Alex Smith will re-enter the starting lineup on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts, coach Mike Singletary said. In explaining his decision, Singletary said Shaun Hill gave the 49ers their best chance to win early in the season, but the team's best hope is with Smith at quarterback.
Here's what Singletary had to say during his Monday press conference:
--"I wanted to make a decision based upon who I feel gives us the best chance to win. And I think Shaun Hill at the beginning of the season . . . (Now) I feel Alex Smith gives us the best chance to win, to use the tools we have going forward."
--"Alex has had a chance to regain some of the confidence, not that he ever lost it, it just gives him a chance to settle in. Having watched Shaun Hill, and there's something about watching a guy and looking at some of the mistakes he's made and how you'd do it differently. Looking at some of the things he does well and implementing those things in your game . . . learning the offense a little more. Develop that hunger and develop hunger and excitement."
--If the 49ers had put Smith in the starting lineup at the beginning of the season . . . "and you don't have success right away, then it's 'Same old Alex.' Well, I don't think it's the same old Alex. I think Alex has matured, I think he's grown, and I think he's ready to play. And we're going to find out. We'll find out next week."
--Singletary was asked if Smith's style, his ability to get the ball down the field is what the 49ers need: "Right now, overall, I think Alex Smith really just kind of fit the bill, in terms of doing the things we need to get done."
--He reiterated that he never said he wants to be "3 yards and a cloud of dust." He did say he wants a team that can run the ball when they need to run the ball. So why haven't the 49ers been able to run the ball?
"Because they normally have about 8 ½ people in the box - sometimes nine," Singletary said. "Sometimes it makes it a little more difficult when you have an offensive line that's been banged up and trying to get that right. It makes for not a good combination. As we build confidence and continue to get better, it will work itself out."
--Tackle Tony Pashos (left shoulder contusion) and linebacker Takeo Spikes (right shoulder strain) are scheduled for MRI examination to determine the extent of their injuries. Those appear the most serious of the injuries reported following yesterday's game. The other injuries were: DT Aubrayo Franklin (right knee), DE Justin Smith (left calf strain) and LB Marques Harris (hamstring strain).
--Singletary said if Pashos can't play, "we'll work it out." We'll have to take a look and see."
--At right guard, Singletary said they have to continue to help Chilo Rachal. One of the issues, Singletary said, is some guys are trying to be perfect and play mistake-free. "And when you do that, you become robotic and it takes you out of your game. I just want guys to go out and play.
"There are some things he does very well. But there's on particular stunt that really gets him at times, and we have to continue to work on that and show him that in practice and allow him to work on it."
--Defensively, Singletary said he is continuing to look at the film and make some evaluations. He said he'll have to make some personnel decisions on defense.
--Singletary was asked if there's been any thought to some day moving Nate Clements to safety. His answer: "That's not in the realm of thinking right now."
--Singletary's biggest concern on defense is communication. "We'll get that solved this week. We'll get that solved today, as a matter of fact.
Singletary said it's a matter of getting the guys in the huddle to understand who's talking and who's not. Up to this point, middle linebacker Patrick Willis has been relaying the information from the sideline with the radio in his helmet.
"When I look at our defense, we're a good defense with the opportunity to be a great defense," Singletary said. "But right now, because of the communication factor, particularly in the last couple games and because of the way those games have gone, you got guys starting to do their own thing. That's when you really have to communicate very, very well. We just have to get on one page and relax and settle down."
--Finally, Singletary was asked about Michael Crabtree's performance.
"It was very evident yesterday," Singletary said. "I just wanted to see it on film just like you see a good movie. You want to see it again.
"All of the hard work he did when he wasn't here, it showed. All of the studying he did when he wasn't here, it showed. So it was good to see."
Crabtree was on the field for 48 of the team's 54 offensive snaps. Josh Morgan played 38 snaps, while Isaac Bruce played 36.
"He told me how much he was working. And I heard from some other sources outside the building how hard he was working and the route-running he was doing everyday," Singletary said. "I knew he wasn't in football shape, but if he was doing what they were telling me he was doing and what they saw he was doing, then I knew he was going to be in pretty good shape.
"I guess I was just a little bit surprised that he was able to go all those plays. But I thought for sure 30-40 plays. But to basically go the whole game, that was pretty impressive."
* * *
Sing talks about putting his best players out there to play because he wants to win. Does that still include Bruce? He doesn't seem to contribute much. If he truly is contributing little, then Sing should stick to his words and get some opps for someone else, be it Hill or Jones.
Well....
As I said wayyy back in TC that the 49ers would need BOTH QB's in order for the 49ers to have a chance of getting to the Playoffs. It's pretty clear that Alex now gives the 49ers the best chance to succeed & for ALL you Alex haters you better be rooting for this guy because this is all the 49ers have right now.
I think the decision to go with Smith is a good one. I think Hill is an awesome guy and a good leader, but I don't think he can take this team as far as Smith can. Hill does well when the defense is playing good, and when the run game is going well, but he can't produce when both of those things are down the tube. I think Smith is the guy that can give us big plays when everything else is going wrong. And from what I saw from Smith yesterday, he seems more comfortable in the pocket and he is standing tall when he throws.
First of all I agree that Alex Smith should be give a chance for the test of the season.
To all the Alex Smith bandwagon jumpers here is the caution.
1. Houston played prevent defense almost all of the second half. That allowed Smith to throw some medium range balls, which is his strength. What happens where is lot more pressure from the defense? Earlier Alex Smith couldn't throw a short slat if his life depends on it. But let’s hope he has learned that now.
2. In the last play where he threw the interception, there was a wide open man near the first down marker. In other words he shouldn't have thrown into triple coverage. Remember that Niners needed just a field goal. So there was no reason to panic, yet he did just that.
So for all the people who think Alex Smith can take you to the promise land, all the best. I hope you are right as I am sick tired of Niners losing.
Matt,
I’m not sorry to see Alex Smith get another chance to be our starting quarterback and I hope he does really well. But I’m really surprised by the play of Shaun Hill this season. Except for those couple of drives in the Arizona and Minnesota games and maybe a couple of other scattered plays, to me he hasn’t looked like the same quarterback we had last year when he was in a system that he was really supposed to be ill-suited for (alright, granted the sacks and wounded duck throws look the same). Is it possible that the coaches’ concerns about relying on his arm to win games for us has made them, in a sense, “dumb-down” the games plans so much to prevent that that it’s become a self-fulfilling prophecy?
Just throw Crabtree the damn ball
So he can throw to a wide open VD over the middle as well. I think this will be good for us in the long run as it will expose the biggest facade in our offense that we can be a playoff contender with the QB's we currently have. Everyone new Hill was mediocre-bad but he was a "decent" game manager except our running game sucks so managing is out the window and now we need someone who can throw the ball "down the field." I hope Smith does well, but if he gets exposed for the bad QB he has shown to be then hopefully the idiot of a GM we have and the rest of the organization will admit defeat and we can address this problem for the sake of the future of the team. That and actually addressing our pathetic O-Line could go along way to helping turn us into a realistic contender. I love that we got the shiny new toy on offense but when you have no QB or OL it becomes pretty useless. Of course our defense has not really shown up lately either, wish we would could have somehow kept Nolan on and let him do what he does best which is defense. I am sure many we be along soon to call me a hater and whiner, which I am neither, just optimistic but probably for different reasons.
"2. In the last play where he threw the interception, there was a wide open man near the first down marker."
vienners, that is true, but the DT had bull rushed the guard back almost into Alex's face, and it's the first time he's played in 2 years- and the first 2 minute drill he's done in god knows how long.
we gotta give a few games and see how he's matured. and let's not all rip him up if Indy rolls him? that's a really good team.
I was an affirmed Alex detractor, and you better believe I am behind him now. I promise all Alex lovers that I want him to be uber-successful, starting this weekend in Indy. I'll also add, that even if he stinks it up, I won't be clamoring for Hill to come back in.
Hill's downside ultimately was hurting the playcalling options and the play of the OL because the Defense could rest assured that he couldn't beat them long or even mid length consistently. Without being able to run the ball, he was sunk.
I have no idea how Smith, and the OL, will look this weekend. It is a tall order in Indy. A betting man would say we'll be creamed. But sometimes a spark coupled with a team with nothing to lose against an undefeated team on the road can occasionally pull off a big upset. But for that to happen, it will have to happen with every aspect of the team contributing, Defense, Offense, AND special teams.
Haha yes Ronnie! Throw Crab-15 the ball and good things shall happen!
Shaun Hill has had the opportunity to show clearly just who he is. Not a bad guy but a rather classy high character guy, and a limited quarterback. We all pulled hard for him but at the end of the day, he was always going to be the player he is, and not be able to maintain being a player he is not.
Alex Smith was drafted #1 overall for a reason. We can all agree that his tenure has had more "downs" than "ups" but we can also agree that his situation has been far from ideal. Now he has completely run out of excuses. He has this chance, right now, to shine and show whether or not he can play.
His best case scenario is that he plays well for the rest of the season and gives the front office some real decisions to make in regards to whether or not they target a quarterback in next year's draft and/or free agency. Even if he plays well, he will still need to solidify his position during the offseason and training camp no matter what.
If he struggles or just plain stinks over the remainder of this season, he will have made his case for himself, and there will be no doubt about his ability to lead the team into the future and there will be no excuses or mitigating circumstances. The organization will be forced to target a high profile quarterback either in the draft, a trade, or in free agency.
I am and always have been a huge Alex Smith fan. I hope he makes the most of his chance and plays great. It is almost certainly the last chance he will get.
Smith gives the 49ers the best chance to win???...wait wasn't it Hill that led the team to 3-2 and almost 4-1 if it wasn't for Favre's lucky play...you can't blame Hill for poor defense in the past 2 games...talk about trigger happy...what happened to fixing up the OL...Hill never had time...Smith didn't get rushed because Texans took their foot off the petal..then he blew it in the end with a typical Smith boneheaded INT.
Sorry all, just had to see how that felt. Well Oneniner, hopefully you are right. I hope Smith does well and lives up to his potential so we don't have to waste another draft pick early on a QB. If Smith fails, lets turn it over to Nate Davis and see how he does because Hill, as much as I like the guy, isn't a QB1.
I just hope that our coaches are figuring out we DO NOT have the talent to be a power running team. Maybe with a better OL, but right now, our talent is in our playmakers, and we need to find a way to get the ball to Crabtree/Davis/Morgan/Jones with a little bit of Gore/Coffee mixed in. With a little bit of protection, this team has a chance...probably not this year, but definately next with a few good OL picks and hopefully Taylor Mays. I like what we are building.
BRUUUCCCCCEEEE is done, cant seperate from coverage and you can blame the o-line all you want, if guys cant get open in time, its a sack. We need a new outlook and thats play action and running the ball.
One good point that I heard on ESPN yesterday was how important "body language is" I think Alex Smith needs to change his body language, if he is going to be a leader, he needs to exude confidence no matter what the situation is. I think we are still a draft away, playoffs 2010.
I'm not an Alex Smith hater, but I'm not sold on him either. The Colts will game plan for him. Lets see what he does. I want to win as well so I'm rooting for him, but to suggest I have high expectations would be disingenuous. To me coming out the second half it looked as though the OL played harder and provided some time for Smith to throw. Indy has a much better DL than Houston. If our OL does not get their junk together I do not see a winning season in our future.
OK, here's one for the Smith fans: How good do you guys really think he is? Or is he just better than Shaun Hill, who no one ever compared to Peyton Manning.
It took him six games, but your hero did it. He beat out a limited quarterback you maligned but - by most objective accounts - beat out Smith fair and square during camp.
My question for the Smith fans as the latest newest chapter of the Alex Smith saga begins is - do you guys seriously think he's going to be another Manning? Or was he just better than Hill? (Is that "upside" we keeping hearing about - being better than Hill, assuming Smith doesn't lose his job again.)
One more draft and a good free agency period and I think 2010 is going to be a great year.
I haven't lost my faith in this season. Suddenly the Cardinals look pretty outstanding, but we are only a game back and already have a win against them. If the offense can get it together and give the D a chance to regroup, anything can happen. The Cards aren't THAT good.
"Singletary said, is some guys are trying to be perfect and play mistake-free. "And when you do that, you become robotic and it takes you out of your game. I just want guys to go out and play."
Guys, I am very lost. To be honest singletary is supposed to be robotic, its the vibe we all got.
Smith did well, didnt win, and now sing made a decision in one day. so lost...
I honestly feel singletary changing faster than the whole team, and he was the most headstrong. He clearly doesnt trust in himself with decisions if smith starts and the defense is 'looking bad'.
Its all topsy turvy. I dont even know how i feel about smith, but everyone else does..now.
Speaking of free agents ... Troy Smith is a free agent next year ... Joe Flacco isn't going anywhere and I doubt the Ravens will be looking to outbid anybody looking to secure Troy's services.
To StanYan,
In defense of Smith.. He really didnt come into a good situation.. No Oline, No Weapons, and no defense to back him up..
Im not saying Smith will succeed or fail.. But the situation he is coming (back) into Now is alot better.. The Oline is a lil better, ALOT more weapons and a defense to back him..
So this opportunity will really show what Smith has.. he will start the rest of the season.. So he has 10 Games to show what hes got..
Also for those blaming the D giving up 21 points.. You cant blame them either.. Being on the field as much as they were the last 2 weeks.. its tough for any defense.. Hill and his 3 and outs really put the pressure on the D..
Also Battles fumble really didnt help the D.. I mean they JUST HELD THEM TO A PUT not a Min earlier.. and now you want them back on the field without any rest?
Come on Get smart people..
Matt, thanks for the great coverage. Alex will be fine on Sunday, it's not like Indy is a juggernaut despite its record. The teams they have managed to beat up on this year have a combined W/L record of 11-25! Hardly a back-breaking schedule. The offenses of those teams average out to a 19th ranking in NFL total offense. So their defense has not really been tested. If we play offensively like the second half on Sunday, it should be an interesting game. Alex gives us a much better chance of being competitive. We know Peyton will be putting up his usual 300 ypg. We will have to keep pace. Certainly doable.
he can throw a 20 yard out to Crabtree... And let's be honest; Hill could barely get it there.
I think this move is as much about having a guy on the outside who can get separation and catches everything thrown his way. Is Smith the answer? guess we will find out. but Smith gives Raye the opportunity to open up the playbook and go vertical.
and Sing is right... we gotta get the 8th guy out of the box. only way to do that is is make teams pay the intermediate and long pass.
Stanyan,
Where are you going with that Peyton comparison? And who even mentioned Manning? Look I'm going to spell this out very clearly. Alex gives the 49ers the best chance to win right now. Is that a simple enough? Don't go reading more into this than it really has to be.
I sure hope Singletary was feigning incredulity regarding a potential move of Clements to FS simply to spare Clements' feelings. I can't imagine that thought would have never entered the coaches minds and Sing sure pulled out quite a reaction.
Move him next year.
"Speaking of free agents ... Troy Smith is a free agent next year"
oh good...I was just wondering what 6'0 tall running qb with a mediocre arm would be available to really take us to the next level
maybe we could get michael vick too and run the triple option
I hope Alex does well because of how he has fought and he would make a great SUPERSTAR QB but I'm not expecting a lot. Shaun Hill needs to be thanked by all 49ers fans for bringing stability to the 49ers QB position and posting a solid record as a starter. This is the next step for the 49ers to see what Alex Smith has. If he fails, I would expect him and Hill not to be here next year and Nate Davis to get loose. If Alex Smith doesn't turn the ball over I expect good things, it will be VERY INTERESTING.
Mike Singletary said watching game film of Michael Crabtree was like a good movie. "You want to see it again," he said"
Now that's awesome!!! Smith to Crabtree could be the next "Big Thing"
If all you guys are saying is Alex Smith gives the 49ers a "better chance to win" than Shaun Hill, that is faint praise.
You guys yourselves have spent a lot of time pointing out Hill's defiencies. It took your boy a while, but he finally convinced the coaching staff to give him another chance.
There is such a giddyness behind some of the tones, however, that I wondered how good you guys actually think he is. I guess you have answered the question for yourself - he's better than journeyman Hill. Not very reassuring!
If I misunderstood your assessment of Smith's abilities, please correct me.
man, you guys exaggerate too much on hill's lack of throwing. hill can easily throw the 20-30 yards with some zip, but it's the 30 and beyond that it start looking like a floater. i don't think hill is the answer, but please, give me a break, the guy isn't the lame-duck like all you guys are preaching. hill won the games with what he have and i'm glad for it.
now with smith coming and starting, i think it's a great idea, but the problem has NEVER been the qb. it's always been the OL. it doesn't matter if hill, smith, or even davis qbing. they're going to get killed and it's going to look like the last part of 07 when we got to a 4th qb.
if raye has any creative ideas in his head, i hope he start to do some roll out and get some pressure off of smith. and can we play like we're down 21-0 all the time?? can we attack them right from the start?? instead of "run run pass?" if the spread offense worked that well with smith in, let's go with it and light it up!
Matt - "He said he'll have to make some personnel decisions on defense. What area do you think he is referring to? CB, Safety or pass rush?
Vienners,
You are the classic Monday Morning QB.
1. Shaun Hill faced the same situation the week before...down by a lot at the half...and it got worse. Do you recall? Perhaps they loosened up the defense because there was a threat to throw the ball downfield. How many sacks did Alex take against a 4-man rush yesterday vs the sacks Hill took against a 3-man rush from Atlanta. Again...same situation, yet very different result.
2. 1 play....on 4th down...with guys in his face...this is your criticism. Did you see Eli's last interception...is he a bum? How about Matt Ryan's interception to end the Dallas game? Bum as well. Has he thrown 5 interceptions in a game like Cutler?
Singletary makes a comment about "will it be the same ole Alex". What same ole Alex is he referring to? The one that played with half an arm because of Nolan?
From 2007 to his injury, he was 22/23 years old with a 9-10 record with INFERIOR TALENT around him. He won meaningful games against Seattle, Denver and Arizona with the game on his shoulders. You revisionists kill me.
Reserve your judgement for the end of the year...or at least after a couple of games.
finally i can breath easy now. so glad smitty is in. our team has a chance now. glad to see our former number ones stepping up. smitty, vernon, staley, and crabs...go niners!
Top level this looks wishy-washy, never thought I'd same that about coach. Hopefully it works
I don't think anyone thinks he is going to be another Manning. He has definately matured and looked good yesterday, minus some of the time management and the interception. He did not look good this preseason at all and was very skeptical. When I am in Vegas this weekend I will probably rock his jersey (the one that has been in my closet and replaced by Gore) to show some support. It's going to be a tough game on Sunday, but I am behind the 49ers as a team.
Looks like my thuoght came true about Hill.
I never got why so many people were so quick to call A.Smith a bust. He was makeing marked progression his first and only full season. Then he got hurt the next year. I think the fact that he tried to play hurt, while maybe causing him to have some bad games, showed how much of a gamer he is. He was still on of the youngest QB's in the league (and still is) the last time he played. I was in S.Hill corner to begin the season, because I love the attitude he has, plus he's a niner and any player on the field in a niner uniform i'ma root for. but never did I give up hope on Alex. I hope he can keep up the good work, and have always believed that if givin the proper tools he could be a very good QB. Lets hope he does.
I don't think anyone thinks he is going to be another Manning(although if he is great). He has definately matured and looked good yesterday, minus some of the time management and of course the interception. He did not look good this preseason at all and I was very skeptical that he would get a chance anytime this season, unless Hill was injured.
When I am in Vegas this weekend I will probably rock his jersey (the one that has been in my closet and replaced by Gore) to show some support. It's going to be a tough game on Sunday, but I am behind the 49ers as a team. If we don't get the win it's ok....let's not panic. Indy is ranked #1 in my mind and the best team we will play this season. We play the Titans, Bears, Packers, Jags and Seahawks after. Those are winnable games.
Looks like my thuoght came true about Smith
Guys,
I am going to leave Alex Smith alone - forever. I too believe that at this point he represents the best chance for the 49ers to win.
I am not here to start a riot or bring out the diehard Hill fans. I'm not that bored.
I want - as much as any of you - for Smith to do well. I am skeptical if he is the long-term answer, but that's why they play the games. I'm going to cheer on #11 and hope for the best - like I've done every year since I was 8 and John Brodie was the quarterback!
(I do think that my fans at the actual games and real life friends are more likely to give me a less-defensive answer than here, but given the tenor of discussions - I don't blame anyone for taking a defensive position on this issue.)
Good luck, Alex.
49erthor: hey... nobody is saying Hill can't get the ball 30 feet away from him.
And for the record I neither a Hill hater or a Smith hater: I am a 49er supporter. With teams stacking the box, it takes away the run and short pass. the defense is essentially daring you to go over the top. Every defense we've faced has done this. Hill is really good guy to have if you can get the lead, play strong defense and run the ball successfully. But we have to get the run game going... only way that happens is to get that extra guy out of the box. right now teams have to plan for a fairly strong armed QB with mobility.
And yes... the OL has got to play better or won't matter who plays QB
Guys,
I am not saying he was completely lucky. He has looked better than Hill looked anytime this year.
Also if you read Maiocco's previous article, Smith admitted as much about the defense.
My point was don't call him Alex 'Montana' Smith yet. He is not savior all the people are making to be.
If he is, let me tell you as a season ticket holder, I would be the happiest Niner fan.
So yes, I will be rooting for him very hard. Just I am rooting for every other Niner player.
what is the difference between "best chance" vs "best hope"?
sounds pretty ominous to me
Matt,
Was there any other reason why Allen Rossum was let go other than clearing a roster spot? The move made by the team to release him was questionable to me and also seemed to be some what swept under the rug. So far, it looks like we were better off with him than without.
yeah... but more than that- I just can't believe that there isn't someone on the roster faster and more explosive than Battle to return punts?
I like Battle, but jeez. Brandon Jones? Sprurlock? it's not like these guys are busy doing something else?
I don't agree that it makes no difference who the QB if the OL sucks. I'd rather have Manning behind center of this OL than Hill/Smith, and I do think it would make a difference. But clearly, we need some serious work on that OL to be a great team down the line. Get busy, Scotty.
Hill's arm , our pathetic running game mediocre WR play and poor OL play have all combined to give the defenses a huge tactical advantage, which in turn puts even more pressure on the OL. A vicious circle. The one thing that Smith could provide is the longer threat. That does have the potential of keeping D's more honest. BUt only if Smith can continue to connect. If he starts getting rattled, tossing int's, throwing inaccurate passes, etc. then the threat dries up.
The other issue that nobody is talking about is that sometimes players rally around new blood. They did for Hill. They might for Smith, especially if he is making good decisions and throwing accurate passes. You can't deny, that he has some weapons at WR now.
As for Sing pulling the trigger too soon, I say baloney. OUr ofense looked sooooooo bad, I mean come on. I want him to shake it up if they look like crap. At the very least, this puts us closer to ending all debate over whether Smith can be the future, and we still might see some Davis this year, depending on if our fortunes rise or sink.
I wonder if the defensive changes will include replacing Lawson with Ahmad Brooks on passing situations. I have no idea why Sing thought Lawson would magically turn into a pass rush threat when there was absolutely no evidence to support that thought. In fact, all evidence suggests the exact opposite. It might be time to give up that idea and give Brooks a chance. My only reservation is that Lawson is great in coverage so you might need to leave him on the field in passing situations but change his role. If that's the thought, then who comes off the field? Probably shouldn't be Willis even though he hasn't been great in coverage this season.
I agree with the notion that Spurlock should be returning punts
Matt
You reported that Singletary mentioned communication issues on defense, but Smith obviously had trouble getting the calls from the sideline after he went into the game (resulting in delay of game penalties). Any thought/word as to if that was because he (Smith) was rusty, or because Raye and the coaches were having to dig into the longer pass plays that they hadn't expected to use more, or was it technical difficulties (bad radio in Smith's helmet)?
finally i can breath easy now. so glad smitty is in. our team has a chance now. glad to see our former number ones stepping up. smitty, vernon, staley, and crabs...go niners!
****** GOLF CLAP ******
very nice
If A. Smith can play up to his potential - and I agree that his potential is greater than Hill's - we'll have a very potent set of offensive 'skill' position players at QB, RB, TE and WR. That's a good base to build on, but a decent O-line is the fundamental sine qua non for a successful offense. I'm beginning to feel that we'll need another draft to really get the O-line up to snuff.
So much to say... somewhere in this blog someone said that Hill can indeed throw a 30 yarder... Yes he can, but here is an observation (mind the word, observation).
I was in the game yesterday with my wife, who follows football but is not a die hard fan. Furthermore she is a Giant follower, not a Niner like me. She knew about the fight for the starting job through me and I only gave her superficial updates "Hill won but Smith might come in eventually" etc...
We where sitting behind an endzone (where Davis scored the first time) and we could see nicely some passes as they reached the receivers. Her comment halfway through the 3rd Quarter: "The receivers seem to be 'umphed' by the ball now! When Hill threw it they just reached their hands out, now they have to braze themselves."
This was an unsolicited comment from someone with nothing playing here. She might be wrong, but I wanted to share her observation with you all.
GO NINERS!!!!!!!!!!
SB
Where is the niner spokesperson, TOP-CAT???
I believe he has some crow to eat.
My thought when Spurlock signed was that he would be here to return kicks... I was imagining a TC comp between him and Rossum... I guess the coaching staff and McGM thought we really needed a 7th string WR and Wildcat QB... hahhaaaa
What a joke.... If Spurlock is not returning kicks what is he doing on the roster???? He has proven he can't do anything else
Did you just think about taking Willis out???
You never take out your best player... Do you think the Colts are scheming ways to get Peyton Manning off the field on 3rd downs right now
I think it was in today's press conference, maybe yesterdays, Singletary said a QB can make an O-line look better.
Let's hope Raye was listening when Singletary was asked if the spread offense would be used more now that Smith was starting. He rsponded they will do whatever it takes to win, so let's wait and see if the playcalling gets more aggressive.
hey Ronnie Lott - i know that we're all 49er's fans and very passionate about them, or we wouldn't be on this blog and talking about how we all feel. i want them to do good and win. that's the bottom line.
i think this is the time to see smith become the qb that the 49ers' drafting him for. now, if the OL can hold up, and raye open up the offense, i think we have a chance.
I think that everyone is ignoring the fact that Hill had been pretty good this year... until Week 4 against the Rams in my opinion...
The offense couldn't do anything in that game against a horrible D, nobody noticed because the D scored 3 TD's that day and the Rams were shut down completely. Hill began looking very mediocre as teams got more film on him, and now he has lost all confidence and his time as an NFL starter is probably gone for good.
As far as Smith goes... I was very impressed with how he played. I don't think we have ever seen him play at the level he played at. I was all for Hill to be the man when they were winning, now they aren't. I was also on the side of the argument that said that Smith was a bust.
I hope that I was wrong about Smith, he had a great half on Sun.
We are all 9ers fans here, let's all get behind our new guy...
GO NINERS!!!!!
Matt,
I've read on several different 49ers sites that Isaac Bruce seems to be "running out of gas." Based on your observations, do you think this is true? Also, why hasn't Brandon Jones been given an opportunity to showcase his skills?
I believe Top_Cat and Houston were seen praying together for Sarah Palin to reemerge as the face of the Republican Party, so she can save the world from all those crazy liberals.... They'll be back when church closes, to post their slack-jawed hillbilly comments..
LOL, ok I knew something was wrong!! haha
LOL, ok I knew something was wrong!! haha
jdawggy: Supposedly Smith and Brandon Jones had developed a good understing before he was hurt in TC. maybe this is his ticket to getting on the field.
I agree that bruce can't get separation anymore in man to man. however, he's still savvy enough to find the soft spots in zone. I'd like to see him as 4th receiver or in select packages where teams are using mostly zone. he still runs crisp routes
UPDATE: hurtinhead was also seen with Top_Cat and Houston lying on the floor of the church completely swept up by the spirit and speaking in tongues, occasionally muttering the words: "Death to Michael Moore and Long Live Sarah.
btw- Houston must have been peeing in his American flag briefs at the sight of the Bushes at yesterdays game. Little wet Houston?
Matt,
Face it - we haven't had a decent O-Line since Bobb McKittrick died (2000) , and we haven't been to the playoffs in almost the same amount of time.
Coincidence?
Unfortunately, what will give is the "best chance" of winning is retiring Jimmy Raye. You know what REALLY changed at half time, not the quality level of the quarterback, it was the play calling. Jimmy Raye was forced out of his style of football. We've already seen this in previous games this year. The niners insist on running, suck horribly at it, get behind, then come out throwing.
To the offensive coaching staff: HELLO, passing works, we suck at running. Jimmy Raye just isn't getting it. Do what it takes to win, and not imagine that we have some great smash-mouth offensive line - we don't, and we won't unless McCloughan gets off his ass and gets us some offensive line talent. Just one beefy, experienced free agent would have helped quite a bit.
One other note about Jimmy (and I suspect he is actually a wonderful person and do not mean any of this in a personal way) - in his very long nfl career, he has never had a highly ranked offense. And now he has yet another offense in the cellar of nfl stats.
I know it sucks, but we are going to have to bight the bullet and have yet another new OC. Perhaps bring in Rathman.
Where is razoreater, cutting his wrists with a dull knife because Alex Smith had some success, go cheer for the Raiders, they need some fans so they can watch home games!
...nice one...lol
Top_Cat, Houston, razoreater, hurtinhead
....have sum more of that lovely crow....
You still have to EXECUTE those plays!! no?
ONENINER, I have to say I have been reading this blog for a while and have always agreed with everything you have said in regards to Smith and Hill. It was the Smith bashers that prompted me to become the (screen name) man everybody seems to loathe.. I knew this day was coming; however, I did not expect what I saw yesterday.
Alex Smith's ability was never questioned, in my eyes. I was, however, concerned he had lost all confidence to MENTALLY overcome the adversity he faced.While I think he still has a way to go, I think he has the goods to gt there.
Now, lets see it again, Alex!! You're not out of the woods yet.
I'm also done bashing Hill, as I am thankful that he was able to over achieve the way he did and bring some respectability back to SF. He did a heck of a job keeping us in games, however, he was clearly regressing and not progressing.
MS says:
"Because they normally have about 8 ½ people in the box - sometimes nine," Singletary said. "Sometimes it makes it a little more difficult when you have an offensive line that's been banged up and trying to get that right. It makes for not a good combination. As we build confidence and continue to get better, it will work itself out. Sounds like Nolan!
This is his answer to why the 49ers can't run? I've been a supporter of the HC..but...DA! I'm starting to see more and more that MS lacks some things at this time a HC needs to have! Like you need to change your philosophy whether offense or defense when it's needed! And most of the time it's needed right then in the game! Not consistently doing what you want to do whether it works or not despite the negatives he mentions! And the offense hasn't worked and has needed to be changed in these games when the team can't run! If the opposition has there whole defense in the box, then don't run up the middle 2/3rds of the time, over and over! C'mon!
Smith played one half really well! But he has some real tough games coming up and the opposition will be seeing more and more tape of him and his tendencies!
But if this business of running the ball into a concrete wall over and over again doesn't change, it won't matter if Smith is the QB or Brees is taking the snaps!
Yesterday the Saints and Brees were getting pounded trying to pass. Their HC changed in the 2nd half to favor the run and the Saints ran over the Dolphins! Sometimes change is needed right now! Not after you watch the films of a loss!
I agree Ronnie...I too would like to see 3 reciever sets with Crabtree/Morgan/Jones and then have Bruce as the 4th option. Let's face facts: Bruce will not be a 49er next year - the future is now - why not let the newbies play the majority of the snaps?
On another note, Allen Rossum got hurt on his first punt return for the Cowboys. Since his departure, special teams is a big concern for the 49ers. I'd like to see Delanie Walker get more punt return duties - since he seems to have sure hands and a knack for making nice plays.
-- In complete agreement -- eat up boys! Bon appetite! Oh, wait, sorry about that, too foreign and weird for your caveman-like mentalities. Let me simplify it for you hillbillies -- stuff your fat bellies with some of that lovely crow oneniner has dished up for you!!! Open up, here comes the choo choo train
LOVE IT.
Bobb McKittrick taught his smaller, mobile O-linemen the "leg whip," which has now been outlawed. It was essentially a kick to the shins or knees, because they had a difficult time blocking bigger D-linemen head-up. Anyone remember McKittrick being chased off the field by Reggie White and pass-rushers like that, who wanted to kill him? Without the leg whip, we had to go for huge Larry Allen-type linemen, without Allen's speed in his prime.
No crow here. Had a nice juicy steak and a fine glass of wine. People who have criticized Smith over the years have no crow to eat. To put it plainly, Smith has been terrible. It's a statistical fact. When he can actually perform well for more than a half we can start talking about him being the long term answer. Unlike you guys, I root for the TEAM to do well. If one guy contributes then great, I'm all for it. Beating your chest after a loss saying our QB played great is like a DB showboating after an INT when he's down by 35 points and getting the ball stripped. It's still a loss.
I am a HUGE NCAA football fan. I watched several of Nate Davis' games at Ball St. I am NOT advocating Nate to start, BUT I would like to see Nate get reps at the back up spot.
You know what you get with Hill. He has been in the league for many years. He would have shown his greatness IF he had it by now. Nate can play give him a shot at back up. Let him see a bit of action in practice with the starters.
Houston 9er
LOL! You're starting to remind me of Dragnet, when Joe Friday would caution the witness, "Just the facts, ma'am."
FO.. u r funny.. .. Now that was funny stuff .. LOL
And I know Michael Moore I have met Michael Moore ( not really)
and YOU sir are NO Michael Moore.. hahahaha
I actually pray to my Hillary Clinton poster..
Hail Mary
full of grace
Lets hope Manning falls
flat on his
face...
AMEN
Im curious Are you a Smith Fan? I think he has been given a raw deal Mulitple OC's bad head coach..
I think he gives the team a better chance to win than Hill..
Hill seems shot right now.. The O.L needs help..
and can't we all agree the DB's lack a shut down?
In all honesty, I'm a fan of any player that wears the red and gold. If I could make wishes come true, I'd like to see Nate Davis start and tear it up, however, since that probably won't happen soon, I'd like to see Smith get another shot at it because I think he has shown a lot of class over the years and never really had a fair chance to show what he can do. Hope he's a rock star out there on Sunday.
-- cheers.
now come on Houston, you sure that "glass of wine" you are enjoying with your steak isn't really a Budweiser from a can?
I don't know if I would call myself a hater, but I truly believed AS was a bust. I did not believe SH was the long term answer at QB, but I thought he was better. Now, I am cautiously optimistic after one half of good football from Smith. I really hope he is the answer, but after the roller coaster ride that has been his career, I'll reserve final judgement until the season is over, hopefully in Feb. :D
1.no! they were not running a prevent defense until the last drive of the game! if it were a prevent defense we would not of scored 3 tds in the middle of the field. 2. on the last throw there was pressure up the middle and he was not able to step into the throw! its always easier to watch and say who is open than when someone is on you!
1.no! they were not running a prevent defense until the last drive of the game! if it were a prevent defense we would not of scored 3 tds in the middle of the field. 2. on the last throw there was pressure up the middle and he was not able to step into the throw! its always easier to watch and say who is open than when someone is on you!
Negative! Our offense has been dead since the begining! we had good games early because there was no tape out. after 2 weeks, teams started to game plan for us. starting with the vikes. we seen what happend the last couple of weeks and would of happend again if we didnt get energy on the field. Hill has not performed well the last couple of games, even when givin the chance against atlanta he couldnt throw the ball. smart decision, get someone who will throw to the receivers down field!
I said this during the off season! Hill was able to sit out the begining of the season and learn the play book, and come in and play well, because the offense has already learned the playbook. he didnt have to start the season learning like alex did! i also said wait to see how he handles it! We did not open the offense up because the coaching staff, didnt feel that hill had a good grasp of the book! Now we will see how Alex handles it! He looked good for a half, and was close to hillls best game this year,can he do it a whole game? Let hop so! It was not a prevent defense! No NFL team runs a prevent defense for a Half! GO NINERS! NJNINER!
AMEN!
Yea I can't root for a player as much as the team.. Thats why i don't play fantasy sports.. Smith has tools. Size speed.. and with Davis Crabtree Gore he has his triplets..
Keep up the zings too they are funny ..