Mock Draft #1 - 10

Here is my predictions and analysis for the first 10 picks of the 2008 Draft.Based on needs addressed in free agency and those still remaining, and of course, the most glaring areas of concern for each team.

1. Miami Dolphins – Chris Long, DE, Virginia
If the Dolphins stay at this position there would be only three players I feel as value here: Darren McFadden, Glenn Dorsey, and Chris Long. With Ronnie Brown as your franchise back and needs elsewhere, McFadden is out, and that comes down to the defensive lineman. For the Dolphins, a team that will utilize a 3-4 defensive scheme, Chris Long is perfect. Glenn Dorsey is a beast in the inside, but his transition to a nose in a 3-4 is questionable. Actually, I see Sedrick Ellis as more of a possibility than Dorsey. But, if the Dolphins do stay at #1, which I know they will try to trade out, Long should be the pick. Long was dominant as an end in a 3-4, which is an extremely difficult position to succeed at. 3-4 defensive schemes need three talented men up front to be successful, and Long is certainly a strong start.

2. St. Louis Rams – Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State
First off, my buddy Walter Cherepinsky has been saying for months that the Rams would select Gholston. I was a little hesitant because of the Rams' struggles at offensive line, but with the signing of G Jacob Bell and hopefully a fully healthy Orlando Pace back, the Rams will be able to help a struggling defensive line. Leonard Little is going to be 34, and James Hall was released. Gholston would be an immediate upgrade, and if Jim Haslett does indeed switch the defense to a 3-4, Gholston can play OLB. The depth at offensive tackle, also allows the Rams to pursue one in the second round.

3. Atlanta Falcons – Glenn Dorsey, DT, LSU
This pick should have Matt Ryan's name all over it, but with the likeliness of Brian Brohm, Joe Flacco, or Andre Woodson sitting atop round two, the Falcons can instead get the big and athletic Dorsey, who many draft experts consider the top prospect in the draft. Atlanta owns three 2nd round picks and could easily move back in the 2nd round to get its quarterback if it so wishes. Dorsey is too good to pass up. The Falcons have signed some free agent DTs this offseason, but far from starting/big name material. As long as Dorsey has fully recovered from his injury, I think this pick makes better sense than drafting Ryan. Ryan is a solid quarterback, but many scouts believe really has yet to differentiate himself from the other quarterbacks in the draft. Dorsey is the top DT in years. OT Jake Long would also make sense, but the talent at the offensive tackle affords the Falcons to find one later in the draft.

4. Oakland Raiders – Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas
Defensive tackle may be more of a pressing need and with Sedrick Ellis still available it would make sense, but Al Davis' moves don't always make sense. Plus, Davis gave starting DT Tommy Kelly an outrageous salary already. Davis loves speed and McFadden certainly has it. Even though, they resigned Justin Fargas, Davis is not shy of drafting the BPA. McFadden and JaMarcus Russell would create a nice offensive backfield. When you are picking #4, you are far more than just one player than the playoffs, and Al Davis knows that, so why not invest in a guy that will bring fans to the game and make for an exciting offense.

5. Kansas City Chiefs – Jake Long, OT, Michigan
I don't think the Chiefs would ever think of a situation where both Jake Long and Matt Ryan are available at #5, but that is the case. With Brodie Croyle as the quarterback of the future for now, and the Chiefs desperately needing offensive tackle help and Jake Long available, this pick is a no brainer and a dream pick for the Chiefs.

6. New York Jets – Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy
With Vernon Gholston and Darren McFadden off the board, the Jets instead find a cornerback to go opposite last year's first round pick Darrelle Revis Besides Revis, the Jets really lack depth at the CB position. Justin Miller is better suited as a special teamer than a starting cornerback and is still coming back from a knee injury. The Jets were interested in Asante Samuel (as one everyone else), so they want another cornerback. Sedrick Ellis is another possibility to add depth at NT, but McKelvin would create a nice tandem with Revis.

7. New England Patriots (from SF) – Derrick Harvey, DE/OLB, Florida
Asante Samuel is now filthy rich in Philadelphia and with that cornerback is one of a few positions where the Pats could possibly have a need to fill. However, with the depth at cornerback and the Pats now infamous for not giving big paydays to cornerback, I believe the Pats go with plan B if Vernon Gholston is unavailable and go with Harvey, a very similar player who will take the position vacated by released OLB Roosevelt Colvin. The Pats are usually known for not drafting young LBs, but have shown interested in Harvey whose stock is rising.

8. Baltimore Ravens – Matt Ryan, QB, Boston
The quarterback position is in disarray and with Matt Ryan still on the board (highly possible if the Falcons pass on him) then I think this pick is a no brainer. Coach Harbaugh would immediately have his franchise quarterback, a position the Ravens have lacked. If Ryan is off the board, look for the Ravens to go after a cornerback, such as Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, where its two corners are aging and both coming off injuries.

9. Cincinnati Bengals – Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC
Well the Bengals thought they had their big DT with the Shaun Rodgers trade and then the Dewayne Robertson trade however both trades backfired and the Bengals are still looking for that DT. If Ellis drops to #9 the Bengals won't hesitate to take him. Not only does he fill a need, but at #9 his value is way too good to pass up. With the signing of Antwan Odom, DE is no longer a need, and if Ellis is off the board, look for the Bengals to take OLB Keith Rivers.

10. New Orleans Saints – Keith Rivers, OLB, USC
The biggest weakness for the Saints is obviously the cornerback, but the Saints just signed free agent Randall Gay and the top 2 CBs are already off the board. The Saints just traded for Jonathan Vilma and the addition of of Rivers would be a huge upgrade to its linebacking corps. Aqib Talib and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie are tempting, but with the depth at CB, the Saints can get one in the 2nd round. Rivers is the best LB in the draft and after him and Dan Connor there is a drop off.
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March Mock Draft # 11 - 21

Here is my predictions and analysis for the middle third of the 2008 Draft.Based on needs addressed in free agency and those still remaining, and of course, the most glaring areas of concern for each team. Next time will be picks 1 - 10.

11. Buffalo Bills – Domique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee St.
For the first time since around December, I don't have Malcolm Kelly in this slot. Kelly's stock has tumbled due to his inability to workout and questions about his speed. DeSean Jackson would be intriguing, but he is too similar to Lee Evans, and the Bills like its return man in Roscoe Parrish. The Bills instead go after another position of need and draft its shutdown cornerback. At 6-2, Rodgers-Cromartie has the size to match any receiver, but also 4.33 speed to hang with any receiver. His knack has always been his small school status, but with strong workouts and a great Senior Bowl, he has proved his ability.

12. Denver Broncos – Ryan Clady, OT, Boise St.
With the retirement of Matt Lepsis, the left tackle position now seems vulnerable, and with Ryan Clady still on the board, this pick makes sense. At 6-6, 320 lbs, Clady is the ideal LT, and actually has a higher ceiling than Jake Long. Jake Long is more NFL ready, but I see Clady as having the better NFL career down the road. DT Kentwan Balmer or even WR DeSean Jackson is a possibility, but Clady is better value here if he even lasts to #12.

13. Carolina Panthers – Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt
Both tackles were resigned by the Panthers, but with the departure of guard Mike Wahle, the Panthers may move Travelle Wharton inside creating a vacancy at the tackle position. Williams' stock has climbed up the draft boards, and now looks to be the third tackle off the board. DE Phillip Merling is also a possibility, but after last season, Jake Delhomme's health has to be priority #1.

14. Chicago Bears – Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh
Grossman is out of Chicago, actually he just signed a one year deal. But, I don’t see the Bears wanting to draft another first round quarterback. I think the Bears will focus on protecting that quarterback, and the massive Otah (6-6. 340) is a great way to do that. DeSean Jackson is tempting with the departure of Bernard Berrian, but no receiver can get a ball if the quarterback doesn't have time to throw it to him.

15. Detroit Lions – Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois
The Lions in the last week have gotten CBs Leigh Bodden and Brian Kelly. Neither CB is going to fool you for the shutdown cornerback that each team covets, but both are solid and allow the Lions to pursue other positions. The Lions were finalist in the Julius Jones' sweepstakes, but lost out to Seattle, and the lost may be a blessing in disguise with the chance to get Mendenhall. There is no hiding that Matt Millen likes to draft offensive playmakers, well that is Mendenhall, only he uses his skills with his feet than his hands.


16. Arizona Cardinals ­– Aqib Talib, CB, Kanas
With the Cardinals moving Antrel Rolle to safety there is now a hole at the CB position. With Edgerrin James' best years behind him, drafting Jonathan Stewart would make sense, but the Cards can get a solid RB in the 2nd round. Aqib Talib may lack explosive speed, but makes up with his size and playmaking ability. Always a threat to make an interception and go the other way.

17. Minnesota Vikings – Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson
The Vikings already had a need at defensive end before the news broke that Kenechi Udeze had cancer, but now that need is much greater. Our prayers are with Udeze and his family. Merling brings speed, size, and athleticism where he could be the premier sackmaster the Vikings have yet to find. Merling seems to be surpassing Derrick Harvey as the third best DE in the draft. Even without Udeze's cancer, the defensive end need was still there.

18. Houston Texans – Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon
Houston just signed RB Chris Brown, which actually makes this pick that much more possible. Stewart just had surgery and with his timetable set for around July, the Texans have insurance with Brown. The Texans still need that stud RB to complement Schaub and Andre Johnson. Stewart has the great combination of size and speed the Texans are looking for. With a solid back, the Texans should be able to improve after a successful season. CB Mike Jenkins is another option.

19. Philadelphia Eagles – DeSean Jackson, WR, California
Well the Eagles got its stud CB in free agency with Asante Samuel and helped with its DE rotation by signing Chris Clemons to a five year contract. With that, the Eagles are able to help its offense and draft the athletic playmaker in Jackson. He may be only 5'9, but if you watch any game film, you know the talent this guy has. The Eagles have decent receivers in Reggie Brown and Kevin Curtis, but lacks the deep threat that Jackson can be.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Malcolm Kelly, WR, Oklahoma
Joey Galloway seems to have found the fountain of youth and never ages, but the Buccaneers lack a young playmaker on the otherside and eventually become the #1. Michael Clayton was suppose to be that guy, but the only thing good about Michael Clayton lately has been the movie. Malcolm Kelly's stock has slipped recently, but with a strong workout April 9, Kelly should improve his stock. His 6'4 frame is very enticing.

March Mock Draft #21 - 32

Here is my predictions and analysis for the bottom third of the 2008 Draft.Based on needs addressed in free agency and those still remaining, and of course, the most glaring areas of concern for each team. Next time will be picks 11 - 20.

21. Washington Redskins ­– Limas Sweed, WR, Texas
Defensive end is the major weakness on this team, but with both Harvey and Merling off the board, new head doach Jim Zorn goes with the massive 6-4 Sweed who will be the tall receiver the Skins want in its new West Coast Offense. DEs Lawrence Jackson and Quentin Groves are possibilities, but Zorn is an offensive guy and the Redskins have been trying to find that tall receiver to complement its speedster. Sweed's stock drops this far due to a wrist injury his senior season.

22. Dallas Cowboys (from CLE) – Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida
The Cowboys are said to be interested in troubled cornerback Pacman Jones, but nothing yet has happened. The Cowboys three main needs are CB, WR, and RB. With Jenkins falling to Dallas at #22, his value is way too good to pass up. Jenkins would be opposite Terence Newman, and would immediately bolster Dallas' defensive backfield as one of the best in the league. Felix Jones is tempting, but with the Seahawks recent signing of Julius Jones, the Cowboys believe he will fall right into their laps at #28.

23. Pittsburgh Steelers – Branden Albert, G, Virginia
With Alan Faneca now in New York, the Steelers have a major void to fill and Albert is by far the best guard in the draft. At 6-6, 310 lbs, Albert may be able to transition to tackle a few years down the road. Tackle is another option, but with the top 4 off the board, Albert is far better value and should immediately come in and start.

24. Tennessee Titans – Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan
Vince Young has had a great start to a very promising career. Amazing he has done this with very little help and talent from his wide receivers. It s not like Justin Gage and Roydell Williams scared many defenses last season. The Titans did get a "major" pickup in former Titan Justin McCareins, but he was released by the Jets, who actually needed a #3 receiver. Devin Thomas' stock has soared recently and for good reason, he has the size and playmaking ability to be a #1 and to be Vince Young's new best friend. The Titans could look at Lawrence Jackson or Kentwan Balmer with recent free agent losses of DEs Antwan Odom, Travis LaBoy, and DT Randy Stark.

25. Seattle Seahawks – Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina
With the recent signings and of TJ Duckett and Julius Jones, the Seahawks no longer have a need at RB. The Seahawks now could add that receiving threat tight end in Fred Davis or Martellus Bennett, but they are more second round value. The interior of the defensive line struggled in the playoffs, and Marcus Tubbs is coming off an injury and return is questionable. Brandon Mebane did a decent job as his replacement, but an upgrade can be made.

26. Jacksonville Jaguars – Lawrence Jackson, DE, USC
The Jags have some issues at its defensive end position and usually like their DEs big, which is the reason they bypass Quentin Groves. Calais Campbell had a disappointing combine and stock is on the decline. Jackson may not be the sexy pick, but fills a major need for the Jags and fits well in their defensive scheme.

27. San Diego Chargers – Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College
The past few months I have had the Chargers picking up safety Kenny Phillips who would make a nice combo with Eric Weddle, but after looking at the Chargers' depth chart the one position that stands out is right tackle. The Chargers released starting RT Shane Olivea, and with that only has Jeromey Clary at that position. Cherilus actually may be the best pure right tackle in this draft and would come in immediatley as the starter. Cherilus would be a nice tackle mate with star in the making Marcus McNeil.

28. Dallas Cowboys – Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas
Jerry Jones is going to make sure he doesn't miss out on one of the stud RBs and take his fellow Razorback in Felix Jones. Of course the Cowboys may try to use both first round draft picks to move up and draft the other Razorback in Darren McFadden. With Julius Jones now in Seattle, the Cowboys are looking for a complement to Marion Barber. The Cowboys are infamous for trading down with this pick to teams trying to get into the first round to grab a QB, so that could very well happen.

29. San Francisco 49ers (from IND) – Quentin Groves, DE/OLB, Auburn
The 49ers are investing in their 3-4 defense after another major signing (Justin Smith). Groves, as expected, had a great combine and looks to be a perfect fit for the Niners' defense. With 4.5 speed, Groves should be the pass rusher on the outside the Niners' defense needs. A wide receiver such as James Hardy is a possibility, but Groves' is such a perfect fit in their system. Plus the 49ers just signed WR Bryant Johnson and can get a solid receiver at #39, but Groves would probably be gone.

30. Green Bay Packers – Antoine Cason, CB/S, Arizona
The Packers need depth behind Al Harris and Charles Woodson, both getting up there in years. Cason is a very interesting prospect because he has the playmaking/cover skills to be a first round pick, but lacks the ideal speed for an NFL CB. Last season, Arizona considered moving Cason to the safety position, but didn't. I believe if Cason is drafted at 30, he seems to be ideal to the Packers as a safety rather than a cornerback. After having a sub 4.5 40, Cason looks to be a first rounder. CB/S Reggie Smith is a possibility too.

31. New England Patriots - Forfeited pick

32. New York Giants – Kenny Phillips, S, Miami
Well LBs Kawika Mitchell, Reggie Torber and FS Gibril Wilson are gone and the fact that Dan Connor and Kenny Phillips are still on the board makes this an enticing pick for the Champs whichever route they go. With Phillips as the elite FS in this draft, and still available at #31, I say the Giants go with him. Phillips, I believe is better value and fills a major void. However, if Phillips is gone, Dan Connor would be a solid pick.

Niners Should Look At Losman

Would the Niners be willing to take a chance on a less disappointing first-round quarterback? J.P. Losman was overthrown in Buffalo by rookie Trent Edwards, and he needs a fresh start; coincidentally, San Francisco should be looking for someone to overthrow the immensely unproductive Alex Smith. Trading for an underachiever often famously gives a struggling player a boost thanks simply to the scenery change, moreover both Losman and his possible new team could use this transaction.

Statistically, Losman has had a more impressive career than Smith, although that's like being proud of getting better grades than the kid in your class who eats crayons and wears Velcro sneakers through his teens. Losman has completed a vaguely fair 59.1 percent of his passes, which is also fairly better than Smith's unfortunate career 54.4 percent rate. Similarly, the fact that Losman has 31 touchdown passes compared to 29 interceptions doesn't look all that stupendous until held up against Smith's stat line, which indicates that he has 19 scoring tosses weighed against a woeful 31 picks. They all contribute to the fact that Losman has achieved a barely middling 77.3 rating, which looks better next to Smith's woefully inadequate 63.5 mark.

And, not to make excuses, but Losman was treated as poorly during his tenure as a hungover clown at an Adderall kid's birthday party. Most notably, he was victimized in 2005 by then-head coach Mike Mularkey, who doltishly never understood that most non-Roethlisberger-named quarterbacks are bound to struggle in their first starting season and accordingly yanked Losman out of his spot on multiple occasions. The hit to the player's confidence resonated for some time. Losman was also hindered by the contemporary history of mundanely predictable play calling for the Bills along with the fact that the team has recently had exactly one genuine threat at wide receiver in Lee Evans. The quarterback didn't live up to his promise, but the community college's chancellor isn't going to attain Ivy League membership for his employer.

That didn't stop a handful of the team's backers from blaming it all on Losman. Some Bills fans turned him like a roving pack of junior high school girls who decided that their classmate who got braces over the summer needs to have a miserable school day every day. At the same time, Losman didn't help his cause, often recklessly and needlessly gambling on attempts along with displaying a frustrating tendency to hold the ball entirely too long while making decisions, often obliviously seeming to forget while looking for a receiver that he was in the midst of a football play. While Losman managed to have a strong season in 2006, throwing for 3,051 yards and 19 touchdowns with 14 interceptions while obtaining an 84.9 rating, the team still finished 7-9; he then regressed this past season before he was benched for likely the final time as a Bill. It all led to Buffalo's interminable playoff drought continuing under his watch no matter where the balance of blame lies. That's why being sent to a team that's enduring a quarterback void of its own could be mutually beneficial. A Venice, Calif., native, Losman would return to his home coast and get a new opportunity to work for a franchise that should be willing to take a chance on a prospective upgrade. He's occasionally displayed a strong arm and scrambling abilities, and it's feasible that he could mature enough as a player under Mike Martz's guidance that those flashes could turn into tendencies.

It would be worth bringing in Losman not just to challenge Smith but also in case Shaun Hill turns into a pumpkin and if the team realizes that Trent Dilfer A) is turning 36 on March 13, B) perhaps faces retirement thanks to the aftermath of his December concussion, and C) is a great guy who isn't very good as a quarterback. Dealing for Losman would give him a chance to live up to his potential and give the 49ers another option behind center, especially for those who remain unconvinced regarding Smith even after his contract extension. More importantly, Smith needs to stay motivated lest he thinks that his longer pact is evidence that he's performed satisfactorily. A training camp battle is a sure way to get the best out of every quarterback and also determine who is the best quarterback.

As for Losman, both he and the 49ers have a need to leave setbacks in the past, and in that regard both can help out each other. If nothing else, sticking with their current respective situations means things will likely simply stay rotten; discarding suffering is as good a reason as any to attempt a new partnership between Losman and San Francisco.

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Niners edge Steelers, wear ultimate NFL crown

Greatest Football Team Ever!

1989 San Francisco 49ers

vs

From USA Today,

By a slim 23 votes out of more than 2,400 cast, the 1989 San Francisco 49ers, led by Joe Montana, held off Terry Bradshaw's 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers and have been declared the greatest NFL team of the Super Bowl era. In the semifinals, the Niners defeated Tom Brady and the 2007 New England Patriots by less than a percentage point in one semifinal, while the Steelers knocked off the 1985 Chicago Bears 52%-48% in the other semi. In the opening round, the Patriots pulled off a major upset with a resounding victory over the top-seeded 1972 Miami Dolphins 58%-42%. The other matchups went as expected with the No. 2 seeded Bears dominating the 1998 Denver Broncos 71%-29%. The third- and fourth-seeded teams, the 1978 Steelers and the 1989 49ers both won their quarterfinal matchups with 62% of the reader vote.
USA TODAY received 2,439 votes on the 49ers-Steelers matchup.

A combination of reader nominations and analysis from USA TODAY's NFL team produced the eight-team field.

The eight seeds:
1. 1972 Miami Dolphins - (17-0)
2. 1985 Chicago Bears - (18-1)
3. 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers - (17-2)
4. 1989 San Francisco 49ers - (17-2)
5. 1992 Dallas Cowboys - (16-3)
6. 1966 Green Bay Packers - (14-2)
7. 1998 Denver Broncos - (17-2)
8. 2007 New England Patriots - (18-1)*

* (Did not win Super Bowl)

*********

I've been saying this all along!! Nice to see that impartial voters out there see greatness for what it truely was and is. Playoff run in '89 of 126 points to 26 points allowed, and the largest score and margin of victory in Super Bowl history - Nuf said!

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One Win Doesn't Fix This

With the list of possible replacements growing with names such as Mike Holmgren, Andy Reid or even toss in Jim Mora Jr., and Mike Singletary, if Mike Nolan thinks one win gets him a "Survivor immunity" until next year, he'd better think again. With his handling of the Smith situation, the Hostler situation and the on-field product being what it is, staying with this guy beyond this year looks like a crap shoot at best. For a brief moment on Sunday, 49er faithful everywhere must have been elated to see the team get an overtime win, until you look at the season's win column and realize...way too little, way too late, like always.

To be fair to Nolan, this has been a weird, frustrating and emotionally trying year. As one might reasonably expect, while his body has been in the bay area, his heart and mind have been in Grapevine, Texas , where about 200 friends and family, including several former NFL players and coaches, gathered for Dick Nolan's funeral. Nolan didn't miss a game, winging his way home in time for last week's yawner against the Rams, which shows great dedication. The sole act of showing up for work under what had to be the most extreme duress deserves great respect.

Having said that...and taking into consideration the hard-fought win this Sunday...

That doesn't fix the serious problems that have developed on a Niner team that was supposed to have been right in the middle of the playoff race, after investing very heavily in the free-agent market and stocking via the draft this off-season. What they need is a separate GM. Restructure the organization and hire an experienced general manager to share the considerable load of runinning this team. Nolan is spread too thin and as it stands now, he has as much, if not more control over his team than any coach in the league.

If Nolan could concentrate on what he is good at, defensive coaching, then maybe keep him around. To do that, a strong offensive coordinator, ala Norv Turner would have to reappear, since Nolan has shown no ability to run an offense, or direct those that should. The move to bring in Ted Tollner may have single handedly saved Nolan's hyde for the balance of the year, but it's still not enough. Personally, I think that if someone like Bay area native, Mike Holmren were to be available, and he has stated that he is not sure how long he wants to coach for, they should woo him. Holmgren, or his possibly available protege, Andy Reid, are Walsh disciples and share the same vision and eye for talent that Walsh had. Holmgren has a contract clause that allows him to leave the Seahawks if he finds a GM position he likes. If they get a guy like that in to call the shots, then ok...maybe give Nolan some more leash. You'd have a great back-up plan in the GM's suite then if a change had to be made.

Personally, I'd like to see Holmgren in as GM and Reid in as coach. Ain't gonna happen with this ownership, I know, but nice to think about right now. After looking at the on-field product, and losing the draft to dream about, front office changes are all we have left.

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Niner One Liners

The 49ers have scored 10 touchdowns in 10 games so far this season...New England had 8 on Monday Night alone.


Apparently, Mike Nolan's idea of offensive football stategy is like golf...lowest total wins, like his 10 point per game plan. Sunday vs. the Rams...9 points or 1- par. Nice job Mike!


Mike Singletary will fast become the envy of the rest of the Niner coaching staff with his lifeboat docked and waiting to rescue him from this sinking ship..."The S.S. Baylor Job"

"He's been very supportive." That's what Nolan said about John York. Yeah, Mike, so is a jock strap, and it knows about as much about football as York does.

This season is severely damaging the 49ers' chances of getting public money for a new stadium in Santa Clara. Why would taxpayers want to give $160 million to a franchise that can't even figure out how to get a first down?

When asked Monday about the comments made by Alex Smith's agent, Mike Nolan smirked. "I respect your question, but I don't respect the source," Nolan said. "It's like me trying to pretend to be a doctor." - Nobody's asking you to be a doctor, Mike! They would probably be smarter at running an NFL Franchise!

What two things do Alex Smith and Aaron Rodgers have in common...? They both are highly paid first round picks, and they both look like they'll never lead their franchises to a win as it's leader.

Embattled offensive coordinator Jim Hostler apparently will remain in his position for the remainder of the season...guess he can afford the turkey after all this week. Beats only being one.

"We've got a very exceptional and very unique on-side kick.", Nolan said in his press conference...Yeah Mike, when you're behind as much as the Niners, you get good at all the desperation, catch-up moves. Not necessarily something to rely on or brag about!

"I thought (quarterback) Trent (Dilfer) did a pretty damn good job in the game – I was pleased with his performance," Nolan said. One of us is crazy here, Mike. Either you for thinking Dilfer played well, or me for thinking I ought to listen to everyone I know and give up on this Daffy Duck team.

Oh, well, there's alway's the draft to look forward to! Hey we could have a top two pick....DUOH!! Oh well, enjoy "Mangenius", enjoy.

Miami coach Cam Cameron has to be the most hated or conversely, loved man in San Fran this year. His departure from San Diego cost the Niners an offensive coordinator, but he is making up for it with his wonderful head coaching style that is keeping the 49ers out of the 32nd and worst team spot. Thanks, Cam.
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Alex Smith's Legacy

With all the discussion starting about Alex Smith's abilities, (or lack of), stats, results and uncertain future, here is a comparison of Alex Smith's stats compared to the stats and stories of 5 of the biggest first round "franchise" quarterback draft busts of all time. For my friend out there who likes to defend "Mr Smith", save it pal. You are on your own with those feeble arguements that he's not a bust. Smith has competed in 32 NFL games, over 3 seasons. All these QBs below are compared to him based on having competed in at least 25 NFL games, for one, his whole career, and/or their first 3 seasons statistics. Like Smith, all were Heisman finalists, all were first round quarterbacks, and all were expected to revive down-trotten franchises.

Tim Couch (1999, 1st Overall)

(3 SEASONS) GAMES: 38 COMP: 632 ATT: 1068 PCT: 59.1 YDS: 6,970 YPA: 6.5 TD: 39 INT: 43

A. SMITH......GAMES: 32 COMP: 435 ATT: 800 PCT: 54.4 YDS: 4,679 YPA: 5.8 TD: 19 INT: 31

Couch's college success culminated in his selection as the number one overall selection in the '99 NFL draft by the revived Browns. Couch took over for Ty Detmer as the team's starting quarterback in the second game of his rookie season. The Browns front office had high expectations for Couch. Spokesperson John Schober was quoted in 2003 as saying the former Kentucky All-American would win at least six playoff games. But Couch was joining a team that had been hastily assembled in the wake of the former Browns squad moving to Baltimore three years earlier. He spent five seasons as a starting quarterback for Cleveland, eventually facing competition from journeyman backup Kelly Holcomb during his final two seasons. Couch's tenure in Cleveland ranged from leading the team to a playoff appearance, to boos and inconsistent play, which was partially a result of being constantly plagued by injuries -- those due, in turn, to his exposure to pressure due to the expansion Browns' inexperienced line. He missed the final nine games of the 2000 season with a shoulder injury. The high point of Couch's career came in 2002, when he threw for almost 3,000 yards and 18 touchdowns in leading the upstart Browns to a 9-7 record and a playoff appearance. However, he suffered a broken leg in the final game of the regular season and was forced to watch as Holcomb threw for over 400 yards in a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card round of the playoffs. This was the beginning of a quarterback controversy in Cleveland that would not be resolved until a year later when head coach Butch Davis tapped Holcomb as his starter. By the end of the 2003 season, after exhausting both quarterbacks with the rotation, it became clear that Davis, struggling with a 5-11 football team, would never give Couch the opportunity to start again.

David Klingler (1992, 6th Overall)

(Career).. GAMES: 31 COMP: 375 ATT: 687 PCT: 51.7 YDS: 3,880 YPA: 5.7 TD: 16 INT: 21

A. SMITH GAMES: 32 COMP: 435 ATT: 800 PCT: 54.4 YDS: 4,679 YPA: 5.8 TD: 19 INT: 31

A 6'2" quarterback, Klingler rewrote numerous college passing records for the Cougars from 1988-1991. On November 17, 1990, Klinger threw 11 touchdown passes against Eastern Washington University at the Astrodome. In his four seasons at Houston, he completed 726 of 1,262 passes for 9,430 yards and 91 touchdowns, all of which were school records at the time. Klinger set the NCAA record for touchdown passes in a season with 54 in 1990. His single season touchdown pass record stood for 16 years until it was broken in the 2006 Hawaii Bowl by University of Hawaii quarterback Colt Brennan with 58, though Brennan needed three more games than Klingler to break the record. Klinger made a valiant push to win the Heisman but was eventually beaten by Ty Detmer (winner) of Brigham Young and Raghib Ismail (runner-up) of Notre Dame. Klingler was taken in the 1st round of the 1992 Draft by the Bengals. From 1992 to 1995 he played for the Bengals - starting for the Bengals in 1993 and 1994 before losing his job to Jeff Blake. He then played two seasons as a backup for Oakland. In 1998, he signed with the Packers to back up Brett Favre, but he was cut and didn't play.

Heath Shuler (1993, 3rd Overall)

(Career).. GAMES: 30 COMP: 292 ATT: 593 PCT: 50.1 YDS: 3,691 YPA: 6.2 TD: 15 INT: 33

A. SMITH GAMES: 32 COMP: 435 ATT: 800 PCT: 54.4 YDS: 4,679 YPA: 5.8 TD: 19 INT: 31

At the University of Tennessee, Shuler gained national attention as one of the S.E.C.'s top quarterbacks. He held nearly all Volunteer passing records at the end of his career, although most of them have since been shattered by Peyton Manning. In 1993, he came in second in the vote for the Heisman. Shuler was selected third overall in the 1994 Draft by the Washington Redskins. He held out of training camp until he received a 7-year, $19.25 million contract. The Redskins had fallen on hard times since winning Super Bowl XXVI, and Shuler was looked on as the quarterback of the future. However, Shuler's poor play contributed to a quarterback controversy with fellow 1994 draft pick Gus Frerotte. Shuler started only 18 games in his first two years with the team and was benched in his third year, as Frerotte went to the pro bowl.
After the 1996 season, Shuler was traded to the Saints for a 5th round pick in the 1997 draft and a 3rd round pick in 1998. With less talent on the New Orleans roster, Shuler's statistics remained poor. He suffered a serious foot injury during the 1997 season in New Orleans and went through two surgeries. After being unable to take the field due to his foot injury in his second season in New Orleans, Shuler signed with Oakland, where he reinjured his foot in training camp and retired. As a pro, his career passer rating was a low 54.3 and in 2004 ESPN rated him the 17th biggest 'sports flop' of the past 25 years.

Rick Mirer (1993, 2nd Overall)

(3 SEASONS) GAMES: 44 COMP: 678 ATT: 1258 PCT: 53.7 YDS: 7,548 YPA: 6.0 TD: 36 INT: 43
A. SMITH......GAMES: 32 COMP: 435 ATT: 800 PCT: 54.4 YDS: 4,679 YPA: 5.8 TD: 19 INT: 31

This is the guy you might not automatically remember as a first round flop, because he did hang around a little longer in the league than the rest of these guys, but just as much was expected from Rick Mirer. He attended the University of Notre Dame from 1989-1992 accumulating a 29-7-1 record as starter including 3 bowl games. He began his tenure serving as backup to Tony Rice when Notre Dame won the national championship, then took the reins of the Notre Dame offense in 1990 and lead the team to the Orange Bowl. In 1991, Mirer set the single season touchdown record with 18 and was named co-MVP with teammate Jerome Bettis leading the Irish past Florida in the 1992 Sugar Bowl. He finished his career at Notre Dame by leading them to victory in the 1993 Cotton Bowl. Mirer accounted for more points running and throwing (350) than any other player in Notre Dame history. He left Notre Dame 1st in career touchdowns with 41 and 2nd all time for total offense, completions, and passing yards. Invited to play in the East-West Shrine Bowl, and Hula Bowl. Entering the 1993 Draft, he was hyped as the next Joe Montana. Mirer was selected with the second overall pick in the 1993 draft by the Seattle Seahawks, where he signed a five year, $15 million contract. In his rookie year, he set NFL rookie records for attempts, completions & yards, and became only the 3rd rookie quarterback since 1970 to start all of his teams games. He finished his rookie season 5th in the AFC with 274 completions and 2833 yards. On February 18, 1997 Mirer was traded with a 4th round pick in the '97 draft to Chicago for a 1st round draft pick. He signed a three-year, $11.4 million contract with Bears, but played sparingly in the 1997 season.Mirer was cut by the Bears in the beginning of the 1998 season, and signed with the Packers, who later traded him to the New York Jets in 1999, where he replaced an injured Vinny Testaverde as the Jets starter. He was released by the Jets at the end of the 1999 season, and was picked up by the 49ers as a backup to Jeff Garcia. In 2002, Mirer became the 3rd string quarterback for the , guess who, the Raiders!, and became the starter for part of 2003 after injuries to both Rich Gannon and Marques Tuiasosopo. The image of Al Davis as a salvage artist pulling former big names off the scrap heap is definitely a theme with this group. In 2004. Mirer was signed as the third string quarterback by the Detroit Lions, but saw no playing time. Mirer's hometown newspaper, The Goshen News, still hopes to someday run another "Mirer Meter" article, even if he has to play Arena Football. Late in 2007 Rick was pulled over for Drinking and Driving and also had two pounds of pot in his backseat. The Arena Football League has Suspended Rick for two years.

Ryan Leaf (1998, 2nd Overall)

(Career).. GAMES: 26 COMP: 317 ATT: 655 PCT: 48.1 YDS: 3,666 YPA: 5.5 TD: 14 INT: 36
A. SMITH GAMES: 32 COMP: 435 ATT: 800 PCT: 54.4 YDS: 4,679 YPA: 5.8 TD: 19 INT: 31

The granddaddy of all quarterback draft busts, there is definitely comparibles between Smith and Ryan Leaf statistically, even if they are polar opposites in attitude and maturity. When they entered the 1998 draft, Tennessee's Peyton Manning and Washington State's Leaf were widely considered to be the two best overall players in the draft. The San Diego Chargers held the third pick of the draft, but made a trade with the Arizona Cardinals to guarantee their team would get one of the two quarterbacks. To move up to the second pick in the draft, the Chargers traded two first-round picks, a second-round pick, reserve linebacker Patrick Sapp and four-time Pro Bowler Eric Metcalf. There was some debate leading up to the draft as to whether Leaf or Manning should be selected first. At 6-foot-5 and 240 pounds, Leaf was bigger and stronger, but most analysts agreed that Manning was the more mature player and the consensus top choice. However, differences in potential between the two seemed small enough that most observers expected it would not greatly matter whether a team selected Manning or Leaf. On draft day, Manning was selected first by the Indianapolis Colts; Leaf was selected second by the Chargers. Since that time, Manning has won a Super Bowl, set the single-season touchdown pass record, and become an almost certain first-ballot Hall of Famer for the Colts, while Leaf's short career was spoiled by poor play and off-field incidents. Other quarterbacks in that year's draft included current NFL quarterbacks journeyman Brian Griese and Seahawks starter Matt Hasselbeck. Following the draft, the Chargers signed Leaf to a four-year contract worth $31.25 million, including a guaranteed $11.25 million signing bonus. It was, at the time, the largest signing bonus ever paid to a rookie. Shortly after being drafted, Leaf declared, "I'm looking forward to a 15 year career, a couple of trips to the Super Bowl, and a parade through downtown San Diego." San Diego's high hopes for Leaf were soon dashed, as his rookie season was marked by poor performances. Before the season started, Leaf was fined for skipping a symposium that was mandatory for all newly-drafted players. Leaf did well in the preseason and won his first two games as a rookie, becoming the first quarterback to do so since John Elway in 1983. But in the third game of the season, Leaf completed one of fifteen passes for 4 yards and fumbled three times in a loss against Kansas City. He was benched after throwing two touchdown passes and thirteen interceptions in nine games, and replaced by quarterback Craig Whelihan. After ten games, Leaf had thrown two more interceptions, passing for a total of 1,289 yards, with a 45.3 percent completion rate and a paltry quarterback rating of 39. Leaf had poor relationships with the media and his teammates, whom he tended to blame for his poor play. In one infamous locker room incident during Leaf's rookie year, he was caught on-camera screaming at San Diego Union Tribune reporter Jay Posner, "Don't fucking talk to me, all right! Knock it off!" and had to be physically restrained by teammate Junior Seau. Another on-camera incident involved Leaf confronting a heckling Chargers fan during a practice session. Two coaches had to restrain Leaf and escort him off the field. His relationship with then-Chargers safety Rodney Harrison was notoriously acrimonious, and Harrison described being a member of the Chargers during Leaf's rookie season as "a nightmare you can't even imagine". After hearing news of Leaf's retirement in 2002, Harrison was quoted as saying "He probably did the best thing; he took his money and ran." Leaf missed his entire second season due to a shoulder injury uncovered by a preseason physical. He was placed on injured reserve but made headlines for getting into a heated shouting match with Chargers general manager Bobby Beathard and another coach. The incident resulted in a fine, a suspension without pay, and Leaf apologizing four weeks later. Leaf also allegedly lied about a hand injury to get out of practice so he could play golf instead. Leaf started the first two games of the 2000 season, only to complete less than half of his pass attempts, and throw for five interceptions and one touchdown. When backup Moses Moreno went down with a strained knee ligament, the Chargers gave Leaf more playing time. However, he injured his wrist while throwing an interception in a week four game and did not play again until week eleven. Following more poor performances and injury problems, he was released by the Chargers after the season, with a record of only four wins as a starter in three years.

In closing, you be the judge. Some other notable first round flops, still in the making would have to include Mike Vick, 2001, 1st Overall, David Carr, 2002, 1st Overall, and Joey Harrington, 2002, 3rd Overall. Smith may make some miraculous turn-around, but don't count on it. He either won't figure it out, or an impatient Mike Nolan will throw him under the bus to attempt to save his own hyde. While I would be surprised if Smith is not on the Niners' roster next season to be at least given one last chance to compete for a roster spot, and reduce his cap number a bit more, I think he is done as a starter in San Francisco. As a person, and a young man, he is everything you could want in a field leader for your franchise - far better than most of these guys, but the end result is the same I'm afraid.

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Matchup Of Coaches With Issues

NOLAN, PETRINO NOT NECESSARILY IN SAME BOAT AS LOSSES MOUNT

Dennis Georgatos, Mercury News

Today's game between the 49ers and the Atlanta Falcons brings together two struggling teams and two troubled coaches. With the 49ers (2-5) and their high expectations getting lost amid a five-game losing streak, third-year coach Mike Nolan was questioned for the first time last week about his job security. Bobby Petrino saw his first season as Falcons coach begin with the loss in training camp of star quarterback Michael Vick to an indefinite NFL suspension for his role in a dog-fighting ring. It has continued to deteriorate with one win in seven games amid clashes between him and some key players. Nolan said the talk about his job status - he is signed through 2009 - is not affecting his work, nor does he believe it is an issue with his players. "I would hope it's not a distraction," Nolan said. "It's not a distraction to me, other than when I get home at night. It is a distraction at home. But we want to keep our focus where it needs to be as far as getting back on the winning trail." Frustrations have surfaced on occasion for the 49ers. Running back Frank Gore expressed concern two weeks ago about the play-calling by first-year coordinator Jim Hostler but also pleaded with teammates to, in effect, shut up and play.

Kicker Joe Nedney's frustrations showed during a 31-10 loss last week to New Orleans when he shot a crude hand gesture toward a heckling fan after a botched kickoff. But Nolan said the failures on the field - which have centered on an ineffective offense and some puzzling defensive breakdowns - haven't resulted in players turning on each other or their coaches. "I pay close attention to our locker room," Nolan said. "I do not see that. There are frustrations from time to time where people say things, but as an overall attitude or atmosphere, I believe we've got that in check."

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Prediction: This is the beginning of the end for Nolan. I believe that if Nolan is lucky enough to make it to the end of the year, he will be given his walking papers in January. Whether it happens sooner or later, I see Mike Singletary getting the first shot at an interview for the job. If not Singletary, look for Jim Mora Jr. to leave Seattle's secondary coaching ranks and return to the Bay area. There might be an outside shot of Ronnie Lott going back to his alma mater USC again to try and woo Pete Carroll back to the pro ranks. All defensive minded coaches as potential replacements, I know, but far more balanced coaching outlooks on a game plan. The clock is ticking on you Mike, pack up your suits. Tick, Tick, Tick.


Game Prediction: Falcons 17 - 13
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Ronnie Lott... Still Protecting The Scarlet & Gold's Pride

Lott goes after Jonas Jennings
Matt Barrows, Sac Bee

Who said Ronnie Lott doesn't deliver big hits any more? This morning on KNBR, Lott delivered a jolt to injured left tackle Jonas Jennings, but it wasn't clear what prompted the slam."I know the Jonas Jennings situation," Lott told co-host Brian Murphy. "That guy right there ... If I was the coach and he said some of the things that I heard he said, I would have cut him. We can't have a guy not thinking that his teammates support him. We can't have that in the locker room."Later, Lott said the 49ers should cut Jennings, who was the team's big free-agent pick up in 2005."Sometimes you have to make a tough call. Sometimes you have to make a cut that costs you money."But when asked if Jennings had somehow undermined the team or the coach, Lott said he didn't know the specifics. "I just know what I've seen and what I've watched and what happened at that position."

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To pick up on what Matt Barrows wrote about Lott's comments... Why is it that this franchise's greatest players like Lott or Steve Young are still the ones safeguarding the pride and displaying the most leadership for this franchise, some 2 decades after they were leaders on the field. This franchise did a nosedive the day Eddie DeBartolo lost control of the team after the Louisiana Gambling scandle. For that matter, on the subject of Eddie D...if he is now considered a nominee for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, why can't he get his team back? Certainly Tagliabue's ban can be lifted and Eddie could get the team back from his sister and her flaky husband - (John York, right, showing us all which finger he picks his nose with at games). While DeBartolo was one of the great owners in the history of sports, I think his sister and brother-in-law sometimes think football is something played by David Beckham.

Watching where this team was and where it is now, and looking at the match-up this weekend between Indy and the Pats, one can't help think back to the days of the 49ers v Dallas and wonder what the heck is going on? It feels like watching your straight A student child become a crack addict. I don't know about all of you Niner faithful out there, but I'm sure getting tired of not even making it to Thanksgiving before it's time to start looking ahead to the draft. What's worse, their first round pick in '08 is lining up in the person of Joe Staley, since they gave away next year's pick to the Pats. Ironically, the same pick that the Jets will be enjoying since they won it in the "video-gate" scandle. With that off the table, even that ray of hope is gone. Nothing like playing for your second round pick position! I've about had enough of this. Bill Walsh, may he rest in peace, must be rolling over in his grave.

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Hmm, This Sounds Familiar

Give this a read. Seems to me, I saw this issue coming and suggested that Simeon Rice could have helped matters in this problem.

Article today:

Niners in desperate need of pass-rushers
by Matt Maiocco, The Press Democrat

The 49ers not only dumped Charles Haley's erratic behavior with that trade to the Cowboys in 1991, they also got rid of one of the game's most-feared outside pass rushers. They're still trying to find someone to replace him after all these years. Chris Doleman had one good season for the 49ers, recording 15 sacks in 1998. Andre Carter had 12.5 sacks in 2002, but didn't do much after that. The 49ers have not had a double-digit sack performer the past four seasons. And they're not going to have one this season, either. The 49ers rank 26th in the NFL with just 12 sacks in the first seven games. Half of those sacks came in the Week 2 victory over the Rams. Bryant Young recorded three sacks in that game. The 49ers have one sack for minus-7 yards in the past three games combined. The 49ers' lack of a pass rush appears to be taking its toll on the 49ers' secondary, which last week was toasted for 336 yards by Saints' quarterback Drew Brees, who had all the time he needed to throw.

"I don't think it's killing us," 49ers coach Mike Nolan said of the pass rush. "There are some other things that are putting the fork in it, too. (But) it's not helping us. We have to create some things and do a better job."

In the 49ers' 3-4 defense, most of the pass rush is supposed to come from the outside linebackers. However, Manny Lawson is out for the season after sustaining an torn AC in his left knee during a practice before a Week 3 game against the Steelers. "Any time you lose a good player, obviously there's a drop off," Nolan said. Lawson did not have any sacks in the first two games, but at least he provided that threat from the strong-side position. Free-agent acquisition Tully Banta-Cain, the starting weakside linebacker, was expected to be the team's top pass-rush threat. Thus far, he has yet to apply any consistent pressure on the quarterback. Banta-Cain, who has 1.5 sacks this season, has been limited the past two games with an ankle injury. "He's been banged up the last few weeks, so I'm not going to put the last two weeks on him," Nolan said. "The last two weeks, he hasn't practiced much. It looks like he's getting back to full-go now. When he gets to full-go, he's going to need to do something."

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From my article of August 14th

A little note to the 49ers brass: Go get Rice! Simeon Rice, the recently released Tampa Bay Buccanneer Defensive End would be a great veteran addition to a young defense that will need all the pressure it can get on QBs to take the heat off of the previously much-malined secondary. The 49ers do not have a bonefide pass-rusher, and they haven't had one in a while.

Rice, at age 33 still has some gas in the tank, but was cut by the Bucs for failing a physical. More accurately, Tampa Bay was trying to create cap space to sign 2007 4th overall pick Gaines Adams, who is the future for the Buccanneers vaunted defense which is now starting to show some wear on the tires.

The 49ers, however, are an extremely young group, especially up front on defense, with the exception of Bryant Young entering his 14th NFL season. Young has been shifted to end from defensive tackle in the 3-4 defense with Marques Douglas playing the other end. Neither is a prototypical rush end like Rice, who could provide valuable leadership to young players like Ray MacDonald , the 3rd round pick from Florida. The 49ers also possess enough salary cap room to offer a competitive salary to Rice, which can't be said of a lot of clubs.

----- Just another afterthought missed by the team, just like the circus with Bryan Gilmore out playing Brandon Williams in preseason yet Williams made the cut and Gilmore was released, which I referenced and critized at the time, only to see them switch places 6 weeks later. I'm not saying that I have all the answers - I'm just saying that if as a fan I, like all of you, can see these problems coming ahead of time, why can't those in the organization being paid to run this team be proactive with their decisions.-----
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10 Things Not To Be Surprised About This Year - Part 3

Here's Part 3 of my reference list of 10 things you will see by season's end this year in the NFL. Five items pertaining to the league in general, and five that are specifically predictions to do with the Niners. These are in no particular order.

League (5.) Saints will challenge again for NFC crown

After an improbable and cinderella run to the conference championship game last year, it would be easy to expect the Saints to have a hangover affect heading into year two of the Sean Payton era. However, New Orleans had no major changes to a core group of players that should only improve on last year. The backfield duo of Deuce McAllister and Reggie Bush should be as potent as last year, with Bush's upside increasing the productivity. Rookie 7th round wide-out sensation Marcus Colston is joined by 1st round wide-out Robert Meachem to create a tandam that should be catching passes from Drew Brees for a long time to come. In the weaker NFC, the Saints don't have a ton of obstacles to keep them from reaching the top of the conference again.

Niners (5.) Jason Hill will be the Niners top receiver by year's end

Promising 3rd round pick Jason Hill, a San Francisco native was second only to USC's Dwayne Jarrett in career PAC 10 touchdown catches. He was a steal in the draft and has the makings of a great one. Hill ran the fastest wide-out time at the combine and only coming from unheralded Washington St. kept him from going higher. He is mature beyond his age and even sought out the God of receivers, Jerry Rice to pick his brain about being an NFL receiver, and in particular carrying the burden of playing that position in San Francisco of all cities. With the unpredictability of the rest of the 49ers receiving depth chart, with the possible exception of Darrell Jackson, Hill should find himself with a decent amount of playing time, which he should capitalize on. He could even find himself potentially as this year's Marcus Colston, a draft diamond in the rough that challenges for rookie of the year. For more info on Jason Hill, check out our August 24th post by Tom Fitzgerald of the San Francisco Chronicle.

10 Things Not To Be Surprised About This Year - Part 2

Here's Part 2 of my reference list of 10 things you will see by season's end this year in the NFL. Five items pertaining to the league in general, and five that are specifically predictions to do with the Niners. These are in no particular order.

League (3.) Carson Palmer will be the NFL MVP in 2007

The last couple of years have been up and down for the Bengals, on one hand with off-field player issues, and on the other with growing pains associated with getting used to winning. One thing that has been a constant has been the continued growth and success by the Bengals offense and in particular, Carson Palmer. The 2003 first overall pick has not disappointed since taking over the reigns and has put to rest the Bengals former futility at drafting a franchise QB. Palmer has the aid of a first tier running back in Rudi Johnson and one of the better receiving duos in the league in T.J. "Whosyourmama" and Chad Johnson. While the last 3 years have seen a steady growth for Palmer as he refines his craft, 2007 should prove to be a breakthrough year for the Bengals, and for Palmer, and that attention on the improved record will put awards attention squarely on Palmer.

Niners (3.) Frank Gore will challenge for 2,000 yards

With a new contract in his back pocket and the same drive and determination as before to prove his worth, Gore will take aim on the 2,000 yard mark. He has stated publicly that Eric Dickerson's 2,105 mark in 1984 is a personal goal and now running behind an improved "o" line, he may just have a chance. Gore managed to crank out nearly 1,700 yards behind a piecemeal line, so the improved blocking can only help. Coach Nolan has stated that he doesn't want to see Gore's total touches rise over last year, however when Alex Smith and the passing game starts to struggle (and we all know it will!), it will be hard not to hand the ball to number 21. Provided he stays healthy, Gore should be in the hunt for 2,000 at season's end, or at least the rushing title. He has to be, because if he's not, the Niners will have no shot at the playoffs.

League (4.) Vikings will be drafting first overall next year

I'm still scratching my head as to why the Vikings would draft Adrian Peterson. I'm not saying they didn't get a potentially great player, but the point is, they didn't need a running back. In free-agency before last year they went out and got Jamal Lewis' Baltimore back-up, Chester Taylor, who came in and all he did was rush for 1,200 yards. Then, letting veteran/potential mentor Brad Johnson walk in the off-season, they decided that young Tavaras Jackson was the future. Ok... but how about making that call after you see the kid start more than 2 games. With the 7th pick in the draft, they passed on several potentially promising QB prospects in Kevin Kolb, Trent Edwards, John Beck and of course, Brady Quinn. They must really see something in Jackson and that's great, however, to not hedge your bets at least with a veteran to back him up is stupid. Brooks Bollinger and Drew Henson are not alternatives, no matter what they think. Minnesota can't say there weren't veterans QBs out there. Just look at Tampa Bay. If Jackson falters, and the running game can't bail him out, that defense can't hold them in all 16 games by themselves. Expect the Vikings to be on the clock come April.

Niners (4.) Trent Dilfer will see significant playing time this year

With the improvements the 49ers have made on both sides of the ball, the number of reasons for why Alex Smith better get the job done or else is growing. Coming into this season, there was parts missing, for sure. He needed receivers - they went out and got him 4. He needed line help - they traded up to get a first round tackle. The defense didn't help keep them in games - they went out and acquired 5 new starters on "D". All of this points to one thing. If Smith doesn't improve and is the short coming on a team that should be competitive and at least in every game, I expect Mike Nolan's patience to be about as short as his job security will be if the Niners don't take another decent step forward this year. Smith needs to win a couple games by himself this year , (as he has done only once really - in Seattle last December) ,to affirm the confidence of Nolan, and fans who are still not sure what to make of this kid. If Smith proves to be the reason for Niner losses, at least after the first 3 or 4 games, I expect Nolan to turn to the ultimate "game manager" , Super Bowl xxxv winning QB Trent Dilfer, who has looked relatively sharp and effective in preseason.

Defense Must Look Better Against The Bears

From what we have seen of the defense- the supposedly much improved defense, it's hard to judge if they will be better than the squad that gave up a league worst 412 points last year.

There hasn't been much time to check out the starters - mostly thanks to opposing teams' offenses being pulled after jobs well done - but the little amount they have played has been disappointing. Walt Harris (right, with ball), Patrick Willis, Nate Clements and the rest of the "improved on paper" defenders need to show what they are really capable of.

After Jay Cutler & Co. marched down the field for an easy score when Denver visited San Francisco, fans probably weren't too worried. It was the first series of the opening preseason game and the guys just needed to wake up and smell the pigskin. On Saturday, however, the lowly Oakland Raiders were at Bill Walsh Field and the 49ers' defense still couldn't hold it together. The unit came out solid, holding the Raiders to a total of 3 net yards on their first three drives, but that was with struggling young quarterback Andrew Walter at the helm.

Excuses that the 49ers' starting defensive line was out are valid, but that is already a position of weakness, with or without the first-stringers. The media and fans like to talk about the depth at linebacker, but in the second quarter they bit hard on the play action and couldn't chase down Culpepper despite his bum knee. The secondary just played too soft, which made for easy completions. The defense made Walter and Culpepper look like tremendous. Why all the fuss over JaMarcus Russell? Lane Kiffin can just go with his world-beating tandem and head to the playoffs. At least that's how the 49ers made it appear.

The big test will be this Saturday against the defending NFC champion Bears at Soldier Field. This will be the true barometer for the Niners on both sides of the ball, including on offense which will have Alex Smith leading the troops against Brian Urlacher and the superb Bears "D". But the defense will have to look better against the Bears offense, which may not be the best in the league, but hey, it was good enough to get them to the Super Bowl last year.

If Rex Grossman looks like Jim McMahon in Chicago next week, it's time for 49er fans to worry. The preseason doesn't matter, but the starters have to show they can stop guys for more than a quarter.

Walter, Culpepper and Grossman are hardly a Murderers' Row of QBs. Think of the names that the 49ers will face in the NFC west alone: Marc Bulger, Matt Hasselbeck and Matt Leinart. Those guys are scary. It is only preseason and things might turn around in a hurry, but if Mike Nolan's defense does not start showing it can simply hold its own, all the heralded offseason moves will not translate into wins.

Lelie May Be "Odd Man Out" On The WR Carousel

The wide-out carousel in San Francisco has been one of the intriguing battles to watch in this years camp. Coach Mike Nolan has been undecisive on whether he will keep 5 or 6 wide receivers for the regular season. Looking at the group in camp and how they have performed this camp, and in the mini-camps before that in the spring, I believe that Ashley Lelie (right) is going to be the odd man out. His drama and issues already with the Niners so far have put him on the bubble with Nolan and it continues a trend of difficulty in maximizing his potential with other teams before.

After being picked in the first round by the Denver Broncos in 2002, Ashley Lelie failed to live up to expectations for four years. His best season in Denver was 2004, when he caught 54 passes for 1,084 yards and seven touchdowns and led the NFL with an average of 20.1 yards per catch. But he regressed the next year, scoring just one touchdown on 42 receptions.The Broncos got tired of waiting for him to become a consistent contributor, so they traded for Javon Walker before last season and planned to start the former Green Bay first-rounder opposite longtime veteran Rod Smith. That move angered Lelie, who then demanded to be released or traded so he could start elsewhere.

The Broncos eventually complied, sending the underachieving receiver to Atlanta as part of a three-team trade before the season. But even in Atlanta, which had one of the worst receiving groups in the league, Lelie could not unseat the top wideouts, Roddy White and Michael Jenkins. Lelie caught just 28 passes last season, and the Falcons let him walk.So the former Hawaii star headed back to the Pacific coast. Intent on restaffing their receiving corps during the offseason, the 49ers made Lelie their first acquisition by signing him to a two-year, $4.3 million deal in March. At the time, many assumed he was slated to start opposite Arnaz Battle. But then the Niners obtained Darrell Jackson in a trade with Seattle in late April, and Lelie once again found himself sliding down a depth chart.A strained quadriceps pushed the 26-year-old even farther down the receiving line as he missed most of the offseason program and began camp with the third unit which frustrated Nolan. But he finally is starting to work his way back up. The 6-foot-3 speedster has unique talents among the 49ers' receivers, and if he can display them regularly, he might be able to secure a spot.

Lelie took steps in that direction last Saturday when he finally hooked up with quarterback Alex Smith for a couple of big gains, catching passes of 20 and 14 yards against the Oakland Raiders . The quarterback also showed his lack of familiarity with the long-striding receiver, throwing behind him on one route. Taylor Jacobs (right) reportedly has looked better than any receivers in camp so far, so Lelie will have to remain healthy and produce when given the chance if he is to beat out the 6-1 Jacobs.

The 49ers figure to keep as many as six receivers. Darrell Jackson and Arnaz Battle (above #83) are locks, as are youngsters Brandon Williams and Jason Hill. That leaves Lelie, Jacobs and Bryan Gilmore (left)fighting for probably two spots.If Lelie can stay healthy and connect with Smith more and more over the next two weeks, he has an outside chance to get one of those spots. However, at this point, he may be running out of time and chances and both Jacobs and Gilmore have looked better up to this point.

ESPN Predictions For Hall - A Joke!

Anyone that has been a regular visitor to this site knows how much I like rankings and polls, such as the one that USA Today put together of their picks for the 25 greatest players over the last 25 years. However, a new ranks/prediction list that has recently come out is the biggest joke I've ever seen.

In a feable attempt to....well, I don't know what they were thinking, but ESPN has come out with a prediction list of the 50 active players most likely to find themselves in Canton after their careers. Not a bad concept, but it helps if (A): you are sure that there are actually 50 current players worthy of this and (B): you don't just toss in some marketable names and sexy picks to look shrewd in your prognosication. Let's take a closer look at this list. Anyone in RED, should not be on this list! Anyone in BLUE is borderline. Quite frankly, there are not enough sure fire hall-of-famers in the league, and the idea of putting players with a year of experience , or NO experience on this list is absolutely moronic. Especially when you consider the players at the bottom who were considered "On the Bubble".

Cantonized: The List 1-50
1. Brett Favre 2. Tom Brady 3. Peyton Manning 4. Larry Allen 5. Ray Lewis 6. Richard Seymour 7. Jonathan Ogden 8. Marvin Harrison 9. LaDainian Tomlinson 10. Adam Vinatieri 11. Brian Urlacher12. Orlando Pace 13. Michael Strahan 14. Junior Seau 15. Tony Gonzalez

As you can see, the first 15 are pretty safe bets to be in the top 50 but a couple are questionable for their positions, such as Richard Seymour, who doesn't have nearly the stats to be this high up the list. Also, I would never put a kicker, Adam Vinatieri, in the top ten.

16. Dwight Freeney 17. Champ Bailey 18. Derrick Brooks 19. Warren Sapp 20. Torry Holt 21. Shawne Merriman 22. John Lynch 23. Alan Faneca 24. Steve Hutchinson 25. Brian Dawkins 26. Walter Jones 27. Jason Taylor 28. Shaun Alexander 29. Julius Peppers 30. Antonio Gates 31. Troy Polamalu 32. Randy Moss 33. Ed Reed 34. Reggie Bush 35. Ty Law 36. Terrell Owens 37. Edgerrin James 38. Carson Palmer 39. Vince Young 40. Calvin Johnson 41. Matt Leinart 42. Rod Smith 43. Hines Ward 44. Chad Johnson 45. Lofa Tatupu 46. DeMarcus Ware 47. Larry Johnson 48. Steven Jackson 49. A.J. Hawk 50. Adrian Peterson

As I've highlighted above, there are a number of players that have no business being on this list. The players in blue, my players on the bubble!, have had solid, pro-bowler type careers to this point, but it will take a long time of consistant play to get them there. For example, Dwight Freeney, great pass rusher, yes has even won a Super Bowl now. In the same class of Reggie White, Bruce Smith and Deacon Jones right now? Give your heads a shake ESPN. The idea of having 1 year players on here like Vince Young, Reggie Bush or Matt Leinart is stupid, AND WORSE, rookies, no not even rookies yet, DRAFT PICKS like Calvin Johnson and Adrian Peterson on here, makes ESPN look like a bunch of clowns. Putting a player on this list having not even seen them take a snap in the NFL is ridiculous.

ESPN's idea of players "On the Bubble".

1. Anquon Boldin 2. Drew Brees 3. Isaac Bruce 4. Rodney Harrison 5. Willie McGinest 6. Donovan McNabb 7. Steve McNair 8. Tom Nalen 9. Simeon Rice 10. Steve Smith

Joke. With the exception of the first two here, Brees and Boldin, who are still a little young and yes, probably still on the bubble, every one of these players deserves to be on the list above over any of the players in red. You're going to tell me that Isaac Bruce, with a ring and better stats than Michael Irvin (HOF) , should get less consideration than Calvin Johnson, a Detroit Lions draft pick?

Just as stupid, here is ESPN's list of 10 players who won't get in.

1. Eli Manning 2. Brady Quinn 3. Clinton Portis 4. Ben Rothlisburger 5. Tony Romo 6. Jamarcus Russell 7. Jeremy Shockey 8. Mike Vick 9. Mario Williams 10. Charles Woodson.

Once again, how can you have Vince Young or Matt Leinart on the list over Ben Rothlisburger, a Super Bowl winning QB. I'm not saying Rothlisburger will get in, I'm just saying that he gets more consideration already, than they do. Also, how can they look into their crystal ball and decide that Young and Leinart will succeed and Russell and Quinn have no shot. What is separating them? One year?

In future ESPN, put a little more thought and research into your predictions. Don't just throw something together over a lunch hour.

Maybe I Won't Write Him Off Just Yet

This is the year that many folks believe Alex Smith will start to show the promise that made him a first overall pick.. For any doubters watching Monday night’s game against the Broncos, they might now be a little more inclined to jump on board the Niners bandwagon. Although the Broncos handed the 49ers a 17-13 defeat, during Smith’s brief playing time, the third-year quarterback commanded his unit on back-to-back scoring drives while completing 4-of-5 passes for 58 yards. More importantly, he exuded an air of confidence particularly on two of those throws. The first came on the opening drive when Smith fired a perfectly thrown ball to Darrell Jackson who was draped by Pro Bowl corner Champ Bailey.

That drive eventually stalled in the red zone with the 49ers looking to Joe Nedney for a 37-yard field goal to get them on the board, cutting the touchdown lead Denver took on their opening drive to a four-point difference. It was two plays later when Smith fired the ball in between three defenders for a 26-yard strike to Arnaz Battle on an inside post route at the 1-yardline. Even head coach Mike Nolan said he was yelling for Smith to throw it underneath, but his quarterback apparently knew better.

Personally, I was skeptical heading into this season, and even last that Smith would ever look like a Number One Franchise Quarterback. He just didn't have the confidence , poise and results in his first year that would make you think he could fill the shoes of his hall of fame predecessors. However, the improvement last year, and his swagger, if you will, this year have me thinking maybe this year will be a turning point where he puts it all together. Having said all that and feeling cautiously optimistic about the future, it's easy to see poise in a starter when he's facing less than stellar competition. It's one thing to throw strikes against the starting defense of an opponent and look good against the Champ Baileys of the world, which he did. However, its another to be in preseason, mostly facing the future UPS drivers and grocery clerks of the world.

I think that from the neck up, Smith is as good as any qb in the league; Montana before him, Manning now. He has more athletic ability than both of those players as well and the physical toughness of a Brett Favre. However, the major area that will determine whether he can be a champion will be the entangibles. Pocket presence, ability to avoid the rush, calmness under pressure , leadership in the huddle, (left) and the ability to deliver the big needed play will be the areas to improve on. Those, unfortunately can only come with time as every signal caller has had to experience before him, with the notable exception of maybe Ben Rothlisburger in Pittsburgh in 2005.

Smith will get there, but it won't happen overnight. It will be another year, or two and maybe another offensive lineman, or wideout, or two before we see the desired result of his development. In the meantime, it should be fairly entertaining to watch, don't you think?

Go Get Rice!! No, Not that Rice!

A little note to the 49ers brass: Go get Rice! Simeon Rice, the recently released Tampa Bay Buccanneer Defensive End would be a great veteran addition to a young defense that will need all the pressure it can get on QBs to take the heat off of the previously much-malined secondary.

Rice, at age 33 still has some gas in the tank, but was cut by the Bucs for failing a physical. More accurately, Tampa Bay was trying to create cap space to sign 2007 4th overall pick Gaines Adams, who is the future for the Buccanneers vaunted defense which is now starting to show some wear on the tires.

The 49ers, however, are an extremely young group, especially up front on defense, with the exception of Bryant Young entering his 14th NFL season. Young has been shifted to end from defensive tackle in the 3-4 defense with Marques Douglas playing the other end. Neither is a prototypical rush end like Rice, who could provide valuable leadership to young players like Ray MacDonald , the 3rd round pick from Florida. The 49ers also possess enough salary cap room to offer a competitive salary to Rice, which can't be said of a lot of clubs.

Rice was drafted by the Cardinals with the 3rd overall pick of the 1996 Draft. He garnered attention with a 12.5 sack rookie campaign, and helped lead the perennial bottom-dwelling Cardinals to an improbable playoff berth during the 1998 season. He signed with Tampa Bay as a free agent before the 2001 season and helped lead them to a Super Bowl victory in 2002, and was just edged out of the MVP voting by his teammate Dexter Jackson. His 121 career sacks rank 2nd among active players, behind Michael Strahan, and 13th all-time. Rice also is the second fastest player to achieve 100 career sacks behind Eagles/Packers legend Reggie White.

He ended up on injured reserve for the 2006 season and would have something to prove this year. Rice has apparently visited the Rams, and as if the Niners needed another reason to go get him, keeping him away from a divisional rival is a great reason.

Madden Hype or 2K Outta-Site....You Choose

In the past few years, gamers are confused by the multitude of pigskin titles out there. Madden (below,right), Fever, Gameday, Blitz ,and the more realistic and advanced NFL 2K (below,left) ,all crowd the football market. When gamers are confronted by so many choices, they opt out to what they are comfortable with, something they've heard of, something warm and cozy like your first blanket: Madden. While in no means a terrible game, it is definitely sub-par when it comes to advancement of the genre. Because EA realized their product sucks the big Madden, they had opted to go and purchase the rights for the NFL license for the last several years. Video game football entered a dark age for the last 4 years. Gamers everywhere were force-fed the inferior graphics of Madden that are painfully similar to the real Madden's inferior color commentary. What happened? Why was a superior product like 2K rubbed out of the market?

The NFL 2K series was introduced by Sega for its Dreamcast to address EA Sports's decision not to publish the Madden NFL series on the Dreamcast. The first two installments (NFL 2K and NFL 2K1) were exclusive to the Dreamcast, but with the demise of the Dreamcast, the NFL 2K series was repositioned as the main multiplatform rival to the Madden NFL series. Both series were released on the PlayStation 2, Xbox, and GameCube. With the cancellation of the NFL GameDay (989 Sports) and NFL Fever (Microsoft Game Studios) series in 2003, NFL 2K (then ESPN NFL Football) truly became Madden NFL's primary competition.

In 2004, Sega signed a deal with Take-Two Interactive in which Global Star (Take-Two's low-price unit) distributed and co-published all titles in Sega's ESPN franchise. As a result, ESPN NFL 2K5 was priced at $19.99 the day it shipped (versus the typical new-release price of $49.99). This earned it a wide audience among more casual football fans on the PlayStation 2 and Xbox. It was also the first time that the ESPN NFL series managed to grab a significant chunk of market share over the competitor, the Madden NFL series. Before 2K5's release, the Madden NFL series had greatly outsold the ESPN NFL games. However, ESPN NFL 2K5 slightly outsold its counterpart, Madden 2005.

However, in December 2004, EA signed an exclusive agreement with the NFL, making Madden NFL the only series allowed to use NFL team and player names. EA also signed an agreement with ESPN to become the only licensee of ESPN's brand in sports games on all platforms. This was an immense blow to Sega's franchise in their MLB, NBA, and NHL series. Although the NFL 2K series is no longer made, fans of the game can download unofficial rosters made by other players by using an Action Replay device. In January, 2007, 2K Sports announced a spiritual successor in the NFL 2K series, in the form of All-Pro Football 2K8,(above) that will be released in the summer. With no other companies even close to the standards set by the NFL 2K series,or its successor, All-Pro Football 2K, it will be a long time before EA gets up off its lazy programming ass and produces a football title worthy of real football players.


For more info, check out the EA Sports and 2K websites,

http://www.easports.com/

http://2ksports.com/