The SF 49er Observer

The Perfect Solution for the 49ers and Colts

2012-01-23T04:39:00.000-08:00

How to Improve the Niners and Colts Immediately

As the 49er season came to a close, there is tremendous hope for the future. With Jim Harbaugh at the helm and with the best front defensive seven in football, the Niners will be stopping opponents for many years to come. Now, there is one major adjustment that needs to be made. Although Alex Smith had for him what was an outstanding season, he is still a 4-cylinder engine trying to drive an 8-cylinder team. Alex showed great improvement and, although nowhere near the level of the top QBs like the Mannings, Brees, Rodgers, etc., he is a solid and dependable game manager. THE PROBLEM
The Colts will draft Andrew Luck and have no room for Peyton Manning. It's not a good idea for them to just cast Peyton loose and receive nothing in return. The 49ers have two young QB studs waiting in the wings, Colin Kaepernick and Scott Tolzien. THE SIMPLE SOLUTION Trade Alex Smith to the Colts for Peyton Manning.
The Colts will have Smith to work with Luck and become a solid backup.
The Niners will have their QB capable of leading this team to the Super Bowl NOW.
Manning will be an excellent mentor for Kaepernick and Tolzien.
WIN-WIN for both teams.

A Solution for Harbaugh

2012-01-02T08:17:00.000-08:00

Will they be Reunited?

Jim Harbaugh had no choice due to the lockout but to go with Alex Smith. Knowing Alex's significant limitations as a thrower, and his slow decision making, he designed a dink and dunk offense and Alex flourished. But what about next season? I don't think either Harbaugh or the fans are satisfied with this inept offense. Here's a simple solution:

Indy is in a real quandary. They have the #1 pick (Andrew Luck) AND Peyton Manning who doesn't appear to be ready to retire anytime soon. The 49ers can trade Alex Smith to Indy, plus the Niners' #1 and #2 picks, for Indy's #1. It's a win-win situation.

Indy gets a solid performer who can back up Manning and fill in admirably when necessary, plus two high quality draft picks.

Harbaugh gets his man and the boredom on offense ends in the City by the Bay.

That was easy...

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Copyright @ 2011 All Rights Reserved

49ers Dominate -- Deja Vu All Over Again

2011-10-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

I've been through this before. 1981. I watched in amazement as my heretofore aimless 49ers ran through over and around the very tough Dallas Cowboys 45-14 at the Stick. We were looking VERY good. In the 35 years that I had been a 49er fan, since the day my dad walked me across the street to the Polo Field in Golden Gate Park to watch the "new team" in town when I was almost 4, I had never felt quite this kind of excitement. This team was good!

Flash forward to 2011. Last week I watched the 49ers dominate the Eagles, a team with amazing talent at the skill positions and a lack of it in the line. The confidence this team showed during this win reminded me exactly of the Dallas game 30 years ago. I told my wife, "Honey, the end is near". The end of the era of Nolan-Singletary is upon us. Our modern version of Bill Walsh has arrived, this one with a rougher edge and a killer instinct. He has no hesitancy in "running up the score".

So, I watched the Tampa Bay game with more excitement and anticipation than I've felt approaching a Niner game since they fired Mooch. The destruction of Tampa Bay, 48-3, so beautifully crafted by Harbaugh, whose blocking schemes were brilliant, enabling both Gore and Hunter great access to the outside and lanes being blown open by a highly criticized but much improved offensive line. Anthony Davis had the best day of his career as a 49er and deserves credit. He is still only 21.

Harbaugh has taken his time with Alex Smith and in essence has re-programmed him. He has taught him to truly focus, something I admit I thought was was beyond his ability. The genius of Harbaugh is what immediately places this team right up there with the 1981 49ers. Go back and watch the final drive by Montana leading to "the Catch". Most of the plays were misdirection runs, short sweeps, and slants over the middle. Walsh had Dallas so off balance they didn't know which way to turn. Watching Tom Landry and his hat stew on the sidelines is a memory I will always cherish.

Dare I say it? This team compares favorably with the 1981 49ers:

OFFENSE:

QB - Montana, Cavanaugh (81); Smith, Kaepernick (11)

RB - Elliott, Patton, Ring, Lawrence (81); Gore, Hunter, Dixon (11)

FB - Cooper, Davis (81); Norris, Miller, Sopoaga (11)

WR - Clark, Solomon, Wilson, Shumann (81); Edwards, Crabtree, Ginn, Williams, (Morgan) (11)

TE - Young, Ramson (81); Davis, Walker (11)

OL - Audick, Ayers, Cross, Downing, Fahnhorst, Quillan (81);
Iupati, Davis, Goodwin, Snyder, Staley, Boone (11)

The 2011 team is deep and presents at least the same level of talent as the 1981 team with one possibly glaring exception at quarterback. Alex Smith will have to continue his Harbaugh-directed imitation of a top-flight quarterback in order for this team to reach the level of greatness of the team in 1981.

DEFENSE:

NT - Reese, Harty (81); Sopoaga, Jean-Francois (11)

DE - Board, Dean, Pillers, Stuckey (81); MacDonald, Smith, Dobbs (11)

LB - Bunz, Harper, Leopold, McColl, Puki, Reynolds, Turner (81); Willis, Bowman, Harrelson, Smith, Brooks, Grant, Gooden (11)

CB - Lott, Wright, Thomas (81); Brown, Rogers, Spencer, Culliver (11)

S - Hicks, Williamson (81); Williams, Whitner, Goldson (11)

The defenses are comparable. The 49ers introduced their almost all-rookie backfield in 1981, while this season they have brought in outstanding secondary players from elsewhere in Rogers, Whitner and Williams. The defensive line in 1981 was solid and the foundation of the best defensive line the 49ers ever put on a field in 1984, when they added Gary "Big Hands" Johnson, Manu Tuiasosopo, Michael Carter and Jeff Stover, not to mention big Louie Kelcher.

Now it's up to the team...Remember 1981! Go Niners...

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Kapernick Has the Stuff

2011-05-06T15:11:00.000-07:00

NFL.com news: Niners rookie QB Kaepernick to learn playbook through others

This is just one of the reasons I like this kid. He's eager to learn and I remember Joe Montana in his early years. He had that confidence but that impatience, yet he was catlike when he moved. Joe wasn't the fastest of all-time, but he was among the smartest. If you watched the Science video in the previous post, you can see that this kid gets rid of the ball in real hurry, despite a long throwing motion.

Like I have said before, I have seen every 49er QB that has ever played for the team. Frankie Albert was probably the most exciting -- he could fake, run, pass, and quick kick or punt. He was left-handed and could make plays where there weren't any. Tittle was the toughest, Brodie the cockiest, and Young was every bit the equal of Albert for excitement. Alex had all the physical tools, but no natural instincts. He's a thinker, and he doesn't do anything instinctually, he has to think first. You can't teach natural instincts, and Alex will never be more than barely adequate. He is like Steve Deberg (who was a far better passer) on steroids.

Kaepernick has those same cat-like qualities and intensity of interest that Joe used to have. Will he be as good as Joe? Probably not. But he will be good -- very good, and I'm looking forward to him beating Alex out in head-to-head competition to make the passing of the torch official. In a creative Harbaugh system, he'll succeed.

49ers Land a Gem

2011-04-29T16:35:00.000-07:00

Welcome
COLIN KAEPERNICK

Before you naysavers start complaining about Kapernick can't do this and Kapernick can't do that, watch this video. Plus, the kid is the first QB in NCAA history to pass for 10,000 yards and rush for 2000. With such incredible athletic ability, a little attitude, and under Harbaugh's guidance we may complete the great triumvirate of Montana, Young and ? This kid gets the ball off before Alex can think pass.

Please, Tiger -- I can't watch anymore...

2011-03-28T06:03:00.000-07:00

This non-49ers article is the first and probably the last that will appear on this blog, but it must be said.

NOTE: I wrote this after the second round at Bayhill when Tiger shot an excellent 68 and before his eventual weekend collapse.

Twenty years ago I was playing in a Senior professional team tournament with my partner, Clyde Daniels, a good friend and former great athlete from Texas. Clyde was now a local club pro raising his kids in Sacramento, and playing for dinero on the side. During this round he was raving about a 15-year old kid with the greatest natural talent he had ever seen. He described how this young phenom could already outhit him by 30 yards, and Clyde was known as a very long hitter. That was my introduction to Tiger Woods.

Over the years, I, like many American males, adopted Tiger as my own and rooted for him with zeal as he amazed us over and over again with his feats on the golf course. Whether it was hitting shots nobody had ever dreamed of hitting, or sinking putts from amazing distances and with incredible breaks, Tiger would consistently amaze us.

Since sabotaging his own life and career, Tiger began the long climb back to what he hopes is his return to domination on the tour. I understand his wanting to change his lifestyle and personal habits and to become a great parent. But, in my opinion, he has taken his mantra for change too far. It's one thing to change your personal habits, quite another to take one of the best swings ever and completely re-do it. As I watch him continue to struggle with the robotic swing changes instituted by "guru" Sean Foley, I can only cringe.

If his dad was alive today, he would be very frustrated. The line "beware of false prophets" comes to mind. David Ledbetter, Butch Harmon, Hank Haney, Sean Foley, the names are well-known. So-called swing gurus and nowadays all the pros have them. I find it ridiculous. The great players of yesterday never used a swing coach, other than those who relied upon the wisdom of their dads. I can never imagine Jack Nicklaus or Sam Snead going to someone else for daily advice. It never happened.

Tiger now calls himself "Ranger Rick", because he hits the ball so well on the range, but can't bring it to the course. Of course you can't, Tiger, and you won't. As your dad would have told you, when you are playing under pressure, you ALWAYS return to your natural instincts and swing -- always.

I can understand swing changes as we age and our bodies change. In my case, I underwent multiple spinal surgeries in my early 30's. All my childhood dreams of playing on the PGA Tour were put to rest. Doctors said I would never play again. So, never one to be told I can't do something, I shortened my backswing and had a 51-inch driver made to accommodate the changes. It worked and my dream came true at age 50 when I got a win in a Senior mini-tour event, and a 292 yard hole in one on the fly on a par 4 in the same year.

Swing changes are sometimes necessary, but Tiger has taken it too far. The greatest putter in history with the greatest short game has changed his chipping and putting styles to "alter the release point", whatever the hell that means. His dad must be screaming at him from above, "Return to your natural swing and stroke". Tiger's perfectly smooth stroke is now a quick jab. He regularly misses putts from six feet and under when he used to do things like make 49 out of 50.

Here is something to remember, Tiger. Under extreme pressure, we will always do what comes naturally. Your guru can tell you over and over to swing a certain way or to stroke the ball a certain way, but when the tv cameras are on and the whole world is watching, your natural instincts take over. It's why they call them "natural". So, Tiger, after your Masters experience in a couple of weeks and I wish you the very best, my recommendation is to dump your latest guru and return home.

Immediately dump this new putting stroke. You're the greatest clutch putter of all time -- why fix it if it ain't broken? Watch videos of your swing and stroke ten (10) years ago and get back to that fluid swing. Dump Foley. You are starting to look very robotic and mechanical, and that, coupled with few smiles, slammed clubs, loud profanity, and an old sourpuss, makes me long for the energetic, smiling Tiger. It's not much fun watching you anymore, pal, especially as you seem to fall apart on the weekends when the pressure is at its highest, and that is very sad. Let's send "Ranger Rick" packing and get Tiger back. SOON! Good luck.

Singletary Shackles Smith -- Can't Remember Punting

2010-11-22T06:57:00.000-08:00

CLUELESS BY THE BAY

Last week when Troy Smith put on a record-breaking performance by a 49er QB vs. the Rams, there was hope and joy in Niner land. Finally, the 49ers opened up the offense and demonstrated the kind of attack they are capable of launching on any given Sunday.

However, the look on Mike Singletary's face when the gun sounded ending the game foretold the future. Curiously, he raised an eyebrow and shrugged as he left the field. After the game, when any other NFL coach would have been praising his young QB for an outstanding effort, Sing was complaining that he needed to reign in Troy's bad habits. Amazing.

This was the same guy who had praised Alex Smith for "outstanding performances" in a season when Alex had none. Now, Singletary was going to make it his mission to curtail the initiative and aggressiveness of Troy Smith, traits that are essential to becoming a top QB in this league.

From the first call of the day, what else but a Gore run up the middle, any fan could see that Singletary was in control. He had his offensive coordinator, Mike Johnson, on the field and not in the pressbox, a strong clue that he wanted him nearby and under his control. Mike didn't like it when Johnson said earlier in the week that he wanted to encourage Smith's daring, not curtail it.

What followed was one of the most embarrassing offensive performances in 49er history and I should know since I've been following and rooting for this team since Frankie Albert opened their history in 1946. In a game where they were facing a team with no pass rush and where they had an opportunity to really open up the offense, Mike would have none of it. No downfield patterns, misdirection plays, or anything that could be considered creative. No, this was Mike's kind of offense. The result: a shutout.

Later, when being questioned by reporters as to why he punted on a 4th and 3 from the Tampa Bay 33 yard line, he couldn't remember it. Incredible! This guy is not only clueless, but mindless. He claims he studied under Bill Walsh. Please, Mike, forget it. Bill must be turning in his grave as he watches your Pop Warner league offense flounder.

This was embarrassing to the players, the fans, the team and the entire organization and Jed York should fire Singletary immediately. He has become a cancer on this team and is driving fans away in droves.

I supported Mike when he was appointed Head Coach. I was so wrong.

Copyright @ 2010 All Rights Reserved

Smith Excels Despite Singletary's Handcuffs

2010-11-01T10:36:00.000-07:00

The Right Smith

The good news is that the 49ers won a game. Even better news is that they found a QB that won't beat himself or the team. Troy Smith demonstrated a coolness in the pocket and elusiveness is escaping the rush. He also threw with very good accuracy and took the initiative to arrange his own play with Delanie Walker, a Favre-like throw that set up the Niners fourth quarter comeback. Troy demonstrated all the natural instincts that Alex so sorely lacks and we hope that Alex has set his foot on the field for the last time as a 49er, for the good of all Niner fans.

Now the bad news. Mike Singletary proved once again that he is the ultimate control freak. Mike won't let anything happen without his stamp of approval. If he was trying to instill confidence in his new quarterback, calling three running plays up the middle while having the opportunity to run out the clock must have had Bill Walsh and Buck Shaw turning in their respective graves.

Singletary coaches like a Pop Warner League coach whose son is playing QB and who wants to make sure he doesn't get hit. Amazingly, Smith compiled a 115 QB rating and threw for almost 200 yards with one hand tied behind his proverbial back. The Niners play calling, especially once they took the lead was pathetic and insulting to Smith. It was as if Singletary was saying, "OK you got us a lead but I'm not going to take a chance on losing it". Running three times behind center with your backup running back is not how you protect a lead.

Of course, Mike, who likes to think of himself as a psychologist and leader of men, doesn't realize that. He is anal to the nth degree and it is this rigid adherence to his way or the highway which will eventually lead him to the highway.

In my opinion, if Walsh was reincarnated and was to take over the team at this time, he would have Troy Smith running the West Coast offense with two backs (a ala Craig and either Tyler or Rathman). Gore and Westbrook would be in the backfield together and Jason Hill would have a lot of playing time. Of course, that's only a dream and Singletary will continue his stubborn insistence that anything other than a run behind center is out of the box.

Good luck to Troy Smith. I am hoping he will success despite Mike Singletary (and Johnson) and not because of them.

Copyright @ 2010 All Rights Reserved

Read My Lips, Mike -- It's the Philosophy

2010-09-29T08:11:00.000-07:00

Singletary and Raye Game Planning for Kansas City

After the embarrassment of the Kansas City Chiefs game, Mike Singletary stubbornly defended his Dinosaur Ball philosophy of offense by saying: "It's the execution, not the philosophy". You have to be kidding, Mike. That's it, throw the players under the bus and defend your archaic views on offensive football. Believe me, Mike, it is REALLY offensive.

So, you popped some NoDoz and stayed up all night watching horror films -- the first three games, and decided to bounce Jimmy Raye, the man who loyally carried out your wishes for your brand of offense. This is not like you, Mike. You have always been a man of deep intellect, integrity, and loyalty.

We know Alex Smith is a terrible thrower. He will always have mucho interceptions because in six years he hasn't learned to get his passes down and tipped balls are part of his makeup. But, you keep saying he is getting better. At this rate, I'll be 100 before he does.

I'm about to turn 68, Mike, on October 9 which is the same birthdate as John and Sean Lennon, Jackson Browne, and YOU. We're Libras, Mike. We are very fair-minded, balanced and able to see both sides of an argument. We are NOT rigid and unbending.

If it's films you want to see, Mike, don't watch your own. That's the last thing you need to see. I have one to recommend to you. Watch the final drive vs. Dallas in the 1981 NFC Championship Game. Bill Walsh was the master of adapting his team's talents rather than forcing a philosophy down their throats. This drive demonstrates the brilliance of that man and you can certainly learn from it. Watch how quickly the Niners got up to the line of scrimmage and the absolute brilliance of the play calling. Nobody knew what was coming next. Here it is:

While 49er fans are wiping tears from their eyes, here is some advice. Your stubborn adherence to Dinosaur Ball has resulted in some very poor personnel decisions, which make you look like Head Troglodyte. First, you inexplicably cut Michael Robinson with the stupefying comment that you didn't know how to work him into the offense. Neither did Mike Nolan.

MRob was an excellent blocker and was a top wide receiver and quarterback at Penn State before Nolan got brain-lock and decided to make him a running back. In 2008, under YOU, he caught 17 passes for over 200 yards in just the last half of the season. His circus catch helped you win vs. the Redskins. And you use Moran Norris as a receiver in a clutch situation? As Michael Irvin would say, "COME ON, MAN!".

MRob was a special teams captain and team leader and our best special teams player. You cut him!

Then, Diyral Briggs gets snatched from our practice squad. The kid is a future star. Why don't you grab him back off Denver's PS and activate him? He can't do any worse than Parys Haralson.

Finally, your biggest bonehead move was to cut NATE DAVIS. What are you thinking? Alex Smith has been given six years to demonstrate he is the checkdown king of the NFL. I have seen every 49er QB since Frankie Albert and Alex will NEVER be a quality QB.

Nate Davis needs to be activated IMMEDIATELY to protect him from other teams. Activate him and bring in a QB mentor to work with him 24/7. Play him in a spread offense and start throwing downfield. Use Westbrook in the backfield with Gore and get rid of Norris. Caulcrick will fit in much better in a wide open offense.

Finally, Mike, pray on this. A great coach adapts his philosophy to the talents of his team and does not insist that his players fit into his system. That's like placing a square peg into a round hole. I'll bet that Buck Shaw and Bill Walsh were turning in their graves last Sunday. I'm rooting for you, brother, but even my patience is running thin. Let's go Niners.

"You're Fired"

2010-09-27T06:31:00.000-07:00

I have never said anything negative about Mike Singletary -- until now. He has demonstrated a total lack of knowledge of offensive football. At halftime he said, "We have to run the ball". Raye calls three running plays up the middle when trailing 21-3. Mike sees no reason to replace him. Two weeks ago Mike said that "Alex played an outstanding game".

Stubbornness is what led to Nolan's downfall and is a trait that Mike can't seem to shake. This team is talented. Our coaching staff is clueless. He proved it by cutting our best special teams player, Michael Robinson. Now our special teams suck. No leadership that was provided by MRob. Singletary said he cut him because he couldn't find a spot for him on offense. Two seasons ago MRob caught 17 passes for over 200 yards out of the backfield during the second half of the season. And he uses Norris as a pass receiver at the goal line. Brilliant!

He keeps useless camp fodder and allows Diyral Briggs to be snatched up. He cuts the QB with by far the best talent after just one year and stubbornly keeps Alex who has proven for six years that he is the best check down QB in history. Never looks downfield and if he did he'd flutter the pass anyway.

Doesn't anyone in Niner management learn from the past? Our best coaches have been offensive experts. Buck Shaw was the Bill Walsh of the 1940's. Mariucci understood offense. Our worst coaches have been defensive "specialists" and you can go back to Jack Christensen, both Nolans although Daddy won three division crowns because he had so much talent. Defensive oriented coaches seldom make winners.

Now Mike blames "execution, not philosophy". That simply proves that he just doesn't get it. Dinosaur ball will never make it in San Francisco.

Come on, York. If this was Trump the words "You're fired" would be ringing in Mike's ears right now.

What needs to be done:

Fire Singletary; Fire Raye. Cut Alex. Start Carr.
Activate Nate Davis and get him off the practice squad before we lose him. Hire a QB mentor to work with him this season.
When he appears ready, start him and spread the offense. Let's see a vertical passing game. I'm getting a stiff neck watch Alex pass sideways.
Hire Jon Gruden.

The fans are behind you. We are fed up. Change direction now or experience an empty stadium.

Copyright @ 2010

Will Nate the Great Lead a 49er Repeat of 1981?

2010-08-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

NATE DAVIS #7 - The Next Great 49er Quarterback

Last August I wrote an article entitled, "Nate Davis, the Next Great 49er Quarterback". In the forums, I was roasted. "The kid can't read", "the kid can't spell, the kid is dyslexic", etc. There are insulting remarks about him all over that humorous site, the 49ers forum. Besides the fact that seemingly nobody can spell or string together more than a couple of logical sentences, it is a source of constant negativity. I like positive.

This was the article I wrote a year ago:

I love Mike Singletary. He is the perfect man for the job of returning the San Francisco 49ers to their former greatness. I especially feel close to the man, quite possibly because we share the same birthdate -- October 9. That makes Mike a Libra, a man dedicated to fairness, able to see both sides of the question, and a man to whom "balance" is a key word in any equation.

Mike is now faced with a dilemma. Shaun Hill is a serviceable quarterback, an excellent game manager, a fairly accurate passer with a soft arm, and a leader. Alex Smith came to the 49ers with great physical ability but no natural instincts for the position. Alex continues to take way too long to set up and deliver the ball. He makes very slow decisions which results in a very slow delivery. His passing is scattershot at best and while he has a strong arm, he is and continues to be very inaccurate. The game has never slowed down for Alex. He will NEVER be a reliable quarterback for the 49ers.

Enter Nate Davis. In two games he has demonstrated that he has a rocket arm and makes plays that the other two guys simply cannot; he is mobile and can make throws on the run the others cannot, and he makes excellent decisions. I don't care that he has only faced backups -- his ability is right there for all to see.

Most important of all is his poise. In four years, Alex Smith has continually shown that deer-in-the-headlights quality that frustrates 49er fans. Many blame his failure to excel at QB on the 49ers. They say he has been ruined by them due to having too many offensive coordinators, a poor supporting cast, etc. I say that is baloney (bologna to my Italian readers). In reading the forums and comments of many of the newer and younger 49er fans who don't even have a clue as to our winning tradition, beg and plead not to rush Davis into the fray. I read comments saying he's our QB for 2010, 2011, and even 2012.

Come on 49er fans, where is your mojo? Just because Alex Smith fell flat on his face doesn't mean that every rookie QB is incapable of starting in their first season. I think back to the greatest 49er team of all, the 1984 squad that went 18-1, the only loss being on a terrible pass interference call on Eric Wright that gave a game to the Steelers. That squad faced a young 2nd year QB, playing his first full season as a starter -- Dan Marino. The year before in his rookie season he had started only 9 games, yet threw for 20 TDs and 2210 yards. In his first full season in 1984, he threw for 5,084 yards and 48 TDs. I remember another rookie QB, Ben Roethlisberger, who had a very successful rookie season.

There is one inescapable fact. If a player is great, he can overcome just about all obstacles. Nate Davis is dyslexic, but hasn't let that stop him. In my opinion, nothing will stop this kid from greatness. Mike Singletary made one very telling observation -- that Nate was "too composed", "too calm". That quality is the hallmark of great quarterbacks.

I am now in my 64th season as a 49er fan, having seen every quarterback in Niner history from the great Frankie Albert up to the present and consider myself to be a pretty good judge of quarterbacking talent. Nate Davis possesses the most talent and ability to be seen in a 49er quarterback since Steve Young. It makes no sense to hold him back. We discovered a gem, let's polish it and put it on display.

Attention Mike Singletary -- are you listening???

Wow! Deja vu all over again. In 1981 Joe Montana was an untried 2nd year QB playing under a coach in his third season who had built a powerful and relentless defensive squad. In 1981, the offense was not loaded with backfield talent with Lenvil Elliott, Ricky Patton, Johnny Davis, Walt Easley and Amos Lawrence. The offensive backfield of the current 49ers is MUCH BETTER -- with Gore, Dixon, Westbrook and Robinson as an oh-so-valuable jack of all trades. I still wonder why they haven't played him at safety. He and Mays will terminate the receivers.

At any rate, NATE DAVIS is ready and waiting, and today, FINALLY, Jimmy Raye must have seen what I saw last year -- greatness just waiting to come out. Today he announced that Davis deserved more "representative" reps. In other words, he'll play vs. 1st and 2nd team defenses. If he excels, there is NO WAY Raye or Sing will be able to delay the inevitable any longer. This team will be elite with Davis at QB and average with Smith. Time to cut our losses and get behind this kid with the rocket arm and a heart of steel.

With the solid defense we have and a punishing running game behind a huge offensive line, averaging about 325, all Davis would have to do is manage the game. He demonstrated his natural instincts last week (something Alex has never done) with his rollouts and pump fakes. He is a natural athlete. Why stick with mediocrity?

Anyone who thinks Alex improved last year, I implore you to watch the first half of the Rams game, our last game of the season and Alex's chance to blow the worst team in the league out. 52 yards! That's 52 yards of total offense for the entire first half in what I can honestly say was one of the worst performances EVER by a 49er QB.

We have had mediocrity for a decade. 49er fans deserve better -- the players deserve better. Give Nate a chance to prove how good he really is. We're all behind him.

Again, are you listening, Mike?

Taylor Mays is Really Fast!

2010-04-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

The "next Ronnie Lott" has his critics regarding his ability to cover -- nobody questions his ability to hit, however, with this kind of speed you can make up for a lot of mistakes. Watch him run a 4.24 40. Amazing for a 230 lb. safety.

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Niners Load Up for NFC West Title Run

2010-04-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

With their first pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected ANTHONY DAVIS, a 6'5", 323 lb offensive tackle from Rutgers.

With their second pick in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected MIKE IUPATI, a 6'5", 331 lb offensive guard from Idaho.

With their #3 overall pick, in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected TAYLOR MAYS, a 6'3", 230 lb. free safety from USC.

With their fourth overall pick, in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected NAVORRO BOWMAN, a 6'2", 240 lb. inside linebacker from Penn State.

With their fifth overall pick in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected ANTHONY DIXON, a 6'0", 233 lb. running back from Mississippi State.

With their sixth overall pick in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected NATE BYHAM, a 6'4", 268 lb. tight end from Mississippi State.

With their seventh overall pick in the sixth round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the 49er selected KYLE WILLIAMS, a 5'10", 187 lb. wide receiver and punt return specialist from Arizona State.

With their eighth and final pick in the seventh round of the 2010 NFL Draft, the 49ers selected PHILIP ADAMS, a 5'10", 192 lb. cornerback from South Carolina State.

The Niners weren't finished. They then signed a host of free agents including:

LEROY VANN - DB/PR, Florida A&M

JARRETT BROWN - QB, West Virginia

PATRICK STOUDAMIRE - CB, Western Illinois
CHRIS MARAGOS - FS, Wisconsin

Analysis: GREAT JOB by Trent Baalke and Mike Singletary.

Copyright @2010. Gary Mialocq. All Rights Reserved.

I Love New Orleans

2010-02-11T07:11:00.000-08:00

Drew Brees and Sean Payton

As I watched Drew Brees and Sean Payton celebrating the Saints victory over Peyton Manning's Indianapolis Colts, it brought back many memories of the early days -- the beginning of the Saints.

As a lifetime 49er fan, I was spending my days employed by the City of San Francisco at Log Cabin Ranch, a juvenile detention facility for felony offenders located on a former 634 acre ranch in the town of La Honda, made famous by the antics of Ken Kesey and his Merry Pranksters.

During the offseason, several Niners would put in time as counselors. One was Johnny Fuller, a tough defensive back and kick returner from Lamar, Texas. John and I became good friends and when he was traded to the Saints, he asked me to drive his wife's station wagon from California to New Orleans. In exchange, I had the opportunity to visit the team at their training camp south of New Orleans and to attend the first ever game played at the Superdome, an exhibition game against Bum Phillips, Earl Campbell and the Houston Oilers (now the Tennessee Titans).

It was the experience of a lifetime and the French Quarter will always have a special place in my heart. That, however, brings us to this century. There was a hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico in August of 2005. It caused huge damage in Mississippi but very MODEST damage in New Orleans.

What catastrophically damaged New Orleans was flooding caused by the failure of the federal levee system - an engineering failure second in scope only to Chernobyl.

While people were drowning and stranded roofs for days, the federal government with the help of the US news media went overtime not helping, but covering its tracks.

The whole sordid story - and why every part of America should know the real story...because there are federal levees EVERYWHERE.

49ers in Playoffs? Not with Alex Smith

2009-11-16T05:29:00.000-08:00

"We'll see them again in the playoffs." -- Coach Mike Singletary after a gut-wrenching week 3 loss to the Vikings.

QB Rating this season....

Shaun Hill 79.6
Alex Smith 79.5 (including 3 TDs vs. Houston's Prevent Defense.)

Nate Davis ???

With all due respect to the 49ers, the team that I love, and to Mike Singletary, I must bow to the words of Jim Mora which are very relevant to the current playoff situation of the San Francisco 49ers.

Singletary's Dilemma is Playoff Defense, Pop Warner Offense

2009-11-14T07:40:00.000-08:00

I love Mike Singletary. I have been a fan of his since he destroyed opposing offenses when he roamed the field for the Monsters of the Midway. I was thrilled when he was named Head Coach of the San Franciso 49ers and admire his great motivational and leadership qualities. There is no chance the 49ers will ever have a poor defense with Mike at the helm. Offense, on the other hand, appears to be another story.

SINGLETARY COMMENTS ON 49er OFFENSE AFTER BEARS DEBACLE:

"I thought [QB] Alex [Smith] did a good job."

"I thought our offense did what they needed to do in order for us to win the game. Yes, we would have like to have gotten more points, and I think that will come."

"I thought we did a good job running the ball. We felt that we could be effective running the ball, and it showed later on. And, because I felt our defense would do a good job against their offense, it’s the reason that later on in the game we decided to run the ball more and not take a risk in throwing the ball and run some time off the clock and put the game away. And, that’s pretty much it.”

With all due respect, Mike, what the hell are you thinking? The offense did not do what they needed to do to win the game. They did everything they could to lose the game and it was only the heads up play of the defense combined with Jay Cutler's horrible performance that barely enabled the Niners to escape with a victory. The play calling makes the word vanilla look radical. It was pathetic, and I am disappointed to know that you think it was good.

Most 49er teams throughout history would have buried the Bears by three or four touchdowns, and Mike, I've seen every 49er team in history. Let's face it, Mike. Alex Smith lacks the natural instincts to be a consistent leader of a team. He doesn't even believe in himself, how do you expect the rest of the team to fall behind your rather transparent praise of him?

As to running the ball, you continued to run the ball because you don't trust Alex Smith and I don't blame you. Come on, Mike, for a man committed to honesty your words of praise about him ring hollow. I realize that you have few choices. Shaun Hill was only a shadow of the leader we came to love the past couple of seasons and Alex Smith will never be more than Alex Smith. A pass is only a risk when you have a mediocre QB throwing the ball.

Smith's passer rating is 79.5; Shaun Hill's passer rating was 79.6 at the time he lost his starting job.

When the light bulb goes off in your head and you finally admit to yourself that this is true, the 49ers will have hope for the future.

SINGLETARY'S OBVIOUS ALTERNATIVE:

Mike now faces a true dilemma. He has #7 sitting on the bench. Nate Davis is a big kid who can run the spread effectively. He makes quicker decisions than Alex Smith, has a stronger and more accurate arm, is more mobile, and plays with poise and confidence, something Alex has not done in five years. His rocket arm is impressive and with receivers like Crabtree, Morgan, Hill and Jones, this talent is being wasted on the bench.

Naysayers and youthful Niner fans who know nothing about winning or consistency, see Alex Smith as a failed project and blame the team for throwing him in the mix too early. Maybe they are right. They post on various forums that Nate should sit not only this season but next, too. They are scared to death to ruin another QB prospect the way they feel that Smith was ruined. Frankly, Scarlet, I don't give a damn.

Dan Marino, Ben Roethlisberger, Joe Flacco, Matt Ryan, and now Josh Freeman, have all benefited from playing in their rookie season. Nate Davis is a man, not a little kid who has to be protected like the current QB. Give him a chance.

PREDICTION:

Mike, if you stick with Alex and your Pop Warner level offense, the playoffs will be out of reach and you will lose the support of many 49er fans who see the potential greatness in Nate Davis, and blame you and Jimmy Raye for the most boring 49er offense in history -- and justifiably so. As it stands now, Mike, you will deserve all the criticism you receive.

Get Nate Davis in there running the spread with Crabtree, Hill, Morgan and Jones, put Bruce out to pasture, and you will create some excitement in San Francisco. Until you do that, your Pop Warner offense will continue to be:

BORING

and the fans continue to wait...

Is Nate Davis the 49ers QB of the Future?

2009-11-10T04:27:00.000-08:00

Nate Davis - #7

In August, I wrote an article entitled, "Nate Davis, The Next Great 49er Quarterback" which was met with the usual Mike Nolan philosophy from Niner fans: "You can't play a rookie. You'll hurt his development". Many complained, "See what happened to Alex Smith"?

Well, that was three months ago. Shaun Hill disappointed, and Alex Smith is doing what Alex does, making great plays and terrible plays. He is an always has been inconsistent for one reason which I have repeated over and over for years. He simply lacks the natural instincts for the position. It is this lack that makes him repeat his mistakes over and over. His slow delivery and late passes are not something he will just get over. Five years ago Jerry Rice said, "Alex Smith is not the answer." He was right. The future of the 49ers rests in the hands of young Nate Davis.

As for Nate Davis? He shows poise and confidence. Mike Singletary made one very telling observation -- that Nate was "too composed", "too calm". That quality is the hallmark of great quarterbacks.

I am now in my 64th season as a 49er fan, having seen every quarterback in Niner history from the great Frankie Albert up to the present trio, and consider myself to be a pretty good judge of quarterbacking talent. Nate Davis possesses the most talent and ability to be seen in a 49er quarterback since Steve Young. It makes no sense to hold him back. We discovered a gem, let's polish it and put it on display.

Here is every pass he threw in the preseason. You be the judge.

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

49ers Forgotten Man Deserves Pro Bowl Recognition

2009-11-06T07:40:00.000-08:00

Michael Robinson

In 2006, the San Francisco 49ers drafted a QB out of Penn State who head coach Joe Paterno called "the greatest athlete I have coached in 55 years at this university". He was a wide receiver who Paterno switched to QB his senior season because he had no other player on the roster who was capable. His performance was incredible. He was named Big 10 Offensive Player of the Year and led his team to an 11-1 record, the Big 10 Championship, and victory in the Orange Bowl. His name was Michael Robinson.

In his senior season at QB, he completed 162 out of 311 passes for 2,350 yards and 17 TDs. His passer rating was 127.2. He also ran 163 times for 806 yards and 11 Tds, for a 4.9 average per carry. He had, in his first two season in college, caught 43 passes for 585 yards and 3 TDs. He also was a standout on special teams.

With such a dynamic talent coming to a QB-starved team, you would think the 49ers would have jumped at the opportunity to see what Robinson could do in the NFL at QB. Unfortunately, the Niners were led by head coach, Mike Nolan. This stubborn little man refused to play Robinson on offense unless absolutely necessary, and put him on special teams, despite Michael's pleas to be given an opportunity to prove himself as a QB in the NFL.

In 2 1/2 years under Nolan, Robinson was not only not given an opportunity to play QB, but was turned into a RB, an unfamiliar position and averaged less than 2 carries per game. In his entire career with the 49ers he has thrown ONE PASS, averaged 2 carries per game, and has not taken a single snap from QB.

This season Jimmy Raye is installing the so-called Taser and used Spurlock in that role who was flat-out terrible. He now uses Frank Gore in an entirely forgetful and unimaginative "Taser". Mike Singletary said that Michael Robinson knew the taser best, but he has not been given a single opportunity to run it. What are the 49ers afraid of?

To understand the stupidity of the way he has been handled, let's examine what he has done in the roles they have assigned to him. He has been the leading tackler on special teams for a couple of seasons, and is far and away the best upback this team has seen in quite awhile. He is a punishing blocker, and his double block led to Alan Rossum's kickoff return for a TD vs. Arizona last season, and he also laid the block that sprung Delanie Walker for his kickoff TD return in a preseason game last year.

Now, after the Niners foolishly cut Alan Rossum, they put Delanie Walker as the kickoff returner and he immediately fumbled. Glen Coffee lost his starting job in college due to excessive fumbling so he wasn't the answer. They instead turned to Mr. Reliable, Michael Robinson, who is averaging over 23 yards per return. The only problem is that we no longer have Michael Robinson as the upback, with his devastating blocks that spring the return man. Instead, we have Glenn Coffee who couldn't block his grandmother if she was in a wheelchair. Against Indy, Coffee missed blocks which resulted in Robinson being tackled long before any defender should have made contact.

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

Michael has been nominated for the Pro Bowl and Niner fans can vote for him to make it on special teams. Beyond that, let's hope that Jimmy Raye realizes that he has an offensive weapon that is not being used. It's probably too late to give him his chance at QB as it has been four years since he played the position. Michael, however, should be used in the Taser along with Gore and given the opportunity to roll out and pass the ball. He should also be used as he was last season as the backup FB specializing in receiving out of the backfield.

The latter half of the 2008 season, Singletary utilized MRob as the backup fullback and he caught 17 passes for 201 yards, an 11.9 average which was good enough to be #3 among NFL RBs last season. He made a great leaping catch vs. the Redskins in the 4th quarter that preserved the drive and led to victory.

When Tom Rathman was playing we had a former QB who also wore #24. His name was Harry Sydney and many Niner fans remember Harry's clutch roll out option pass to Brent Jones which was instrumental in leading us to victory over the Redskins in a playoff game.

It's time for Raye and Singletary to open their eyes. They have a diamond in the rough that they need to polish and USE. He's a great athlete who succeeds at every assignment he is given.

Gary Mialocq
The SF 49er Observer

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Does Mike Singletary Have the Power to Change?

2009-10-26T04:46:00.000-07:00

...a SF 49er Observer Editorial.

Mike Singletary -- A Man at a Crossroads

There is a classic scene in the movie "The Godfather II" in which Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) attempts to dissuade his wife Kay (Diane Keaton) from leaving him and taking the kids with her. He looks her right in the eye and says, "I can change...I know I have the power to change". He knew he would never change his philosophy, but to keep things running smoothly, he was willing to at least give the appearance of being capable of making important changes.

We now have Mike Singletary in the role of Michael Corleone and 49er fans in the role of Kay. Yesterday's embarrassing offensive performance against the Texans in the first half in the 24-21 loss, had to have made it very clear to Samurai Mike that his dream of having a team that goes out and hits them in the mouth applies only to his defense. His "smash mouth" power running offense that will dominate a team on the ground is only an illusion with this group.

This 49er offensive line has made it abundantly clear that it is not physically capable of being a dominant power running team and pass protecting at the same time. It also exposed Shaun Hill's limitations within such a system. So where does Singletary go from here? First, he must elevate Alex Smith, who gave his finest performance as a 49er QB to the starter position. But that is only the beginning.

Not often is a team capable of changing horses in mid-stream in such a defining way. I have been a Shaun Hill supporter for a long time but it has become clear that his ability to move the team was more suited to a Mike Martz offense which also left him exposed to 7 step drops and mucho sacks. Unfortunately for Shaun, the vanilla offense Jimmy Raye developed for Singletary's dream became a nightmare and he looks nothing like the confident QB who played so well in the past.

Singletary must adapt his offense to the talents and abilities of his players and he is very lucky. This offensive roster is tailor made for a wide open spread formation that uses 3 and 4 receiver formations. Michael Crabtree is sensational and he and Josh Morgan could well be the star receivers of the future for this team. Getting Brandon Jones and Jason HIll off the practice squad and into their receiver roles is vital to offensive success. These four receivers should get the majority of playing time. Isaac Bruce is ready for Social Security and should be limited in his action in this his final season.

The tight end position is outstanding. Vernon Davis is turning in an All-Pro season, and Delanie Walker does everything well, from blocking to receiving to running back kicks. With these two guys performing so well, that makes six (6) very good receivers for Smith to choose from.

As to the backfield, we know that Frank Gore is a great runner who gives 100% all the time. Frank is also an excellent receiver out of the backfield, a role that both he and Michael Robinson can handle very well. Both are good blockers and top notch receivers. Last season, MIchael caught 17 passes for 201 yards for a 11.9 average per reception which was good enough for # in the NFL among RBs. Apparently, Singletary forgot to pass that message along to Jimmy Raye and this year the team has ignored Robinson much like Nolan did.

In my opinion, Glen Coffee is only a decent runner who is a so-so blocker and who makes too many rookie mistakes. Glen needs to sit and watch and I'd put him in cold storage.

A spread offense with Gore and Robinson as the featured backs utilized often as receivers and in the Wildcat role would be an ideal mix with and complement to the excellent wide receiver corps. Gore is already taking direct snaps and Robinson is a former QB who can pass and run the option. These two featured in such a way provide versatility and defensive problems for other teams expecting to face a smash mouth offense.

I was dismayed at Jimmy Raye's play calling until they replaced Hill with Smith and changed the offensive philosophy. It then became very apparent to me that Jimmy knows what he is doing and was only keeping the offense as vanilla as yogurt to please his boss. The 49er offense in the second half vs. Houston reminded me of the Niners of old, who would move up and down the field at will with sharp, crisp passing.

There is one more change Singletary must implement now. There is a kid sitting on the bench in Nate Davis, who has shown in what little time he was able to get on the field, the exact talents needed to run a successful spread offense. He has a rocket arm, yet has demonstrated the ability to take something off his passes. He has poise and confidence and may well be the future star at QB for the Niners. The team had no fear in getting the rookie Crabtree on to the field right away. Give Nate an equal opportunity.

When Joe Montana was a rookie, Bill Walsh sat him for awhile, then he started inserting him in games with specific plays in mind designed to achieve success. Bill did this to build his confidence and prepare him for the next season when he knew he would be the starter. Alex Smith may well be the man to play the role of Steve DeBerg, who was a top passer but lacked the ability to pull off the big win. Alex deserves his chance now, but Singletary needs to prepare for the inevitable and elevate Nate Davis to #2 QB.

OK, Mike. The ball is in your court. You still have a smash mouth defense. It's time to show your gentle side, Mike, and instead of running over your opponents, just slice and dice them. Do you have the Power to Change, Mike? The whole world is watching!

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Michael Robinson to Return Kickoffs vs. Houston

2009-10-24T14:49:00.000-07:00

Last week it was Delanie Walker. Then, the Chronicle reported that Glen Coffee would be the man. Now, Matt Maiocco reports that it will be Michael Robinson as the kickoff returner with Coffee the upback. Good luck, Michael.

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Singletary Faces Major Turning Point

2009-10-12T05:39:00.000-07:00

After being just two seconds away from an undefeated 4-0 start, the 49ers came crashing to earth on Sunday as the Atlanta Falcons humiliated them 45-10 at Candlestick Park. For the first time this season, we were able to see what an outstanding job Mike Singletary has done to date with a team whose weaknesses were exposed for all to see.

Now facing a bye week ahead, and with the prospect of both the Arizona Cardinals and Seattle Seahawks returning to form, Mike Singletary is faced with some major decisions. On the defensive side of the ball, the 49ers are sound and talented. Manny Lawson has been inconsistent, and the secondary has had its good and bad moments, but the unit as a whole is among the league's upper echelon. Patrick Willis and Takeo Spikes have been sensational, and Justin Smith and Isaac Sopoaga have been staunch against the run.

Aubrayo Franklin, after an excellent start to the season, had a terrible game yesterday, and Dre Bly should be cut. His hot dog performance and insistence that "Dre does what Dre does", proves that he is an individual playing on a team and there is no room for that kind of childish behavior on a winning TEAM, With just a few adjustments, the defense will remain solid.

THE TEAM UNDER REVIEW

The fly in the ointment for the 49ers is the offense. That they have been able to go 3-2 with Jimmy Raye's plain vanilla offense is remarkable, but it's time to play PROFESSIONAL football and this offensive scheme may be fine for a Pop Warner league team lacking a good QB, but it has no place in the NFL.

Let's pick the offense apart. First, the offensive line is just that -- offensive. To say that Shaun Hill has little or no time to pass is an understatement. Eric Heitmann and Joe Staley have been adequate, but the guard play of David Baas and Chilo Rachal has been very disappointing. Right tackle has been inconsistent with Snyder and Pashos both having mediocre performances. Elevating Alex Boone from the practice squad may be a good move as he will be a future starter and needs to get some reps.

At wide receiver, it is obvious that the Niners lack a breakaway man like they faced in Roddy White of Atlanta. Josh Morgan has disappointed, not only because he dropped a certain TD pass vs. the Rams, then made the excuse that the ball was "coming down like a punt", but because yesterday he was not running full out in an attempt to catch a pass. Anything less than 100% effort is unacceptable.

Brandon Jones has yet to set foot on the field and Jason Hill is apparently in somebody's doghouse but gives great effort on special teams and is, in my estimation, the best wide receiver we have active at this time. Arnaz Battle has never been great, and Isaac Bruce is ready for Social Security and shows it. The best receivers right now are the Tight Ends, Vernon Davis and Delanie Walker.

THE FORK IN THE ROAD -- SINGLETARY'S MOMENT OF DECISION

As someone who shares a birthdate with Singletary, I have insight into his thought processes. He's a Libra to whom balance is essential in life. Mike can see both sides of a situation and is motivated by fairness and discipline. His decisions are always made with the best interest of his team in mind and he will make sacrifices to see that his goals are met.

Now the 49ers are at a fork in the road. They are moving in the right direction with the Playoffs and eventually the Super Bowl as the goal. Yesterday's blowout exposed the weaknesses, and unfortunately, the biggest weakness is at QB. I love Shaun Hill. He is a leader, determined, and excellent game manager, and tough. However, he does not possess the passing skills to take an NFL team to a title. That fact became obvious to me yesterday for the first time. I wanted him to succeed badly, but he just doesn't have "it", and "it" is what is needed at the position to take the Niners to the next level. Continuing with Hill as our starting QB is only delaying the development of this team.

Mike is now faced with a dilemma. Shaun Hill is a serviceable quarterback, an excellent game manager, a fairly accurate passer with a soft arm, and a leader. Alex Smith came to the 49ers with great physical ability but no natural instincts for the position. Alex continues to take way too long to set up and deliver the ball. He makes very slow decisions which results in a very slow delivery. His passing is scattershot at best and while he has a strong arm, he is and continues to be very inaccurate. The game has never slowed down for Alex. He will NEVER be a top quarterback for the 49ers.

THE CRABTREE CONNECTION

As we enter the Bye week, the future of our receiving corps has come to camp. Michael Crabtree, if he is anywhere near as good as expected, will bring the excitement and explosiveness to the receiving corps that is needed. With Jones returning from injury and Jason Hill and Morgan ready to go, and with the return of Frank Gore, this offense should be ready to reduce the vanilla bean running scheme and go to the air with effectiveness.

Enter Nate Davis. In two preseason games he has demonstrated a rocket arm, and makes plays that the other two guys simply cannot; he is mobile and can make throws on the run the others cannot, and he makes excellent decisions. I don't care that he has only faced backups -- his ability is right there for all to see.

Most important of all is his poise. In four years, Alex Smith has continually shown that deer-in-the-headlights quality that frustrates 49er fans. Many blame his failure to excel at QB on the 49ers. They say he has been ruined by them due to having too many offensive coordinators, a poor supporting cast, etc. I say that is baloney (bologna to my Italian readers). In reading the forums and comments of many of the newer and younger 49er fans who don't even have a clue as to our winning tradition, beg and plead not to rush Davis into the fray and ruin him like we did Alex. I read comments saying he's our QB for 2010, 2011, and even 2012.

Why wait? Do the names Flacco, Ryan or Roethlisberger ring a bell? All were highly successful in their rookie season.

If I were Mike Singletary, I would get Nate Davis and Michael Crabtree together and have them start working on their chemistry right now during the bye week. They are the touchdown combination of the future for the 49ers and it makes no sense to finish this season with either Hill or Smith since neither is the future of the 49ers.

I am now in my 64th season as a 49er fan, having seen every quarterback in Niner history from the great Frankie Albert up to not so great Alex Smith, and consider myself to be a pretty good judge of quarterbacking talent. Nate Davis possesses the most talent and ability to be seen in a 49er quarterback since Steve Young. It makes no sense to hold him back. The only way he is going to develop that talent is to PLAY. We discovered a gem, let's polish it and put it on display. It is time!

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Get Used to It

2009-10-06T17:24:00.000-07:00

Here is what's coming at wide receiver:

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Samoan Tragedy

2009-10-01T20:00:00.000-07:00

A Sad Story Out of Miami

Dolphins DT Paul Soliai lost 12 relatives in the recent tragedy in American Somoa. In times like this we all need to take a step back and realize football is just a game. My prayers go out to all those who lost loved one in the recent events in Indonesia and American Somoa. Our prayers are with them.

It has also come to our attention that Isaac Sopoaga has not been able to contact his family. Our best wishes for Ice and the welfare of his family.

What are they thinking?

2009-09-29T20:15:00.000-07:00

Michael Robinson Makes Clutch 4th Quarter Catch vs. Redskins

That has been the theme on several 49er forums when it was pointed out that Mike Singletary will stick with just two RBs and keep Kory Sheets on the practice squad. Many pointed out his speed and ability to get to the corner as something that is needed to balance the power running that this team likes to feature. Some even say that Sheets should be #2 ahead of Michael Robinson.

Unfortunately, many of these fans are thinking with their hearts and not their heads. Sheets is an excellent pure runner, no question. But, he is a liability as a blocker and that puts Shaun Hill in danger. That is not worth the ristk

Michael Robinson, however, is known as a punishing blocker and is very good in close in one-on-one situations. Just ask Patrick Willis, who found out the hard way when he faced Robinson one on one in Singletary's famous Nutcracker drill. Robinson can also play #2 FB, and is a great receiver out of the backfield. Lest we forget, the second half of last season, Hill and Robinson connected on 17 passes for 201 yards and an average per catch of 11.9 yards. Here is a 36 yard completion against the Rams: CLICK HERE.

That was good enough to be #3 in the NFL among all RBs with ten (10) or more catches. Sheets can't do that. This doesn't even take Robinson's proven leadership qualities as a team captain and star on special teams.

People also underestimate Robinson's ability as a runner. This season he has worked closely with Tom Rathman, and at 225, he is more like the old-time fullback. CLICK HERE to see him gain 97 yards in just 14 carries vs. the Raiders in preseason.

One more important factor is that Michael Robinson has great hands. Not only is he an outstanding receiver out of the backfield, but he has lost only one fumble in his career, and is very dependable in the clutch.

One more consideration. In order to activate Sheets, Singletary would have to cut one player. Forums are screaming for Mark Roman's head, but let's not make him the fall guy. He has played extremely well in these three games and is an outstanding man for the dime package. Lewis made a great catch. Had we been a bit more creative, we may have run the clock out with under 2:00 and the pass would never have been attempted.

Let's accept the loss and move on. The Rams are waiting...

Moral Victories Suck...

2009-09-28T06:10:00.000-07:00

Frank Gore Sidelined

Yesterday, the San Francisco 49ers missed out on an opportunity to go 3-0 after a powerful defensive performance against Brett Favre and Adrian Peterson went for naught on a desperation Hail Mary pass with two seconds to go. It should have never gone that far. With under 2:00 minutes remaining on the clock, the Niners shut down the Vikings and took over possession.

Unfortunately, Jimmy Raye choked and called three running plays in a row, allowing enough time for the Vikings to get the ball again and end the 49er hopes. How much does Shaun Hill have to do for the OC to trust him? He could just as easily installed Michael Robinson, his best pass receiver out of the backfield, to catch a swing pass or a fullback delay -- ANYTHING, but three straight runs!

THOUGHTS:

~ Vernon Davis officially became a star today with his tremendous pass catching and great blocking;

~ Kudos to the front three on the defensive line of Isaac Sopoaga, Aubrayo Franklin and Justin Smith. Opponents are not going to enjoy trying to run the ball against this group;

~ It's time to get Jason Hill out of the doghouse and back onto the field. The 49ers can use his ability to step up late in games when needed;

~ I don't know about anyone else, but it was obvious to me (and my wife) that Frank Gore was limping BEFORE the game. He is suffering from a high ankle sprain, which is a nasty form of ankle injury that lingers a lot longer than the predicted two weeks they say he will be out;

~ It's time to activate Kory Sheets and add some speed and the ability to get outside to the running game. Sheets is a liability as a blocker so he'll have to be used tactfully;

~ It's also time to use some of Michael Robinson's athletic ability. Now in his fourth season, he has thrown ZERO passes, and has not been allowed to run the option. Come on guys, this kid is talented. Mix it up a bit. Vanilla is too bland.

Gary Mialocq
The SF 49er Observer

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

The First Big Test for 49ers

2009-09-24T11:15:00.000-07:00

photo: Michael Maloney, SF Chronicle

San Francisco 49ers (2-0) vs. Minnesota Vikings (2-0)

This Sunday, the 49ers face their first opportunity to prove to the doubters that THIS TEAM is for real. Winning five of the last seven games last season despite a 7-step crazed Offensive Coordinator was no small feat. Mike Singletary is no ordinary coach, however.

For those of us who watched him play his entire career for the Bears, and who were privileged enough to see a true master of his craft at work, this was not at all surprising. Mike Singletary worked harder and demonstrated more determination than any player I have ever seen, and I've seen a lot including Jim Brown and Jerry Rice, two others who rank with Singletary in this category. It is their incredible powers of the mind, their ability to will things to happen in their favor, much like Tiger Woods in golf, that set them apart.

The Niners are 2-0, and it has been a pleasure to watch Singletary's mental brilliance as he deals with a variety of situations. He has everyone convinced that the Niners are three runs and a cloud of dust... He is so honest that everyone, especially the media, believes him. He WANTS the 49ers to be known as a running team. He wants the rest of the league to believe that Shaun Hill is barely able to throw a ball and that passing is an afterthought at best, something the Niners do only in desperation.

Poor Shaun is the most underrated and maligned QB in the NFL -- by far. No matter how well he performs or how much he wins, people have been conned into believing he has no arm strength (Noodle Arm is the nickname of choice) but he has heart. He has heart AND plenty of arm strength. Against the Cards, Hill lofted a beautiful 50-yard pass to Isaac Bruce, right on the money.

What is the truth? Is he a QB that Singletary keeps in the closet because he is inept, or is it because Singletary KNOWS he has a winner -- a guy with character and heart. Hill has a Won/Loss record of 9-3 (6-0 at home).

Last season, Hill finished 12th in the NFL with an excellent passer rating of 87.5, ahead of QBs like Eli Manning, McNabb, Cutler, Edwards, Delhomme, Campbell, Garrard, Favre, Flacco, Collins and Roethlisberger, among others. Passer rating measures efficiency.

In just over half a season, Hill threw 64.2% of his passes for over 2,000 yards, an average of 227 yards per game. He threw 13 TD passes with 8 interceptions. That would translate to over 3,600 yards for a full season. Pretty good for a Noodle Arm.

When the 49ers ran into trouble against Arizona (ran might be an exaggeration), Hill stepped right up and led the Niners on a 15 play TD drive, throwing 12 times and doing a great impersonation of a QB who knows what's up.

Someone posted this comparison on a forum that, although Hill has only started 12 games, gives some insight as to the level of his performance thus far. This will raise some eyebrows:

Accuracy
1. Steve Young 64.3 comp %
2. Shaun Hill 64.2 comp %
3. Joe Montana 63.2 comp %
4. Jeff Garcia 61.6 comp %

Highest TD ratio
1. Steve Young 1 TD every 15.1 attempts
2. Joe Montana 1 TD every 19.0 attempts
3. Shaun Hill 1 TD every 19.3 attempts
4. Jeff Garcia 1 TD every 19.7 attempts

Lowest INT ratio
1. Shaun Hill 1 INT every 47.1 attempts
2. Jeff Garcia 1 INT every 44.3 attempts
3. Joe Montana 1 INT every 38.8 attempts
4. Steve Young 1 INT every 38.8 attempts

QB Rating
1. Steve Young 96.8 QB Rating
2. Joe Montana 92.3 QB Rating
3. Shaun Hill 90.1 QB Rating
4. Jeff Garcia 87.5 QB Rating

Keep making the world believe that Hill can barely walk or think as long as you can, Mike. I know how you think. I, too, was born on October 9.

No matter how you slice it, Shaun Hill has performed at a winning level as a 49er quarterback. The first two games of this season he has a passer rating of 87.9, has passed for 353 yards with a TD and NO interceptions. Most impressive is his toughness and determination. He's a no-nonsense guy who doesn't care about the limelight -- the perfect team player. He just wants to win. Reminds me of an old Bears linebacker.

photo: Lacy Atkins, SF Chronicle

Copyright @ 2009
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A Comment on the Wildcat

2009-09-22T15:28:00.001-07:00

Michael Robinson

A Wildcat is something that strikes quickly and slashes away. The way the 49er "Wildcat" has been run thus far, it definitely is no wildcat and hasn't earned the name "TASER".

I am entirely patient with Jimmy Raye's vanilla play calling and understand the reasoning behind it although I'd love to see Hill given more opportunities to throw the ball. However, when he puts the Wildcat to use what is he thinking? Singletary was quoted a couple of weeks ago as saying that Michael Robinson was the best at running the wildcat. Had Robinson and not Spurlock been playing last Sunday, that pass would most likely have been complete. Robinson not only played QB his senior year at Penn State but he won the Big 10 Offensive Player of the Year Award and threw 17 TD passes while running for 8 more.

The Wildcat will not work UNLESS you have someone running it who can pass. The threat of the pass makes it that much more useful and that much more of a threat to the defense. Robinson is a proven passer.

Come on, Uncle Festus, re-think your "Taser" and this time LOAD IT!

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Video Recap of 49er Victory over Seattle

2009-09-22T05:50:00.000-07:00

The 49ers opened their 2009 season at the Stick with an impressive 23-10 win over Seattle's walking wounded. Camp Singletary appears to have been a huge success as the Niners outhit and physically dominated the Seahawks. For the second week in a row this team came out of the game virtually injury free while Seahawk players were scattered over the field like confetti.

Matt Maiocco of the Santa Rosa Press Democrat has started a new weekly feature for this season -- a video recap of each game. We will present them to you each week.

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Hill Happy with Opening Day Win

2009-09-19T06:34:00.000-07:00

Jim Rome sits down with 49ers QB Shaun Hill to discuss the Niners' great opening day road upset of the Arizona Cardinals. Hill led the 49ers on a late 4th quarter 80-yard drive to cement the victory.

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2009 San Francisco 49er Roster

2009-09-12T07:08:00.000-07:00

#	NAME	POS.	HT.	WT.	DOB	YRS.	COLLEGE
4	Lee, Andy	P	6-0	178	08/11/1982	6	Pittsburgh
6	Nedney, Joe	K	6-5	234	03/22/1973	14	San Jose State
7	Davis, Nate	QB	6-2	217	05/25/1987	0	Ball State
11	Smith, Alex	QB	6-4	217	05/07/1984	4	Utah
13	Hill, Shaun	QB	6-3	220	01/09/1980	8	Maryland
15	Crabtree, Michael	WR	6-1	214	09/14/1987	0	Texas Tech
18	Spurlock, Micheal	WR	5-10	214	01/31/1983	2	Mississippi
20	Rossum, Allen	DB	5-8	178	10/22/1975	12	Notre Dame
21	Gore, Frank	RB	5-9	217	05/14/1983	5	Miami (Fla.)
22	Clements, Nate	DB	6-0	205	12/12/1979	9	Ohio State
23	Hudson, Marcus	DB	6-2	200	11/15/1982	4	North Carolina State
24	Robinson, Michael	RB	6-1	223	02/06/1983	4	Penn State
25	Brown, Tarell	DB	5-10	193	01/06/1985	3	Texas
26	Roman, Mark	DB	5-11	205	03/26/1977	10	Louisiana State
28	Taylor, Curtis	DB	6-2	208	07/13/1985	0	Louisiana State
29	Coffee, Glen	RB	6-0	209	05/01/1987	0	Alabama
30	Smith, Reggie	DB	6-1	200	09/13/1986	2	Oklahoma
31	Bly, Dre'	DB	5-10	188	05/22/1977	11	North Carolina
32	Lewis, Michael	DB	6-1	222	04/29/1980	8	Colorado
36	Spencer, Shawntae	DB	6-1	190	02/22/1982	6	Pittsburgh
38	Goldson, Dashon	DB	6-2	200	09/18/1984	3	Washington
44	Norris, Moran	RB	6-1	250	06/16/1978	9	Kansas
46	Walker, Delanie	TE	6-0	242	08/12/1984	4	Central Missouri
51	Spikes, Takeo	LB	6-2	242	12/17/1976	12	Auburn
52	Willis, Patrick	LB	6-1	240	01/25/1985	3	Mississippi
53	Ulbrich, Jeff	LB	6-0	240	02/17/1977	10	Hawaii
54	Harris, Marques	LB	6-1	245	09/20/1981	5	Southern Utah
55	Brooks, Ahmad	LB	6-3	259	03/14/1984	4	Virginia
56	McKillop, Scott	LB	6-1	243	03/04/1986	0	Pittsburgh
59	Wallace, Cody	C	6-4	300	11/26/1984	2	Texas A&M
62	Rachal, Chilo	OG	6-4	315	03/15/1986	2	USC
64	Baas, David	G	6-4	330	09/28/1981	5	Michigan
65	Sims, Barry	T	6-5	300	12/01/1974	11	Utah
66	Heitmann, Eric	C	6-3	312	02/24/1980	8	Stanford
68	Snyder, Adam	T	6-6	325	01/30/1982	5	Oregon
69	Wragge, Tony	G	6-4	310	08/14/1979	5	New Mexico State
74	Staley, Joe	OT	6-5	315	08/30/1984	3	Central Michigan
77	Pashos, Tony	T	6-6	326	08/03/1980	7	Illinois
81	Jones, Brandon	WR	6-1	212	10/06/1982	5	Oklahoma
83	Battle, Arnaz	WR	6-1	208	02/22/1980	7	Notre Dame
84	Morgan, Josh	WR	6-0	219	06/20/1985	2	Virginia Tech
85	Davis, Vernon	TE	6-3	250	01/31/1984	4	Maryland
86	Jennings, Brian	LS	6-5	242	10/14/1976	10	Arizona State
88	Bruce, Isaac	WR	6-0	188	11/10/1972	16	Memphis
89	Hill, Jason	WR	6-0	202	02/20/1985	3	Washington State
90	Sopoaga, Isaac	DL	6-2	330	09/04/1981	6	Hawaii
91	McDonald, Ray	DE	6-3	290	09/02/1984	3	Florida
92	Franklin, Aubrayo	DT	6-1	317	08/27/1980	7	Tennessee
93	Evans, Demetric	DE	6-4	275	09/03/1979	8	Georgia
94	Smith, Justin	DE	6-4	285	09/30/1979	9	Missouri
95	Jean Francois, Ricky	DE	6-3	295	11/23/1986	0	Louisiana State
96	Balmer, Kentwan	DE	6-5	315	10/15/1986	2	North Carolina
98	Haralson, Parys	LB	6-0	255	01/24/1984	4	Tennessee
99	Lawson, Manny	LB	6-5	240	07/03/1984	4	North Carolina State

49ers Sign Jags Tackle Tony Pashos

2009-09-07T07:49:00.000-07:00

Tony Pashos is a 6'6". 326 lb. tackle who started every game the past two seasons for the Jacksonville Jaguars. He is a fine run blocker and an adequate pass protector, and should be the final piece of the puzzle for Mike Singletary's offensive line. He was signed today to a 1-year contract.

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Niner Cuts

2009-09-06T09:58:00.000-07:00

OT Jacob Bender cut; OT Alex Boone cut; WR Dobson Collins cut; DE Pannel Egboh cut; TE J.J. Finley cut; OT Kyle Howard cut; CB Terrail Lambert cut; FB Brit Miller cut; DT Khalif Mitchell cut; LB Jay Moore cut; TE Bear Pascoe cut; WR Maurice Price cut; FB Bill Rentmeester cut; LB Justin Roland cut; RB Kory Sheets cut; C Matt Spanos cut; OT Joe Toledo cut; LB Mark Washington cut; WR Dominique Zeigler cut; CB Eric Green cut

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Niners Announce 53 Players for 2009

2009-09-05T21:33:00.000-07:00

Quarterbacks (3)

Shaun Hill
Alex Smith
Nate Davis

Running backs (4)

Frank Gore
Moran Norris
Michael Robinson
Glen Coffee

Receivers (6)

Isaac Bruce
Josh Morgan
Arnaz Battle
Jason Hill
Micheal Spurlock
Brandon Jones

Tight ends (2)

Vernon Davis
Delanie Walker

Offensive line (8)

Joe Staley
David Baas
Eric Heitmann
Chilo Rachal
Adam Snyder
Tony Wragge
Barry Sims
Cody Wallace

Defensive linemen (7)

Isaac Sopoaga
Aubrayo Franklin
Justin Smith
Kentwan Balmer
Demetric Evans
Ray McDonald
Ricky Jean-Francois.

Linebackers (9)

Patrick Willis
Manny Lawson
Takeo Spikes
Parys Haralson
Jeff Ulbrich
Ahmad Brooks
Scott McKillop
Marques Harris
Diyral Briggs

Cornerbacks (5)

Nate Clements
Dre’ Bly
Tarell Brown
Shawntae Spencer
Marcus Hudson

Safeties (5)
Michael Lewis
Dashon Goldson
Mark Roman
Reggie Smith
Curtis Taylor

Specialists

K Joe Nedney
P Andy Lee
LS Brian Jennings
KR/ PR Allen Rossum

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Nate Davis: The Next Great 49er Quarterback

2009-08-30T08:39:00.000-07:00

Nate Davis - #7

The Next Great San Francisco 49er QB

I love Mike Singletary. He is the perfect man for the job of returning the San Francisco 49ers to their former greatness. I especially feel close to the man, quite possibly because we share the same birthdate -- October 9. That makes Mike a Libra, a man dedicated to fairness, able to see both sides of the question, and a man to whom "balance" is a key word in any equation.

Mike is now faced with a dilemma. Shaun Hill is a serviceable quarterback, an excellent game manager, a fairly accurate passer with a soft arm, and a leader. Alex Smith came to the 49ers with great physical ability but no natural instincts for the position. Alex continues to take way too long to set up and deliver the ball. He makes very slow decisions which results in a very slow delivery. His passing is scattershot at best and while he has a strong arm, he is and continues to be very inaccurate. The game has never slowed down for Alex. He will NEVER be a reliable quarterback for the 49ers.

Enter Nate Davis. In two games he has demonstrated that he has a rocket arm and makes plays that the other two guys simply cannot; he is mobile and can make throws on the run the others cannot, and he makes excellent decisions. I don't care that he has only faced backups -- his ability is right there for all to see.

Most important of all is his poise. In four years, Alex Smith has continually shown that deer-in-the-headlights quality that frustrates 49er fans. Many blame his failure to excel at QB on the 49ers. They say he has been ruined by them due to having too many offensive coordinators, a poor supporting cast, etc. I say that is baloney (bologna to my Italian readers). In reading the forums and comments of many of the newer and younger 49er fans who don't even have a clue as to our winning tradition, beg and plead not to rush Davis into the fray. I read comments saying he's our QB for 2010, 2011, and even 2012.

Come on 49er fans, where is your mojo? Just because Alex Smith fell flat on his face doesn't mean that every rookie QB is incapable of starting in their first season. I think back to the greatest 49er team of all, the 1984 squad that went 18-1, the only loss being on a terrible pass interference call on Eric Wright that gave a game to the Steelers. That squad faced a young 2nd year QB, playing his first full season as a starter -- Dan Marino. The year before in his rookie season he had started only 9 games, yet threw for 20 TDs and 2210 yards. In his first full season in 1984, he threw for 5,084 yards and 48 TDs. I remember another rookie QB, Ben Roethlisberger, who had a very successful rookie season.

There is one inescapable fact. If a player is great, he can overcome just about all obstacles. Nate Davis is dyslexic, but hasn't let that stop him. In my opinion, nothing will stop this kid from greatness. Mike Singletary made one very telling observation -- that Nate was "too composed", "too calm". That quality is the hallmark of great quarterbacks.

I am now in my 64th season as a 49er fan, having seen every quarterback in Niner history from the great Frankie Albert up to the present and consider myself to be a pretty good judge of quarterbacking talent. Nate Davis possesses the most talent and ability to be seen in a 49er quarterback since Steve Young. It makes no sense to hold him back. We discovered a gem, let's polish it and put it on display.

Attention Mike Singletary -- are you listening???

Copyright @ 2009
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Smith Sandwich Leaves Bad Aftertaste

2009-08-16T06:10:00.000-07:00

Shaun Hill, 49er Quarterback

Between the solid play of Shaun Hill, who played ten (10) plays, completing 2 for 2 for 41 yards, both to TE Vernon Davis, and scrambled for nine yards showing poise and leadership, and the 7 for 9 passing for 98 yards and a TD by solid veteran QB Damon Huard, came the meat of the sandwich, Alex Smith. I was very hopeful that the reports out of camp were true and that Alex was really making strides. Unfortunately, that was before he took the field when the 49ers opened the 2009 season with a preseason victory over the Denver Broncos.

It has always been true that he possesses a strong arm, however, against Denver he showed the same lack of poise and confidence that has hung over his head his entire pro career. Alex takes too long to make decisions, way too long -- whether it is making up his mind to to pass, to whom to pass, or when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em. He simply makes slow decisions. His amateurish attempted jump pass to Glenn Coffee was a perfect example. To say I was thoroughly disappointed in his performance is an understatement. This guy with all the physical talent in the world, simply lacks the natural instincts for the position. It's a conclusion that is inescapable. When Alex first came to the 49ers, Jerry Rice took a long look at him and said, "He is not the answer". Jerry was right.

Yes it is true that Smith has had all kinds of disadvantages -- multiple offensive coordinators, a lack of talent at the wide receiver position until this season, injuries, etc. However, each time he takes the field the same problems exists. His college coach hit the nail on the head when he said that the only way Alex learns the position is to repeat things over and over again. That is an admission that the position is not instinctual, and that he simply lacks the natural instincts so necessary for success. Natural instincts cannot be taught. You either have them or you don't. Unfortunately, Alex doesn't.

It was very clear that Shaun Hill has the poise and game management skills that Alex so sorely lacks. Mike Singletary's decision is really not a hard one. Shaun Hill will be the 49er QB for 2009. "He's great at managing the game," Singletary said of Hill Friday night. "You know he can manage a game, but he can also throw the ball downfield. … How consistent, and on what basis? That's something we still have to look at, but we pretty much know what's there."

Why 49er Fans Should be Optimistic

2009-08-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

I read all the negative posts on various forums, the attacks by one fan on another over who is the better QB, etc. The fact is that the odds are WAY in your favor for the 49ers to have a .500 season or better. Let's take a look:

1940's = 4 out of 4 seasons over .500 = 100%

1950's = 6 seasons over .500, 1 at .500 = 70%

1960's = 4 seasons over .500, 2 at .500 = 60%

1970;s = 4 seasons over .500 = 40%

1980's = 8 seasons over .500 = 80%

1990's = 9 seasons over .500 = 90%

2000's = 2 seasons over .500 = 22%

That's 37 seasons over .500, 5 seasons at .500 out of 63 years.

Your odds of a .500 season or better are 67%! Be positive. You'll feel better. Anyone who says they are Niner fans and bets against these odds should question their loyalty or sanity.

Go Niners, no matter who plays QB.

Two Defenders Stand Out in First Day of Niner Camp

2009-08-02T05:30:00.000-07:00

As Mike Singletary's 49ers took the field for the first time in the 2009 season, as expected the defense was ahead of the offense and two men in particular made their presence immediately known. Both of these guys are expected to step up this season in order for this defense to be top rated.

DASHON GOLDSON #38

The first was safety Dashon Goldson who is replacing Mark Roman as the starter. Goldson is a 6'2" 200 lb. athletic performer who intercepted the first pass of the day, made a great hit on the next play, and then almost intercepted the third pass but the ball fell to the ground as he collided with the receiver. Goldson's athleticism could not be missed and it is no wonder that Mike Singletary named him his starter before the season.

Isaac Sopoaga

The other player to really stand out was defensive lineman Isaac Sopoaga, the 6'2" 330 lb. Samoan giant who has steadily improved each season since becoming a 49er and whose presence on the defensive line last season was instrumental in their improvement against the run. Yesterday, Sopoaga regularly commanded a double team while playing at NT, batted down a pass, and gave center Eric Heitmann and guard David Baas all they could handle. He had penetration and put lots of pressure on the QB. The massive Sopoaga appears to have developed into the potential star the Niners have always hoped he would become. Defensive linemen develop more slowly than any other position in the NFL and the patience of 49er management may well be rewarded this season. The 28-year old Sopoaga is just coming into his prime and could be a huge force in the middle this season.

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Singletary Introduces the Nutcracker

2009-08-01T15:22:00.000-07:00

Tough Jack-of-All-Trades Michael Robinson #24

From Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee: Proving that truth is indeed more interesting than fiction, Mike Singletary's first ever training camp practice this morning was highlighted by a hard-hitting drill he calls ... wait for it, wait for it ... the nutcracker. Yes, it's true. The drill consisted of seven stations at which one offensive player went up against one defensive player in an effort to see who could push the other man back.

Singletary said the nutcracker is superior to the more traditional Oklahoma drill because in the Oklahoma, a defensive player can move around the offensive player. In the nutcracker, there's no way to avoid contact. Said Vernon Davis: "It's like blocking a defensive end or a tackle - you have to engage." The nutcracker requires legs, leverage -- and most important, according to Singletary - fundamentals. The team that has the best fundamentals at the end of the game, wins the game. So what were the highlights of the first Niners nutcracker? Everyone participated save the QBs, kicking specialists and OT Marvel Smith, who is taking it easy on his back.

The players were matched up against opponents their own size. It was hard to follow all the action, but this is what I saw ...

* Michael Robinson seemed to get the better of Patrick Willis in their matchups. Willis' strength, after all, is moving in space and utilizing his speed.

* Fullback Brit Miller actually held his own against Takeo Spikes, a surprise. Willis also gave Miller a shoutout when talking about the drill with reporters.

* Delanie Walker beat Ahmad Brooks on the first go around, but Brooks looked better toward the end. That's a matchup Brooks needs to win.

* Big Bad Alex Boone (BBAB) put Pannel Egboh on his back, but later Demetric Evans did the same to Boone.

* Rookie Bear Pascoe roundly defeated Jay Moore.

* Vernon Davis said he beat Parys Haralson three times out of four.

And so the first full season under Mike Singletary begins...

Copyright @ 2009
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A Game of Inches

2009-08-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

Before we start our 2009 analysis of the defense and go full-bore into football, we all know that luck is an important part of any game. Football is often a game of inches so with that in mind, we salute professional golfer Leif Olson who apparently learned that lesson very well. Here is Leif at the Canadian open:

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The Time Has Come!

2009-07-25T15:37:00.001-07:00

49er Football is Back!

Head Coach Mike Singletary

Last season 49er fans listened to all the hype. The 49ers were going to come back and take the NFC West. Unfortunately, Mike Nolan was still at the controls. Like his dad, former 49er coach Dick Nolan, he was a defensive specialist, and also like his dad, he was a stubborn and unbending man. He played defense not to lose, with a very conservative loose scheme that resulted in few sacks and little pressure on the opposing offense.

Offensively, Mike Nolan just didn't get it. He inevitably made the wrong call in crucial situations, and even relied upon guard Larry Allen in a game the previous season, to determine whether or not to kick a field goal in a crucial situation at game's end. Mike just didn't have it and everyone knew it.

At the same time, the offense relied upon a relic, Mike Martz. a man who stubbornly relied upon the 7-step drop, no matter how often his quarterback was sacked. In the fourth quarter of most games Martz rarely called a running play. His rigid system didn't allow for the quarterback to call audibles. Then, in one bonehead moment, the 49ers had a chance to derail the Arizona Cardinals on Monday Night Football. With time running out, Martz called for Michael Robinson to run a dive play that is only designed to gain a yard. Unfortunately, the ball had been placed at the 2 1/2 yard line. Robinson gained the yard as the play was designed, but it was Martz' not knowing where the ball was, plus his system which didn't allow for Shaun Hill to call an audible, and that was the season. Despite having to deal with Martz and J.T. O'Sullivan, Singletary was able to finish the season with a 5-4 record.

Jimmy Raye is an upgrade over Martz. He develops his offense around the talents of his players, and features a power running game between the tackles and quick slant and play action passes.

COACHING: Big improvement.

QUARTERBACK

Much has been made about the competition between Shaun Hill and Alex Smith for the starting quarterback position. Unless Hill takes a complete nosedive, the job will be his to start the season. Singletary can thank Hill for saving his job last season. Shaun came aboard and played with poise and toughness and his dive for a first down without his helmet in a crucial game will leave pleasant memories in the minds of Niner fans for a long time.

The only sensible move is to start Shaun Hill this season. He has earned it and it will take unnecessary pressure off of Alex Smith, who needs to sit and watch a quarterback with game management skills, quick decision making ability, and poise and coolness in the pocket. To throw him out there at the start and have him flop may well be the end of Alex Smith in San Francisco. Instead, giving him time to learn the new system and watch would be the best move Singletary can make.

Backup Damon Huard is a proven veteran who could easily step into the #2 spot without hesitation. He has a strong, accurate arm and plenty of experience. Rookie Nate Davis is a guy with a whole lot of potential and little in the way of experience. He is a project and perhaps a worthwhile one. The Niners will have to make a decision as to whether they want to keep four (4) quarterbacks.

Compared to last season, we have lost O'Sullivan and added an experienced backup. In addition, we now have a more experienced and confident Shaun Hill, and an Alex Smith with far greater upside potential than the kid with the damaged shoulder of 2008. Add Nate Davis to the mix.

QUARTERBACK: Big Improvement

WIDE RECEIVER

Last season we had Isaac Bruce, Bryant Johnson, and inexperienced wideouts in Josh Morgan and Jason Hill, as well as the injured Arnaz Battle and newcomer, pencil-thin Dominique Zeigler. This season we have Bruce returning as well as Morgan and Hill back, both of whom could have breakout seasons. We have Brandon Jones, a solid receiver with strong hands from the Tennessee Titans, Zeigler and Battle return to battle for the #6 receiver position, and we have the dynamic and explosive Michael Crabtree from Texas Tech, who the Niners unexpectedly snagged at the #10 pick in this year's draft. Here's a video that says it all:

Wide Receiver: Huge Improvement

TIGHT END

Vernon Davis is looking forward to working with the Offensive Coordinator who developed Tony Gonzales. Unlike Mike Martz, who considered the tight end an afterthought as a receiver, Jimmy Raye features passes to his tight end and may occasionally go to a two-TE formation. This should please the dangerous Delanie Walker and huge rookie, Bear Pascoe from Fresno State. The Niners also have tough JJ Finley, who unfortunately has no room on this deep roster.

Tight End: Big improvement.

RUNNING BACKS & FULLBACK

Starting with fullback, the fact that Mike Martz didn't even want Moran Norris and now he's back at the request of Frank Gore in a Jimmy Raye power running offense speaks volumes about the positive direction in which this team is headed. Singletary and Raye have a plan and getting the best at each position is a good way to start. Norris is a great run blocker and may be backed up by Zak Keasey, depending upon whether the 49ers decide to keep four (4) or five (5) backs.

At the halfback position, Frank Gore is ready for bear and has a new backup to replace Deshaun Foster in Glenn Coffee, a rather small but tough back out of Alabama. Coffee is a hard runner who must overcome his tendency to fumble. The third running back spot will be held by Michael Robinson, a talented back who was horribly mismanaged under Mike Nolan. He has never been given an opportunity to learn the position and has had very few touches from scrimmage. However, last season Singletary found a way to use him as a receiver out of the backfield. Michael responded with 17 catches for 201 yards, and an 11.9 average per catch which ranked #3 in the NFL among RBs with 15 catches or more.

Robinson's value to the team is illustrated not only in his outstanding special teams play, but by the fact that the 49ers have the luxury of counting MRob as the #3 RB and #2 FB, thereby allowing the team to carry either four (4) QBs or six (6) WRs.

Kory Sheets of Purdue, a speed burner with fumble problems and a mouth that got him in a lot of trouble, will very likely make the Practice Squad where he will replace notorious underachiever Thomas Clayton who will be released.

Running Back: Improved.

OFFENSIVE LINE

Last season the 49er Offensive line showed signs of becoming decent, but suffered from numerous breakdowns, including the swan song for Jonas Jennings. Eric Heitman returns at center where he had a very good season and should only get better. He is one of the young vets the 49ers have been developing that is starting to come into his prime. He is backed up by Cody Wallace.

Guard should be a bright spot as Chilo Rachal could well have a breakout season. The tough, physical USC grad will be one of two guards who are expected to do very well this season. 330 lb. David Baas is in the final year of his contract and you can bet his play will reflect his desire for a big contract next year. Tony Wragge is a tough, solid backup.

Joe Staley is expected to improve upon his good performance of last year and former Pittsburgh Steelers vet Marvel Smith, a two-time All Pro, moves in at right tackle which should be a huge upgrade over last season.

Adam Snyder is an able backup, Barry Sims is unacceptable and I expect him to be cut. The most intriguing of the backup linemen is 6'8", 328 lb. Alex Boone of Ohio State, a two-time All Big Ten performer who must overcome his weakness for alcohol. If he is able to do that, he may well be the sleeper of the season for the 49ers.

OFFENSIVE LINE: Improved.

There you have it. There is plenty of reason for optimism this season and as I begin my 64th season as a fan, I simply say: Go 49ers. We will address the defense and special teams in upcoming issues.

Gary Mialocq
The SF 49er Observer

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

SF – Santa Clara 49er Connections Run Deep...

2009-07-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

It is ironic that San Francisco and Santa Clara are involved in a tug of war over the 49ers, and over Bay Area football dominance. I was looking through my old 49er programs from the AAFC and early days of the NFL and I came across one that I didn't remember. It was because this game was played almost four (4) years before I was born. My dad had attended that game.

The year was 1938. Santa Clara was a major college football power, two-time Sugar Bowl champions in 1936 and 1937, and had just seen a string of sixteen (16) straight wins end when they were upset the week before by St. Marys. The game ended in a 7-0 Bronco victory.

Over the next few years, Santa Clara continued to dominate Bay Area football and in 1941 they were called the “Notre Dame of the West”. However, by the end of 1942, Santa Clara was forced to disband football due to World War II. Santa Clara Head Coach Buck Shaw, and assistance coaches Phil Bengston and Al Ruffo would therefore be available at the end of 1945, to sign with the newly formed San Francisco 49ers of the All-American Football Conference for the premier season of the league in 1946. Santa Clara resumed football the same year without their former coaching staff.

Now, some 64 years later, Santa Clara and San Francisco continue to be embroiled in the race for Bay Area football superiority, this time over a stadium. San Francisco took their coaches, now they want the 49ers. The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Gary Mialocq
SF 49ers Observer

Copyright @ 2009
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Do Big Bad Boys Provide Hope for the Future?

2009-07-19T06:05:00.000-07:00

As many fans know, the draft is a crapshoot. Many projected stars never make it while gems are sometimes found in the far reaches of the draft. #87, Dwight Clark, a tenth (10) round draft pick comes immediately to mind. Without his miraculous Catch against Dallas, we may be looking back on a different history.

This season is no different and the 49ers showed their willingness to take a shot at two young men with tremendous upsides, as well as some behavioral problems.

Alex Boone

The first is Alex Boone, a 6'8" 328 giant offensive tackle from Ohio State who admits to having an alcohol problem since the age of eight (8), and whose DUI arrest in 2006 (blood alcohol double the legal limit) and recent arrest in Southern California where he had to be tasered twice by police to subdue him, resulted in his being overlooked completely in this year's draft.

At Ohio State Boone exhibited steady play, durability and a willingness to work. He was a four-year starter who was named All-Big Ten the past two seasons. Boone is ideally suited to play right tackle in the pros.

Combine Results:

40 Yard Dash : 5.16 seconds

Bench Press : 33.0 reps

Vertical Jump : 27.5 inches

Broad Jump : 103.0 inches

3 Cone Drill : 7.83 seconds

20 Yard Shuttle : 4.69 seconds

Here is a video of Alex Boone's performance at Ohio State:

Ricky Jean-Francois (Frenchy)
"The Freak"

The second is a 6'5" 295 lb. defensive end Ricky Jean-Francois (Frenchy), who seems to have a knack for saying the wrong things at the wrong time. His "threat" to Tim Tebow along with his getting caught cheating on a test cost him a lot of money as he dropped to the seventh (7th) round before being selected by the 49ers.

Ricky was an outstanding shot putter for the track team at LSU with a best throw of 59' 1 3/4", as well as a top-rated defensive lineman.

CAREER
Played in 25 games for LSU, starting nine times ... Drafted in seventh round of 2009 NFL Draft by the San Francisco 49ers ... Opted to leave LSU following his junior season ... Capped career with 56 tackles, 10 tackles for losses and 5.5 sacks ... Named defensive MVP of 2007 BCS National Championship Game.

Here is a video of Frenchy at LSU:

Each of these players possesses the athletic ability and potential to become established NFL stars and presents the kind of challenge that Mike Singletary looks forward to as he develops his team. Boone will learn behind Marvel Smith and provides an intriguing presences for the future.

Frenchy is a high-energy defensive lineman who will very likely contest Ray McDonald for the last available spot on the defensive line. He comes up big in big games and his size, strength and speed bode well for his future as part of the 49er defense.

These two will bear close watching as training camp nears.

Gary Mialocq
The SF 49er Observer

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Chasing the Dream

2009-07-18T05:37:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Raye, 49ers Offensive Coordinator

Our article on Michael Robinson evoked an interesting response from a reader:

"You make some very loose connections to give credibility to your opinion. Jimmy Raye having won a Big 10 Title has nothing to do with Michael Robinson."

Actually, there are many similarities between new 49ers Offensive Coordinator Jimmy Raye, and multi-talented Michael Robinson, many of them having to do more with life than football. Jimmy Raye, long before he became the black double for Uncle Fester from the Addams Family, was an exciting young quarterback who played for Michigan State from 1965-67.

In 1965, his team was undefeated at 10-0 and won the Big 10 title, only to lose in the Rose Bowl to UCLA in a surprising upset. Undaunted, J.R. came back the next season and led his team to another undefeated record and faced equally undefeated Notre Dame in the final game of the season. That game ended in a 10-10 tie, with both teams being considered co-National champions.

This was a great accomplishment for a young quarterback, especially given the fact that he was black at a time when it was a very rare sight to see a black quarterback. In fact, once drafted by the NFL, they were inevitably switched to the "skill positions", either wide receiver or the defensive secondary. So, upon being drafted by the Los Angeles Rams, and then traded to the Philadelphia Eagles, J.R. saw any hopes of his being an NFL quarterback dashed by the political climate of the times. Jimmy played a couple of seasons out of position, then his career ended.

We now flash forward to the year 2009. Jimmy is now 62 years old, and has been coaching in the NFL for 32 years. His first job as an assistant coach in the NFL was with the 49ers in 1977. Just as his opportunities were limited as a quarterback, plum jobs for black assistant coaches in the NFL were few and far between. Over the years, he was hired by rebuilding teams, and teams with very little chance of success. His best team was working with the Rams during the days of Eric Dickerson.

Over the years he gained valuable experience working under Marty Schottenheimer, and also gained experience working for Norv Turner, John Robinson, Herm Edwards and Eric Mangini. Now, as his career winds down, he finds himself returning home with a tremendous opportunity to develop and create an offensive machine under San Francisco 49er coach Mike Singletary. THIS is his plum job.

"Nothing to Do with Robinson"?

Like his new Offensive Coordinator, Michael Robinson, led his team to the Big 10 Championship. MRob as he is affectionately called, is a 6-1, 228 lb. powerhouse whom Penn State coach Joe Paterno referred to as "the greatest athlete I have coached in my 55 years at Penn State".

Michael was a standout on a losing team. He was used mostly as a wide receiver, but also played a little halfback and a short time at quarterback. It was then that Paterno made Michael his quarterback for his senior year.

Robinson responded by leading his team to an 11-1 record, winning the Big 10 title and a victory in the Orange Bowl, and being named Big 10 Offensive Player of the Year. He threw for 17 TDs and ran for eight (8) more. Throughout his career in college, he ran for 1,637 yards, caught 52 passes for 629 yards, threw for 3,575 yards and accounted, either by passing, throwing or running for 46 touchdowns. He was also their best player on special teams.

Like his new Offensive Coordinator, Michael Robinson's dream was to play quarterback in the NFL, and like Jimmy Raye, his hopes were dashed without being given any opportunity to prove his worth at that position. Michael pleaded with Nolan to give him a chance to no avail. So, upon being drafted by the 49ers and despite his plea to be given an opportunity to at least try out for quarterback, Michael was put on ice by Mike Nolan who expressed his unwillingness to allow most rookies to even play with the classic statement: "Young players play young".

No, Michael's chances were not curtailed by his race like his coach, but by the stubbornness of a coach who was clueless as to how to utilize his players. No matter the reason, both Jimmy and Michael had his dreams of performing as an NFL quarterback denied without being given an opportunity.

Michael Robinson has never publicly complained about his being denied his dream. In fact, he has simply gone out and played with reckless abandon demonstrating the same kind of 100% effort for which Mike Singletary became famous. Michael has been a standout whenever he steps on the field.

The Connection

But now back to quarterback. Since the Miami Dolphins introduced the Wildcat offense with some success last season, many teams experimented with it including the 49ers. Michael, at 6'1" and 228 lbs., has the passing and running ability that is perfect for this formation, and it is our bet that Jimmy Raye is already designing plays using the Wildcat formation with Michael in mind. As he does so, he may be thinking back to what might have been had he himself been given the opportunity to take the snap from center in the pros.

To say there is no connection between Jimmy Raye and Michael Robinson is to deny the importance of a dream to a young player. If Jimmy's dreams were curtailed by politics, that must have cut very deeply although he never complained. I can't see him denying those same dreams of Michael Robinson, even if it only means playing QB in the Wildcat formation on rare occasions. It will be very interesting to watch this situation develop.

Gary Mialocq
The SF 49er Observer

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Frankie Albert - the Little General

2009-07-16T12:55:00.000-07:00

Over the years the Niners have had some sensational quarterbacks. Names like Montana, Young, Tittle, Brodie, Garcia, etc. The least known but one of the absolute best was a little left-hander who started it all -- Frankie Albert. He was the first QB in Niner history and played from 1946-1949 in the old AAFC, then from 1950 -1952 in the NFL.

Frankie was 5-10, 166. He was a great ballhandler who often mystified the defense who on occasion didn't know who had the ball. He was also very quick and mobile, and a very accurate passer with a rifle arm for a little man.

In 1939, Albert was Stanford's starting single-wing tailback. When Clark Shaughnessy became the school's coach in 1940, he installed the T-formation and moved Albert to quarterback. The new formation called for skilled ball-handling and faking, as well as accurate passing.

Albert not only was skilled at all three, he was also a great kicker. He had a 79-yard punt against Oregon State in 1940. Stanford was undefeated that season, and Albert kicked all three extra points in a 21-13 win over Nebraska in the Rose Bowl. He was named All-American quarterback and finished third in Heisman Trophy voting.

Frank made All-American again in 1941, and was drafted #1 in 1942 by the Chicago Bears. After serving in the Navy in World War II, he signed with the 49ers of the newly formed All-America Football Conference (AAFC). In 1948 he led the AAFC with 29 touchdown passes and shared the Most Valuable Player award with Otto Graham. He was also named Pro Football Player of the Year by Sport magazine.

The following season, he threw 5 touchdown passes in a 56-28 win over Cleveland, had an 82-yard punt against Buffalo and led the AAFC with a 48.2 yard punting average. He had to be named to the All-AAFC team but Otto Graham was the Bill Russell of football. so rather than leave the deserving Albert off the All-Pro team, they named him to the team as a halfback, a position he hadn't played since his sophomore year at Stanford.

In his career with the Niners, he passed for 10,795 yards and 115 TDs. He rushed for 1,272 yards and 27 TDs, and even caught a TD pass. He punted 70 times for a 43.0 average with a long of 82 yards, and even kicked an extra point. He also returned 5 kickoffs for a 19.0 average.

Albert returned to the 49ers as head coach in 1956 and had a 19-16-1 record in three seasons.

Frankie set the tone for all Niner quarterbacks to follow. He was small, but feisty and tough. I salute the Father of our Quarterbacks, Frankie Albert -- a great player.

Gary Mialocq

Fickle 49er Fans Flaunt Foolishness

2009-07-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

#24 - Michael Robinson

It is well known that sports fans often favor the underdog and become impatient with the status quo, wishing to replace their players with others, often lesser known or even less talented. This is apparently the case with some 49er fans, especially the young ones. In browsing through various forums and blogs I came across an interesting situation that will impact the coming season.

We know that Mike Martz often ignored the running game in favor of his outdated 7-step drop philosophy. Much has been made about the fact that Mike Singletary favors a "power running" game. Many wrongly believe that this means the 49ers will be a run-first team and nothing could be further from the truth. The difference will be that Jimmy Raye will direct a power running game that goes between the tackles, rather than outside the tackles like the "finesse" running game advocated by Martz.

Frank Gore will again be the featured back and will have his personal bodyguard, Moran Norris, back at fullback leading him through the line. It is expected that Glenn Coffee will be his backup at the #2 RB position as long as he can overcome the fumbling tendencies that hampered his college career. That leaves Michael Robinson, rookie Kory Sheets from Purdue, and the long dormant Thomas Clayton as the other backs. Sheets is a speed burner who was plagued with fumbles throughout his college career. He also plays special teams as a kick returner and may well be headed for the practice squad.

The point of this article is the rather bizarre opinions of some fans that Thomas Clayton should remain and Michael Robinson should be cut. That, my friends, is insanity and demonstrates how little many fans know or understand about the game of professional football. I often ask these fans what it is about Thomas Clayton that excites them enough to cut one of our most valuable players. The answers are usually "he has led the league in preseason for two years". It is my firm belief that they are infatuated with his body. The man looks like Tarzan, but plays like Jane. No mention of the fact that Clayton sat on the practice squad the last two seasons and any of the other NFL teams could have picked him up for a loaf of bread and none did.

Let's compare their records. Clayton runs a 4.63 40, the slowest of all the 49er RBs with the exception of Norris. During his four-year college career, he gained just over 1000 yards and scored only 7 TDs. His senior year at Kansas State, he gained only 330 yards as the 3rd string running back. In his first two seasons with the Niners he has yet to impress the coaches enough to even set foot on the field. It is one thing to be a classic underachiever, but quite another to never have achieved success at all.

Michael Robinson was horribly mismanaged by Mike Nolan for two years. Nolan didn't like to play rookies and Michael was no exception. Like his new Offensive Coordinator, Jimmy Raye, Michael Robinson, led his team to the Big 10 Championship. MRob as he is affectionately called, is a 6-1, 228 lb. powerhouse whom Penn State coach Joe Paterno referred to as "the greatest athlete I have coached in my 55 years at Penn State".

At Penn State, MRob was a standout on a losing team. He was used mostly as a wide receiver, but also played a little halfback and a short time at quarterback prior to his senior year. It was then that Paterno inserted Michael, who had never played the position full-time before, as his quarterback for his senior year. Robinson responded by leading his team to an 11-1 record, winning the Big 10 title and a victory in the Orange Bowl, and being named Big 10 Offensive Player of the Year. He threw for 17 TDs and ran for 8 more. Throughout his career in college, he ran for 1,637 yards, caught 52 passes for 629 yards, threw for 3,575 yards and accounted, either by passing, throwing or running for 46 touchdowns. He was also their best player on special teams.

In direct contrast to Clayton's college career, Robinson achieved and then some. So, upon being drafted by the 49ers and despite his plea to be given an opportunity to at least try out for quarterback, Michael was put on ice by Mike Nolan who expressed his unwillingness to allow most rookies to even play with the classic statement: "Young players play young".

So, Michael has been a standout on special teams and has made a few memorable plays, despite being overlooked and woefully mishandled. Since coming to the 49ers, Robinson has established himself as their premier special teams player. He has been the leading tackler and his blocking resulted in two kickoff returns for TDs, the first for Delanie Walker in a preseason game, the second,a great block that led to Alan Rossum's opening kickoff return for a TD against the Arizona Cardinals. In fact, Robinson threw two blocks to spring him.

In addition, Robinson is the Captain of the 49er special teams and his inspirational play and leadership are well known. Some fans complain that he is "not a real RB". Well, he came to the Niners as a quarterback and has only averaged about 2 carries per game. It is well known that a running back needs several carries to develop a rhythym and Robinson has never been afforded that opportunity. He has, however, made several impressive runs in his short stint at that position. Here are just a couple. In the first, he breaks off a 20 yard gain with a swing pass breaking five (5) tackles.

It is important to note that once Mike Singletary took over as coach last season, Robinson became a weapon receiving out of the backfield from the backup FB position, catching 17 passes for 201 yards, an 11.9 average per catch.

Robinson also took a few snaps last season from the Wildcat formation and is expected to be the man behind center if and when Jimmy Raye utilizes that formation this season. It is important to remember that the new running backs coach is Tom Rathman, who played with another #24 in the early 1980s, Harry Sydney, also a former QB who was instrumental in a playoff victor by throwing an option pass to Brent Jones. Tom has a long memory and Robinson possesses similar skills to Sydney.

Because he is such an excellent receiver, blocker, runner and passer, as well as the best special teams performer, his versatility is important not only to Mike Singletary but to the front office as well. He is under contract, long-term and his versatility will allow 49er management to get creative if necessary. Let's say the team decides to keep all four (4) QBs or 6 WRs. This is where Robinson's value comes through. He can be carried as both the #3 RB and #2 FB, thereby enabling the 49ers to fill five (5) roster spots with only four (4) players. They can then retain a Nate Davis or an Arnaz Battle thanks to Robinson.

Clayton offers no such options. He will be gone after the preseason.

Gary Mialocq
The SF 49er Observer

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Defense Saves First Super Bowl Victory

2009-07-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

Dwight Clark's incredible catch of a Joe Montana pass in the NFC Championship game against Dallas eventually led to a Super Bowl matchup in Pontiac, Michigan agaist the Cincinnati Bengal. Dan Bunz and the 49ers defense made an incredible goal line stand to propel them to victory in Super Bowl XVI! Watch the defense step up and seal the deal for the first of five 49er Super Bowl victories.

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

Memorable Moments: Steve Young's Great Escape

2009-07-15T08:09:00.000-07:00

In a 1988 game against the Minnesota Vikings at Candlestick Park, the 49ers were in trouble. Quarterback Steve Young faded back to pass under heavy pressure and the rest is history. Enjoy Lon Simmons' description of this run which will go down as one of the greatest in team history. Enjoy the excitement.

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

The Drive that Started it All

2009-07-15T06:59:00.000-07:00

The 49ers waited thirty-five years to win their first championship and nobody really expected it. Coming off a less than successful 1980 season, Bill Walsh went heavily for defensive secondary players in the draft, landing Ronnie Lott, Eric Wright, and Carlton Williamson to go along with free agent pickup, Dwight Hicks. The Niners started off the season at 3-2, then faced the heavily favored Dallas Cowboys at Candlestick Park. The Niners made a statement that day with a 45-14 shellacking of the 'Boys to the delight of a raucus sold-out Stick.

Later that season, the Niners faced the Cowboys again in the NFC Championship Game. Trailing 27-21 with a little over three minutes remaining. The drive that ends with The Catch. Originally aired on CBS January 10, 1982. Vin Scully doing play by play with Hank Stram doing color commentary. Enjoy the excitement of the greatest single moment in 49er history.

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

The San Francisco 49er Hall of Fame - Early Years

2009-07-15T05:47:00.000-07:00

The Early Years

In 1969, the 49ers placed their first two players into the Hall of Fame, defensive tackle Leo Nomellini, and fullback Joe Perry. All told, there were six (6) players from the Golden Era who earned their way into the Hall of Fame.

Leo "The Lion" Nomellini
Defensive Tackle 1950-63

Leo was the first-ever draft choice after the 49ers joined the NFL. Played every 49ers game for 14 seasons. Altogether he played in 174 consecutive regular season games, and counting ten trips to the Pro Bowl, Nomellini played in 266 contests. "The Lion" became one of the few to be named to an all-NFL team on both offense and defense. Retired at age 39. Played college ball at the University of Minnesota. Born June 19,1924, in Lucca, Italy.

Joe "The Jet" Perry
(49ers: 1948-60, 63, NFL: 1948-63.)

Joe was the first player in NFL history to gain 1,000 yards two consecutive seasons. His 9,723 rushing yards placed him second only to Jim Brown when he retired. Finished career with 12,505 combined yards. Nicknamed "The Jet" because of his quick starts. Joe was one of the four members of the famous Million Dollar Backfield of 1954. Also played for the Baltimore Colts (1961-62). Attended Compton Junior College. Born January 22, 1927, in Stevens, Arkansas.

In 1970, the 49ers placed probably their greatest broken field runner of all-time deservedly in the Hall of Fame, "Hurrying Hugh" McElhenny.

Hugh McElhenny

(49ers 1952-60; NFL: 1952-64)

Mac was one of only three players to gain over 11,000 yards carrying the ball. Scored 60 career touchdowns, 38 rushing, including a 42-yard touchdown run on his first pro play in preseason. In 1952, McElhenny had the longest punt return (94) and longest play from scrimmage (89). Scored two touchdowns in first Pro Bowl after his rookie year. Hugh was also a member of the Million Dollar Backfield. Also played for Minnesota Vikings (1961-62), New York Giants (1963), and Detroit Lions (1964). Played college football at University of Washington. Born December 31, 1928, in Los Angeles, CA.

Y.A. Tittle
(49ers 1951-60; NFL 1948-64

Yelberton Abraham Tittle played 17 years in the NFL, finishing his career with 33,070 passing yards and 281 touchdowns (39 rushing). Won NFL Most Valuable Player Award in 1961 and '63. Threw 33 touchdown passes and a career-high 3,224 yards in 1962. In '63 he threw 36 touchdowns, completing 60.2 percent of his passes. Y.A. filled the QB slot in the Million Dollar Backfield. Also played for the Baltimore Colts (1948-50) and the New York Giants (1961-64). Played college ball at Lousiana State University. Born October 24, 1926, in Marshall, Texas.

It took until 1987 for the next 49er to be named to the Hall, the fourth and final member of the Million Dollar Backfield, running back John Henry Johnson.

John Henry Johnson
(49ers 1954-56; NFL 1954-1966)

John Henry Johnson was a member of what's been noted as the finest backfield in NFL history. The foursome known as "The Million Dollar Backfield" and "The Fabulous Foursome" included three other Hall of Famers-QB Y.A. Tittle and RBs Joe Perry and Hugh McElhenny. Gained 6,803 yards rushing, including 48 touchdowns. Also played for the Detroit Lions (1957-59), Pittsburgh Steelers (1960-65), and Houston Oilers (1966). Attended St. Mary's College and Arizona State University. Born November 24, 1929, in Waterproof, LA.

The sixth and final member of the 49ers of the Early Years to gain entrance into the Hall of Fame is the biggest, 6'9" Bob St. Clair, an offensive tackle and tower of strength for the Niners for many years. Bob was famous for eating raw meat and I experienced it first hand when he spoke at our Athletic Awards Banquet at City College of San Francisco. I had the dubious pleasure of sitting next to him while he devoured a 16-oz raw steak, a fun tactic he used to use to scare rookie recruits at training camp. He would pull the steak apart with blood dripping down his chin and more than once, a rookie prospect left camp.

Bob St. Clair
(49ers 1953-63)

St. Clair was an exceptional offensive lineman who also played goal line defense. He blocked ten (10) field goals in 1956, and also lost five teeth blocking a punt. He earned all-NFL honors three times and made five Pro Bowl appearances. Attended San Francisco and Tulsa. Born February 18, 1931, in San Francisco, CA.

Note: These were the six 49er stars of the early years who gained entry into the Hall of Fame. There were a couple of players who may well have deserved their inclusion in the Hall, but missed out. First and foremost of these was the great Frankie Albert. We will do a separate article on this exciting little left-handed quarterback.

Others who deserve mention were guard and 8-time Pro Bowl participant, Bruno Banducci, and four-time All-Pro wide receiver Alyn Beals.

Copyright @ 2009
All Rights Reserved

1952 - A Crazy Year

2009-07-14T21:28:00.000-07:00

Victorious over the Bears, 40-16.

The year was 1952. The San Francisco 49ers were now starting their third season in the NFL after a very successful run in the All-American Football Conference under Head Coach Lawrence T. "Buck" Shaw, also known as the "Silver Fox". Pictured above descending the stairs (and skipping over the stewardesses) are from top to bottom:

Frankie Albert - the 49ers first QB and a brilliant All-Pro performer;

Joe "the Jet" Perry - All-Pro fullback and the first in NFL history to record back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons. A stronger Frank Gore.

Hardy Brown - All-Pro linebacker widely known as the hardest hitter and dirtiest player in NFL history. Brown knocked 21 players unconscious in a single 12 game season as documented by the NFL with his vicious shoulder tackle.

Gordy Soltau - All-Pro wide receiver and a great field goal and extra point kicker.

Leo "the Lion" Nomellini - All-Pro defensive tackle who also played on offense if needed. One of all-time 49er greats.

The 49ers were coming home from blasting the Chicago Bears at Wrigley Field, 40-16 to start out this season 4-0. Just the week before, this team had defeated the favored Detroit Lions, also on the road in a history-making game. 49er rookie defensive end Charlie Powell, was signed and asked by the Niners to start in his first NFL game at the age of nineteen (19), which is still the youngest player ever to start an NFL game. Charlie responded by sacking All-Pro QB Bobby Layne ten (10) times for -61 yards. This would be the all-time NFL record but they didn't keep track of sacks in 1952.

The Niners would win their next game to go to 5-0, but it all came tumbling down in Kezar on Nov. 2, 1952. Noted Chicago Bear hit-man, Ed Sprinkle, tackled Hugh McElhenny on the sidelines and intentionally twisted his ankle, forcing Mac out for the game and the Niners lost their lead and the game. A near-riot ensued after the tackle but the damage was done.

The 1952 was a team of colorful characters. Powell was an amazing athlete that had signed a Major League baseball contract immediately after high school. The Harlem Globetrotters had tried to sign him while he was still in high school. He ran the 100 yard dash in 9.6 at 220 lbs which at the time was only 0.3 seconds off the world record. He also high jumped and set a shot put record that lasted over 50 years. His passion, however, was boxing and it was the reason he never achieved his deserved greatness in other sports. He stopped every morning before high school to spar with World Heavyweight Champion Archie Moore and eventually knocked out #2 challenger, Nino Valdez, which earned him a title shot against Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali) for the World Heavyweight Championship. He lost, but so did everyone else.

Leo "The Lion" Nomellini was a world class wrestler who later competed against Lou Thesz for the World Heavyweight Wrestling Championship.

Hardy Brown was banned from practice by Buck Shaw to protect the other players, the only player in history to have that distinction.

It was a crazy year.

Gary Mialocq

The 49er Observer