thank you Matt...

I'm sure the Hill interview must have been awkward. I really like Hank as a person. I know he loves Alex, and it reflects in his answers. Good stuff.

Agreed, Ronnie. Classy guy. Also, I am somewhat impressed by Crabtree's answers. He is careful to not put too much support behind any one quarterback and he knows his place.

Alex Smith played a great 2nd half. I don't think they could start Hill after such an efficient performance. I sure hope he turns into a success. Have to appreciate his patience thus far. Man grew up right in front of my eyes. When he came in, my first thought was oh &@#!. That was really exciting. Proved me wrong.

Don't look now, but the Panthers are about to drop a home game against the Bills. Their next winnable game may not come unitl December (home against the Bucs), and they follow that with four really tough games. They could easily go 3 - 13, giving the Niners a pretty good first round pick.

Crabtree is the SHIZNITS!!!Much Kudos to Vernon & Wallis.Alex The First Round Draft Pick is Back!!!To lead the O-Line.Jimmy Raye should be given his pension,i'm sorry to say.49ers we all about the West Coast Offense, Bill Walsh style.Who is Peyton Manning?Alex is from the same cloth of Montana & Young.Believe That.FAITHFUL!!!!

First and foremost, this is still a loss that hurts.

Secondly, I concur with the optimism on this thread regarding the trio of Smith, Crabtree, and Davis. This could be the beginning of something special. But the optimism should be cautious because the 49ers have some big problems on the O-line.

If the 49ers can hand the Colts their first defeat then you can count me in on the good times!

I know Houston has good offense but I'm wondering about our defense. This was not the same effort/result as the Arizona game and the other early season games. What do you guys think: have the other teams exposed the weaknesses in our defense or is it something else??

For what it's worth I think one big time pass rusher and some OL help and this is a team that can play with the best of them!

Thanks Matt! Good stuff - especially S. Hill and Smith. At some point, it will be good to get your opinion (instead of reporting) on the game and if MS should start A. Smith.

I am still not convinced Alex is our franchise guy but....

What I saw of Alex was really impressive. The offense was definitely improved with him out there. This is not the same QB I saw in preseason or read about in training camp.

The defense looked much much better once it began getting rest in between possessions. Coverage was good and we saw that with a couple coverage sacks. Did anyone else notice Roman tip that 3rd down pass to prevent a first down.

I am still worried about the potential of Alex imploding in an important game but from what I saw he should be the starter next week.

My guess is he will be, but Singletary will try not to reveal his hand until later in the week to give IND less opportunity to effectively scheme against us.

On a side note I will never give props to 1niner as someone eluded to in another blog. Here is why.

I disliked smith and supported Hill. Hill was our QB he deserved our support. Despite decent play from him in the first games he was still attacked by 1niner. When he started to flounder it would have been understandable to question him but 1niner did it before when he looked decent. Now that Alex is most likely going to start I will put away any animosity I have towards him and support my team and that includes Alex. You could never say the same about 1niner. No way will I justify the way 1niner acts by giving him props. He doesn't nor will he ever deserve them.

First of all, I humbly give my props to oneniner. His boy Alex Smith made Hill look like Jamarcus Russell.

But Smith's performance needs to be taken into perspective. The Texan's game planned for Shaun Hill, not Alex Smith. It does throw an opponent into chaos when you change your QB mid-game. Every QB has a different style, a different set of plays and in this case, and in this case, the differences between Hill and Smith are significant. Hard to say if Smith would have been effective against the Texans had he been in Hill's position entering the game as the incumbent starter. Also, the NFL is full of examples of QB's "lighting it up" in their first game or two, and then once the defenses learn their weaknesses, the QB is forced to overcome those weaknesses or get destroyed on the field. We all know Smith has a history of zeroing in on his first receiver and being unable to improvise when the play breaks down. Let's see what Smith does over the remainder of the season. I have a feeling this QB change is going to last the rest of the season (barring injury) so we should get a chance to see.

And oneniner, if Smith leads the 49ers to the NFC West title, then I will eat all my previous rants against your postings on this blog.

But until that happens, you're still a troll.

You got your wish and you were right... your man crush must have gotten so much bigger today oneniner

Oneniner suprised haven't heard from you yet. About the only person who was always adamant about alex Smith being the right QB to start. I hope that this is the spark we need to put up 20+ points per game and just ask the defense to keep the opponent under 20 points.

...:).....kudos on the props....

..personally there is no comparison btw S.Hill to A.Smith - one has a huge upside, the other does not......its that simple

Thoughts about the game....

1. A.Smith was playing with an O-line with substitutes, because of his improved footwork he made the o-line look good

2. Once AGAIN A.Smith proved he does have the potential to grow into a TOP NOTCH QB - he came in off the bench gunslinging 6 for 6 passing

3. Without Gore's production the only person that gives us a chance to win is A.Smith

4. A.Smith looked more comfortable running the niner offense than ever before - shows signs of maturity

5. Crabtree is the man - I love how he physically attacks the ball

6. Morgan does have some habits i don't want to comment on

7. Defense is good. They look better with A.Smith at QB.

8. Special team is not special

....am here .....i am enjoying reading the comments...

I think it is obvious - i dont have to say much.....now we have film to prove what i have been saying all along.....

I thought you boys would love this stat: At the NFL combine Alex Smith's hands measured larger than Michael Crabtrees.

I hate looking for positives in a loss, but Crabtree looks legit. You just don't show up with 2 weeks experience in the NFL and make that kind of impact. He is a special player. We need to bench Bruce for Morgan. The trio of Morgan, Crabs, and VD is potent. A healthier Frank Gore and I will agree with Sing: This O has player makers is should be playing better. If Arizona losses tonight we are still in good shape in the division. I want to see an inspired upset next week. The score doesn’t show it, but the Rams hang with the Colts into the 3rd quarter.

BTW - Nate deserves credit for a great game against Andre Johnson, who is a beast out there. They held him in check. Why do we no longer have Manny cover TEs? He was good in that roll under Nolan. We keep getting burned by TE's.

Oneniner - I would be so fired up if we can seattle on #11 for the next +5 years, but only time will tell. Should be fun to watch.

Great read, and reason for hope:

http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcwest/post/_/id/7634/smith-crabtree-bighten-49ers-outlook

A Change in QB’s and a Rookie’s Debut Made All the Difference in Today’s Game!

Having Alex stay at the Facility to practice throwing balls to rookie WR Crabtree in the Bye week really paid off today; that way, they got in synch with each other and were ready for today’s game. Almost seems like crystal ball caliber pre-cognition!

Well, I can hardly contain my excitement now that I've seen how well Alex played and connected with Davis, Crabtree, and Morgan! At least our Offense has a hopeful FUTURE!

I was overwhelmed with how well a ROOKIE WR played in his first NFL game--even with no offseason training and practices with his team. I was expecting him to get CREAMED by the speed and violence of the game, but he was amazing. Most of his catches got us first downs, I believe!

Before the 2nd half, I was very despondent, feeling that we'd never be able to win games with the terrible QB-WR connectivity we were getting (with Sean at the helm). I'm not knocking Hill because he is a lovely person and he tried very hard, but I think he has lost his confidence (the OL can't protect him and he never had enough time to throw the ball to receivers; it must have been HELL for him on the field, poor guy).

RE: the post-game press conference: If Coach can't see the OBVIOUS difference between the lst and 2nd halves of today's game, then he is blind or obstinate. I do think Sing didn't want to make a statement that would CRUSH Sean Hill's morale today--after a devastating half for him. So, maybe he was just trying to save face for Sean by not committing the QB position to Alex. Mark my words! Alex will get the reps this week in practice and will start next week. He seems to have earned back his starting role, the way he played today, overcoming his hesitance in releasing the ball in live games.

Now, if Alex can be consistently good (as he was today) in the oncoming games, then we can SIT "old man" Bruce and PLAY Brandon Jones and Jason Hill--who are quicker receivers and to whom Alex CAN throw LONG balls downfield. That's why those two were not even suited up for the game (because Sean's arm was not strong enough for long throws).

Of course, that would mean that Raye and Singletary would have to give up the notion of the 49ers being a POWER-RUNNING team. Outside of Gore’s 2 long runs, we haven’t done much rushing.

So, now you can see why I'm excited about the FUTURE of the 49ers' offensive game. With Alex, Mike, Brandon, Jason, and Josh as receivers + Davis and Walker (who also have great hands--as well as Gore), we have the PLAYMAKERS now to put points on the scoreboard.

Bring on the Colts next Sunday! Now we can play them without getting embarrassed about the 49ers' being unable to score TD's.

The thing we really need now, though, is to find a decent PR/KR man. I guess we let Rossum go too soon. I wonder if there's anyone on our team now who has solid hands to handle that tough job—without sacrificing their talent in the offensive side of our game.

Defense played much better today (over last week's game), but there were some sloppy tackles that need to be improved on before next week’s game.

All in all, I feel MUCH better after the 2nd half of today's game than I've felt in a month or longer (as far as the offense's ability to score points). Now I have HOPE...all because of a switch in QB’s.

Niner Mom

KUDOS to oneniner!
I think MS not saying who starts next week is a great ploy! But I'm sure Indy knows it will be Smith! Another good thing Smith has going for him is there isn't much real game tape available on him. At least not from the last couple years.
This should give Smith time to get his feet wet while the other teams try and figure out his tendencies. When they do, I hope Smith will be ready for the teams that know him upside and down. Just like they know Hill! He'll need to be!
And thanks oneniner and ALL for your prayers and thoughts! You're ALL GREAT!

Unfortunately, Hill lost his confidence in the Atlanta game while he was taking all those shots. He spent the last 2 games trying to read the pressure he was getting instead of looking for an open receiver. I said before that he was throwing to get rid of the ball instead of completing the pass. He got really sloppy and he was making horrible throws in both the last 2 games.

I must admit that Alex looked more composed than ever before. I didn't like the pass he threw to end the game. I felt like he was looking a little too deep down field and that 10-15 yard range in the middle of the field was open. Alex played great! He does deserve to start until further notice. Everyone saw Hill starting to lose his moxie for the game.

I appreciate coach Sing for making a tough decision and being decisive about it. He sat Hill down like I felt like he should have. Although our O-Line is crap in the run game, it does give our QB's a chance to throw the ball at times. Alex took advantage of that by spreading the ball out and being able to throw downfield. Hill cold not do that, he sensed pressure that wasn't there and he began to panic last week and this week. Three yard passes to Davis and Gore is not going to get it Shaun.

I knew Crabtree would play well and he will play better with every game. Go Alex Smith and go NIners.

From ESPN:
"I saw a guy that's going to be a good football player," Texans cornerback Dunta Robinson said. "He ran good routes and you know he's fearless. ... I think he's going to be a very good pro in this league."

You can forget the diva talk about Crabtree, too. He's the real deal.

Offensive linemen do not walk across locker rooms following defeats to initiate handshakes with divas. It's against the lineman's code. Left tackle Joe Staley made a special trip to commend Crabtree after this one, all the evidence anyone should need that Crabtree has already earned his place in the starting lineup.

Crabtree conducts himself with the poise of a five-year veteran. The receiver's competitiveness and diligence also distinguish him.

This is probably the best I've ever felt after a loss. We are finally done with the Shaun Hill era. It really only cost us one game (this one), but it could have been worse (AZ and Seattle). I've been hoping all year we wouldn't have to lose too many before we got that huckster out of there, but our defense won all three division games, and we're still poised to win the division and maybe even cause a little scene in the playoffs. Wow. A real QB under center for the Niners. Haven't seen that since third game of 2007. Happy happy day! We'll see J. Hill and B. Jones on the field next week, too. Amazing how good the Oline suddenly looked when the defense had a QB to worry about. No sacks. A real pocket. Quick decisions. WRs open everywhere. Look out world! Raye is probably the happiest guy of all. He can now run a real offense. Go Niners!

Oneniner, you got some hot sauce to go wit that crow bruh?

.........on that last play where A.Smith threw the interception - he should have thrown the ball to a wide open Gore who came out of the backfield

.....there is no doubt A.Smith is the QB for the next yrs......he finally has his weapons to throw to....

we just need to give them time to build on it....A.Smith + Gore + V.Davis + Crabtree = Superbowl

lol.....try this one......The gunslinger's hot sauce, it made a comeback in texas....

WOW what a second half. I've been saying all along, hit Davis in the seam. They should throw that seam 5 times a game regardless of the outcome.

Ok, good job Smith. I'll leave it at that until after the Indy game.

BUT THE PROBLEM STILL REMAINS... WE ARE NOT A RUN OFFENSE. WE CAN NOT RUN THE BALL.

I think we need to a revaluation on our approach to offense. 3 three and outs to start the game out is piss poor.

Here’s the deal for the offense:

1. Junk the Raye offense that insists on punding the ball from the get-go. We’re always horrible in the first half — especially on the road — because we don’t spread things out until too late.

2. Run the offense from the spread. It’s the ONLY way things work with a very sub-par OL: you get to cheat, because they can’t put eight in the box. Work on roll outs for the QB, to BOTH sides.

3. Put Morgan back at SE, move Crabs to WR, and drop Bruce into the slot. Play one TE — Davis — and one RB — Gore, leaving five blockers.

4. Start Smith, and PASS to set up the run, instead of vice-versa.

Lather-Rinse-Repeat.

Alex was smiling!! He never looked like he was having fun until today. He was confident and loose. Show me 3 straight games with consistency and I will believe. But he did look like a totally different person... Thanks

Why are we giving anyone kudos? We. Lost. The. Game. I hope Alex continues to improve, but lets save the ticker tape for a win, shall we?

Alex Smith looked good today against a VERY SUBPAR NFL Defense. I'm not buying into it yet. When the game was on the line Smith threw a TERRIBLE interception and his lack of awareness of the play clock cost the 49ers the field goal shot. Nate Davis is still the future QB of the team. The FACT is the 49ers lost a game today they had no business losing. Arnaz Battle once again cost this team HUGE with a muffed punt. At this point, Battle, Roman, Michael Robinson, Bruce, Shaun Hill should all BE CUT! Move Smith to #1 QB, Davis to #2 QB, Spurlock to Kick Returner, Jones to the active roster to replace Bruce, get Kory Sheets back once the Dolphins put him on the street, and move Clements to Safety with Goldson and start Spencer and Brown at the corners. I got a Bad Feeling about Indy this week because of the pass defense of the 49ers right now but we will see. Alex Smith has 10 games to show if he has a future with the 49ers or not. Good start today just couldn't close the deal with the WIN.

I went back on that last play and watch the pass rush. The Texans did a twist on the right side. Smith had to hurry the pass. It appears he was throwing the ball to VD on that last play who had a step on the defender. It was a breakdown between Baas & Staley who correctly handled off between themselves but both were pushed back and their men were breaking thru to hit Smith. The ball appears to flutter as he was hit at the end of his throw.

IMHO if Alex had just a split second more he could have hit VD. Watch it for yourself.

I will say this for Alex Smith about him as a person and not just his play today, what a great example of determination in life not to give up and FIGHT. Great life lesson from this kid. He has his millions and could have packed it in like so many others before him but he didn't and he returned to the team that he struggled with. Kid has a lot of heart and I'm rooting for him but one half isn't enough yet. Crabtree looks as good as he thinks he is too, what hands that kid has!

Hi Matt, Skeebers I felt the same way after the loss. It reminded me of the 1983 Championship game when the 49ers fell behind 21-0 to the Redskins and came storming back in the second half. It's amazing how potent the offense looked. I got the impression that Alex could not be stopped, I can't remember the last time I felt like that even after a win. After a loss Lombardi would say that his team wasn't beaten, it just ran out of time.

Go to nfl.com and look at the highlights. Even if he hit VD, there may not be much there. More importantly, that play shouldn't matter. Go back and watch the second Slaton TD on the flare in the flat. Willis is tackled and there was NO CALL! I was screaming at it. Go watch it, but don't get angry

Jon,

You nailed it. Horrible non-call on that play. The guy who tackled Willis got up looking around for the flag that he assumed would be there.

Don't forget Smith hasn't played in a real game since Nov. 07. Pretty impressive performance, now can he do it on a regular basis????? Sure would be nice so the major problem would now be getting that stud passrusher !!!

You guys don't hear from me that often and probably haven't posted since the draft or atleast the offseason, during the start of the Hill,Smith debate was in full swing. I've been a big A. Smith guy and refused to give up on a 24 year old that had to put up with what he has had to deal with so far in this league. I'm not nearly as vocal nor as passionate about it as oneniner. lol (no one is) I have to say that I'm really proud of all the S. Hill people. I was on a plane all day expecting to get on here and read all the excuses to why Hill was pulled. I'm pleasantly surprised. Hill is a great guy and very professional. I didn't agree with him being the starter but, I do see why he deserved atleast the chance. With that being said. I'm still cautious about Smith's return because it is only a half. I think he has the potential to be a franchise guy but still has a lot to prove. Let's just all be happy that there is reason for optimism. The truth is that we still have a weak O line. I don't care whose behind our Oline for 60 minutes they're in trouble. Ecspecially if we can't get a running game going. Crabtree played well but lets not annoint him the next #80 just yet. I'm excited about the future. Go niners and panthers blow. I wonder how good E. Brown looks now haha!

Hey Matt, can you ask Greg Cosell what he thinks about Alex smith now

You are right about that holding call Jon. I remember it like it happened 30 seconds ago. The thing is, you are never going to get calls on the road from the refs. especially if youare a road dog. We have yet to earn any respect in the NFL as a franchise. We have been losing too long lately for that. You have to beat the other team soundly on the road.

I'm concerned because our defense is starting to make some of the same mistakes of years past. We missed tackling Slaton about 100 times in the 1st half. We didn't get off of the field on third and 10 onabout 5 occasions. We just don't look as good on defense. A lot of that had to do with our weak offense today.

I noticed that Barry Sims was in the game to start the 2nd half. Did someone get hurt or benched? Battle is killing me, 3 muffed punts in 3 games. He is killing us right now. I wish we would sit Bruce and play someone that is hungry and wants to fight for the ball!!

it's funny saying this but I think this is what A. Smith needed. He's faced so much adversity in the NFL and in his personal life. I'm hoping that his hard work and determination actually pays off. It's a great story for a great person. History shows us that tragedy breeds innovation and shows us who we really are and how strong we can be as humans. Of course it doesn't happen to everyone but it's good to see it work from time to time. I'm not giving up on you yet A. Smith. Dammit show us how good you can be! Anyone think it's Irony that Smith has the possibility of making his first start in over two years against the same team he got his first start against. If he wins this game, Talk about coming full circle!

funny how many alex fans are out there now.Real experts!!

Alex played well, but it was just one game guys, this isn't 2006 with Norv, this is one game against a pretty weak defense in an almost prevent style defense.

I think we can agree we are just a couple pieces away:
1) QB, it starts at the top - Bradford or Tebow with the 2nd 1st rounder
2) O-LINE!!! need a first rounder on this one
3) MORE O-LINE - maybe can get another starter in free agency tho
4) D-Line
5) Safety
6) Oh yeah we are going to have to replace Takeo soon and I do not think McKillop is the guy

When u put it in writing ... we have a lot of holes

But we are positioned for it with the two #1's ... we can do it!

alex is much quicker to set up,that is why it seems the pass protection was better for him. hill is much slower, the pass rush
often gets to the pocket sooner than him.alex will make the line better.

defence will be much more rested with a better offence.you will
be surprised how good they will be playing with a lead.
agree D-line O-line and Taylor Mays

Alex did a great job of coming off the bench.

Raye and the other coaches need to know the spread offense will help the running game. We had become too predictable. Go NINERS

mmm let me think, what coach is really good at spread offense.

Mike Marx? No,

Mike Mars, no,

..dang who am I thinking of?

I thought you were thinking bill belly-something... he runs a decent spread... of course his wardrobe is really whack... but decent spread...

Enough with the kudos for oneniner...he didn't suit up and throw 3 TD passes! All he did was complain about Hill! Kudos go to Alex Smith and Vernon Davis for their matured play and chemistry.

And before all of you crown Alex Smith as the savior, let's all remember that Smith's biggest knock is his inability to remain consistent. Plus Arizona looks like they are gonna take the lead in the West with a win over the Giants. The niners still have a lot of work to do and more than likely have another loss coming their way from the undefeated Colts.

Ok Alex...you impressed me today, but can you do it again against the best team in the AFC? Show me, don't tell me!

Matt, I heard on NFLN that the cards are division leaders now. So my question a while back- can the niners go six and 0 in the division and lose all their out of division games and still make the playoffs- was answered incorrectly? Say the niners go 6-10, and are undefeated in division play, what happens?

Alex looked confident and STRONG today. ...Crabtree looks like he cares. His entire demeanor is appealing.

The division record is just a tie breaker so AZ would have to be 6-10 too.

Nothing happens except they have the tiebreaker advantage over everybody else in the division. If one or more of the remaining three teams wind up 6-10 as well, the Niners would win the division under your scenario. However if another team winds up 7-7 it does not matter if they have lost twice to the Niners, they will still win the division.

There have been countless instances in which a team has lost twice to one or more division opponents and still won the division. However, no team has ever gone undefeated in their division games and still failed to win the division.

I think the Niners will be 5-1 in the division this year. They are 0-3 in non division games now, but I see them winning at least 4 non division games the rest of the way (Titans, Bears, Lions, and Jaguars). This means a 9-7 record. Unfortunately I see Arizona ending up with a 10-6 record to nip us by one game.

The key game will be the Dec 14 Monday nighter against the Cardinals. Whoever wins that one should have the inside track to win the west.

Thanks guys. very informative answer Rick. I really had no idea, and here I thought I knew a lot about football! Ha!

Really?

1) You want to draft a guy who just spoke with ASmith about how to cope with a shattered shoulder or the greatest college QB ever to become a NFL TE. Both these guys will be available in the 3rd round. Besides, we just drafted Davis. I don't think this is our greatest need.
2-3) Maybe more OL, but how about BETTER OL. We consistently have drafted OL high in the recent years with the results we see on the field. I would like to see a change in philosophy in more agile, technique sound guys.
4) Still looking for a premier NT. Franklin is pretty good, but we need more impact DL if we are going to do this 3-4 thing
5) Safety, maybe? We need more cover guys first though
6) McKillop needs to put on some weight

We still need a dominant pass rusher.

Put cornerback in your top 3 needs.

Top needs IMHO,
Pass Rusher
cover corner (not a safety corner)
Offensive line coach

Smith looked good / Crabtree looked good / Vernon was great.

Chilo Rachal #62 has got to go...the guard postion is ridiculous - every team brings pressure up the middle and the QB can't step up to throw. That's why given what we got, having a more mobile Smith is better than a stationary Hill.

It's pretty obvious that we need to pass to set up the run with this O-line. We are not "impossing our wills" on any body (except the fans) running between the tackles.

Trade or draft for some 'bad boy linemen' ...then go and "impose your will" on people. For this year we need to run an offense that 'fits' what we have - not what we dream we might be.

None of today’s actions means ANYTHING. Delusionary Fanatics!! It was one half of a football game. Until A.Smith does what he did today 3 or 4 times in a row,wether it’s at 10am PST or 1pm PST it means nothing!! Wipe the spooge off your chin!!! Today means nothing!!! IT WAS A LOSS!!! GET IT!! You can suck all the ass you want to. NOTHING matters until we have 8 wins in a row!! GET IT?!?!?! No, you don’t……10 games to go. A. Smith needs to play this way every day for the rest of his NFL life or be wounded or he will be beaten to death by most of you.. He deserves today, he worked hard. Now let’s see him go toe to toe with Peyton. Then let’s talk. A. Smith is 25 years old. He has already given more to this franchise than most humans beings could ever imagine. If he fails..fine, however, all of us A.Smith fans ever wanted was for him to have ONE MORE CHANCE!! Hold your tongue about A.Smith going forward. The man deserves your respect as a fan.

Mckillop was a surprise draft pick, none of the draft experts thought he would slip down to the slot the niners picked him at, and has played well on special teams( didn't he recover a TD against the lambs?)and has been a solid tackler as well, watch the games.

if anyone expects this D to perform, the O needs to give it a rest once in a while,you can't leave them on the field all half and expect any positive results no matter how good they are.

once the O gave them some rest they did well aginst the Texans O

nice to see Smith get his chance again this year, he was thrown into the meat grinder with Nolan at the helm, and was pounded into pulp, then thrown to the wolves,under the bus,and back into the grinder again.

lets see how he plays a whole game against a not so powerfull D in indy, its Peyton the niners need to worry about, some ball control and a rested pass rush will at least make it a game.

Ditto. Once again John, you've beaten me to the punch.

"Once AGAIN A.Smith proved he does have the potential to grow into a TOP NOTCH QB"

Grow into the potential? I don't know he was an NFL starter for 2 seasons and had plenty of chances to shine and show flashes of brilliance. He made huge strides since the 2007 season to now but he has a long way to go before you can throw "Top Notch" out there.

And I'm definitely not convinced that he's got more upside than Nate Davis or any of the QB that we will have available to us with our 2 picks next season (although I'd love to see us grab a stud OL and a solid and fast DB next round).

Unlike oneniner I'm going to support the team and root for whoever is at QB though. How many of you guys actually go to the games (well ones that are in the Bay Area anyways)?

Guys, guys, guys! There are only SIX division games (NFC-West), and there is NO WAY that TWO teams can be 6-0 within the SAME division. Either one wins all six or loses one or more of these games WITHIN the division.

People are mixing up DIVISION and NON-DIVISION games.

To win the NFC West Division title, only ONE team can win ALL 6 games. 49ers have won the first 3 of 3 games; we don't play another of our division title games until Dec. 6, Dec. 13, and Jan. 3. So, there is no way that Arizona can be AHEAD of us in our Division Title right now--unless they have played each division opponent more than once. They have already lost 1 game to the 49ers in the series. Has Arizona played Seattle twice yet? Or the Rams twice yet?

I don't know how many DIVISION title games Seattle has won, but if they have lost to Arizona and 49ers, that makes them 2 behind the 49ers SO FAR.

Forget the Rams! I think they are 0 so far in the Division.

Any other type of non-division game has NO BEARING on the 6-0 winner withing the division for the NFC-West Division Title. Period

Everything else has to do with winning BEYOND that title and for wild-card status in the playoffs.

If Arizona has won more than 3 games, but 1 is a non-division WIN, than that 1 counts for beyond the Division Title (towards playoffs).

Correct me if I'm wrong!

Niner MOM

bump oline coach haha!

smith was surprisingly agile in the pocket today. but then again I think I've gotten used to hill walking into sacks that anything better than that is beyond awesome. I think, I'd rather have those happy feet than having the qb eat sacks all game...

HEY INDY! YOU'RE NOT GOING TO BLOW US UP LIKE THE RAMS AND CARDS! WE'RE COMING TO YOUR HOUSE AND GONNA SIT ON YO' COUCH! EAT YOUR CHIPS! DRINK YO' BEER!

Here is a link to a very cool video showing how Vernon Davis spends his week:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-super-bowl-journey/09000d5d8139eff3/Super-Bowl-Journey-Always-getting-better

I enjoyed getting to see an inside look at 49ers headquarters.

oneniner,

you brought us all together. hope alex can lead us to the next level. can we use brandon jones and jason hill those guys are hidden weapons too. drop the inconsistent ones. i pray that the players stay healthy and strong i.e. justin smith.lets go bay area and lets go niners

The problem with the Niners isn't the offensive line, it's the GM and the offensive coaching. Chilo Rachel is more than capable, but if he isn't prepared by his coaches - knowing the schemes and strategies other defenses like to employ, he'll look bad. Rachal is like Frank Gore. Frank Gore, in my opinion, should be known as the "best back in football," but he's not because of the mediocre line he runs behind, the lack of a Niner qb - and also the embarrasment that is our Niner offensive coaching staff.... yet Gore endures.
I was impressed with Crabtree, but Crabtree wasn't the pick. The pick was Micheal Oher. Teams are built with a strategy in mind. The Indy Colts were built to score a lot of points and then stop the pass in the 4th quarter. Interestingly enough, the Cards are built without a running game at all, but they can stop the run.... so they pass and stop the run well.
The Niners were trying to create a smashmouth offense, with a D that could stop the run (in this era that's old school). But even though they are behind the times, they totally blew their shot at being relatively successful at building something right by drafting a wide receiver in Crabtree when they had no qb or O line.
The problem is two fold: The Niners have a GM who runs around the headquarters like a chicken with his head cut off, and the Niners offensive coaches are laughable. Fire the entire offensive coaching staff, and definitely fire the GM! I could coach Crabtree, Gore, Davis and Morgan to more yards per game with a Pop Warner offensive line. And don't take your eye off the ball this week dumb Niner fans.... When you've got a qb controversy, it usually means you don't have a qb at all.... or something like that.

Time to let Smith air it out. His last full year of starting he showed great strides even though he was not great. The O-line is mediocre and the guards are awful most of the time. You can't be a power running team if your O-line isn't dominant. The teams personnel strength dictates the team at least tries to be a pass first team. The bottom line is winning, no matter how you do it.

I have believed this since smith was the qb @ utah.make your system fit your players, AT LEAST to start with.when smith was drafted,urban meyer told anyone who would listen that smith was a good person,a good athlete,and a team player.he also made sure that everyone who asked got his opinion of smiths effectiveness as an nfl qb.in essence his coments were,this kid is a winner,if you take the extra time to make sure he understands the offense.he made special note of the fact that smith was not very good when he felt unsure,and was easily confused when faced with a new situation.at utah,they ran meyers now famous spread offense,smith almost never took a snap from under center.then,with nolan and mcluless drafting him,they did exactly what meyer warned them about.my point is,if you take a "franchise"player,then why would'nt you want to play to his strengths?why would you force him to be somthing he is clearly not.he looked good today,most of his snaps were from the shotgun,spread offense,slowed the pass rush.the "o" line looked like an nfl group.sing,has some really bad influences in his fball career,billick,nolan,buddy ryan,mike ditka,these guys,to a man,all think the offense is going to lose every game for you if you dont keep your foot on their throat at all times.it seems to me that it should be easier for the coaches to put in a system that fits their players,than to change the players skillset

The bad thing about our offensive line is that the powers that be are talking like the Niner's O line is going to -- through maturity -- eventually get good. Not a chance. Blocking on the O line is all about schemes, being prepared to know where the other team is lining up, and it's about angles. In addition to this, having a good O line is about having lighter, more athletic players who have good footwork and use their shoulder pads, ass, hands and feet to get the job done. The Niners seem to think if you get massive, fat bodies on the line, they don't need good footwork, coaching, or the ability to pull or trap to get to the next level. Adam Snyder sucks, David Baas is two drool cups short of a retard convention - Heitmann played at Kesar, and Joe Staley is a RT, not a LT. So.... draft an OT in the first round, move Staley to RT, keep Rachal right where he is, dump Heitmann at the end of the year regardless if he goes to the Pro Bowl and start Cody Wallace so the line gells faster, and draft another guard in the second round and an insurace guard in the third just in case the second rounder turns out to be another Adam Snyder or David Baas. Then Fire O line coach Forster, and find someone who actually knows what he's doing. When was the last time we had good line play in SF? Think about it.

I turned the game off at halftime...was watching the Vikes-Steelers when I saw the score was 21-7. I remember thinking, I wonder if Singletary put in Alex, and he did. He gave the entire offense a real spark...looked poised and confident. Even the horrible OL started playing better. Singletary needs to get Wragge out there...to at least solidify RG. Maybe Snyder can hold down RT 'til Pashos returns, assuming he's out for Sunday in Indy. He's got to do something, as they'll be facing two of the most dynamic DE's in the league in Freeney and Mathis. Anyway, once Coach sees the film, it'll be obvious he has to start Alex in Indy. He'll also realize he needs to sit Battle and get Brandon Jones on the field. Adding him to the mix will give Alex another playmaker who can get the ball downfield. Crabtree asserted himself very well, considering he hasn't played since Jan '08 and missed camp. He's only going to get better and better...how cool is that.

A couple of observations on defense...Justin Smith is a beast! We all know that, but the guy is just amazing. I also saw Evans putting pressure on Schaub, that was good to see. Our overall tackling has to improve...we had a lot of chances to throw Slaton and others for huge losses, but weren't hitting them down low to knock them off their feet. Also, Goldson was slow to react on pass plays...he needs to become more aggressive to support his CB's and prevent so many easy completions. Clements had a good game. Spencer was pretty good, too. During his limited play, Ahmad Brooks looked good...he needs more PT! Hopefully, Spikes will play in Indy...if not McKillop will start. Defense still has to work on their 3rd down play...they let the Texans stay on the field too many times.

Im not a real football genious,but I dont make my living at it so its ok.but I think what the o' line is missing is a guy that is NASTY ,SOMEONE WITH A BAD DISPOSITION,WHO IS JUST PLAIN MEAN,remember larry allen getting into one of his teamates grills because he screwed up a play.we dont have that guy,need one.nasty,just plain mean.

What happened to Justin Smiley? Why did he get let go to miami and then i think same year the drafted rachal? I chalk it up to ownership, so kudos jed for locking up young guys early like haralson (hope he steps it up and learns some pash rush moves) and staley. Smiley was nasty too. Goes to show that you can't undervalue guards as the niners have consistently done.

As for the draft which people already seem to be talking about, qb is not a main priority. 2 first rounders?

Joe Haden: best cover corner this year. Freakish athlete with good size, shut down cover skills, shifty sprinter and leaper, very sound tackler, and just makes plays on the ball. Former high school qb understands the game and it shows. He'd instantly be a lockdown corner on one side, allowing brown and spencer to round out our corners and shifting clements over to SS in place of lewis where he can ballhawk more and make the punishing tackles he's always made, while hiding the fact that he's a step slower now. Should lead to far more coverage sacks from our surprisingly strong D-line.

Then get an OT, any one. Bulaga, Williams, Cambell, someone to play the RT spot, but who can pass protect for god's sake.

I'd draft a pass rushing LB or a OG with the 2nd rounder.

Then add depth to the ranks (speedster RB who can return kicks????, More OL, another LB)

Berry and Okung should be gone even when the panther's pick is up, but haden with the 1st and an OT with the 2nd 1st would be my picks. Mays is the next Roy Williams, not the next Ed Reed. That NT from Alabama is too fat. Maybe make a play for Wilfork next year, but resign franklin would be more than pleasing too.

Or just trade both 1st's to the skins and get Tebow and run a switzer like wishbone! Wishbone: the new wildcat! Kidding...... god I hope Raye doesn't read that and think I'm serious.

Ps. Why the heck is Sims playing and not wragge and snyder?

Do we have a QB controversy? I think not.

The Cardinals are ahead of the 49ers now. That high powered OFFENSE is starting to click. And with the Colts up next it looks like 3-4 is on deck.. Just hope they don't get Manninged 45-17.. Could be real ugly..
AND oh yea their is a QB controversery in NinersVille.. Hill is benched NO way Sing can start him..But just tune in and listen to callers and talkers on KNBR fanning the QB fires..

...i had a feeling the haters or unfaithful will show up and say ..."None of today’s actions means ANYTHING."

yes it does mean something - A.Smith does need to prove anything, he already has...

He his the best QB on the roster - FACT

not only did he take a 4-12 team to 7-9 record with no talent in his 2nd yr, something no other QB on the roster has done

we just saw what he can do with talent.....in a half ....what if he had played the whole game?...or started the season

the case is closed - He should be in there building chemistry with his receivers - win or lose

the only way we are going to be winners is if the coaches let the players play....let them figure it out

Anyone know where I can catch a replay of the game? I was on a flight and missed the entire second half. Thanks.

What??? not so powerful D in indy??? Did you see what they did to Warner and the Arizona O line a couple of weeks ago?

Indy has the best pass rush The Niners will see the whole year. I almost feel sorry for Alex Smith. He is going to be running for his life the entire game unless the O line gets its act together in a hurry. I am not holding my breath on that.

If the injuries to Snyder and Pashos are serious.....Katy bar the door.

..coach sing needs to man up and swallow is macho pride...

this team is not built for Frank Gore (often injured) and a grind-it-out running game (no pro-bowl guard).....

With Josh Morgan, V. Davis, B. Jones and Crabtree - this is a 3 WR/spread offense

....i hope coach sing comes to his senses and goes with the flow instead of being stubborn....

There is no difference between Division and Non division games when it comes to determining the division winners. A loss to Minnesota or Atlanta is just as bad as a loss to Arizona, Seattle or the Rams. At the end of the year each team in the division would have played 16 games. The team with the best record in these 16 games will win the division period.

Only in case of a tie at the top, the division record becomes important. Here are the tie breakers for a division title.

1. Head to head.
2. Division record.
3. Confrence Record
4. Common opponents.

So if The Niners are 6-0 in the division have an overall record of 9-7, and Arizona is 4-2 in the division and has a record of 10-6, Arizona wins the division.

Hope this helps.

AM I MISSING SOMETHING??? Personally, I do not care who starts at QB, I just want to see some wins. Yes, Smith looked much better than Hill, but the entire offensive scheme and play calling changed. Not to take anything away from Smith, but it seems that the major change was not at the QB position, but it was Raye finally pulling his playbook out of his a$$. Whomever starts next week, I just hope they keep calling some decent plays.

..duh....."Not to take anything away from Smith, but it seems that the major change was not at the QB position, but it was Raye finally pulling his playbook out of his a$$."

...You mean you can't come up with the obvious sensible reason why the play calling changed?

Well if you can't think it - the play calling changed because the QB playing can throw the ball better....

One QB can't make the throws - the other QB can do it....

its that simple....any 4 yr old can figure that out...

You're right, only one team can end up 6-0 within their division but it means nothing if they don't have the best record in their division. If they end up tied with a division team for the best overall record within their division. that's when the div. record comes in to play as a tie breaker.

Ok. So I was at the game a few rows behind the 9er sideline and I got an up close view of the team. I took alot away from the game but here are my strongest impressions:

1) Jimmy Raye must go! His offense is the most predictable offense in the NFL. There were several formations where the Texans barely even covered receivers because they knew the run was coming. These were 1st and 2nd downs - Not 3rd & short. I can give you more detail if you want to debate this but Jimmy Raye is an absolutely awful NFL OC.

2) Justin Smith is the 9ers best defensive player. Willis is very very good but he's not playing his best football right now.

3) The o-line is even worse than I thought. Some of their poor play is scheme related but they often lose their 1 on 1 battles. McC's strategy to let good guards go in FA has prevented the team from being effective in the smash mouth running style Sing wants to use. Sing must adjust his strategy to more of a passing game to fit his personnel or it's going to get ugly fast.

4) Shaun Hill does not have an NFL caliber arm. I love the guy's moxy but he simply doesn't have the physical tools. Im sure many of you will disagree but watching his passes float on short outs was painful to see.

5) Crabs is going to be very good. I love the way he catches the ball and his aggressive running style. I don't think he played great but his talent is obvious to anyone watching the game.

#38 is killing us. He has no idea what playing centerfield is all about. When you watch the replays he is constantly out of position.

...I thinl this is your second comment about the game...

The whole world is commenting on how A.Smith played...

CCNSI - is calling him the comeback kid,

all the beat reporters are calling for him to start,

The NFL Game highlights show A.smith throwing 3 touchdowns

You say "Jimmy Raye is an absolutely awful NFL OC" - with A.smith scoring 3 touchdowns but when S.hill was stinking it up you never said a word...

And still you havn't mentioned A.Smith's name or comment about his performance - but you want everyone to know yu attended the Game....

You are a loser and a hypocrite....

Be a Man and eat sum of that crow....

Wow. I'm very impressed with Alex Smith. Where did that accuracy come from? Or, perhaps more to the point, where was it before? I've never seen anything like the precision he was throwing with out of him before.

Michael Crabtree looked very good. Sharp cuts, grab the ball, put it away FAST, and run.

Even though it was a loss, the 49ers looked to be a totally different team in the second half. Even the o-line seemed to be working. What happened there?

how can you call your self a niner fan and claim you attended a game where your QB threw 3 td's in a half and pretend not to see it......

but sure you wanna comment on Jimmy Raye must go!......

I love how you are so weak - you can't even convince yourself you were wrong about A.Smith....

i said it before - all you A.Smith haters - you have no credibility in talking about the niner - NONE

Dude you were there at the game.....stop hating...Give A.Smith his props....eat some more of the crow....

You and Lodi are both right, Raye's 1st half play calling puts Hill in 3rd and long way too often. How many times do you try and run up the middle on 2nd down unsuccessfully before you do something else.

I've been a Shaun Hill fan but his weak arm can't be hidden with the problems on the O-line and no running game. One thing we all can agree on is the Niners need to get as many 1st downs as they can against Indy. You have to keep Manning off the field.

Smith gives a much better chance to move the ball with the passing game if the running game won't. Bottomline! Let's see if he can play at a high level as a starter. He's got some playmakers now that can catch the ball.

At the beginning of the season, I thought an ideal situation would be Hill starting until Smith was ready to supplant him (assuming he was going to get stronger as he got more reps after being away from football so long with his injuries). I think he has shown he is our starting QB (again). I don't expect that kind of performance from him every game, but he sure played a helluva half of football. I also thought he was getting better protection, but Smith also has more fleetness of foot and avoided some pressure and extended some plays with his feet (including a would-be sack turned into a first down scramble). I say give the ball back to Smith and see what he can do as a starter. The offense has certainly been ugly under Hill the last few games, even if that's not entirely his fault. I was happy to see the #1 pick playing the most like a #1 pick since he has been in a 49er uniform.

"Well if you can't think it - the play calling changed because the QB playing can throw the ball better...."

I think it had a lot more to do with being down 21 points in the second half than it did which QB was in. Smith was making better passes than Hill probably would have, true, but we still would have been calling more pass plays to try and move the football regardless of who our QB was, since we were down three scores with only one half of football to go.

Stop with the insults. Normally it's entertaining but you're not even arguing my points. Your saying I'm hating on Smith when I didn't even comment on him. I said "I took alot away from this game." One of the things I noticed was that Smith played well. Why should I comment on him when I know you're going to be spouting you're normal crap all day. Alot of QB's come in and play well in relief. Lets see him to do it as a starter on a regular basis. Then I will be impressed. Until then, it's just another story of a backup QB who comes in and plays well when his team is down.

I agree with you wholeheartedly. Also, hitting some big passes is symbiotic with our running game, and Alex showed he can make some of those kinds of throws to do just that. If they have to respect the throw, it gives Gore a better chance to break something big, or at least to bring his YPC up, putting us in 2nd/3rd and short situations.

You answered your own question...Raye called the plays based on Hill's skill limitations - 3rd and long because Hill has a weak arm and he isn't fleet a foot! Now, time to get creative with Alex so he doesn't get crushed and hurt due to weaknesses in the o-line. Focus all week for Niner's coaches is strengthening pass protection - for example, using an extra tackle in some formations so they can run or pass.

Nobody is insulting you - you are trying to insult our intelligence

..No he his not just a back up who comes in and plays well when his team is down.

No - this case is different......this was a guy that took a 4-12 team to 7-9 record

No other QB on the roster is better than A.Smith especially an A.Smith that built chemistry with his teammates

He his our franchise QB, he was a starter - so this is not a case of S.Hill coming in to relief JTO

Win or Lose - A.Smith should be leading this team - He lost his starting job to injury not because of bad play

"One of the things I noticed was that Smith played well."

WHERE DID YOU WRITE THIS?.....you didn't say this until i called you out on this...

Calling you a hypocrite is not an attack on you, its to let everyone else know i am right when i say you have no credibility when it comes to talking about the niners...

duh...."but we still would have been calling more pass plays to try and move the football regardless of who our QB was"

...why bother calling them if they won't be executed by S.Hill?

Do you see how un-intelligent you sound with that comment.....think it again

maybe those plays were called for S.Hill already and he didn't execute them

Maybe those were the same plays called against ATL...

Stop being ignorant - the same plays were called.....one QB just has the tools to execute tham the other can't....

"Your saying I'm hating on Smith when I didn't even comment on him." -

When he wasn't playing you were ok commenting about him - calling him a bust but now when he becomes the national news you are trying to ignore it....

I said "I took alot away from this game." One of the things I noticed was that Smith played well. Why should I comment on him . WHY?.....did you really ask WHY?

Not just because you have called him a bust numerous times,

Not just because you thought he sucked and should be cut

Not just because you have attacked those like me who see A.smith has the true niner Qb

Nah ..not just cuz of those point i just pointed out.....Why you should comment on A.smith =

Because it will make you a loser instead of a sore loser

Because it shows you were wrong about him

Because you don't want to be a hypocrite

Because you have no credibility when it comes to niner football and the best way to change this is at least acknowledge you saw A.Smith play like a QB you never thought he could be........

How come no-one is talking about Vernon Davis's comment. That says it all.. You think the players don't know it? Ofcourse, no-one wants to be a TO, but everyone knows who is the better QB? Its about time.

Unfortunately, both fans and the coaches may have a short leash with Alex. I agree with you, let him play all out without looking over his shoulder. They shouldn't worry if Alex throws an interception, just keep moving the chains. Hell, Brady threw for 3 TD's and 2 Int's yesterday against a hapless Bucs team. I'm looking forward to next week. Protection should be the focus this week - xtra tackle formation, etc.

"Lets see him to do it as a starter on a regular basis. Then I will be impressed"....

I call B.S.....we don't need him to show "you" anything on a regular basis

What we need is for him to grow with his receivers - win or lose

that is the only way we can be successfull....

Did you miss the part where I said "Smith was making better passes than Hill probably would have, true..."

I was merely pointing out the obvious because you were failing to do so and trying to pinpoint the change in play calling entirely on Smith being in the game (something you later counter above by saying "maybe those plays were called for S.Hill already and he didn't execute them"). Your argument was that we were throwing more solely because Smith was in the game. I'm saying we were throwing more because we were down by 21 points, the same way we were calling more pass plays at the end of the first half with Hill in than we were at the beginning of the game. You're probably right, there are likely some calls they make for Smith that they don't make for Hill given their different skill sets, but the reason we were throwing in the second half had a helluva lot more to do with the score than the QB.

Besides, this is what you said initially "...You mean you can't come up with the obvious sensible reason why the play calling changed?." Yes, I can -- we were down 21 points. And I'm not being ignorant - ignorant is pretending that play calling only changes based on personnel (and no, I don't think that's what you meant, but that's how it came across).

I am still positive about the 49ers despite the loss. at least they competed yesterday.

Optimistic also about the coaching staff, I see that they are willing to adjust(in a dramatic way) and jolt the offense. The shotgun, spread offense, I thought I was seeing the Colts.

However there are couple of personnel moves that could potentially ruin this season. they did not seem like much at the time, but you can see the repercussions on the field.

1. cutting Allen Rossum, instead of Spurlock or Battle.
2. keeping Rachal on the line. he should just take a seat and learn.

It is time for Coach Sing to really reflect on these changes. Didn't he watch the film for the Atlanta game? didn't Battle had two muffed punts that game??????

I'll reply one time and then go back to ignoring your insanity.

The word is "IS" and not "HIS". I don't know how many times you've made this mistake over the years but it's alot. Fix your keyboard or learn to spell.

I also noticed that Isaac Bruce has completely lost it but I didn't make that comment either. I also noticed that the d-line is soft up the middle. Every team the Texans played this year have blown up the center and guards but the 9ers couldn't find a way to do that. I also noticed that Nate Clements looked slow. The 9er defense did a FANTASTIC job of containing Andre Johnson but Owen Daniels beat Clements with a speed move. A TE should NEVER be able to beat a CB even if it is a Pro Bowl TE. I also noticed that Manny Lawson has no pass rush ability whatsoever. I didn't write all these observations because they weren't my "strongest impressions." I only listed a few of my thoughts.

I would tell you to learn to read but your irrational (and frankly a bit scary) man love for A Smith clouds your judgement to a point where logical discussions are impossible. Enjoy your day filled with spamming Matt's blog with Alex Smith posts but I for one won't be reading anything you have to say.

Houston, give it up dude. The more you talk (type) the more you sound like Joy Behar. Man up....

Manny Lawson should have been on Daniels more. he is a good coverage guy, excellent speed. but i guess that is not in their scheme.

The playcalling is supposed to play to the QBs strengths not his weaknesses. Putting any QB and O-line in 3rd and long constantly is not good play calling in my book. The Niners don't lead the league in 3 and outs because they haven't been able to convert on 3rd and short ydg. Running the ball up the middle for basically no gain on 2nd down turns into just stubborness and stupidity after so many trys. Go to the KNBR website and listen to Adam Meyers podcast for last Friday, the part about the predictibilty of the Niner "O". When a very successful professional sports handicapper makes the same observations we Raye critics do, that's pretty telling.

Now, if Smith gets the start and Raye goes back to his ultra concervative approach in the first half the Niners will still be in trouble on offense.

i've been a hill supporter since late 2007 when he came in and changed the feel of the offense (under hostler too!) right up to the present. all hill has done is win games and move the chains, but...i was also a alex smith supporter when we drafted him. i cheered him on and on until he finally just went down of injuries and nolan's idiotic coaching.

what i saw yesterday was hill being rattled and not being the calm qb like he has been. smith comes in. jimmy raye switch over to a spread offense and next thing you know, alex smith was in his element! the man was cool and collect and started throwing the ball all over the place! something i haven't seen of raye's offense OR smith being the field general that he was suppose to be! i think it's time for smith to start. ironic too is that rodgers is doing great, he's mature, now, smith looks like he's on the way to his maturity.

can someone tell me why the NFL don't use the spread offense? it's an offense that moves and score fast!

But lakeshow,VD said the same thing about how great Hill was,when he took over for Smith,Dilfer etc.

Hill was obviously beaten down by being hit so much in recent weeks and you could see he was a different guy out there. I also wonder if Raye's system was not as well suited for Hill as it is for Smith? Hill played great in Martz's system but Raye's is more like Norv's . Hill deserves a lot of praise for bringing us back in so many games this year and winning a few of them,but he just wasn't the same for some reason. But he is a class guy and I am sure helped Smith quite a bit as Smith watched how it should be done.
Alex played his best 1/2 EVER this week. If he had ever played like that before there would never have been a need to call him a possible bust.
EVERYONE will now be waiting to see if he will now be the NEW Alex or will revert to the pathetic Alex that we had known his entire NFL career (even when 100% healthy).
I am overjoyed to finally see Alex play as I anticipated he would play when he was drafted only to be let down big time by his awfull play on the field.
I have always said Alex is a class guy and great team mate but was sorry that his football skills didn't match him as a person. IF he finally has had the light somehow come on in his head and IF he can consistently do what he did last Sunday and IF he can keep throwing the ball on time (which he had NEVER done,ever) and if he can actually be accurate consistently etc etc etc (all the other things Alex has always been pathetic at doing),then I will be overjoyed that the great kid with class etc ,will be our QB this season and will have earned a real competition with Nate Davis in next years (or 2011's)camp.
I know one thing for sure...if Alex has finally matured a bit and HAS had the light come on for him,that at least he can become a great backup for Davis,and who knows,if he really steps it up and keeps growing ,he might actually hold off Davis as the starter ?
That was a great development for the team Sunday,even though we lost. And I have always only cared about wins and losses,unlike some troll who only cared about one of the 53 players ,I cheer for every player on the roster not just
One Niner. So Alex get great cheers for what he finally was able to show us,but the ONE trick fan ,who usually spouts nothing but hatefull nonsense,gets no respect,because unlike alex,he has not earned any.

But lakeshow,VD said the same thing about how great Hill was,when he took over for Smith,Dilfer etc.

Hill was obviously beaten down by being hit so much in recent weeks and you could see he was a different guy out there. I also wonder if Raye's system was not as well suited for Hill as it is for Smith? Hill played great in Martz's system but Raye's is more like Norv's . Hill deserves a lot of praise for bringing us back in so many games this year and winning a few of them,but he just wasn't the same for some reason. But he is a class guy and I am sure helped Smith quite a bit as Smith watched how it should be done.
Alex played his best 1/2 EVER this week. If he had ever played like that before there would never have been a need to call him a possible bust.
EVERYONE will now be waiting to see if he will now be the NEW Alex or will revert to the pathetic Alex that we had known his entire NFL career (even when 100% healthy).
I am overjoyed to finally see Alex play as I anticipated he would play when he was drafted only to be let down big time by his awfull play on the field.
I have always said Alex is a class guy and great team mate but was sorry that his football skills didn't match him as a person. IF he finally has had the light somehow come on in his head and IF he can consistently do what he did last Sunday and IF he can keep throwing the ball on time (which he had NEVER done,ever) and if he can actually be accurate consistently etc etc etc (all the other things Alex has always been pathetic at doing),then I will be overjoyed that the great kid with class etc ,will be our QB this season and will have earned a real competition with Nate Davis in next years (or 2011's)camp.
I know one thing for sure...if Alex has finally matured a bit and HAS had the light come on for him,that at least he can become a great backup for Davis,and who knows,if he really steps it up and keeps growing ,he might actually hold off Davis as the starter ?
That was a great development for the team Sunday,even though we lost. And I have always only cared about wins and losses,unlike some troll who only cared about one of the 53 players ,I cheer for every player on the roster not just
One Niner. So Alex get great cheers for what he finally was able to show us,but the ONE trick fan ,who usually spouts nothing but hatefull nonsense,gets no respect,because unlike alex,he has not earned any.

Ouch, please don't remind us of that loss to Skins in NFC Championship... bogus PI call on Ronnie Lott set-up game-winning FG... was Carey the ref too that day, cause we were jobbed yesterday on 9-yard TD throw when Willis was dragged down/tackled from behind while in pursuit of Slaton... maybe 3 instead of 7 and a little different ballgame

Bad loss against Texans, if we had a real offense all game we should have won... also,. the D came up big, only responsible for 2 TD's as the TO at 10-yard line pins Slaton's TD on special teams

"I only listed a few of my thoughts."

We're all grateful, Houston. No thoughts at all would be even better.

GilroyAl, you and I agree on most things football, but do you really believe Raye is doing anything that Singletary doesn't approve including his philosophy. When Singletary interviewed for the OC position during the off-season, he wasn't going to give full autonomy to the OC. Raye got the job because he has experience but mainly because he will do what Singletary wants him to do. Creative OC's didn't come here because they couldn't do what they do best - creativity with *their* philosophy. Raye is taking the heat, but if Matt or someone else on the Niner beat can answer, Singletary is telling Raye how he wants to run the offense and the philosophy. Hope he changes because being able to pass sure opens up the run!

Sucks that we came up short. No excuses for that. We had the chance to drive down for a tying fg or winning td and we failed to execute.
Kudos to Alex for being prepared - say what you want about the texans playing prevent or not being gameplanned up for Alex, you can counter that with Alex not having played in a real game for 2 years. The bottom line is that he opened up this offense and its tools in a way that Hill is not capable of doing. Will he have continued success that translates into the most meaningful "W" stat - that remains to be seen. Smith is able to get more use out of all the offense's tools, but will he step up and lead? The opinion is still out on this because although he brought them back with 3 tds, he failed on that last drive when the game was back into a take it into your hands moment and he had a whole lot of momentum.
You have to start Alex now because he simply has the ability to utilize what this offense does have going for it. Hill at the helm meant that teams were able to concentrate on one dimension and take it out completely. That is why our offense stagnated and that is why our weakest points (OL) looked worse than they actually are. You could also make a point that Hill had a very predictable snap count. Alex getting them off 2 times in his first drive points to the fact that they were conditioned into predicting the count for the day. How many times have we seen teams blowing into our backfield before our oline had time to react? Smith probably threw more passes to wr's in this half than Hill has in any 3 games this season combined. Morgan had as many catches in the 2nd half as the 3rd option as he's had in any full game as the 2nd option with Hill.
Going forward it is now the time for Raye to get something done or go home. Don't give the keys to Smith and go full-time spread, go back to that run game now that defenses have to pay for being one-dimensional against it. You can pull out that spread again when we're down but don't make it our bread and butter. Going forward in a balanced offense gives us our best chance for continued success. If Raye can't get something productive now, its all on him.

Sucks that we came up short. No excuses for that. We had the chance to drive down for a tying fg or winning td and we failed to execute.
Kudos to Alex for being prepared - say what you want about the texans playing prevent or not being gameplanned up for Alex, you can counter that with Alex not having played in a real game for 2 years. The bottom line is that he opened up this offense and its tools in a way that Hill is not capable of doing. Will he have continued success that translates into the most meaningful "W" stat - that remains to be seen. Smith is able to get more use out of all the offense's tools, but will he step up and lead? The opinion is still out on this because although he brought them back with 3 tds, he failed on that last drive when the game was back into a take it into your hands moment and he had a whole lot of momentum.
You have to start Alex now because he simply has the ability to utilize what this offense does have going for it. Hill at the helm meant that teams were able to concentrate on one dimension and take it out completely. That is why our offense stagnated and that is why our weakest points (OL) looked worse than they actually are. You could also make a point that Hill had a very predictable snap count. Alex getting them off 2 times in his first drive points to the fact that they were conditioned into predicting the count for the day. How many times have we seen teams blowing into our backfield before our oline had time to react? Smith probably threw more passes to wr's in this half than Hill has in any 3 games this season combined. Morgan had as many catches in the 2nd half as the 3rd option as he's had in any full game as the 2nd option with Hill.
Going forward it is now the time for Raye to get something done or go home. Don't give the keys to Smith and go full-time spread, go back to that run game now that defenses have to pay for being one-dimensional against it. You can pull out that spread again when we're down but don't make it our bread and butter. Going forward in a balanced offense gives us our best chance for continued success. If Raye can't get something productive now, its all on him.

Alex played a good first half. That was a start. I think he should start next week. We should ride that momentum. We should use the spread more. WE ARE NOT A RUNNING TEAM.

I will give Alex the credit, I am surprised and pleased he made me look like a schmuck for all the bashing. But let me see him string together a few games like that. There are formidable opponents on the horizon.

It would be nice to have Sheets returning kicks and punts for us. Why is Spurlock still on the team?

Hi all,
First of all, why would anyone want to get into a discussion with onewhiner over A.Smith. It will always be one-sided, he will annoy you to no end, you would be better off talking to a wall.
Second, A.Smith did a heck of a job yesterday in one half of play. The Texans D did say they were not prepared for him. And A.Smith was in what he is familiar with - spread offense. We shall see over the next several weeks, being under Center, etc how he does -- lets see if its positive consistency.
Third, It doesn't matter who the QB is, its a team game and our 9ers still lost.
Lastly, the game plan for the season is holding true to form. The 1st mediocre QB has been exposed for what he really is - a backup at best. He will now be in charge of something that is even more vanilla - the clipboard. The 2nd mediocre QB now gets his shot. One half does not make a season, and in the upcoming weeks we shall see. We are still on course for Nate Davis' debut - Week 13 on Monday night. Go Niners!!!

Hi all,
First of all, why would anyone want to get into a discussion with onewhiner over A.Smith. It will always be one-sided, he will annoy you to no end, you would be better off talking to a wall.
Second, A.Smith did a heck of a job yesterday in one half of play. The Texans D did say they were not prepared for him. And A.Smith was in what he is familiar with - spread offense. We shall see over the next several weeks, being under Center, etc how he does -- lets see if its positive consistency.
Third, It doesn't matter who the QB is, its a team game and our 9ers still lost.
Lastly, the game plan for the season is holding true to form. The 1st mediocre QB has been exposed for what he really is - a backup at best. He will now be in charge of something that is even more vanilla - the clipboard. The 2nd mediocre QB now gets his shot. One half does not make a season, and in the upcoming weeks we shall see. We are still on course for Nate Davis' debut - Week 13 on Monday night. Go Niners!!!

The spread can't last as a viable full time option, especially not with Raye calling it. It looked good for a half but it cannot sustain that pace game in and game out. We have looked worse than we actually are at the run because of Hill's limitations combined with Raye's approach. Alex has tools to better attack what a defense gives us, but that doesn't mean we should become an offense that tries to get things done on his shoulders alone. Get a balanced attack and you'll be able to run against defenses because they won't be able to key on it. When they do, you now have a more capable guy in there to make them pay for what they give you. If you try to take yesterday's second half success and say lets let Alex carry this offense completely on his shoulders, you are just setting him up for more failure.

Oneincher, what's with the personal attacks? I asked a simple question. The offensive play calling was changed, plain and simple. It would be interesting to see how Hill would have played with the same kind of calls. By the way, Oneincher, I am not sure why you are so obsessed with Smith. It is strange to say the least. You are either a stalker, or have no outside social life (or both). Regardless, as long as the team starts winning again, I don't care who the starting QB is.

I agree that there is alot of truth in what Singletary would like to have for an offense determining the way the playcalling is handled. My point is with only 10 games to go now you can't be too stubborn to change when what you want isn't working. Even with Hill when Raye's opened the playbook past page 2, Hill was able to make several drives in other games to get first downs and even score. I don't think it's all Singletary, Raye's been around for too long for Singletary not to listen to his recommendations.
If all they want is a QB who can hand off to a running back or throw a 1 yd pass then just about anybody could play for them. Robinson or Battle even.
Now that being said I'd hope to see Smith start and a passing game atleast 10 yds past the line of scrimmage being used to open up runnining room for Gore plus letting some other team's "O" lead the league in 3 and outs.

Puh lez. Coming from you, I'll consider that a compliment. You and the 2 other idiots on here who are excited about Smith playing well in a loss are about as knowledgeable about football as the pile my dog left in the back yard this morning. You never have anything to say on this blog except to criticize the opinions of others. You bring absolutely nothing. So let's change that. Here's your chance. EXACTLY, why do you think Alex Smith will have long term succes in this offense? Do you think Raye is a good OC? Explain YOUR thoughts in a logical way that can be discussed. Otherwise, have a coke and a smile and STFU. Maybe you can learn from the people on here who actually have an informed opinion and are willing to rationally discuss.

Notice how he focused on my spelling now.....lol..

He couldn't reply about the facts i laid out to him but instead focus on my spelling....

..this coming from a guy that probably dropped out of school

Maybe the crow got stuck in his throat....:)

pathetic......this guy has no credibility when talking about football...especially the niners

how can anyone who comes to this blog (bashing A.smith for the past 2 yrs) claim they attended a game on sunday - and not mention A.smith at all in their comment....

but check this....

have the audacity to bash the offensive Cord.........

what a joker.....

At least we have a legit QB to go to rather than sticking to someone whose best arsenal is 'not making any mistake'. Smith is NOT Peyton, Drew or even Warner but he can make plays when things break down rather than taking the phantom sack (just kidding) because you hear footsteps.

"Maybe you can learn from the people on here who actually have an informed opinion and are willing to rationally discuss."

...Yea like some of your fav. opinions -
A.smith sucks,
A.smith can't throw accurately,
A.smith holsds on to the ball
A.smith is a bust
All S. Hill does is WIN

dude you are the one that is BUSTED.....telling someone to STFU....ha ha ha....(i guess that is not considered an insult anymore)

talk about being a looooser....lol

"The offensive play calling was changed, plain and simple. It would be interesting to see how Hill would have played with the same kind of calls."

dude - those were the same plays called during the second half of the Atlanta game....

so the play calling wasn't changed - the QB change was the difference

its so much fun now to debate you guys now cuz all i have to do is say "look at tape"....this is just not oneniner saying it...the film says it too

i really don't give a damn how you think or who your QB is. if Hill runs into trouble, Smith is the QB in. it does not take any rocket brains to see that. Same thing for Alex Smith. if he runs into trouble, guess who the guy is? it will be either Hill(60%) or Nate Davis(40%, and most likely if the Niners are out of the race for the playoffs).

I am not totally sold on Alex Smith, yet... but I will support the Coach, the QB and the niners.

You never have anything to say on this blog except to criticize the opinions of others"

I've had plenty to say, Houston. It's just that all you remember is my criticisms of you. Which feature sharp points and not lame dog poop references. The problem with you is you always act like an expert and rarely come close. Very annoying. Time for you to fire off an email to an unnamed retired formerly employed somewhere in the NFL expert to back up your eyesight while attending the Niner game. Apparently, with all you brought in here that you noticed, somehow the entire second half missed your attention.

And so you avoid the discussion and criticize me. Thanks for proving my point.

Exactly why did Smith have a good half of football? Was it Raye's play calling? Was it the Texans safety play in the 2nd half? Astound us with your knowledge.

BTW... It was Michael Lombardi who said I could use his name but I decided not to. I emailed a friend who's in coaching who then forwarded it to Lombardi. Apparently, Lombardi does not have a very high opinion of Raye. Your ridiculous quote about the chain of command was laughable. Coaches have responsibilities during the draft regardless of what you think.

Here's another thought:

if things were reversed yesterday where Smith was the starter with the same results as Hill had in the 1st half, does anybody really think that Hill could have come in and done what Smith did in the 2nd half????? No way, and I'm a Hill fan too!