Frank Gore, who led the NFC with 1,695 yards rushing last season, hasn't suited up since breaking his right hand on the second day of training camp. With his hand almost completely healed, he has participated in certain drills during practice in the last two weeks. Nolan has resisted Gore's pleas for playing time so far in the preseason -- and if he wants to cite a precedent Thursday for his eager tailback, he can point across the field at San Diego's LaDainian Tomlinson, who hasn't played in a preseason game since a cameo appearance in 2005. Gore carried the ball 312 times last season and caught a team-leading 61 passes for 485 yards.
He's the engine driving the 49ers' offense -- but he also has a lengthy injury history, including reconstructive surgery on both knees and both shoulders. Gore might wear a protective guard on his hand this season, but isn't sure whether such a precaution would affect his ability. He hasn't tried it yet in practice, where he mostly sticks to individual drills.
In all likelyhood, Gore, along with the majority of the starters, such as Alex Smith will be spectators on the sideline for the final exhibition game. That is opposed to being spectators IN the game, which most of the starters were against Chicago on Saturday. Traditionally, the last preseason game is simply a showcase for players on the bubble to have one more chance to snag a roster spot, or at least show their wares to the other 31 teams.
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