Niners Nation

Mike Singletary Monday lunchtime press conference

2009-11-09T19:39:12Z

Coach Singletary will be addressing the media today at 11:45am. Things got a little bit feisty during the post-game press conference, so we'll see how that carries over to today. What do I want to hear out of this press conference? Well, I'd certainly like to get some clarification on the future role of Jason Hill. Isaac Bruce was benched midway through yesterday's game and Hill was quite productive in his place. Hill seemed to be in the doghouse much of the season, but might finally have re-emerged. I'm also curious to hear about the injury situation. The 49ers had a rather lengthy injury report after the game, so it will be interesting to see how the team will be addressing the depth issue.

One thing I don't want to hear is a bold proclamation about making the playoffs. I have no problem inferring it's still an option, but to make some bold playoff prediction at this point would be more or less useless.

Head on over to 49ers.com's video section to view the press conference, and feel free to discuss it here.

Titans 34 - 49ers 27: Jason Hill returns from the dead

2009-11-09T18:30:33Z

More photos » by Marcio Sanchez - AP

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This post is sponsored by Comcast and their NFL RedZone channel. If you want to see every touchdown from every NFL game as it happens as well as live look-ins to all of Sunday's games in key situations hurry up and get yourself Comcast's NFL RedZone Channel.

Normally this is a late week post, but due to the early game this week I'm bumping it up. Yesterday's game featured quite the bonanza of red zone opportunities for both teams. Each team finished 3/5 in the red zone, with three touchdowns and two field goals apiece. The most heart-breaking Titans red zone touchdown came on Chris Johnson's touchdown run with 3:44 left in the fourth quarter. We all saw Parys Haralson forcing him outside, but somehow Chris Johnson fought Haralson off and scampered in for a touchdown. I predicted 80 or so yards from Johnson and can certainly man up to admit I was impressed by what he did. I still think the 49ers have a quality run defense, but every once in a while you're going to let a quality rusher have success.

During the game thread we were discussing turning the red zone into the Vernon Zone. After yesterday, maybe Jason Hill wants to claim ownership of the red zone. The team had made a change to start the game, going with Josh Morgan and Michael Crabtree as the starters, an moving Isaac Bruce to the #3 receiver spot. However, Bruce continued to struggle and was subsequently benched in favor of Jason Hill. Hill had appeared to be in Coach Singletary's doghouse much of this season, but stepped up yesterday, finishing with 50 receiving yards and a pair of red zone touchdowns.

I still contend that Vernon Davis is the biggest red zone threat on this team, but having Jason Hill potentially back in the fold is a very intriguing proposition. Coach Singletary will have his 11:45am press conference today (we'll have a link to it), and hopefully he'll address the status of Jason Hill going forward. I know some folks aren't big Hill fans, but I have to say I'm kind of excited to see a Crabtree, Morgan, Hill trio out there on Thursday night. Throw in Vernon Davis and suddenly you've got quite the mix of weapons.

Obviously the Alex Smith issues remain out there, but Smith definitely has some intriguing weapons at his disposal.

Chiefs release Larry Johnson

2009-11-09T17:35:12Z

Chiefs release Larry Johnson

I don't expect the 49ers to sign him, but given the injury to Coffee yesterday, and the already thin RB position, it's certainly amusing to consider it.

Why Alex Smith should be starting for the rest of the season

2009-11-09T15:00:54Z

by Marcio Sanchez - AP

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Well, by the time this goes up (I'm writing it the night before), people will hopefully have had a chance to have calmed down from a rather bitter loss to the Tennessee Titans. At the very least, people will be at work and not screaming at their computer screens in anger. Personally, I tend to be angry about the game for a couple hours after it finishes before it subsides and I'm ready to move on. We've got plenty to discuss about the Titans game (and plenty of threads to do it in), and of course with the short week we've got the Bears to discuss as well.

This post really covers both games, and plenty more going forward. There were numerous complaints about yesterday's game, but the biggest was definitely the performance of Alex Smith. Smith finished 29/45 for 286 yards with 2 touchdowns, 3 interceptions and 1 fumble. Not exactly a shining performance, and given the timing and results of the various turnovers, people were quick to jump all over Smith. And given his past performance, I don't think anybody could be surprised when people jumped all over our starting QB.

However, I also think that it is necessary to keep Smith in there and keep sending him out there. Barring an injury, the 49ers have an important opportunity at their disposal. They can finally decide one way or the other, what exactly Alex Smith brings to the table. Is he the guy who lit up Houston in the second half? Is he the guy who struggled against Indy, but kept his team in it? Or is he the guy who yacked it up late in the game against Tennessee? At this point he could be any one of those guys.

If Smith struggles the rest of the way, then finally you can cut bait, or at least know you've got nothing more than a second string QB. Cutting bait on Smith at this point would simply be too soon. Yes he struggled, and yes he's making some of the same mistakes he made two years ago. But he's also shown some skills and some improvement in his game. Maybe it's not enough to save his career in San Francisco, but I'd rather take my chances figuring that out over the next two months.

One big argument for switching things up in some manner (be it Shaun Hill or Nate Davis) is the idea that Smith is costing the 49ers wins and this team needs to be battling for a playoff spot. To those I say that at this point in time, Alex Smith gives the 49ers their best chance to win. This is where the chants of wins and losses come into play. Alex Smith did not make some bad plays to cost them the game, but I will go to my grave arguing that wins and losses are not a quarterback stat; they're team stats.

More after the jump...

I've posted a poll to see who people are lining up behind at this point in the season. We've heard clamoring for a lot of folks, although the Shaun Hill crowd has been relatively quiet. Alex Smith simply brings more athleticism to the quarterback position, which is necessary if you want to take advantage of the various weapons on display. When you've got guys like Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree, or even potentially emerging Jason Hill and Josh Morgan, you need more than a game manager at the helm.

Shaun Hill simply cannot make the plays needed to have any sort of high octaine offense. He can make the occasional solid play to move the chains, but I believe Alex Smith can do that on a more consistent basis. This offense needs some level of consistency and at this point I'd rather see if Smith can do it. I simply see no upside at this point to Shaun Hill. Again, maybe Alex Smith just doesn't pan out after this season. But at least let's find out for sure.

One particularly expected reaction yesterday was from the Nate Davis crowd. Folks have clamored for him based on his preseason performance. While I do think Nate Davis is talented and could eventually be a starting-caliber NFL QB, I don't think that time is now. Plenty of good quarterbacks in this league sat out an entire season, if not more, before getting their crack at the starting lineup.

At this point, this turns into somewhat of a money decision, at least for 2009. When you've invested so much time and money into an asset, do you want to just dump it before being as close to 100% sure about it as possible? I'd imagine some folks are 100% sure Alex Smith is not the answer. At this point I'm still on the fence. I'm swaying towards dump him, but I think the wise course of action is to make certain.

Poll

Who should be the 49ers starting QB going forward?

Golden Nuggets: At least it's a short week, right?

2009-11-09T11:00:45Z

After another brutal loss, the 49ers have a short week to turn around and get ready for the also struggling Chicago Bears. On the one hand that's a bad thing because the 49ers are rather banged up coming off the loss to Tennessee. On the other hand, one would like to hope a short week will allow them to quickly forget yesterday's ugliness. In the end what do I know though, right?

It's not too difficult to surmise what most of today's links are about. However, I would like to point to the third link for the San Jose Mercury News. A couple weeks ago Vernon Davis and some other players visited with a 13-year old in Houston prior to the Texans game. Unfortunately, the young man passed away this past Friday. Obviously it puts football in perspective. Vernon Davis issued a statement:

"I can’t begin to explain what meeting Joseph meant to me," Davis said in a statement released by the 49ers. "He was a great kid with an amazing spirit. I am still wearing the bracelet he gave me.

"I really want him to know that the short time we spent together meant as much to me as I’m sure it did to him. I am truly sorry to see him go so early in his life, but I know that he is in a better place. My thoughts and prayers go out to Joseph and his family."

Gary Peterson: Did Alex Smith regress in the 49ers loss to the Titans? (SJ Mercury News)

Tim Kawakami: 49ers fight to stay positive after loss to Titans (SJ Mercury News)

49ers-Titans notes: Davis mourns loss of biggest fan (SJ Mercury News)

49ers tight end Vernon Davis shows practice habits in NFL Network video (SJ Mercury News)

Hill replaces struggling Bruce (Maiocco)

Painful loss for the 49ers (Maiocco)

Niners drop the ball (Maiocco)

Maiocco's Live game chat (Maiocco)

Points of the Game: Titans (49ers.com)

Week Nine Blog: 49ers vs. Titans (49ers.com)

Turnovers Hurt 49ers in 34-27 Loss (49ers.com)

Niner Insider : The stud of postgame (SFGate.com)

Niner Insider : 49ers-Titans (SFGate.com)

Niner Insider : 49ers-Titan Part 2 (SFGate.com)

Johnson, Young rally Titans (SFGate.com)

Strange reversals of fortune (SFGate.com)

49ers Blog and Q&A: Singletary steaming after loss to Titans (Barrows)

Titans hand 49ers fourth consecutive loss 34-27 (Barrows)

49ers Blog and Q&A: 49ers-Titans in game (Barrows)

Wrap-up: Titans 34, 49ers 27 (Sando - ESPN.com)

Vince Young keeps Titans on winning track vs. Alex Smith, Niners (USA Today)

Titans rally to second straight victory, beating San Francisco 34-27 (Yahoo! Sports)

Johnson, Young rally Titans (Yahoo! Sports)

Titans 34 - 49ers 27: The always popular bright side of things...

2009-11-09T04:51:10Z

As many folks around these parts know, I try to look at the bright side of things. As I've said before, if the ship is sinking and I'm going down, might as well try and not be too miserable about it. Things aren't looking pretty for the 49ers right now, but there were some definitely positives in today's game. The 49ers passed along a press release of news and notes that I thought were worth sharing. Well, at least two of them were worth sharing. Also, after the jump we have all the post-game press conference transcripts for the 49ers.

Vernon Davis
Davis remains a work in progress, but we are finally witnessing the transformation of Vernon Davis from a lot of bark and very little bit, into a true playmaker. Davis recorded career-highs in both receptions (10) and receiving yards (102) and had his first career 100-yard game. This was only the third time in team history that a tight end caught ten passes in a game (Eric Johnson had the previous two). More importantly, Davis is 33 yards and 11 catches from career highs in both categories. He's one TD away from doubling his previous career high. And what might be the highlight from today? Davis pulling Josh Morgan away from a skirmish and telling him to use his head. My how things have changed.

Andy Lee
No matter how good or bad things have been these last few years, one man has always been there: Andy Lee. In what is becoming a regular occurrence, Andy Lee had another phenomenal day. And in fact, it might have been the best performance of his career. Lee had three punts today, finishing with a gross average of 56.7 (2nd best ever for him) and a net average of 53.3 (best ever for him). Oh and all three punts were caught or downed inside the ten yard line. The best starting field position on the 3 punts was the 14 yard line. As always, ANDY LEE FOR MVP!

Remember to check out the post-game quotes after the jump...

49ers Head Coach Mike Singletary
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

FINAL

Opening Statement:

"Obviously, after the game there's not a whole lot to say about the game. It's very obvious as to what happened. I don't think our guys quit. I think the guys played hard. We didn't play very smart in terms of giving the football away. We have a formula in terms of how we play, how we win games. The number one thing is we cannot turn the ball over, and that's the thing that basically killed us today. I'm sure there are a lot of other things you could come up with as to why we lost. Bottom line is turnovers for us."

On what he told the team after the game:

"Basically, we have to get out of this situation right now where we get a lead, we have to know that we're going to keep that lead, but we're not trying to maintain. We have to continue to gain. We have to finish games. It's as simple as that. When it came down to whatever else I was talking about, it comes down to finishing football games. And that is the thing that we're not doing. We're not finishing football games. If you go back to Minnesota, if you go back to Indianapolis, if you go back to the game today, take your pick, we're not finishing games. We have to finish games."

On whether the interceptions were QB Alex Smith's fault:

"No. I wouldn't say that at all. I thought Alex was playing well today, for the most part. When you get turnovers, obviously you can't say that, but I thought he made some good decisions. We just have to look at the film and kind of come away from it as to where the fault is. It looked to me that he was getting the ball where it needed to go. Whether the receivers could catch the ball or not, I don't know. I don't know if there was contact at the time of the ball getting there, contact before the time of the ball getting there. I don't know. I have to look at the film and see."

On how big of a blow this is to where he wants the take the team:

"Well you know, it's definitely frustrating to be at this point, but we do have eight games left. In my mind, as long as we continue to fight, as long as we continue to play the way we played today, we got a chance, if we take away the stupid stuff where we're killing ourselves. And that's really the bottom line."

On why he spread out the line and used two tight ends:

"You're asking me why I did it? You've been asking me all week why I wouldn't I do it. Now you're asking me why did I do it. You know what? It's as simple as this: we thought it would give us the best chance to win. For the most part, it worked pretty well. Alex has been doing a much better job in practice getting the ball out, finding his receivers, giving us a chance to run the ball as well, open things up. It's a good game plan if we execute it. Obviously, if you turn the ball over three or four times a game, it's not going to happen. We have to eliminate that and, once again, the gun's still pointed at us. We have to make sure that we go out and we play a complete football game without killing ourselves in the process."

On whether Alex handled the ball properly given his history of fumbles:

"You know what, what he did in the past, I'm going to leave it in the past, the whole lot about whatever he did in the past. All I know is what I saw today. I saw a quarterback throwing the ball pretty effectively, for the most part. As far as the fumbles are concerned, once again we have to look at it and we kind of go from there. But, to be honest with you, I have not... I'm a little bit surprised that he hasn't fumbled more. When you get a quarterback that's coming in new and not taken any of the snaps during the year, these are some of the things that you're going to have early on. I thought for the most part that Alex did a good job. I really did."

On whether it's desperation time for the 49ers:

"Desperation is a word I won't use. Preparation is the word I want to use. We just have to prepare better. We have to prepare, we have to game-plan. Coaches are doing a great job of coming up with a game plan to give us a chance to go out and win. Players got to execute. It's as simple as that. That's the thing that we talk about all week. Players have to execute. Number one thing: can't give the ball away. Give them nothing cheap. We're just not there yet. We don't have much time to sit around and contemplate whether we want to do it or not, we have to continue going forward and get it on the run."

On whether he was happy with the defensive effort overall:

"No. Anytime a team is going to take the ball down and score at a critical time, you're never happy. I mean if I said I was happy with that, then you need to replace me really quickly."

On what he thinks about being a couple of games behind the Cardinals:

"I don't care about the Cardinals. I care nothing about the Cardinals. I care nothing about anything else that's happening in the NFL. I don't care about that. The only thing I care about is this football team realizing that we can win games if we do not kill ourselves. It's as simple as that. I don't care about the Cardinals. Done."

On his assessment of the offensive line play today:

"You know what, the past two weeks I think they played well. I really did."

On whether the team can still achieve its goals:

"Absolutely. Absolutely."

CB Dre´ Bly
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

On Titans QB Vince Young:

"Playing a scrambling quarterback, a guy who can run the ball and throw it, he is more of a threat and he played well today. We did have a chance to win the game, but we weren't able to pull away with it. It is frustrating, but like I said, we have to go back to the drawing board and regroup. We have a fast one next week and we just have to get ready for that game."

On the play of the defensive line:

"When you are playing against a guy who is as athletic as he is, for the most part, without watching film, they got pressure. But he is going to make plays. I can't really criticize anybody because we were all playing hard and flying around and trying to make plays. It just didn't go in our favor when we needed keys stops."

On Tennessee's explosive plays:

"We know [RB Chris] Johnson, he has been a threat all year. He has been doing it ever since he has been in the league. He is probably one of the fastest backs, if not the fastest in the league. The one thing he has done well, he can run inside and outside. We knew we had to close creases fast because he has the ability to take it the distance. Luckily, that big one was called back, but he is a fast guy and he can do a lot of great things when he has the football. He really made some plays today. We were really flying around defensively and were trying to make plays, but I have to tip my hat to those guys, they made more plays than we did which led to a victory for them."

WR Michael Crabtree
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

On his assessment of the 49ers offense:

"I'm just doing my job. I'm just doing what I can control and what this team gives me."

On what he thought of the team's offensive performance:

"I think that we played alright but there's always room to get better."

On playing his first game at Candlestick Park:

"I love the fans. They gave me a lot of support and they gave the team a lot of support. Candlestick has so much history and I'm just happy to be out here."

On throwing some hard blocks on Tennessee's DB's:

"Yeah, I was just out there playing football doing all the things that I acquired [over the years]."

On what he feels the offense needs to work on for the rest of the season:

"We need to work on a lot of things. I'm not a coach so I can't really point it out. I'm a role player; I do my job and whatever coach has for me."

On the turnovers in today's game against Tennessee:

"There are turnovers in every football game, that's part of football. So we just have to suck it up and go back to the woodwork, work on some things at practice, and come back ready for the next game."

TE Vernon Davis
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

On how he feels about the team right now:

"I feel good about the team. We have a lot of time, this isn't the end of the world. We just have to keep getting better in practice and learn how to finish games."

On what the team needs to do different to finish games strong:

"It all starts in practice. You practice how you play. Just get it corrected and don't look back. We need to keep our head straight and keep moving."

On the turnovers:

"We just have to pay attention to everything around us. We have to do what we were taught to do, which is protect the ball and make plays. Sometimes as a player you forget the little things, and we just have to do those little things."

RB Frank Gore
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

On what happened to his right eye during the game:

"Somebody poked me in the eye under the pile."

On whether his eye injury affected his vision during the game:

"I was alright. But I wanted to win. I'll do anything to win. I told my boys that I'm going to stay out there and fight with them and that's what I did."

On what he can do as a team leader to help this team get ready for the next game:

"We just have to stop killing ourselves. The teams aren't beating us we're just beating ourselves. Once we take care of that, then we will move forward."

On what he thought of the game plan today and how it opened up for him:

"Yes, it was. We were moving the ball up and down the field. We just can't hurt ourselves. Anybody can hurt themselves in the NFL with turnovers and it's tough to win and that's what happened today. We had a great game plan and we showed that we can move the ball. We just hurt ourselves."

On whether there is a sense of desperation on the team after losing four straight games:

"A lot of our guys in our locker room know that we can play. We know what we can do on the field. It just comes down to two or three plays that really hurt us. The need for two to three plays is real big and it cost us the game. That's what's been happening the last couple of weeks and we've got to fix it. We have to fix it if we want to go forward and win."

LB Parys Haralson
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

On whether the team can still accomplish its goals:

"We don't have any quit in us. We are just going to pull it together and get ready for Thursday. We aren't giving up on anything. We still feel that we can get accomplished what we want accomplished. That's what we are shooting for."

On whether it is good to play again so soon:

"You always want to play again. Once this game is over, you hate that it happened, but now we have a game coming up and you have to prepare for this one. You have to have a short-term memory when you're in this business. We have to put this one behind us and prepare for Thursday."

On how close he was to stopping Titans RB Chris Johnson on fourth-and-goal:

"I really won't know until I see it on film. I thought he was closer to the sideline than apparently he was and I left my feet too early. It is a play I have to make."

C Eric Heitmann
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

On the turnovers:

"Of course I didn't get a really good look at it. What can you say except that it's unfortunate. You've definitely got to do everything you can to minimize turnovers in a game. Certainly, we had four. Certainly, four is too many. Everybody on offense plays a role. We've got to look at the film and do everything we can to make sure that doesn't happen again."

WR Josh Morgan
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

On whether the team can still accomplish what it wants to accomplish:

"We can accomplish anything we want. Like we say every week, we just have to finish."

On losing the game on late turnovers:

"I think it is demoralizing with every loss you have. It's already hard enough to win without turnovers at the end of the game, the turnovers just make it harder on yourself. That is something we just have to correct as a team. It's not anybody's fault. The defense gets paid too, they make plays and they just had a good day."

On being 3-5 midway through the season:

"We just have to win all our games now. That doesn't put a crimp in anything. We're still out here playing football."

QB Alex Smith
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

On how much responsibility he feels for the turnovers:

"I'm the guy back there making the decisions, and when you look at all four of them, the three picks and the one fumble when I was going to throw, it's tough to overcome that. No matter the game, or who you're playing or the opponent, it's tough to overcome."

On whether there were a couple of tough bounces:

"It kind of comes with the job. It does. When you evaluate the film or tomorrow when I go and evaluate my play, really look at what can you control, did you make the right decision, could you have thrown a better ball - things like that are really what you look at. The fumble, when I was throwing, I still haven't seen the replay of that. I kind of want to see what that looks like on film, if I could have done anything different."

On what was the most challenging aspect of the game:

"They give a lot of different looks on defense. They play a lot of different coverages. It's not like you're going out there and seeing three defenses. You're going to see an assortment of pressures and coverages and all kinds of stuff, things that are very unorthodox, things that not a lot of other teams do. Very unique. That was probably the biggest thing."

On the two interceptions to WR Josh Morgan:"

"The one over to the left, the safety rolled down and jumped the ball and made a play there. I'll look at that on film as well, if maybe I could have done something different - maybe a throw away there just to keep the ball. The second one was a comeback. It was the first play of the drive - try to get us going. It was a bang-bang play and somehow that ball gets popped up and gets taken back."

On whether this was a step back for him:

"The biggest thing is we can win those games. I think the biggest thing, like I said, when we come in tomorrow and look at the film, really evaluate my play. Really look at that. What could I have done differently? It's hard to tell just walking off the field and just reviewing it in my mind. You only see parts of what's going on out there. I think, obviously, there are some things I'd like to have over. That comes with any game, but I don't know at this point. It's probably too early to tell if I think it's a regression or not."

On how important his film study will be during this short week:

"I don't know if that's necessarily me, I guess. I think that's maybe more of some things, what are we doing as a whole? Coming around, turning around and playing on Thursday, there's probably not going to be a lot of time for that, not a ton of time to game plan. We're just going to roll it out there and play a little bit. Obviously, we'll have some new stuff in, and they will too. On such short notice, there won't be a lot of that."

On whether the short week is an advantage:

"It'll be nice in the sense that you won't have a lot of time to dwell on it. You have to turn around and go tomorrow. Tomorrow will be Chicago film, and we'll be going."

On whether he likes the two-tight end, single back formation:

"I think the mix helps, especially in the first half when we're mixing it up, and they're in the third quarter mixing it up and it's still a game. They're in the fourth quarter at the end and you're really in two-minute mode, make-a-play mode. Before that, when the game's even and you're really giving multiple things for the defense to think about. I think it's nice, especially with some of the runs we had out of the gun, I think looked good today. I think those are all things that can help us."

On how he would assess the state of the team after a 3-1 start followed by four straight losses:

"Anytime you lose four games in a row, that's tough. These guys put in so much work. We put in so much time. Especially to have a couple of close ones, last week to have a close one, to come in at half time and be up and be unable to finish games in the second half is hard but part of the deal. It's a long season. We have got to keep working, keep going. You can't feel sorry for yourself. You've got to learn from it. You can't dwell on it and get better. This is a long season. You've got to keep working. You definitely can't get down about it."

On whether the team can still accomplish what it wants to accomplish being two games back of the Cardinals:

"I think so. I think the biggest thing is we just need to focus on us, focus on Chicago. That's it. Not worry about the Arizona Cardinals or what they're doing or the rest of the division or anything else like that. We have a single focus, and that's get a win. Get a win on Thursday. Study this a little bit tomorrow and go over it and then on to Chicago. Then, that's it. There's no time to dwell on anything."

On WR Jason Hill:

"It was nice to have him out there. He and I got a lot of work together the first six weeks of the season, working out there on scout team together. I've got a lot of trust in Jason, and it showed up out there today. He's just one of those guys who just continues to keep working and working hard and waiting for his chance. I thought he did a nice job today."

On the touchdown to Hill in the back of the end zone:

"We were in the two-minute mode and down in the red zone. The call we were in, we were in the two-by-two and called a play, and I scrambled out to the right and he made a great play of first, sucking the DB up and then turning and running deep and made a nice play on the ball. That stuff's all important, scramble rules. Those things all can make the difference in a game."

On why the team has struggled recently:

"You could probably point to a lot of things. For whatever reason though, you've got to get over that hump. That's something that we need to do."

LB Patrick Willis
Post-Game Quotes - November 8, 2009
San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans

On how the defense played today:

"It is hard for me because I know coming into this year we wanted the defense to be the forefront of this team. We told ourselves that despite what happens on the offensive side, we have to show up every game. They're making steps, and there is no reason for us to make it even harder for them when they are already trying so hard. We have to do better in our defense getting off the field and doing things necessary to give them more opportunities."

On the big plays by Titans RB Chris Johnson:

"You can't take anything from the guy. The kid is fast and he can run. There were a couple of times in there, actually I don't know. I don't want to say anything until I watch film as to the reason why he got loose. I just know that he can run. If you give him what he is looking for, which is the edge, he can turn and run like there is no tomorrow."

On the mindset of the team:

"We are still going to stay positive and we are still going to be for each other. Nobody is going to point their finger at one side of the ball, not at special teams, not at coaches. We are just going to continue to work, continue to fight as a team. We still have a lot of football left. It's not over until we play our last game. We are still playing to go to the playoffs. We just have to turn it around before it is too late instead of putting it in other people's hands. There is still a lot of football left. We know that November and December is when you make that push. Unfortunately today we didn't get it done, but we have a short week coming back on Thursday to play a good football team as well. It is a test for us to see how we respond."

Thank goodness for Panthers Watch 2009

2009-11-09T03:00:36Z

The only way this day could have gone worse would have been if the Carolina Panthers sprung a big time upset on the New Orleans Saints. As always, for those wondering what I'm talking about, the 49ers hold the Panthers 2010 first round pick, so the worse they do, the better the 49ers draft position becomes. The 49ers would have plenty of options with their pick and even if they were to trade it, a high pick is certainly a good thing. So, we have developed Panthers Watch 2009 to keep tabs on the cats from Carolina.

Week 9 - at New Orleans Saints
I'll be honest, even with the big Panthers upset in Arizona last week, I was fairly certain New Orleans would run roughshod over the Panthers. New Orleans has been bulldozing folks for much of the season and Carolina, in spite of a few wins did not seem to be the team to take the Saints' 0. Well, the Panthers certainly did what they could for a half. DeAngelo Williams had a monstrous first quarter, busting off a 66 yard TD run early on, and adding another to give the Panthers a 14-0 lead.

The Panthers continued their pattern of trying to avoid putting Delhomme in a position to have to make big plays for the team. He didn't have a bad game, per se, but rather simply avoided most mistakes. He had one fumble, but the Saints didn't get any points directly off it. However, the Panthers defense was not able to withstand the pressure of the Saints high octane offense. As the Dolphins learned, the Saints can be contained for part of the game, but in the end they're going to get their points.

The Saints had three plays of 45+ yards that directly or indirectly lead to 17 of their points. The remaining points came courtesy of a DeAngelo Williams fumble and some generally solid football in the second half. After the early scare, the Saints held on to beat Carolina 30-20, dropping the Panthers to 3-5, fittingly enough a tie with the 49ers.

Week 10 - vs. Atlanta Falcons
The Panthers get to head home, but will be facing a very tough Atlanta Falcons team. The Falcons are 5-3, but have had some problems with putting together consistent performances week to week. They almost allowed the Redskins to sneak back in today, before Michael Turner put the game away. Now the Panthers get to deal with MIchael Turner, Matt Ryan, Roddy White, and a fairly potent Falcons offensive attack.

We're certainly fortunate that Carolina has a fairly tough schedule the rest of the way. Given today's interesting developments in Tampa Bay, one could argue every one of their remaining games brings a distinct level of difficulty. I'd expect them to beat Tampa Bay at home, but as the Bucs showed today (and the Panthers showed last week), anything is possible in the NFL.

Titans 34 - 49ers 27: 49ers blow it

2009-11-09T00:51:11Z

More photos » by Marcio Sanchez - AP

Browse more photos »

I think that simple headline pretty much sums up this game. For every good thing that happened, about ten bad things happened. Alex Smith pretty roll out and touchdown to Jason Hill? Let's follow that with back to back interceptions early in late-game drives. Stop Chris Johnson on 2nd down? Let's give up a touchdown on the friggin option!

Before anybody points to the last touchdown, I'll say that I can't give it a whole lot of credence given that the team was down two touchdowns. It's great that Smith was able to move the team down the field on a host of short passes, but it's just not enough. I'm not even going to say it's something to build on. The previous two games saw Alex Smith do more good than bad, and maybe start to head in the right direction in terms of his career. However, we can say that this game showed some of the worst of Alex Smith. He had a good drive, but when you cover it up with so much suck, the good just doesn't matter. I'd be one of the first to bark about the good drives. He looked good on some of his throws. But the next step in any development is showing actual consistency. At the very least mix in really good with some average play. Smith mixes in some fairly good with some god-awful.

After the thread I've got some thoughts on Jimmy Raye and the fast-approaching battle with Chicago...

Throughout the game threads the biggest complaints seemed to be about play-calling. I do agree there were times that the play-calling seemed off (those short outs on the last touchdown drive, for instance). However, I actually liked the way things were mixed up a bit. We still had runs up the middle, but the team mixed in some early screens, mixed in a couple of nice little play-action pitches to Gore, and otherwise seemed to actually try and get creative. The problem came down to execution. Two of Alex Smith's interceptions came to receivers who were covered and led to pop-ups that were easy to grab. The third interception saw a safety just snipe in and pick the ball. Smith has to see that safety.

I realize many folks will disagree with this, but I just think this goes beyond play-calling. Raye does mix passes and runs, but the play-calling simple doesn't matter when you can't execute it properly.

Thursday vs. Chicago
As miserable as this game has left us, the team now has a short week to prepare for a Chicago Bears squad that was smacked around by the NFC West leading Arizona Cardinals. The 49ers host the Bears on the NFL Network's 2009 premier game. I can only imagine how excited the NFL Network is after both teams crapped the bed today.

We're now looking at a 3-5 49ers squad hosting a 4-4 Bears squad, both of whom are desperate for a win. If the 49ers had won today I'd say a win over Chicago is fairly likely. Even with the Bears big loss to Arizona, I now really have no idea who will win this game. Really, it might come down to who actually WANTS to win this game.

So the one positive to come out of this game besides a fairly solid Gore game and Jason Hill emerging from the dead? We get to move on to a new game very quickly. If the 49ers can win this Thursday it might take some of the bad taste out of our mouths after today's loss. I'm not saying as win Thursday means the team will make it to the playoffs, but at least it might get some of the negativity out. People are perfectly entitled to be negative, and it's reasonable to be negative right now. However, I think most people would be happy having something to be happy about. Maybe we can get that this Thursday.

Titans 24 - 49ers 20: FINAL THREAD!

2009-11-09T00:03:07Z

vs.

Alright, we need a new thread for a game-winning touchdown in these last 7 minutes. Time for Alex Smith to step up!

GO NINERS!

Titans 17 - 49ers 17: New thread ju-ju

2009-11-08T23:24:40Z

vs.

Well, that last thread was definitely not a thing to behold. Alex Smith turned over the ball on a fumble and the Titans were able to convert it into a Chris Johnson touchdown (OH MY GOD CHRIS JOHNSON PASSED 80 YARDS!!!!!).

I agree with some of the commenters that it's definitely time for a new thread.

GO NINERS!

49ers 17 - Titans 10: Second half thread

2009-11-08T22:49:42Z

More photos » by Ben Margot - AP

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Well, that first half was quite the roller-coaster of events, and it was well reflected in our two open threads. The first thread saw the 49ers fall behind 10-3 and nothing seemed to be going right. Brandon Jones struggled in punt returns, Alex Smith had an ugly pick, and Vince Young somehow was looking like his Heisman-self against the 49ers defense.

The second thread saw a turnaround as the 49ers scored a pair of touchdowns to take a 17-10 lead into the locker room at the half. Alex Smith made some fantastic throws, the 49ers defense did a phenomenal job against the Titans offense, and Brandon Jones still struggled in punt returns.

On to the second half.

GO NINERS!

Titans 10 - 49ers 3: Second thread

2009-11-08T22:03:12Z

vs.

Well then, that first thread certainly wasn't too impressive. We sit here in the second quarter and the Titans are rolling pretty well. Of course, it is still only the first half, so let's hope the 49ers can get their act together and start making plays. The team has done a solid job against Chris Johnson but has been burned twice by Vince Young. Let's hope they can get things going.

GO NINERS!

San Francisco 49ers vs. Tennessee Titans Open Thread

2009-11-08T20:30:27Z

vs.

Date: November 8, 2009
Time: 1:15pm PST
Location: Bill Walsh Field @ Candlestick Park, San Francisco, CA
Records: 49ers (3-4) Titans (1-6)
Bodoglife.com Spread: 49ers -4.5; Over/Under 40.5; Money Line: 49ers -210, Titans +175 - It's been a few weeks since the 49ers were favored. As many have said, this spread seems kind of low. I'd take the 49ers and the over.
Weather: 62°F, 6mph NW Wind
TV Broadcast: CBS - Ian Eagle, Rich Gannon
Radio: 107.7 The Bone, 680/1050 KNBR - Ted Robinson, Gary Plummer, Rod Brooks
Spanish Radio: KIQI 1010-AM, KATD 990-AM - Mathias Godinez, Melvin Moran, Marcos Gutierrez
Titans Coverage: Music City Miracles

Week 9 Prediction Contest: If you missed out on the early games, you can still make predictions for tonight and tomorrow.

Sports Bar Thread

Injuries
49ers: Out - CB Nate Clements (shoulder), OT Joe Staley (knee), DE Demetric Evans (shoulder); Probable - LB Takeo Spikes (shoulder), SS Reggie Smith (groin)

Titans: Out - RB Javon Ringer (back); Questionable - DE Jevon Kearse (knee), OT Mike Otto (knee), S Vincent Fuller (groin), CB Nicholas Harper (forearm), OT David Stewart (hamstring), LB David Thornton (hip)

Inactives
49ers: Nate Davis (3rd QB), CB Nate Clements, T Joe Staley, DL Demetric Evans, C Cody Wallace, CB Keith Smith, S Reggie Smith, LB Diyral Briggs.

Titans: DE Jevon Kearse, DE Dave Ball, DT Sen’Derrick Marks, T David Stewart, T Mike Otto, LB David Thornton, RB Javon Ringer, CB Nick Harper.

The 49ers find themselves in the first of what could be many "must-win" games. Obviously you want to win every game, but after a rough 3-game stretch, they are favored over an opponent once again. Must-win games can be tougher to watch because a tight battle is all the more excruciating. I actually think this game is a little bit different in one regard. When the 49ers played the Rams, a blowout was the only acceptable result (in terms of overall enjoyment). Today's game is a must-win, but any kind of 49ers would be fine for me. The Titans busted out last week so we'll see how it carries over to this week. Either way, let's just get a win.

GO NINERS!

Sunday NFL Early Games Open Thread

2009-11-08T17:00:30Z

Thanks to the home game, the 49ers will not be on until 1:15pm pacific time. In the meantime, we've got a host of intriguing match-ups for you to enjoy. If you don't have the NFL Red Zone channel to enjoy the games, feel free to check out the discussion in here. Here are a few of the better match-ups of the day.

Cardinals-Bears
The biggest for 49ers fans is the NFC West leading Arizona Cardinals traveling to Soldier Field to take on the wildly inconsistent Chicago Bears. Both teams are 4-3, but Chicago gets the home field edge. The Bears have struggled on the road, but are fairly solid at home, which could lead to a tough game for the Cardinals. Of course, nobody really knows what Cardinals team will show up given their inconsistencies.

Ravens-Bengals
This game has huge AFC North implications. A Bengals win would secure a season sweep of the Ravens and put the Bengals further in the driver's seat for a playoff spot. A Ravens win leaves the AFC North further muddled.

Texans-Colts
The Texans are flying high on a 3-game winning streak, while the Colts are coming off a tough win over our 49ers. The Texans have been looking to turn the corner from a .500 team and a win at Indianapolis would give them a whole lot of credibility.

We'll be opening up our 49ers-Titans thread at 12:30, but feel free to enjoy the morning games in the meantime.

Golden Nuggets: Should be a good one..

2009-11-08T11:00:18Z

Morning everyone. Well, it's gameday. Today the Titans come to San Francisco to lose... I mean play the 49eers in what should be a slaughter... I mean good game. Still, I'm excited, though kind of in a hurry considering I have to rise very early so I can make the two and a half hour drive to SF and get there early enough to pull out the BBQ, table, ice chest and of course the laptop for parking-lot tracking of the other games. So I'll make my introduction rather sort. Oddly enough, right this very second is the first I've thought about the game in the past 24 hours, I've been too excited for Strikeforce. Well my two guys won, though I'm not nearly as passionate for MMA as I am my 49ers--I sincerely hope the streak continues for my favorites with a Niners victory today. Without further ado (again, I will somehow ban anybody who tells me it is adieu instead of ado) here's your links. Oh, and GO NINERS!!!

Titans RB Chris Johnson is the biggest threat to the 49ers today--he should be a challenge, he's not exactly the same type of back as the team has faced this season. Still, I figure we got him. (SacBee.com)

The 49ers offensive line continues to shuffle. I'm seriously so surprised how this season went as far as the o-line goes. The second Marvel Smith retired I just got this gut feeling that the line would not be a good one this season. I was right. (MercuryNews.com)

Alex Smith is returning to the Candlestick spotlight--and I'll be there to cheer him on. Yes, I've been heavily opposed to Alex Smith for a couple years but if he's the starting QB then he's my favorite QB on the roster. I'm not a fan of "root for the backup." (PressDemocrat.com)

This game isn't a must-win, but it's real close. (PressDemocrat.com)

A good preview article from the Chronicle with many notes, odds and opinions. (SFGate.com)

TE Delanie Walker is ready to bust out. I've always liked Walker... as a side note, does anybody else absolutely hate the new look of Maiocco's blog? He's probably my favorite beat writer but Christ almighty I can't stand his new layout. (PressDemocrat.com)

The team remains upbeat regardless of three straight losses. This is key, I fully would expect this team to rollover today if we still had Nolan as our coach--but under Singletary I find myself optimistic as well. (SFGate.com)

Be sure to check out the NFL Game Center for tracking the game today as well as a preview before it and a wrap-up afterwards. (NFL.com)

Be sure to watch Gameday Morning to see a video of Vernon Davis' workout routine. This is obviously for the ladies. (MercuryNews.com)

As stated before, ex NFL QB Rich Gannon thinks the 49ers are on the right track. (SFGate.com)

Why not check out the blog for the opposition and read their preview of today's game. (MusicCityMiracles.com)

And here's one last preview to round out the links. (Examiner.com)

Titans vs. 49ers: The World According to Madden

2009-11-07T23:02:45Z

Hello there everyone. So I emailed Fooch the other day after I realized that Ninjames (that slacker) had not been doing the Madden simulations every week. He then gave me the privilege of doing it so here I am. I make sure I have the most updated rosters, take out injured players from the depth chart, and make sure everything else is good with the rosters. So for this simulation, I took Nate Clements, Michael Spurlock, Joe Staley, and Demetric Evans out of the depth chart. The player out with injury for sure on the Titans side is Javon Ringer, and everyone else is questionable so I left them in there.

So here is how this works. The game is Madden 10 for the PS3. I set up the week's matchup in Madden with 14 minute quarters and 25 second clock run-off for a more realistic amount of plays. I set the difficulty on All-Madden, sit back, and watch the matchup and give you guys a play-by-play. Let's jump into this shall we?

1st Quarter

The Titans win the toss and elect to receive. Mark Jones has a nice return to the 32 yard line before getting tackled by Reggie Smith.

Titans first drive:

For the first play of the game Vince Young hands off to Chris Johnson who uses his breakaway speed to bounce to the outside and run for a nice gain to the Titans 48 yard line and a first down. The next play is the same, another run to towards the right, but Manny Lawson will have none of that and tackles Johnson after a 4 yard gain. On 2nd down Young hands off to Johnson again, this time to the left that Johnson breaks for an 8 yard gain and another first down. We can see the Titans game plan already. On first down Young gives it to Johnson yet again but only gets 2 yards before Patrick "Bam Bam" Willis stuffs him. On 2nd and 8 we finally see a pass, which the 49ers were clearly not expecting. Young dumps it off to a wide open Bo Scaife who has plenty of room to run and does so for a nice 24 yard gain. The Titans are already at the Niner 16 yard line. The next play we see Young drop back and deliver a nice pass over the middle to Washington who makes a leaping catch in the end zone, and appears to have the touchdown... but the ref calls it incomplete! He only got one foot down. So the Titans go back to their original game plan and give the ball the Johnson, but Aubrayo Franklin denies him any yards and stuffs him for only a 1 yard gain. It is now 3rd and 9 and the defense needs to step up and make a play... Vince Young drops back to pass and appears to be in no man's land and about to be sacked, but not before he dumps it off to Lendale White for a well designed screen pass and runs in for the easy touchdown . Titans up 7-0.

Robinson returns the kickoff from the 1 only to get tackled at the 22 yard line.

49ers first drive:

First play is a handoff to Frank Gore up the middle for no gain. On 2nd down Alex Smith holds the ball for entirely too long and is the victim of a coverage sack. 3rd down and 16. We see the Niners in a shotgun formation (let's hope this is because of Raye reading Florida Danny's posts). Alex Smith delivers a nice pass to wide open Josh Morgan on a curl route who then fights his way to a 49er first down! The ball is on the 49er 34. On first down Smith hands off to Gore up the middle for a 2 yard gain. On 2nd and 8 tha play is a stretch to Gore for 1 yard. So now we have another crucial 3rd and long play. The Niners line up in a shotgun formation and it's a play-action to Gore. Smith drops back, and tries to dump off to Gore who had plenty of room to run, but it bounces off an offensive lineman and falls incomplete. 4th down.

Andy Lee delivers a nice punt and the punt unit delivers good coverage as they wrap up Mark Jones and stick the Titans at their own 25. Young drops back and throws to Washington over the middle for a 12 yard gain and another first down. Tarell Brown is having some difficulties in his coverage on Washington. Young hands off on the stretch play to Chris Johnson who is stuffed by Lawson and only gains 1 yard. On 2nd and 9 Vince Young throws another nice pass over the middle to Justin Gage for a 29 yard gain. Titans ball at the Niner 35 yard line. Another slant by Washington, another Titans first down as they get to the 49er 21 yard line. Young is picking apart this secondary. Who would've thought? The next two plays are Johnson runs up the middle. One is stuffed by Takeo Spikes for a 1 yard loss and the other is a 1 yards gain. On 3rd and 10, Young drops back and delivers 10 yard pass to Ahmard Hall for a 1st down and the Titans are knocking on the door at the 11 yard line of San Francisco. Play action to Johnson, Young throws but Parys Haralson meets Bo Scaife at the ball and forces him to drop it. Young throws a dangerous pass to the end zone on 2nd down that Tarell Brown should have picked off. 3rd down and 10 at the 11. Young gets a day and a half to throw and throws a TD pass to Britt who has all day to get open. 14-0 Titans.

Robinson returns the kickoff to the 24. On the first play of the drive, Smith throws a short pass to Morgan for no gain. The next play Smith gets hit as he throws an incomplete pass. On 3rd and 10, Crabtree runs a go route and Smith delivers a spot on pass for a 27 yard gain. 49ers are in Titans territory for the first time today at the Titans 49. On 1st down Smith feels pressure and slides for a 4 yard loss. End of the 1st quarter.

2nd Quarter

So a new quarter, and the Niners need a fresh start. On the first play of the 2nd quarter, Smith overthrows an open Josh Morgan. 3rd and 14. Alex drops back and throws quickly to Vernon Davis who runs a 5 yard curl route? Even the offensive linemen are giving Smith the "wtf?" look.

Andy Lee's punt goes into the endzone. Vince Young drops back and... Justin Smith on the sack! 2nd and 15. Justin Gage catches a 9 yard reception. The Niners are getting zero pressure on Vince Young today and allowing him to pick apart the secondary. Vince Young overthrows Gage on what would have been another 1st down. A much needed three-and-out for this 49er defense.

Robinson has a very nice punt return for 16 yards. Niners start on their own 49. First play of the drive is a stretch to Gore to the right who is stuffed for no gain. Another Gore run, this time up the middle for 2 yard gain. On 3rd and 8, Alex Smith throws to Crabtree who would've had an opportunity to get the first down, but it bounces off his hands. A not so much needed three-and-out for the 49er offense.

Another Lee punt goes into endzone. The 3 plays for the Titans are all Chris Johnson runs of 5, 1, and 2 yards. The third straight three-and-out of the game.

Robinson has a nice return to the 49ers 37 yard line. Smith gets hit on 1st down as he throws incomplete. On 2nd down Alex Smith actually gets time in the pocket and hits a wide open Crabtree for a 34 yard gain . Niners are on the Titans 28 and knocking on the door for the first time today. Gore looks to be stuffed at the line, but breaks a tackle for a 3 yard gain. Gore gets the ball up the middle again for 2 yard gain. The Niners line up in the Split formation and Smith tosses to Gore to the left and fools the Titans defense for a 6 yard gain and a 1st down. The 49ers are on the 17. Gore gets the ball up middle and fights for 3 yards. Another toss to Frank Gore to the left for an 11 yard gain! The Niners are at the 3 and poised to score a touchdown. Smith is hit as he throws an incomplete pass on first down. The next play Smith overthrows Josh Morgan in the endzone and it falls incomplete out of bounds. On 3rd down Smith is hit as he throws yet again but it's called a fumble. I guess his arm was not going forward. But the Niners recover regardless. Nedney kicks the 28 yard field goal. Why was Jimmy Raye passing the ball every down from the 3 when all he did to get there was run? 14-3 Titans.

Titans start at own 26. We see yet again 3 straight runs by Chris Johnson of 0, 2, and 4 yards. Three-and-out.

Robinson on the return puts the Niners on their own 29. Smith overthrows Crabtree by a mile who was 1-on-1 and had his man beat by a mile. On 2nd and 10, Crabtree gets a 4 yard reception over middle. On 3rd and 6 Smith throws to Morgan on a short in route for 5 yard reception and gets stopped just short of the 1st down . Another three-and-out.

Titans start on their 22 with about 2 minutes left in the half. Franklin stuffs Johnson for a 1 yard loss. It seems the Titans are ready to get started on 2nd half. The Niners stop Johnson again on the next two plays for yet another 3 runs and punt for the Titans. 43 seconds remain in the half.

Robinson returns the punt to the 49er 45. Smith gets hit as he throws an incomplete pass. On 2nd down we see the same exact play and the same result. Alex is taking a beating today and getting no time at all. Crabtree catches a pass and fights for a first down but comes up 2 yards short. They run the clock out and that's the end of the half.

Halftime thoughts:

So far, we have seen one good drive by the 49ers, but other than that they have been getting shut down and Smith has gotten no time, although he has made some nice passes, especially to Crabtree who is on his way to his best game of the year. On the defensive side, when the Titans have decided to pass, they have excelled and Vince Young has had a field day out there. Clearly they are missing Joe Staley on that line and Nate Clements in the secondary. Titans have went to a strictly run gameplan to conserve their 14-3 lead. Let's hope the Niners can get something going in the second half.

3rd Quarter

Niners get the ball first. Arnaz Battle successfully fields the kick return without fumbling and returns the ball to the 30. We see a shot of Alex Smith ranting on the phone to Jimmy Raye about how he his getting no time in the pocket. Or maybe he is ordering a pizza. Gore runs to the right for no gain. Gore up the middle for another run and a 1 yard loss. On 3rd and 11, Snyder blows his block and lets Jevon Kearse by for the easy sack.

Andy Lee punts and Mark Jones returns it to the Titans 30 yard line. Young throws a 5 yard pass to Ahmard Hall. Young is still getting all day to make decisions. On 2nd and 5 Young finds nobody open and throws the ball away. Young to Scaife for a 7 yard reception and a first down. Ball on their own 42. Vince Young throws over the middle but Patrick Willis jumps and intercepts the ball! He starts to run but he gets stripped and fumbles! Chris Johnson recovers and Titans get a new set of downs on their own 47. Just when the Niners had an opportunity it slips away. At least he wasn't pulling a Dre Bly. Play-action pass to Washington for an 11 yard gain. Sopoaga stuffs Johnson on the next play. On 2nd and 9 Young gets pressure and has to throw away but still gets hit hard by Patrick Willis. Tight throw into coverage on third down and the ball bounces off Shawntae Spencer's hands. 4th down. Bironas kicks a 58 yard field goal!? 17-3 Titans

Robinson returns the kickoff to the 49er 27. Pitch to Gore to right for 2 yard gain. The Niners line up in a shotgun spread formation... and it's a draw to Gor for 4 yards. On 3rd and 4 Smith gets hit as he throws and its yet another three-and-out.

Titans start on their 23. Willis with a nice stuff and a loss of 3 yards for Chris Johnson. Spencer knocks down a deep pass with very nice coverage. 3rd and 13 and Chris Johnson with a short reception over the middle. 4th and 7 and the Titans are forced to punt..

Robinson returns the punt to Niners own 40. Smith delivers a beautiful pass to Vernon Davis over the middle for a 21 yard gain and gets them to the Titans 39 yard line. Smith feels pressure quick on the next play and throws dangerous pass into coverage that almost gets picked off. On 2nd and 10 we see another pass into tight coverage bounces off a Titans defender's hands. 3rd and 10 and Crabtree has man beat one on one but Smith overthrows him by a mile again. Joe Nedney will not be outdone and kicks a 56 yard field goal. 17-6 Titans

Titans start on their own 26 and the Niners desperately need to make a play. Chris Johnson on the stretch to the left but Goldson stuffs him for no gain. Chris Johnson finds a little room up middle for 5 yards on 2nd down. Britt catches a 13 yard reception for a 1st down as the Niners fail to make the play they needed to. Titans are at their 42 yard line. Young drops back and throws to Ahmard Hall who is covered by Lawson one on one. Lawson dives for the knockdown but whiffs. Hall sees daylight and takes it to the house. 24-6 Titans.

Battle kneels down in the endzone for a touchback That's twice he has successfully caught a kick return. All in one game too. Gore gets the ball up the middle 3 yard gain. Davis gets open on a nice out route for a 15 yard catch and a first down at the 38. Smith gets hit as he throws yet again... On 2nd down Smith holds on to the ball forever and gets sacked He had plenty of space to scramble and make a play. End of 3rd Quarter

4th Quarter

3rd and 15. Bruce has a one on one on a go route but shows his age and can't get separation and the pass is knocked down. The 49ers go for it on 4th down on a desperation attempt, but Smith dumps off to Gore who gets tackled short of the 1st down marker. Turnover on downs.

Titans start on the Niners 38. Young throws a 16 yard bullet to a wide open Justin Gage. Ahmard Hall gets the handoff to the left for 5 yards. On 2nd and 5 Johnson is stuffed by Haralson for 5 yard loss. Johnson finds room and runs up the middle and almost gets a first down put comes up 1 yard short. HUGE hit by Bam Bam. Bironas with the short field goal. 27-6 Titans

Robinson returns the kick to the Niner 27. Smith underthrows Bruce on 1st down and almost gets picked off. Morgan catches a nice ball from Smith for 18 yard reception. Niners at their 45 and Alex gets hit as he throws... incomplete. The next pass gets deflected and it's now 3rd and 10. Smith gets hit again as he throws and the ball lobs into the air and falls incomplete. 4th and 10. Bruce on the reception, clearly has a first down, but fumbles. The ball rolls back 2 yards behind the marker. Niners recover but it's a turnover on downs.

Titans start on their own 47. A play-action pass, but Young lobs pass into 49ers defenders after Sopoaga hits him and Willis picks it off. He returns it to the Titans 47 and doesn't fumble this time.

Gore runs it up the middle(?!) for a 3 yard run. Even Cris Collinsworth knows this is dumb. You know it's bad if he is insulting you. Bruce gets a nice 20 yard reception to the 24... but Barry Sims is called for holding. He dragged him down to the ground with him. Morgan on the reception but is hit as he catches it and it falls incomplete. 3rd and 17... Smith is hit as he throws... incomplete pass. 4th and 17. Smith gets sacked and he fumbles. Titans recover but its overturned and he was ruled down by contact. Regardless it's a turnover on downs and the Titans ball at the 49er 37.

Ahmard Hall gets 6 yard catch and the Titans are trying to add insult to injury. On 2nd and 4 Chris Johnson has a 2 yard run up middle. 3rd and 2. The Niners bring the house, and Hawkins is WIDE open, catches it and never turns back. Touchdown. 34-6 Titans

Robinson return to 27. Holding on Eric Heitmann on 1st down. 1st and 18. Davis jumps up and snatches a 17 yard catch just 1 yard short. Smith scrambles (FINALLY) for a 4 yard run 1st and 10 at the 39. Gore with the stretch to the right for a 1 yard loss. Holding on Gore on the next play and now it's 2nd and 21. The refs really don't want the Niners to have any success. Lob to Vernon for a 7 yard reception. 3rd and 14. Brandon Jones gets his first reception against his old team but only for 10 yards. The Niners have given up and punt the ball.

Titans start on their own 21. Chris Johnson with 5 yard gain to the right, then a 1 yard run up middle, then a no gainer up the middle.

Robinson returns the punt to the Niners' 44. Morgan with a 9 yard catch. Davis with a 27 yard catch. Morgan with a 1 yard catch. Battle with a 10 yard catch... (wtf?) Niners are within the 10 and gets hit as he throws an incomplete pass. On 2nd down Smith throws a terrible pass into the end zone right to Hope and gets picked off. The Titans run out the clock.

Final Score: Titans 34 - 49ers 6

Titans -- 14 | 0 | 10 | 10 - 34

49ers -- 0 | 3 | 3 | 0 - 6

Post Game Stats

Titans | Stat | 49ers

342 | Total Offense | 250

75 | Rushing Yards | 30

267 | Passing Yards | 220

11 | 1st downs | 11

2 | Turnovers | 2

42% | 3rd down percentage | 17%

28:54 | TOP | 27:06

Alex Smith -- 20/44 244 YDS 0 TD 1 INT 53.6 rtg Vince Young -- 17/27 272 YDS 4 TD 2 INT 108.9 rtg

Frank Gore -- 17 ATT 41 YDS 2.4 ypc Chris Johnson -- 29 ATT 70 YD 2.4 ypc

Vernon Davis -- 6 REC 89 YDS Ahmard Hall -- 4 REC 80 YDS 1 TD

Josh Morgan -- 6 REC 50 YDS Justin Gage -- 3 REC 54 YDS

Michael Crabtree -- 4 REC 72 YDS Kenny Britt -- 2 REC 22 YDS 1 TD

Justin Smith -- 1 Sack 5 Tackles Jevon Kearse -- 2 sacks

Patrick Wills -- 2 INT 7 tackles Kyle Vanden Bosch/Tony Brown -- Each 1 Sack

Chris Hope -- 5 tackles 1 INT

Post-Game Thoughts:

Well the 49ers fell 14-0 early in the first quarter and never really got anything going. As said before, they had a couple decent drives, but all they could get out of them were field goals. Alex Smith made some nice throws, but never got any time to do much of anything. On the other side, Vince Young got all the time in the world most of the game and picked apart the 49er defense. Nate Clements' absence was surely missed. Also, the play calling was suspect at best on the 49ers side of the ball and rarely made much sense.

As we all know, the keys to victory tomorrow will be containing Chris Johnson and protecting Alex Smith. In this simulation they did the former for the most part, but Smith was taking a lot of shots. Let's hope that this simulation represents the opposite of what will happen tomorrow. I'm pretty confident in a 49er victory, unlike Madden NFL 10.

Various upcoming 49ers promotions and events

2009-11-07T19:00:30Z

Every so often I get press releases sent by the 49ers publicity and community relations folks. Professional sports teams are of course very active in getting folks out to the stadium. However, they also mix in a variety of other promotions for the simple purpose of getting publicity for the team. Obviously minor league teams go crazy with promotions, but even the highest level of teams mix in fun promotions.

The 49ers are just as active with these kinds of promotions as other teams. The team has a couple of these promotions coming up and I thought it was worth mentioning for folks that will be attending home games at any point this season.

Early Fan of the Game
The 49ers will be rewarding fans on a random basis for entering the stadium prior to 45 minutes before kickoff by way of a new program acknowledging "Early Fans of the Games." Fans who enter the stadium early have the opportunity to be selected to receive 49ers rewards ranging from seat upgrades to food and beverages vouchers to pregame field passes.

49ers representatives will be circulating throughout the stadium and at entry gates selecting fans who enter early to receive these complimentary rewards. Some lucky fans will also be recognized on the Video Boards each game. This particular promotion kicks off tomorrow against the Titans. I'd imagine the team is looking to cut down on the fan traffic coming through the gates close to kickoff. Delay in getting into a stadium is one of the bigger complaints fans tend to have. This kind of incentive to get in early could help remedy that issue.

Largest Northern California Tailgate
The 49ers and Safeway will be hosting a 20,000 square foot tailgate party prior to tomorrow's game from 10am to kickoff at 1:15pm. Anybody attending the game is allowed to attend the tailgate, which will be taking place at Candlestick Park’s interior parking lot, near letter pole "R" – just outside of entrance gate E.

The event will include free food, a media room with ten large screen televisions and large couches, a free lock room souvenir picture for those in attendance, and a variety of interactive games. Apparently Safeway has done this in other cities, so hopefully that means they've got the process perfected.

We have a bit more after the jump...

Kids entertainment
The 49ers are partnering with Dreamstar Properties, Inc, to provide its character entertainment services at the 49ers "Faithful City" prior to all 49ers home games throughout the 2009 season. Faithful City is an area at Candlestick Park where families can enjoy interactive games in addition to appearances by the 49ers mascot Sourdough Sam and the San Francisco 49er’s Gold Rush Cheerleading team.

Dreamstar Parties has customized special activities from its signature character service for 49ers games to include face and hair painting featuring team designs. Dreamstar Parties was signed to perform at all pre/regular/post season games throughout the 2009 season. Performances in the "Faithful City" will begin when gates open (three hours prior to kick off) and run up until 15 minutes before opening kick-off.

Community Relations Events
The 49ers have developed their theme for November community relations events: Respect for Family. During the month of November, the 49ers will focus on spending time in the community to demonstrate respect for families through various events across the Bay Area.

Throughout November, the 49ers will participate in several community-related, hands-on volunteer projects in the Bay Area. The featured event of the month will take place on Tuesday, November 24, 2009, when the team will participate in Serving Thanksgiving Meals at the Ray and Joan Kroc Salvation Army Corps Community Center and Railton Place in San Francisco. Players and their families will be serving a Thanksgiving meal to youth who have aged out of the foster care system as well as chronically homeless adults, veterans, and low-income seniors.

On November 3, the 49ers will participate in The Red & Gold 52 for 49ers Card Game Tournament with Seniors. At this event, residents of the Valley Village Senior Center in Santa Clara will play card games with current and former 49ers. Games included are Spades, Hearts/Crazy Nines/Golf, and Go Fish. Prizes will be awarded to all who participate. I have to say, it's events like these that make me think it won't be half bad being old!

On November 17, 2009, the team will participate in Stocking the Food Bank at the San Francisco Food Bank. Players and their families will help sort Thanksgiving food and load the items into vehicles for delivery to needy families in San Francisco.

Golden Nuggets: Gannon? Meh.

2009-11-07T11:00:28Z

Hey there everyone. Today I don't have very many links for you. Well, that's wholly dependent on what you'd call very many but still, I may not even be using the jump today. There's no news, or rather, I think there isn't any. You've got your obvious injury reports and all that, the only other articles are previews for the Titans game and a bunch of Alex Smith/Vince Young articles. I'm really sick now of hearing about how they both were drafted as starters, benched and are now making their way back--we get it. Or at least, I hope you all get it, I don't want to start doubting the intelligence of my readers, now! I wont be thinking about football for the rest of today as I'm going into hype mode for Strikeforce tonight. Onto the links, my friends.

You know there's not a ton of links when I start out with Singletary's Notebook. (49ers.com)

Rich Gannon supports Jimmy Raye. I suppose one person had to. (MercuryNews.com)

He also says it's underestimated what Alex Smith went through his first few seasons in the NFL. (PressDemocrat.com)

Comeback QBs.. Alex Smith...Vince Young... etc. (NBCBayArea.com)

Teams Talk, in this one S Curtis Taylor talks about the Titans.. (49ers.com)

Pro Bowl voting is going on presently, make sure to send some of your favorite 49ers to the game. (49ers.com)

The Titans will be testing the 49ers run defense. (49ers.com)

I'm not interested either in being the Titans' latest headline. (SFGate.com)

49ers-Titans Final Injury Report

2009-11-06T23:00:42Z

Nothing surprising to close out the week. The 49ers would appear to be getting Reggie Smith back for Sunday's game, which is a nice little shot in the arm for a secondary that has had injury issues much of the season. If Smith is active and playing I'm really curious to see how the team utilizes him, given Nate Clements injury. Mark Roman moved his way up to primary safety backup, so if Roman remains in that role, Smith could be moved around in a variety of other formations.

One thing I wanted to bring up unrelated to injuries: The Sports Guy rolled out his picks for the week today and had these comments about the 49ers-Titans game:

NINERS (-4) over Titans
The strangest line of the year. I don't get it. Vince Young on the road against a good defense getting just four? Really? We're afraid of Chris Johnson that much?

The folks at MCM would have us believe Chris Johnson is a bad, bad man. He's definitely a quality running back, but the 49ers rush defense is quite solid. Vince Young will indeed have to make plays if the Titans are going to win this game.

49ers
Out
CB Nate Clements (shoulder)
DE Demetric Evans (shoulder)
OT Joe Staley (knee)

Probable
LB Takeo Spikes (shoulder)
SS Reggie Smith (groin)

Titans
Out
RB Javon Ringer (back)

Questionable
DE Jevon Kearse (knee)
OT Mike Otto (knee)
S Vincent Fuller (groin)
CB Nicholas Harper (forearm)
OT David Stewart (hamstring)
LB David Thornton (hip)

Any Given Sunday; Week 9 Preview

2009-11-06T21:07:36Z

Happy Friday everyone and welcome to our Week 9 preview! This week's preview will be slightly abbreviated compared to past editions, but it will still have all the same information and format. As far as the games go, I'm looking forward to the Miami v New England game. These teams have two of the more interesting offenses in the NFL and it should be a close, exciting game.

Sunday and Monday night both feature interesting match ups as well, with Dallas going to Philadelphia on Sunday and Pittsburgh visiting Denver on Monday night. The Cowboys and Eagles almost always play good games, and we will get to see how the Broncos respond to their first loss of the season. So as you can see there is plenty to look forward to this weekend, now on with the preview.

Byes: Bills, Browns, Vikings, Jets, Raiders, Rams

Sunday 1 PM EST

Washington Redskins v. Atlanta Falcons - Georgia Dome

The 2-5 Washington Redskins travel to Atlanta to face a Falcon's team still reeling from a tough loss to New Orleans last week. Atlanta has to be disappointed after losing two consecutive games for the first time under Mike Smith, but the entire season has been a disappointment for Washington. Struggles on their offensive line have mired their entire offense in ineptitude. An inability to protect the quarterback has limited them to a mere 296 yards per game. The Redskins are tied for 5^th in the league having allowed 23 sacks this year.

The Falcons' offense has not been playing well either as of late. In his last three games, quarterback Matt Ryan has thrown 7 interceptions. Fortunately for Ryan, he may be able to rely on running back Michael Turner to carry the team. Turner is coming off his best game of the season after rushing for 151 yards and a touchdown last week against the Saints. If he can have success against the Redskins' 22^nd ranked run defense, the Falcons should be able to win this one at home.

Score: Washington 10 Atlanta 24

Arizona Cardinals v. Chicago Bears - Soldier Field

The Cardinals are coming off a disappointing home loss to the Panthers. Arizona has been inconsistent all season, but they have played better on the road than at home. They have already matched last season's number of road victories with three. If the visiting Cardinals are going to get another win on the road, they will need improved play from their quarterback Kurt Warner. Warner matched his career high with 5 interceptions against Carolina in Week 8, and he also lost a fumble. So far this season his yards per attempt (y/a) is down by almost 1 y/a, from 7.7 y/a last season to 6.8 y/a now. Warner may also be without one of his top playmakers if wide receiver Anquan Boldin is forced to sit out with his ankle injury.

Warner's counterpart, Jay Cutler, has made poor decisions at times. He has thrown eleven touchdowns but also has eleven interceptions. Chicago needs running back Matt Forte to rebound from his slow start and take some of the pressure off of Cutler. Forte had a strong game last week against Cleveland, running for 90 yards and two touchdowns. He will look to continue that success in Week 9 against a Cardinal run defense that gave up 270 rushing yards last week to Carolina. If Chicago is able to win the turnover battle I think they can win this game at home.

Prediction: Arizona 24 Chicago 28

Houston Texans v. Indianapolis Colts - Lucas Oil Stadium

Houston comes into this game in second place in the AFC South, trailing Indianapolis by three games in the loss column, and this game could go a long way in deciding who wins that division. This match up features two of the league's top passing attacks. Peyton Manning and the colts lead the league with 316.3 passing yards per game, while Matt Schaub and the Texans rank 3^rd with 282 passing yards per game. On a side note, has anybody else noticed how bored Schaub looks when he plays?

The difference in this game could be the Colts' pass rushing duo, Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis. The two have a combined total of 14 sacks this season and are the main reason Indianapolis has the league's 7^th ranked pass defense. Quarterback Peyton Manning was held without a touchdown pass in last week's game against San Francisco, so I expect he will throw a couple extra to make up for it. Houston is a good team, but everything they can do the Colts do better.

Prediction: Houston 21 Indianapolis 31

Baltimore Ravens v. Cincinnati Bengals - Paul Brown Stadium

Baltimore comes into this game at 4-3, 1 game back of Cincinnati in the AFC North. The Bengals won the first game this season with a late touchdown to go ahead 17-14. Despite the fact that Cincinnati won the head to head matchup and has a better overall record, The Ravens actually have a much higher total DVOA. Baltimore ranks 5^th with a DVOA of 35.2%, that's 10 spots ahead of the Bengals. Because of this I think the Ravens are fully capable of going into Paul Brown Stadium and getting a win. The key for Baltimore will be maintaining balance on offense. If they can do that, I think they will have success against Cincinnati's defense.

In past years the Bengals have been known on offense for their passing game, but this year it's all about the running game for Cincinnati. They currently average 127.7 rushing yards per game, which makes them 9^th in the league. However, the Bengals may look to pass more often against a Baltimore defense ranked 4^th against the rush. Wide receiver Chad Ochocinco could be the difference in this game. The eccentric wide out already has 573 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns. I don't think Cincinnati will be able to stop the Ravens on defense, so they will need to win this one in a shoot out if they want to sweep the season series.

Prediction: Baltimore 28 Cincinnati 17

Kansas City Chiefs v. Jacksonville Jaguars - Jacksonville Municipal Stadium

It seems I jumped on the Kansas City bandwagon too early. After a Week 6 victory at Washington, I picked them to win at home against the Chargers. The result was a 37-7 victory for San Diego. This week I've learned my lesson and will not be picking them to win on the road. They are just not especially good at anything except for special teams, and that's not enough to win consistently.

Jacksonville is by no means a power house, but they do have better playmakers on offense. Running back Maurice Jones-Drew and receivers Torry Holt and Mike Sims-Walker are all better than their counterparts on the Chiefs. The Jaguars are a physical team and they like to emphasize the running game. I expect they will rely on Maurice Jones-Drew, and he should have success against a Kansas City defense giving up 131 rushing yards per game. They won't win pretty, but Jacksonville should do enough to win this game at home and close the gap between themselves and the Houston Texans.

Prediction: Kansas City 9 Jacksonville 14

Green Bay Packers v. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Raymond James Stadium

The league did Green Bay a favor when they scheduled this game. After a disappointing home loss to Minnesota and all the drama that surrounded Brett Favre's return to Lambeau, the Packers could use a gimme and this is about as close as you will get in the NFL. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is playing at an extremely high level this season. He is completing 65% of his passes and has thrown for 14 touchdowns and just two interceptions. Green Bay is ranked in the top 10 in offense and defense DVOA, but they have struggled on special teams at times. Last week a couple of missed field goals contributed to the loss. Despite these inconsistencies, the Packer should be able to control this game.

Buccaneer's rookie Josh Freeman will get his first career start at quarterback, and Tampa Bay will still lose.

Prediction: Green Bay 32 Tampa Bay 12

Miami Dolphins v. New England Patriots - Gillette Stadium

Miami comes into this game at 3-4 but they are still very much alive in the AFC East. Last week they picked up a win against a tough division opponent, and this week things do not get any easier for the Dolphins. It will be interesting to see how often they run the Wildcat in New England, where they first unveiled the formation. Despite having continued success with it, they have shied away from the Wildcat in the last couple of weeks. Whatever they decide to do on offense, they will need continued production form Ted Ginn on special teams. I think they will need at least two touchdowns from special teams and turnovers to win against a much stronger New England team.

The Patriots had a bye last week, so you know that Bellicheck is going to have this match up game planned masterfully. New England's offense has been spectacular, ranking 3^rd in total yardage with 409 yards per game. Defensively, they are giving up 109.4 rushing yards per game so I would not be surprised if Miami is able to move the ball and put up points against the Patriots defense. But in the end I think Tom Brady and company will be able to outs score the Dolphins.

Prediction: Miami 28 New England 35

Sunday 4:05-4:15 PM EST

Carolina Panthers v. New Orleans Saints - Superdome

A surprising win on the road has the Panthers coming into New Orleans on a high note. Carolina needs to win this game if they want to get back into the NFC South playoff picture. If they are going to have success they will need to be able to run the ball and get pressure on the quarterback. When running back DeAngelo Hall runs for over 110 yards, the Panthers are an impressive 10-0. If they can't rely on their running game, they will not be able to win on the strength of Jake Delhomme's arm alone. Defensively, Julius Peppers has been dominant in the last four games. He recorded six sacks, two forced fumbles, and an interception returned for a touchdown during that span.

The hometown Saints continue to prove they are a complete team, ranking 2^nd in offense in 4^th in defense DVOA. They lead the league with 16 interceptions, so you can mark them down for at least one of those against the oft intercepted Jake Delhomme. The improvement in their running game has made them almost unstoppable. They are averaging 39 points per game, and should have no problem scoring enough to go to 8-0.

Prediction: Carolina 17 New Orleans 35

Detroit Lions v. Seattle Seahawks - Qwest Field

Detroit makes a rare journey out to the west coast to visit Qwest Field, in a matchup of NFC bottom feeders. Rookie quarterback Matt Stafford struggled in his first start after missing two weeks with an injury, and he will look to bounce back with a strong showing in Seattle to silence his critics. Wide receiver Calvin Johnson was limited in practice this week due to a knee injury. Obviously it would be a big loss if Johnson could not play in this difficult road game. While the Lions do have a lot of question marks coming into this game, if they play up to their potential they can win this game.

Once again the Seahawks have been hit by a rash of injuries this year. If they want to get back in the race in the NFC West this is a game they need to win. Matt Hassellbeck was 22 of 39 for 249 yards with two touchdowns against the Cowboys. Look for him to have a big game against the Lions 25^th ranked pass defense. Tight end Steve Carlson has caught five touchdown passes in his last seven home games and I expect him to add to that total against Detroit. The Lions have a punchers chance, especially if Calvin Johnson is able to play, but I think the Seahawks will do enough in the passing game to get this win at home.

Prediction: Detroit 13 Seattle 17

Tennessee Titans v. San Francisco 49ers - Candlestick Park

Obviously this game is covered in excruciating detail on this site and there is not much that I can really add to the discussion. But, I will go ahead and predict that the 49ers will stop their three game losing streak and get their season back on track.

Prediction: Tennessee 10 San Francisco 24

San Diego Chargers v. New York Giants - Giants Stadium

This week San Diego has the tough task of traveling all the way across the country to play the Giants. If this game were played in San Diego I might pick the Chargers, but I don't know if the Bolts will be able to do enough to overcome the disadvantage of playing on the eastern seaboard. Quarterback Phillip Rivers will look to stretch the field against a New York defense that has shown a propensity to give up the big play. Rivers has already thrown for over 2000 yards this season, and he will need to have a strong game if San Diego is going to win. Wide out Vincent Jackson should get plenty of targets as he had over 100 receiving yards in each of his last two games. The big question for the Chargers is whether or not Shawn Merriman will show up in this game. Merriman had been largely invisible until last week when he recorded his first two sacks of the year. If he can have a big game pressuring Eli Manning it could swing the game in San Diego's favor.

After starting 5-0, the Giants have lost their last three games and are now in 3^rd place in the NFC East. Part of the problem has been Eli Manning's tendency to turn the ball over. Manning has thrown six interceptions in the last three weeks and he will need to hold on to the football if he wants to give the Giants a chance to stop their slide. While their quarterback has been struggling, New York has gotten improved play from running back Brandon Jacobs. After coming under heavy criticism this season, Jacobs has averaged over four yards per carry in his last three games. An improved ground game and greater ball security should allow the Giants to get back to their winning ways.

Prediction: San Diego 17 New York 20

Sunday 8:20 PM EST

Dallas Cowboys v. Philadelphia Eagles - Lincoln Financial Field

Dallas and Philadelphia is one of the NFL's great rivalries, and this particular match up has all the makings of a classic. The winner of this game will be in sole possession of first place in the NFC East and will have a 1 game advantage in the season series. Both squads are coming off impressive victories so this game should be a good test for these teams. Tony Romo has righted the ship after getting off to a shaky start. The Dallas quarterback has thrown for seven touchdowns and no interceptions in his last three games. Second year wide out Miles Austin has emerged as a big play threat recently and the Cowboys will rely on Austin as well as their stable of running backs to try and steal a win in Philadelphia.

The Eagles have very quietly compiled a 5-2 record, and this will be a statement game for them. Philadelphia is ranked 2^nd in total DVOA according to Football Outsiders, and they have the added advantage of playing this game at home. Offensively the Eagles have been dynamic, averaging 29 points a game. Much of their success has come from explosive plays. An example would be wide receiver DeSean Jackson who has six touchdowns this season, all of them over 50 yards. Jackson also give Philadelphia a strong return game. On defense the Eagles are as good as anybody in the league. They are ranked number 1 in DVOA and will be a tough test for the Cowboys' offense. In a close game like this I tend to favor the home team so I'm picking the Eagles.

Prediction Dallas 20 Philadelphia 21

Monday 8:30 PM EST

Pittsburgh Steelers v. Denver Broncos - Invesco Field at Mile High

Pittsburgh's road back to the Super Bowl may go through an unexpected destination, Denver. The Broncos are 6-1 and have everybody's attention after their hot start. But their offense may have been exposed by the aggressive Ravens defense in their last game, and they will have to prove they can protect Kyle Orton against a similar Steelers defense. Pittsburgh has found success throwing the ball this season ranking 4^th in pass offense DVOA, but they will need to protect quarterback Ben Rothlisberger if that is going to continue. The Broncos' Elvis Dumervil is leading the league with 10 sacks and could pose a match up problem for the Steelers. Ben Rothlisberger's ability to keep plays alive could be the x-factor in this game. While he is often criticized for holding on to the ball too long his knack for making something out of nothing can lead to big plays.

After only scoring 7 points in their last game, Josh McDaniel's no doubt made some adjustments to his offensive game plan over the bye week. For the most part Kyle Orton has done a very nice job spreading the ball around in the passing game, but Denver has not had as much success developing a consistent running game. Things will not get any easier against a Pittsburgh defense only giving up 3.8 yards per carry. For this reason I expect the Broncos to play to their strengths and emphasize the spread offense and moving the ball through the air. If Orton gets the protection he needs he should be able to move the ball efficiently against Pittsburgh. The Steelers still have big names like James Harrison and Troy Polamalu on defense, but as a unit they have not performed as well as in past years. Still, I think Pittsburgh will make enough plays to pull this game out in the end.

Prediction: Pittsburgh 17 Denver 14