## Niners QB Joshua Dobbs Ready for ‘Audition’ in Season Finale vs. Cardinals
**Santa Clara, Calif.** – With the San Francisco 49ers’ playoff hopes extinguished, the regular season finale against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday will serve as a crucial evaluation for backup quarterback Joshua Dobbs.
### Dobbs’ Opportunity
Dobbs, acquired from the Tennessee Titans in a trade last month, has seen limited action behind starter Trey Lance this season. However, with Lance ruled out for the season finale due to an ankle injury, Dobbs will get his chance to showcase his abilities.
“It’s an audition, no doubt about it,” said 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan. “We need to see what we have in Josh and how he can fit into our plans moving forward.”
### Background and Expectations
Dobbs, 28, was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. He spent four seasons in Pittsburgh before joining the Titans in 2021.
Despite limited opportunities, Dobbs has shown flashes of potential. In his career, he has completed 60.4% of his passes for 1,119 yards, seven touchdowns, and six interceptions.
“I’m excited for this opportunity,” Dobbs said. “I’ve been working hard all season, and I’m ready to show what I can do. I know I have a lot to prove.”
### Offensive Adjustments
With Dobbs under center, the 49ers are expected to make some adjustments to their offensive scheme. Shanahan hinted that the team may implement more quick-passing concepts to suit Dobbs’ strengths.
“Josh is a different type of quarterback than Trey,” Shanahan said. “He’s more of a pocket passer, so we’ll have to tailor our game plan accordingly.”
### Cardinals’ Defense
The Cardinals’ defense, ranked 24th in the NFL in yards allowed, will provide a challenging test for Dobbs. Arizona has allowed an average of 24.6 points per game this season.
“They’re a tough defense,” Dobbs said. “They have some good players, especially in the secondary. I’m going to need to be sharp and make good decisions.”
### Implications for the Future
Dobbs’ performance in the season finale will have significant implications for the 49ers’ future at the quarterback position. If he plays well, he could establish himself as a viable backup option behind Lance.
“Josh has a chance to earn a bigger role with our team,” Shanahan said. “We’re looking for a quarterback who can come in and play at a high level if Trey gets hurt. We’re going to see what he can do on Sunday.”
### Conclusion
Joshua Dobbs’ season finale start against the Arizona Cardinals will be a pivotal moment in his career. With the 49ers’ playoff hopes dashed, the game will serve as an audition for Dobbs to prove his worth as a potential backup quarterback. The Cardinals’ defense will provide a challenging test, but Dobbs is confident he can rise to the occasion and show the 49ers what he’s capable of. The outcome of the game will have implications for the 49ers’ future at the quarterback position.