By Nikki Jababara, The Washington Post
LAS VEGAS, Nev. — San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan had his team practice in pads for an hour and 27 minutes Thursday in preparation for the most intense workout of Super Bowl Week 15. The training, held at UNLV’s Fertitta Football Complex, consisted of about 40 minutes of warm-ups and position practice, followed by about 50 minutes of full-team practice.
Shanahan was pleased with his team’s tempo and energy, noting that this practice was even better than Wednesday’s practice without pads.
He was particularly pleased with the play of quarterback Brock Purdy, who appeared stable against both starting and reserve defensive units during his time with the team.
“He’s had a tough week,” Shanahan said. “Brock is doing well.”
The 49ers didn’t waste a second in Thursday’s practice, quickly completing 12 periods as CBS’ Jim Nantz, Tony Romo, Tracy Wolfson and Evan Washburn watched from the sideline.
San Francisco’s injury report remained unchanged with the exception of the return of left tackle Trent Williams, who took the veteran’s customary rest day on Wednesday and practiced fully on Thursday.
Tight end George Kittle (toe), defensive end Arik Armstead (knee/foot), cornerback Ambry Thomas (ankle) and linebacker Oren Burks (shoulder) were all limited in Thursday’s workout. It had been. Defensive tackle Kalia Davis (ankle) was a full participant after returning from injured reserve a few weeks ago during a practice period.
Shanahan’s message to his team this week was to “keep sharpening the ax” and stay focused heading into Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
“I thought it was great,” Shanahan said of the players’ attention to detail. “The first two days [of Super Bowl week] It’s always a challenge. Yesterday was really good, but today was even better. It’s great to be able to make this two days in a row as close to normal life as possible for him. ”
The 49ers’ final practice on Friday begins at 1:20 p.m. Pacific time. That night, players and coaches will spend time with their families at a team barbecue and refocus on Saturday.
“I always say Friday is the weekend,” Shanahan said. “Our weekends usually start around 4pm on Friday and end whenever we go to bed.”
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