49ers QB Sam Darnold expected to start vs. Broncos

SANTA CLARA — Quarterback Trey Lance started the 49ers' preseason opener and played the entire first half. When the 49ers' offense takes the field Saturday evening against the Denver Broncos at Levi's Stadium, Sam Darnold likely will get the first chance to show what he can do. "(It's) not set in stone," 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said on Wednesday. "What I said last week, we wanted Trey to get the majority of the first half so Sam could get the next week. "So that's what we're planning on, but we'll see how the next two practices go before we decide for sure." That plan would seem to indicate that the 49ers do not plan on suiting up starting quarterback Brock Purdy, who is taking all of the team's first-team practice snaps. "I haven't decided yet with all the starters," Shanahan said. Lance started against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday in the first exhibition game. He was on the field for 27 snaps as the 49ers had six offensive possessions. Lance completed 10 of 15 pass attempts for 112 yards and one touchdown. He was sacked four times. Darnold played the 49ers' first 19 plays of the second half. He completed five of eight passes for 84 yards. Brandon Allen was on the field...