For a solid chunk of training camp and the preseason, there seemed to be a legitimate chance the San Francisco 49ers would get to square off against their former starting quarterback, Jimmy Garoppolo, when the Niners traveled to SoFI Stadium for a Thursday Night Football showdown in Week 5 against their NFC West rivals, the Los Angeles Rams.
After all, Rams starting signal-caller Matthew Stafford was sidelined with serious back problems, which put his status for the regular season in doubt.
And that opened up the door to Jimmy G being head coach Sean McVay’s interim starter.
Unfortunately, at least for those Faithful wanting to see what San Francisco’s defense might do to Garoppolo in a full-circle moment, the prospects for such a showdown have pretty much evaporated in light of Stafford being a full-go for regular-season action.
Or, at least Stafford’s clone.
Matthew Stafford ‘clone’ denies 49ers a shot at Jimmy Garoppolo
Let’s get into the humor mill a bit here, but an outlandish rumor surfaced early in the season that suggested the real Stafford fans saw on the field last season is no more, and he has since been replaced by a clone.
Yes, you read that right. There’s a hilarious suggestion out there saying the current Stafford installment is actually a clone.
Even Stafford responded to the rumor, saying, “my clone is playing really well to start the season.”
“My clone is playing really well to start the season..
He’s DEALING to Puka Nacua right now” 😂😂
Matthew Stafford #PMSLive https://t.co/Gd5ajaTo0e pic.twitter.com/pGvntw1BsT— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 30, 2025
Ha-ha moments aside, there’s no indication the 49ers will get to see Garoppolo take meaningful snaps in prime time this Thursday night. Barring injury, Stafford will be McVay’s go-to option under center and will look to make it a third consecutive victory over the red and gold after sweeping the season series a year ago.
As he did in 2024 as Stafford’s backup, Garoppolo will be on the sideline holding the clipboard.
The Niners and Rams kick off on Thursday, Oct. 2 at 8:15 p.m. ET from SoFI Stadium.
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