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2016 NFL Preseason: Predicting Winners of Top QB Battles

By Erik Lambert

Jun 9, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) and quarterback Sam Bradford (7) throw during mini camp at NovaCare Complex. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 9, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) and quarterback Sam Bradford (7) throw during mini camp at NovaCare Complex. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 8, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) and quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) warm up before the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Levi
Nov 8, 2015; Santa Clara, CA, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert (2) and quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) warm up before the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Levi /

San Francisco 49ers:  Colin Kaepernick v. Blaine Gabbert

More than any other quarterback battle on this list, it hinges on the desires and perceptions of the head coach. Chip Kelly has said he loves the quarterback situation with the San Francisco 49ers and feels something can really be done with Colin Kaepernick and Blaine Gabbert. Kaepernick is the more accomplish of the group. He’s won four playoff games and reached a Super Bowl. At the same time, he regressed badly last season and then went down with injury. Gabbert took over and seemed to play better than expected.

The former 1st round pick seems to have come a long way from his ugly days in Jacksonville and has the skill set that could fit what Kelly likes to do. He also has a reputation for a blue collar work ethic, putting in the extra hours required to improve. The same hasn’t been said for Kaepernick who seems to have lost his edge from three years ago. Will a new coach with an inventive scheme snap him out of it? The odds make it pretty clear.

Winner:  Blaine Gabbert

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