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Jim Tomsula: 'I'm a believer in Blaine Gabbert'

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- A daily review of the hot topics coming out of San Francisco 49ers training camp:

  • The 49ers went helmets and shorts in their final practice before playing at the Houston Texans on Saturday night, and it more resembled a walk-through than any other practice in recent days.

  • There were still team drills, though, and quarterback Colin Kaepernick was 7-of-9 passing, according to the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat. He was picked off in 7-on-7 drills by rookie safety Jaquiski Tartt when Kaepernick and tight end Vernon Davis had a miscommunication.

  • Backup quarterback Blaine Gabbert, who was given a huge vote of confidence by coach Jim Tomsula earlier in the day -- "Just point blank, I'm a believer in Blaine Gabbert." -- was also picked off. Craig Dahl made a diving INT on a deep ball Gabbert sailed over DeAndrew White.

  • Cornerback Shareece Wright stripped receiver Torrey Smith after a short pass to the right side of the field after a throw by Kaepernick. Strong safety Antoine Bethea scooped up the ball and would have been gone for the TD.

  • Reggie Bush muffed a punt from rookie Bradley Pinion and, in frustration, kicked the ball over the fence. Bush put on a show later though, breaking at least three returns for long gains. White, the undrafted rookie from Alabama, also broke a few long returns.

  • The 49ers are off Friday, traveling to Houston for their exhibition opener against the Texans on Saturday at 5 p.m. PT.

A few pics I Tweeted out Thursday: