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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