take what the defense is giving him."

O'Sullivan says his approach has always remained the same. He said that he prepares for the practices and games the same way, whether he's the first, second or third-string quarterback. He said, "I'm gonna go out there and show them I can play."

O'Sullivan was 5-8, with 71 yards and one interception.

Nolan also said that he was impressed with Alex Smith's performance against Oakland last week. He said that Smith looked poised and patient in the short amount of time in which he played.

Smith was 5-9 for 51 yards and helped San Francisco set up their first field goal.

Throughout the first preseason game, the 49ers had several scoring chances but always fell short.

In the upcoming weeks, before the final decision is made about who will be the starting quarterback of this team, I'm sure we will see more points put up by these two guys. After all, the biggest measurable of a quarterback is whether or not he can lead his team down the field and score touchdowns.

Additional News and Notes

49ers waived veteran LB Brandon Moore.
 
Bryant Johnson and Arnaz Battle will not play in the second preseason game against Green Bay.

49ers signed LB Takeo Spikes. Terms of the deal were not announced by the team. Spikes has 139 career starts, with 1,177 tackles, 22.5 sacks, 15 fumble recoveries, 12 INTs, and 11 forced fumbles.

Also, Spikes is familiar with 49er Nate Clements. They played together in Buffalo, along with Jonas Jennings.