Here are 10 of the most pertinent 49ers-related questions at this juncture of the offseason:
1. Who on the roster has the best chance of being the starting QB heading into week 1 of the regular season?
Shaun Hill. Shaun Hill. Shaun Hill.
If Mike Martz were still the coordinator, he would've made a big push to get J.T. O'Sullivan back in the role of the starter. But Martz is gone, and O'Sullivan will not be re-signed. Hill is the only QB on the roster who will definitely be back on the team next season.
Obviously, there is a strong chance Alex Smith will sign a re-worked deal. But even if Smith is back, I just can't see him winning the job over Hill, whose production (7-3 record in 10 starts) gives him the clear advantage.
The best case for Smith is to accept a reduced salary, keep working hard, get healthy and be ready when/if he's needed behind Hill.
2. Can Shaun Hill overcome his practice woes in the Jimmy Raye offense?
He can - and he will - because Mike Singletary will be calling the shots.
Singletary knows what Hill can do in the games. Singletary knows Hill sometimes struggles in practice and he will not allow too much weight to be placed on Hill's appearance on the practice field. If you want to know what Hill sometimes looks like on the practice field, think about the first three quarters of the Rams game late in the season.
This offense will play to Hill's strengths. He'll be asked to manage the game. The 49ers' passing game will be predicated on the threat of the run. Therefore, Hill will use play-action and throw short-to-intermediate passes. That is what he does best. That is Hill's comfort level, and that should show on the practice field, too.
3. Can Frank Gore give Singletary what he wants out of his "smash-mouth" offense? If not, what kind of addition would it take?
He can, but I think the 49ers would like to create more of a two-headed monster when it comes to the run game. The 49ers can't become so dependent on Gore that they don't have a legitimate option behind him.
The 49ers should make an effort to find somebody through the draft or free agency to split time with Gore on a more consistent basis - let's say 60-40. Maybe that person is Thomas Clayton. But Clayton will have to beat out a veteran pickup or a draft pick to earn that job.
4. Is there any hope for
Sure. Vernon Davis does not have the best hands in the world, but the one thing that kept his catches down last season was the fact that he remained into block a good portion of the time on pass plays. There really is not a role for a pass-catching tight end in Martz's offense.
Just look back to 2007. The 49ers' passing game was horrendous. Yet,
As a team, the 49ers had 35 more pass completions in 2008, yet
5. At what point in the offseason should the 49ers make a move for a QB?
The 49ers will add a veteran before the team's first minicamp in March. They need the extra arm to take part in the three days of practices. But who will that person be? The 49ers tried to claim Browns' castoff Bruce Gradkowski, but the Raiders beat them to the punch. They will need another arm for the minicamp, which takes part before the draft.
I know the 49ers would have been interested in acquiring Jeff Garcia last summer. They might kick the tires on him this spring when he becomes a free agent. Either way, the 49ers would probably be wise to grab a quarterback at some point in the draft - probably the mid rounds.
6. What three potential free agents are the most realistic for the 49ers to sign?
Everybody's favorites are Julius Pepper,
The 49ers certainly have holes at pass rusher, offensive tackle and wide receiver. But those are not the only areas of need.
The 49ers would like to get a safety, and they should be able to get a good one in free agency without breaking the bank. Perhaps the Rams' O.J. Atogwe could fit into their budget (if not, then try the Bucs' Jermaine Phillips).
They can also grab an offensive tackle. It probably won't be Gross, but they might go after
As for the pass-rusher, I'm not convinced the 49ers will get a big-name guy, such as Suggs or Peppers, in free agency.
But they could fill a need and not eat up too much cap room with a fullback such as the Seahawks' Leonard Weaver, a four-year veteran who has many years ahead of him. Of course, they could also re-sign Moran Norris, who lost his job at the end of camp to Zak Keasey. So there you have it, instead of three players I gave you a little extra for your money.
7. What spot on defense is in most need of an upgrade?
The pass rush. A good pass rush solves a lot of problems. And the 49ers have not put together a strong, consistent pass rush for a good many years.
8. If Malcolm Jenkins is there at 10 do the 49ers go with him, or is Tarell Brown a legit option to replace Walt Harris?
It depends on which players have been chosen with the first nine picks. Right now, I'd say there are four offensive tackles that might be safer selections than going with Jenkins.
Tarell Brown showed some very good things late in the season when he began to get extended playing time late in the season. But, at the same time, the 49ers will not allow that to stand in their way if they evaluate Jenkins as the best player on the board at that time. You can never have too many cornerbacks.
I don't think there is any position that is off the board with the No. 10 pick. The 49ers can't make the mistake of drafting for need at that spot in the draft.
9. Can Parys Haralson and Manny Lawson provide a consistent pass rush or do they need to make a play for some more well-known talent?
Haralson has some ability to provide a pass rush, but Lawson has not shown any glimpses of being a legitimate pass-rush threat in the NFL. In fact, Lawson comes off the field whenever the opposition has a "passing down." I don't foresee him being a factor as a pass-rusher.
The 49ers must improve dramatically at the spot held by Roderick Green and Tully Banta-Cain last season. Green was their primary third-down pass rusher off the right side. He did not produce. Green had just 3.5 sacks. Banta-Cain recorded just four sacks in two seasons, and the club cut ties with him Tuesday.
Haralson is a good player, and I think he'll continue to get better. But if the 49ers can get somebody to bring some juice on the other side of the formation, then Haralson can really thrive.
10. Will Dashon Goldson be able to secure a starting job at some point this season?
I don't believe so. I think if the 49ers find someone to replace Mark Roman at free safety, there's a strong chance it will be a veteran free agent or draft pick.
Goldson has shown flashes, mostly in practice and in exhibition games, of being a good player. But he needs to be more consistent and earn the confidence of the coaching staff with his knowledge of the defense. There's a reason, in the opinion of the coaches, that Roman has not been challenged for the starting job.
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Click here to see how Niners Nation answered each of these questions. Also, feel free to supply your own answers in the comments section. Just include the question number and your own answer. It might be best to include only one answer per comment.
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Peppers Peppers Peppers, then do everything you just suggested!
I completely agree with your position on the QB situation.
Just one thing. What about the D line?
MM you really are trying to get my blood boiling with this read....its cool, it is your opinion and i respect it....
pass rusher = draft Everret Brown, offensive tackle = Khalif Barnes, Safety = O.J. Atogwe, Fullback = Leonard Weaver/Moran Norris, wide receiver = draft, QB = draft 6-7th round .....2009 season = NFC WEST champions....
MM - one question - are you hoping or thinking S.Hill would be the starting QB next season?
I'll be the first to say it--- Alex Smith is a better QB than Shaun Hill. I'm hoping he finally clicks in and shows his talent. For that matter, so is JTO, if you take away the turnovers. I agree JTO doesn't deserve to play as long as he can't control the turnovers, but he's a better athlete and a better QB than Hill. And most importantly, without a QB with a bigger upside than Hill, the 49ers will never get back to a championship.
1. Shaun Hill
2. This will be an offense that plays to Mr. Hills' strengths and therefore will be much more comfortable.
3. Frank is gonna need help and IMHO that help should be PERCY.
4. Are you kidding me? This guy is a beast of a blocking TE with all the tools to become an elite receiving TE.
5. I would expect them to make a move early in Free Agency.
6. I would not advise a big $$ splash-if they can upgrade at FS reasonably absolutely but don't overpay for DE(Peppers)or OT(Gross).
7. QB Pressure period!
8. If they don't sign a Free Agent FS he would be worth a look to convert to that position.
9. No. A pass rushing beast is needed desperately and Lawson is a bust in that respect.
10.Another bust with respect to the FS position, so no but maybe S at some point.
I agree Peppers is a rare talent but something about him scares me. His production doesn't always match his reputation. I'm not sure I'd break the bank for him. IMHO the 9ers would be better served going after Suggs. Suggs is fast and would fit nicely with the 9ers 3/4 defense. I could be wrong but I think the Panthers run a 4/3 and Peppers is more of a traditional DE. I dont think the 9ers will get either player though.
I sincerely hope they don't sign Peppers to a huge contract to play a new position. That would be beyond foolish
Matt, this may sound strange but IS Joe Staley a better fit at Right Tackle than Left Tackle??? He is a good player at either position but I'm wondering which is the one where he will thrive the most. What does everyone think?
Also, does the Jimmy Raye offense call for as precise route-running as Martz offense did? I think our WR's really were able to step up in the second half of last season because of this and I'd hate to see them get sloppy under Raye. Jason Hill in particular started running really nice routes in particular.
IMO, the ability to run a precise route is what separates the Stud WR's from the rest of the pack, so I'd love to hear what the new offense asks them to do.
Lol at Khalif Barnes to play LT...the guys been terrible! Vernon Carey is the free agent RT we should be looking at...leave Staley at LT, that's his natural position even if he might end up being only an average player there.
Comment: Vernon Carey is the free agent RT we should be looking at
My response: Carey would be a good get, but I understand he's looking for LT-type of money to play RT. Also, Carey has deep roots in Miami. I think it'll be difficult to pry him away from South Florida. --Matt M.
Question: Also, does the Jimmy Raye offense call for as precise route-running as Martz offense did? I think our WR's really were able to step up in the second half of last season because of this and I'd hate to see them get sloppy under Raye.
My response: WRs coach Jerry Sullivan is a stickler for details. That group will not get "sloppy" on his watch. --Matt M.
Matt, you may be correct in stating that Hill has an advantage with his 7-3 record, but every line I read between suggests that the Niners still see Hill as a back-up and almost seem to want Alex to win the job. Also, while the plethora of critics seem to want to "dis" Alex's performance/ability, remember how high everyone was on his growth after 2006. In 2007 Alex had to endure an anemic Hostler offensive scheme, but still began the year 2-1 before his injury, after which you can't really judge him. I was at the opening game vs. Phoenix in 2007 and remarked to my buddies how uninspired the play calling was. Smith was pretty handcuffed. If you'll remember the Niners were down with a minute or so to go in that game and once the shackles were taken off, Smith marched the team all the way down the field to win the game. Hard to judge whether or not a healthy Smith would have had a similiar (maybe even better) record to Hill if he were in the same shoes last year...
Comment: Matt, you may be correct in stating that Hill has an advantage with his 7-3 record, but every line I read between suggests that the Niners still see Hill as a back-up and almost seem to want Alex to win the job.
My response: I think everybody around the 49ers wants to know what Smith can do. Really, the last time we saw him was in the 2006 season. There is nothing that can be learned from his play in 2007 and 2008, when he was healthy for a combined three starts.
That said, I believe they want to make sure when Smith returns to the field, he is placed in a situation that will give him a better opportunity to succeed. That's why I think they'd prefer to ease him back, rather than make him the starter at the beginning of the season. --Matt M.
I would agree with that. Something about Haynsworth and Peppers scare me. However if you take away Peppers '07 seaons (2 sacks - really odd to be that low) he has been a beast:
08 - 14.5
07 - 2
06 - 13
05 - 10.5
04 - 11
03 - 7.0
02 - 12.0
They are not that close for a reach at a big free agent. I just don't think the O & D Line has enough good linemen. Take a great LT if one is available and move Staley back to RT. They need the Horses. Draft a QB in the 3rd or lower rounds.
Matt It feels like the Niners are content with Staley at LT so wouldnt a guy like Stacy Andrews be the best fit for the team? He is coming into the prime of his career and really excels in the run game. He could also play guard if we needed him too. Plus we could still get him at a good price.
Defensively we need to get more guys that fit our 3-4 scheme so wouldnt a guy like Igor Olshansky fit perfectly? He was in the same type of scheme in San Diego and did a food job keeping those OL off the linebackers. He is a prototype 3-4 DE unlike Justin Smith. I dont know what were going to do with spikes yet but what about another up and comer like Angelo Crowell? He is a tackling machine and if you put him opposite Willis i think you have one of the best interior linebacker corps in the league, similar to Scott and lewis of the Ravens.
Hey Matt,
Little off topic but..... Are the Niner brass waiting for Jennings to heal before releasing him so they won't have to pay an injury settlement?
The 9ers need to look at solidifying the following positions:
Need:RT, NT, OLB (rush), Safety, QB, FB
Want:CB, TED, RB
They should go into FA and sign their top value "gets" and then build for the future through the draft. If they can get a quality starting RT in FA, great. If not, look to draft one in the later rounds. I still think that there are not many quality NT out there. Franklin is serviceable, but not out-standing. If there is a NT out there in FA, sign him and go after a rush backer in the draft. Either way, we are looking at adding at least 1 higher priced FA this year (if we can) so that we can go after a talent in the early rounds
All my opinion of course :)
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1. Shaun Hill, he deserves it. He's 5-0 at home, has the leadership ability needed for that position as well as the respect of the locker room. That can't be said for Alex Smith.
2. Agreed, yes. Shaun Hill has shown he's a leader that gets it done on Sundays.
3. Yes, but we need to add a FB and a pounder to compliment him. A big, bruising back that no defense wants to see in the 2nd half.
4. Yes. Raye & Singletary recognize the potential and the need to utilize your play makers. Hopefully we see more screens out of the backfield. He proved he can be deadly in that role as well.
5. Draft a developmental QB in the middle rounds that can sit behind Shaun for a couple years.
6. Housh, Atogwe, a RT and a FB.
7. Agreed. We should address this position with the first pick, assuming there's a OLB worthy of the 10th pick.
8. Tarell Brown will be a stud. I like our corners other than Hudson.
9. We need someone opposite Haralson to put the QB on his back. Lawson is great at setting the edge and in coverage, but lacks the elite pass rush skills needed at that spot.
10. If the Niners don't aquire a FS in FA like Atogwe, I think Goldson will secure it. He at least has more familiarity with our D, than a rookie coming in at that position. If he can just avoid the injuries, I think he'll turn out to be a good FS in time.
I think the scary thing is those guys aren't proven in a 3-4. I like the idea of Haynesworth at NT, but how would he hold up? Too much money to gamble with in my opinion...
Question: Matt It feels like the Niners are content with Staley at LT so wouldnt a guy like Stacy Andrews be the best fit for the team?
My response: Andrews and the Packers' Mark Tauscher, both right tackles, sustained torn ACLs late in the season. It would be risky to sign either one of them now. --Matt M.
Hi Matt,
Do u see the Niners doing something like last year. Like signing 1 top tier FA like a Julius Peppers, and then go after the tier 2 FA like a Atogwe, Tauscher, and Weaver?
Question: Are the Niner brass waiting for Jennings to heal before releasing him so they won't have to pay an injury settlement?
My response: I'm told the 49ers will "not necessarily" wait until he passes a physical to release him. --Matt M.
Comment: Do u see the Niners doing something like last year. Like signing 1 top tier FA like a Julius Peppers, and then go after the tier 2 FA like a Atogwe, Tauscher, and Weaver?
My response: They could, but I'm not sure I'd consider Atogwe a "tier 2" free agent. They should be some interest in his services. Tauscher, as I noted, has a long rehab from ACL surgery. --Matt M.
I don't want Haynesworth, he just wants to get paid. I'd love '08 Haynesworth but I don't think that's what he will be. Peppers would be nice, but I think he'll command too much cash. Suggs would be ideal, Atogwe would be a nice consolation (I don't think we'd be able to land both). As far as RT is concerned, I just don't know enough about the available guys to give a great opinion. What's wrong with Starks from Pittsburgh?
Question: What's wrong with Starks from Pittsburgh?
My response: Starks and Marvel Smith are free agents with the Steelers. Smith was the starter, sustained a back injury and was placed on IR. Starks started the final 11 games and, obviously, did a good job. The feeling is that the Steelers will try very hard to re-sign one of those guys before the start of free agency. It might be Starks. --Matt M.
Matt: Your comments about Haralson and Lawson are made me curious...McCloughan has never drafted a pure OLB out of college, and every veteran free agent they have signed to play OLB (Green, Banta-Cain, even Justin Smith) has been a college DE. Does the 3-4 defense just abandon those pursuit and coverage skills for the sake of a pass rush? Would McCloughan even consider a kid like Aaron Curry or Brian Cushing? Would he have drafted Julian Peterson? Lawrence Timmons? Jon Beason?
Hey Mike in SF. I agree with you too about Peppers. However, the thing with Peppers though has opposed to Haynesworth besides the '07 season where he had 2 sacks Peppers has been consistent. However, when u get a chance a to get a player like Peppers who who is one of the top pass rushers in the game, who can give you 10-12 sacks a year you try and find a way to get him. When was the last time we can say that about a 49ers DL player who can register 10-12 sacks a consistently every year. We have to go all the way back to Charles Haley for that answer. Now true I would not break the bank on him, but they can also work out a contact that works best for him, and still won't hamstung the 49'ers salary cap situation where the can still sign FA. Also, this is a team that if they target a player early in FA and wants to him as a Niner 9 out of 10 times they wind up holding the Niners jersey. Only time that the Niners didn't their player was A. Thomas. Plus, I could see him wanting to play for Singletary, and Peppers has said he wants to go on a team that plays a 3-4 defense which the Niners run. Imagine having Justin Smith at one DL position, and Julius Peppers on one DL postition with B.J. Raji sandwiched in the middle at NT QB will be having nightmares before and after each game next year.
Matt, what do you estimate the range of a contract for Atogwe to be? Barnes?
When Peppers says he wants to be in a 3-4 he envisions himself playing the Outside Rush Linebacker spot (Merriman, Ware, Porter etc.). He does NOT want to me one of the 3 down lineman. Now a 6-7, 280 pound Rush Linebacker would be awesome, but this would be a new position for Peppers. Having that been said, Paryse, Peppers, Willis, and Spikes would be formidable Line backing core. Imagine how disruptive Smith and Paryse would be with O’s focusing on Peppers. Whether we all realize it or not, whoever takes over that rush linebacker spot (Peppers/Suggs, or Brown/Orakapo) will be pushing Manny Lawsome to the bench for good.
Also, have you had the chance to ask Scot M. about any of the OLBs in the draft that he likes or has taken a look at?
Aside from the Curry and Orakpo's of the world, With all our picks, I would love to see if there was a chance we could move BACK into the late 1st round again (and go after someone like Larry English).
Okay Matt,
I'll take a crack at your 10 questions
1. If the 49ers don't get Garcia in FA then yes Hill's the starter with Alex biding his time hopefully.
2. With Hill being the starter for most of the year I can see him gaining more confidence in his practice regiment.
3. The 49ers definetly need another back if Gore is to survive a whole season & bring back a pure FB.
4. There's been alot of talk the last several years about VD's production being increased but it's been all talk. I hope Raye is a "doer" not a "talker"
5. The 49ers need to make a move on Garcia ASAP!
6. I don't see the 49ers making a big wave in FA but I can see them going after OT Barnes or S Atogwe.
7. PASS RUSH PASS RUSH PASS RUSH
8. If the 49ers can't get FA OT Barnes then they pick either the top 3 OT's in the draft, preferably Andre Smith.
9. Manny Lawson is never going to be a pass rusher but he IS a very good all around LB. If the 49ers can shore up 1 side of thier D-line edge then Haralson can be a factor on the other side.
10. I think it's pre-mature at this time to say that Goldson CAN"T be a starting safety for us. The kid can only improve in my opinion. Don't count him out!
JTO is better than Hill??? Smith is better than Hill??? you guys are crazy...JTO is garbage there's a reason the dudes been on a billion different teams and didn't start....he's not gonna just all of a sudden get over his turnovers....thats a joke..... And yes I agree that smith is the better athlete....but that does not translate into the better QB....Hill is 7-3....5-0 at the stick....what else do you want??? He deserves this job and will get it
I don't see Lawson getting pushed to the bench for good. He really started coming on last year. I think he'll split time with the new acquisition depending on the situation obviously. As I've said before, he's not a good pass rusher, but he's good at setting the edge and playing in coverage...
Matt, what are your thoughts on Kentwan Balmer, is he going to be serviceable, or a bust?
Matt, is there any chance Lawson is working this offseason to become a better pass rusher? Any chance that his subpar performance in that area last year was due to a still-healing knee injury? Remember, it usually takes a year to completely recover from that. He's FAR too good to sit the bench, it would be outstanding if he could improve in that area and become an every down backer.
I like Lawsome a lot, but he is the perfect 4-3 outside linebacker. We are going to run almost exclusively the 3-4. If we bring in a stud rush linebacker, I can assure you that player with start on the outside with Paryse. Its unfortunate, because I really like Manny and this should be the break out year as it takes NFL guys 2 years to fully recover from his kind of injury. Who will the fans cry more about? Manny on the sideline or Orakapo/Brown/Peppers Suggs?
When the Niners go to their nickel package, are they running a 4-2-5, or a 3-3-5?
Question: Matt, this may sound strange but IS Joe Staley a better fit at Right Tackle than Left Tackle?
My response: That's not a strange question at all. It's a very good question. I think because of his athleticism he has a chance to be a very good left tackle. But he also did a good job as a rookie at right tackle. Where is he best-suited? I don't know the answer to your question. --Matt M.
RE: #6 and #8...Nnamdi Asomugha!!!
Yes, I'm aware we're staying with the 3-4 which is the wise choice. If we bring in a guy of Suggs' caliber, I can see Manny's time diminish somewhat since Suggs is very good at rushing as well as coverage. However, the OLB's aren't coming every down, so whoever would replace him would have to be a pretty damn well rounded and an obvious upgrade over Manny. I guess we'll see depending on who we get, but I think they'll split a good amount of time there vs Manny going to the bench FT.
Hill is the textbook definition of back-up. His lack of arm strenght will make opposing DCs drool in their game planning to face our offense. Any pass beyond 10 to 15 yards takes to long to get there. This is why even an offensive neophyte like Singletary would not name him the presumptive starter. If Hill is the starter, 6-10 will almost be a given! As far as V. Davis goes, his hands are awful, and because he is so muscle-bound, he lacks the flexability to be a top receiving TE. This was a perfect example of McCloughan falling in love with his 40 time at the combine and not the game tape. V. Davis has never, and will never play as fast as he timed.
Question: When the Niners go to their nickel package, are they running a 4-2-5, or a 3-3-5?
My response: Last season, they'd move Haralson down to DE and bring in a DB to replace Lawson. So your answer is 4-2-5. --Matt M.
montana-to-clark is right because he knows the difference between what's obvious and what's make-believe. Hill has always been a back-up because he can't throw a line drive past 20 yds. In the NFL that means "no Super Bowl for you". There isn't an NFL team that would trade for Hill as a starter, so why should he start foe the 49ers? People need to stop thinking with their hearts.
And Vernon Davis was a big mistake. Get over it. He's an average TE on an average team. I'm tired of hearing about "all his tools". Maybe he'd be better off with a hardware store.
Yeah, he sucks so bad he's 5-0 at home.
Singletary can try all he wants to put Hill in an offense that plays to Hill's strengths, but when he's trailing by two scores in the 4th quarter he won't fool anyone with the threat of the run and play action. That's when Hill's lack of arm strength becomes a real liability. Hill wasn't a 3rd stringer for 7 years because only Singletary was capable of recognizing his skills.
Just like the Rams game, huh?
You mean Hill didn't throw that 20-some-odd-yard touchdown strike to Vernon Davis in the Monday night Cardinal game last season? Hmm, my eyes must've been playin some serious tricks on me.
Re question #5:
Do you think more effort should be made to land a free agent QB, even as a development project? Would a trade for a QB make sense?
I have doubts about finding a QB in the draft at any round. Looking through the 9er QB draft picks since Joe Montana, I can only identify 1 or 2 picks that should be labeled "consistent starter" (the latter perhaps marginally so: Elvis Grbac (Rd 8 1993), and Alex Smith (Rd 1 2005).
Comparatively the 9ers have had much more success mining the CFL (Garcia) and the USFL/NFL minor league (i.e. the orange sherbert-era Bucs) (Young).
High QB picks seem to be a poor bet at the dollars they command. The mid/late round QB picks have yielded spot starters at best, even in the Walsh era. Perhaps they would be better off using those mid/late picks to take shots on positions identified as free agent targets (e.g. pass rusher, S, WR), and trading or using free agent money on a QB?
Your thoughts appreciated.
I have nothing personal against Hill. Every QB in the league can make a few plays. The only question to ask about any QB is "can he take us to a championship?". Until you feel sure about that you keep looking. And if you still feel Vernon Davis was worth the #6 pick in the draft and the biggest TE salary in the league, there's nothing more to say to you.
hill is taking nobody to the superbowl - he his a career back up for life.....i still think McGm will convince A.Smith to start the season.....Sing will be put in a situation to play the best QB in training camp.....and we all know who that would be....hill did not just suck in practice he also was horrible in training camp.......practice is one week....training camp is longer which hurts hill's chances - you also have to consider his noodle arm.....its just the facts my whiners
I have nothing personal either. But what is the solution, bad mouthing the pieces we have? I think not my friend. You made a blanket statement, of which I was simply trying to refute. You said Hill can't throw past 20 yards (or something to that effect), and thus can't win a championship. Well, then who, instead of Hill, can do that with this team? Btw, in that Card/MonNight game, I saw S. Hill throw a 31-TD pass to J. Morgan, please correct me if my eyes were wrong.
I would agree though, that Davis has not YET proven himself to be top 10 overall worthy. But, like you said, "get over it," lets move on. Utilize him the best we can, and win games. He's certainly not a bust, at least he's been somewhat productive, and hopefully more so in the future.
Peace, I'm out.
i meant McGm will convince Sing to start A.Smith to start the season.......the best man in training camp would win the job...my bailout out money is on my main man A.Smith - the silent leader
That 31 yard pass to J. Morgan hung in the air like a punt. Morgan made a very good play against a very bad team. Nine times out of ten, that pass is either incomplete or intercepted. Please don't base your case for Hill as starter based on a fluke pass against the Lams!
The fact that Alex is a TC star, yet sucks in games? You got that part right. I'd rather avoid JTO part II this season.
Lol naaah M_to_the_C, Hill threw a 31-yd td pass to Morgan in the MonNight/Card game too. Granted, it was a little short, but it got us 6.
The pass you're referring to was the go-ahead 50 yard BOMB in the Rams game, which was the game winning TD. Are you, louie and terry sure you're Niner fans? I would say jump ship but I can't lie, yall's posts are pretty entertaining.
When it comes to free agency, I think we have to pursue Peppers for the pass rush, he will provide the much needed respect at that position and free up time for Willis, and the other linebackers to prowl in the secondary and provide much needed help in stopping the run, or the pass.
Whoever winds up starting QB should have the company of a drafted rookie this year-but not in the first three rounds IMO! The first three should be alloted to bolstering DL/OL/OLB-DE unless someone unexpected falls (say M. Jenkins etc.).The later rounds may prove very intriguing this year.Very eager to see Brandon Swain ; Philip Hunter and Louis Ellis OLB/DE later round prospects considered by our team;Domonique Johnson CB is gonna be a great p/u for some one(hopefully the 49ers!);late QB prospects Mike Reilly/Chase Holbrook/or even small school sleeper Greg Micheli from Mount Union winner of the Division 111 Gagliardi trophy this year as a UDFA-might surprise everyone!
P.S. speaking of Mount Union -how about Nate Kmic at RB!?
I believe Hill being named the starter will put an end to most of the problems mentioned since the end of the year. The worst thing that can happen to a QB is getting into his head confusion, and lack of faith in what he brings to the table. The 49ers have done a great job over the last years contaminating the QB's in this way (see Alex Smith!) If named the starter I believe you'll see an even better Hill on the practice field and during game time.
I also believe that Matt hit the mark on Thomas Clayton! Clayton would be a great change of pace to the strength of Gore. Now, I don't know if Clayton has problems in blocking schemes, but man does he have the speed and the youth. I've often wondered why they keep Clayton around? He looks so good in pre season. But I know that means squat to some extent because the real games move at twice the speed. But despite that, he seems to have the quickness, be a pass threat and a great change of pace. There are a lot of teams who have that change of pace running back, and most of the time it brings an extra dimension to their game. Maybe they could give the guy a chance.
Hi Matt, Things could get quite interesting if the niners address either the OL or DL during free agencey.
This would allow them to take a shot with their first round pick. It appears to be a deep draft so moving down a few pegs would not not be a disaster, but the big question is if the GM has the moxie to maneuver. My gut feeling is if the niners stand pat at ten and take defense Sing is in charge, if they take Sanchez (if available) the ownership asserts itself.
Shaun Hill makes for a great backup QB. He can come in, play some spot duty and won't LOSE too many games for you. Is he a guy that you can build a franchise around or who will get you to the playoffs year in and year out? No and anybody who thinks so is just kidding themselves. Think about the other 31 teams in the league and ask yourself how many of them he would start for. Hill will most likely be our starter this year out of necessity not desire. Hopefully he can help this franchise win at least as many as we lose buying us enough time to find a long term solution, someone who can get us out of this perpetual state of mediocrity. Of course mediocrity may be an affliction we carry until we clean house in the front office.
"The only question to ask about any QB is "can he take us to a championship?". "
Would you answer 'yes' to that question in regards to Eli Manning? Sometimes it just takes an adequate QB playing out of his mind, coupled with a great defense and running game. On the flip side, you'd likely answer 'damn straight!' to that question regarding Peyton Manning... yet Eli has been there just as often.
"That 31 yard pass to J. Morgan hung in the air like a punt. "
Seriously... have you SEEN Rivers throw the ball? If he can tie for the lead league in TDs, allowing the ball to hang like that can't be ALL bad... Apparently.
Is there really a football fan on this blog who thinks that Shaun Hill is as good as Eli Manning or Phillip Rivers, even at their worst?! Astounding.
To add another $.02 to the QB fracas:
I thought Hill showed real poise and mental toughness last season. Not the prettiest guy to watch, particularly on the deep throws, but the mental game is about 90% of the position. It should be his job to lose. (And Jeff Garcia backing him on the bench would be a real plus).
So, Matt, how do you think the Niners will address the pass rush issue, if they are not likely to go the FA route, and rookies are not likely to have much impact?
In 2007 the team lost 8 games in a row absolutely killing the team. In 2008 we lost six in a row, doing the same. Sean Hill has never lost consecutive games and is 5-0 at home. Obviously many of the posters on this blog think that every team we played in the second half of last year have absolute idiots for defensive coaching staffs, since none of them picked up on Hill's short passing tendencies. Yet next year he won't complete a single pass because the defenses will jump every route. What a load of crap. The man wins games. Alex Smith does not win games. If you want to build a championship caliber organization you have to attract championship caliber players. One really good way to do that is to win games.
Please do not experiment for another year with our record. No JT. No AS. Just let the guy who has proven he can both lead and win lead and win.
Draft a QB and let him develop behind a two year commitment to Hill. Build the team around him so that we can get that one piece to commit to the organization when we need it.
Just for the record, for the regaular season in 2008 Sean Hill had a higher percentage of compeltions go for more than 20yds than Kurt Warner. Hill 30/181=.1657. Warner 62/401=.1546
Name Hill the starter and work on developing a team in 2009
My response: Last season, they'd move Haralson down to DE and bring in a DB to replace Lawson. So your answer is 4-2-5. --Matt M.
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Why would the Niners leave Spikes on the field instead of Lawson? Aren't Lawson's coverage skills and range superior?
[the mental game is about 90% of the position]
Best QB comment of the post.
If AS had Hill's brain, with his recognition and decision making, he could be an all-pro.
Sadly, that is not the case.
What are the odds of Mike Vick coming in?
John CLayton reluctantly suggested it
They can implement a hard core wildcat/1950s Army type of option offense to go along with defensive Singletary's plan
Intelegently,
Mike Dukakis
I believe I read somewhere that USC HC Pete Carroll said that Sanchez "was making a mistake leaving early for the draft." Also, Carroll said Sanchez "doesn't have the right tools yet."
Since Carroll has spent time in the NFL as a DC and HC, I think he has some insight on what's needed to be a QB in the NFL! And that's whether Carroll was a success or not.
In addition, Carroll speaking that way about Sanchez is VERY unusual for a College Coach since most see their players reflecting back on them. If a College HC is not really sure or sold on a player making the NFL, they usually say nothing. I also don't believe Carroll is upset with Sanchez leaving early because he sees it as hurting his offense next year. USC has players coming out of their ears. They also have the #1 rated HS QB from Mater Dei coming into their program. And remember. USC every year is always a factory for producing quality NFL players. And that even goes for Carson and Leinert. Their careers may not be the greatest right now. But they had potential and were drafted early.
So Carroll's statements about Sanchez should give any NFL team something to ponder when weighing Sanchez's abilities and where he should drafted.
"Is there really a football fan on this blog who thinks that Shaun Hill is as good as Eli Manning or Phillip Rivers, even at their worst?!"
Let me see an entire year of Hill before I make a decision on that. However, I wasn't comparing talent, just making a point regarding the statements of 'hang time' and 'championship talent'. How about we go back to 2000 with the Ravens starting Trent Dilfer / Tony Banks?
My point is, broad statements like that Really make no sense. There are plenty of excellent QBs who never win championships, and plenty of 'noodle armed' QBs who do.
Okay this lull before the draft and free agency has me thinking crazy, but hear me out..."Nnamdi Asomugha". I know the 9ers have unoffically said they will not be spending big dollars in free agency but, it seems likely that Nnamdi Asomugha will hit the open market. What if the 9ers sign him to a similar deal as Nate Clements and slide Walt Harris over to FS. I don't know if Harris would be good at the position, but I would like to think so. He is still a good corner but, to no fault of his own he is getting to the end of his career. This would give us two dynamic corners to help cover Fitgerald and possibly Boldin if he is back and what is expected to be Crabtree in Seattle. Harris has the smarts and experience to play center field and run the defense. Don't quote me on this but I think we have somewhere in the realm of 29 Mil. in cap space and Nnamdi Asomugha would account for around 9-11 million this year still leaving apx 20 mil. for draft and other Free agency signings. Just a thought.
If we want to be a contender, we must get a Peppers or a Suggs. For all you that don't want peppers, why? We have cap room, and having a good pass rush is the one thing all superbowl teams have in common. As for Sean Hill, he has proven he could be a capable starter, espescially in an offense like rayes that fits our personell better. My top 5 FA wishes:
1.Peppers/Suggs
2.Haynesworth(although i doubt we'll get him)
3.J.Gross
4.Houshmandzadeh
5.Otagwe
i also would like to see Garcia come back and A.Smith i still think can be great. I'm also excited to see more Play action and VD getting more involved under Raye. Go 9ers!
we'll have 25 million in cap space before we restructure a.smiths deal and release jennings. that'll mean about 32-35 million in cap space. i would love to get (i can't spell his name LOL) the raidas cb! that would be 2 shutdown cb's!