The San Francisco 49ers are making a significant change to how they execute joint training camp practices this season.

Instead of their typical two-day sessions leading up to a preseason game against that opponent, the 49ers will have only one joint practice before facing that opponent in an exhibition bout.

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At first it seemed like a strange decision by head coach Kyle Shanahan. He has consistently during his time as the 49ers head coach talked about how much more he values joint practices than preseason games. This year he determined quality is better than quantity.

He explained the cut down from two practices Monday during his post-practice press conference.

“Whoever does better the first day,” Shanahan said, “usually they get killed the second day and everyone ends up fighting and it just ends up not being worth it. So, I think one day should be a little easier.”

Still, despite moving to just one practice, Shanahan’s belief in the value of joint practices remains.

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“I think it’s really valuable,” Shanahan said. “Sometimes you can’t do it. I’d always would like to do it. I’m more excited just going against someone once. In the past I’ve always done two days, and I’m always really excited by the end of the first day. I’m always wishing we didn’t have to go the second day. So, kind of glad we’re ahead of that on this. It’s always good to go against different schemes too. Different players. We’re going against each other every day. Same guys, same scheme. It gets a little bit old and it’s a good way to switch it up.”

The 49ers and Broncos will practice Thursday at 10:25am Pacific Time, have Friday off, and then square off in Week 1 of the preseason Saturday at Levi’s Stadium with kickoff slated for 5:30pm Pacific Time.

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This article originally appeared on Niners Wire: 49ers joint practice with Broncos will be cut down for good reason