49ers lose 20-17 at Seattle

The 49ers blew it Sunday and didn’t bother trying to say otherwise. They dropped passes, fumbled a key possession and made questionable strategic decisions. More than the ball went through the 49ers’ hands: Their playoff hopes probably slipped away, too. When Olindo Mare hit a field goal as time expired to give the Seattle Seahawks a 20-17 victory, it felt like a kick to the gut. The defeat torpedoes what was supposed to be a pivotal NFC matchup against Arizona next week. There is no way the 49ers (5-7) can catch the Cardinals on Monday and it grows increasingly unlikely that they can catch them at all.

What was the game? Pick just about anything from the 49ers’ scrapheap of errors.

On their first drive of the fourth quarter, for example, running back Frank Gore’s fumble swung the tide. The 49ers were barreling down field toward a go-ahead score, having moved 73 yards in just five plays, before safety Jordan Babineaux knocked the ball from Gore’s arms with a solid right hook. Josh Wilson recovered the ball at the Seattle 26 and ran it back 43 yards. That set up Mare’s field goal that gave Seattle a 17-14 lead. The 49ers had 5:30 left to turn things around.
Smith did his part. He moved the team quickly into field goal range as part of his first-career 300-yard passing day. (Smith finished 27 of 45 for 310 yards). But the drive conked out at the Seattle 16, even though Smith twice hit receivers with potential touchdown passes.

Tight end Vernon Davis dropped the first one, failing to make a leaping grab between two defenders in the end zone. “I couldn’t see it until the last minute,’’ said Davis, who had 111 receiving yards and a touchdown. Michael Crabtree dropped the second one, a pass into tight coverage at the goal line. Smith and Crabtree each said the play was rushed because of pressure on the quarterback. It was designed to be a throw to the back of the end zone. Still, the drive got the 49ers close enough to tie the score 17-17 when Joe Nedney nailed a 34-yard field goal with 2:57 to play.

All that served only to set the stage for the 49ers’ final heartbreak. After a defensive stop, the 49ers’ got the ball at their 11 with 51 seconds to play. Rather than play it safe and take their chances in overtime, the 49ers concluded there was enough time to score. Even on third-and-3, the 49ers were in a gambling mood. They took deep shot downfield to receiver Josh Morgan. But instead of hitting it big, they went bust: an incomplete stopped the clock and forced the 49ers to punt.

Seattle got the ball back at about midfield with 21 seconds to play and two timeouts left. That proved plenty of time for quarterback Matt Hasselbeck to spot a receiver racing down the right sideline. Butler, a rookie from Penn State, caught the ball in stride for just his eight reception this season.

The 49ers should be so lucky. They did not do their jobs on every play, and now they might spend a seventh consecutive offseason watching the playoffs on TV and wondering where things went wrong.

Two 49ers players reached milestones Sunday. Not that either of them cared. Vernon Davis broke the franchise single-season record for tight ends by catching his 10th touchdown pass of the season. His milestone 33-yard crab came on a fourth-and-1 with 6:16 to play in the first quarter. It broke the mark Davis shared with Ted Kwalick (1972) and Brent Jones (1994). Davis set a new career-high with 111 yards receiving. This marks his third 100-yard game, tying him with the Chargers’ Antonio Gates for most by an NFL tight end this season.

Alex Smith, like Davis, had an understated reaction to a personal milestone. He had the first 300-yard passing game of his career. Smith’s previous career high was 293 yards against Philadelphia on Sept. 24, 2006. Against the Seahawks, Smith completed 27 of 45 passes for 310 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions.

Far from a wanted milestone, Frank Gore lost a fumble for the first time since Nov. 30, 2008 at Buffalo. It was a bad time. The 49ers were poised for a go-ahead score in the fourth quarter when safety Jordan Babineaux knocked the ball loose from behind. Gore, who rushed for 207 yards in his last meeting against Seattle, had just nine carries for 25 yards.

In retrospect, however, it all might be a moot point as Arizona took care of business Sunday night against the Vikings, meaning next week's Monday Nighter wouldn't have been for the division lead even if the 49ers had pulled it out. They aren't dead yet, but the hole in the ground is dug and the coffin in open, just waiting on shovels...

Niners' last-minute win earns coach a contract

Matt Miaocco, The Press Democrat

SAN FRANCISCO - The 49ers played host to one of just three games around the NFL that did not involve a playoff team or any postseason ramifications.

While the truly important happenings were taking place on the field at most NFL venues, the significance to the future of the 49ers was not on display for all to see at Candlestick Park. Shortly after Joe Nedney kicked the game-winning 39-yard field goal on the final play of the game to lift the 49ers to a 27-24 victory over the Washington Redskins on Sunday, the most noteworthy development of the day occurred. The 49ers' locker room erupted into jubilation when newly crowned team president Jed York delivered the news everybody expected to hear. Mike Singletary will be retained as 49ers head coach for 2009. Singletary signed a four-year, $10 million contract, said a source close to the negotiations. "I don't think we could've written up a script any better than how it happened," York said.

The 49ers finished the season with a 7-9 record, winning five of their final seven games under Singletary's direction. The 49ers fired Mike Nolan on Oct. 20 after the club started the season with a 2-5 record. "I think they've got the right man for the job," 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis said. "I'm glad he got the job. He deserved it. He earned it." The NFL mandates that teams have to wait until after the final game of the season to promote an interim coach to a permanent decision. The 49ers quickly made it official, as they distributed a press release announcing Singletary's appointment as the media were filing into an area set aside for the head coach's postgame interview. "If you know which way you're going, get it done," 49ers general manager Scot McCloughan said. "He showed that there was a change, but he was able to adjust to the change, step right in and not really skip a beat. The players around him stepped up. The coaches around him stepped up as well. We ended strong, but it's not close to where we need to get. With coach Singletary we feel that's not going to be an issue."

York's announcement in the locker room was met with cheers. Nedney said he did not want comment on what the reaction would've been if Singletary had been passed over for the job."I knew it wasn't going to happen," Nedney said. "He's honest, intense and forthright. You have to have those qualities to bring together the chemistry of a team." York said he told the team that this would be the last time they end their season in December. Singletary also has the expectations of the 49ers being a playoff team next season, and he is promises that he will not take any shortcuts to get there.

"I think all the guys who are happy today are going to regret it," Singletary quipped. Singletary said it is important to get everybody on the same page. When asked about the content of that page, Singletary said, "The first paragraph on that page is what we have to do to get the team in the playoffs. Once we're in the playoffs, anything is possible." The 49ers have experienced a franchise-worst six consecutive losing seasons. Many in the organization believed Singletary did not have a strong chance to get the job when he took over for Nolan because management preferred to have a coach with an offensive background. However, Singletary's body of work took the guesswork out of it. Still, there is no clear indication of how Singletary plans to find stability with his offensive staff. Given an opportunity to declare offensive coordinator Mike Martz would return next season, Singletary declined.

When asked if he has made up his mind about Martz's future, Singletary said, "No, not 100 percent." Singletary has the contractual power to hire and fire his assistant coaches. But he said he would meet with McCloughan to discuss those decisions. Martz was on top of his game on Sunday. When the 49ers took over at their own 27-yard line in a tie game with 62 seconds remaining, Martz called all the right shots and quarterback Shaun Hill delivered.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A half dozen years of hard-to-stomach football

By Scott Dryden, 49ers World

Miami 14, San Francisco 9

Miami ; 1-15 in 2007 to at worst a 9-7 record this year, and maybe more. Along with Atlanta this year, the list of hapless down and out teams that manage to sort things out in short order continues. So why are the 49ers still mirered with losing record after losing record for the 6th straight season?

One word - Ownership

While the turn around efforts of Mike Singletary, Shaun Hill and company the past few weeks have been commendable, the mess left by John York's decision making blunders remain.

It all started with Steve Mariucci's dismissal in 2003 after leading the team to a 10-6 record in '02 and a division crown. (the team's last). Then replacing him with formal NFL failure, Dennis Eriksen, a man with no idea how to be a head coach in the pros, who led the landslide, all the way to the bottom with a 2-14 mark in '04 and let the franchise's most stabilizing player - QB Jeff Garcia walk away along the way. Then, York replaced Eriksen with Mike Nolan in '05, a man with no head coaching experience at any level. While Nolan is an accomplished defensive mind and drafted well on that side of the ball, leaving behind good talent, he had little to no idea how to build or run an NFL offense and it showed.

Drafting a "face of the franchise" QB first overall from a spread formation offense and trying to put him under center was the first indicator. Alex Smith was a flash in the pan at Utah and aside from the second half of a 2006 game at Seattle, never once looked like he had the chops to run an NFL offense. It's a shame too, because his attitude was first rate, and yet, Nolan screwed that up too. Leaving Mike Martz behind won't help Nolan's legacy. Martz will blow up or implode sooner or later. Mike Singletary or whoever is the next head coach would be wise to start fresh and get rid of Martz, who is playing possem til he gets the next head coaching gig he has stated he wants.

That gets us back to the Yorks and to the present. Singletary seems to have the right mix of hard-nosed attitude and leadership qualities to make a long term go as a head coach. Let's hope he gets the chance. However, based on history, I wouldn't put it past the Yorks to do something stupid like let him walk away and let Martz have a shot or some "el cheapo" option to match their financial balance goals rather than head coaching candidate requirements goals. The other issue and Nolan legacy that needs to be corrected is the GM spot. Current GM and former Nolan assistant GM Scot McCloughlan should have been gone along with Nolan. First, that they let Nolan switch places with his assistant rather than fire them both 2 years ago was ridiculous. Second, leaving McCloughlan in place up til now shows no concept by the Yorks for his part in the team's further dismise.

Watching the 49ers, and their "genius" Mike Martz's offense manage 3 field goals against the resurgent Dolphins brought 6 years of frustration to the boiling point for me. Another meaningless November/December game for the 49ers, who try to put a positive spin on things by saying they are "shooting for .500" rather than actually being competitive in the weakest division in football. Meanwhile, the team across the field looks to go from 1-15 to a possible 11 win season and a division crown in 1 season. Couple that with what's going on in Atlanta with Matt Ryan , Mike Smith and co. resurging after last year's 3-13 mess left by Mike Vick and Bobby Petrino, and you have to point the finger of blame at ownership.

Arthur Blank (Atlanta) and Wayne Huizenga (Miami) care - and put their money where their mouths are - and John York doesn't.

One can only hope that the Yorks may come to their senses just long enough to hire 1 decent football organizational mind to oversee things, otherwise the 49ers will continue to resemble the thrift-minded mis-managed Bengals and Cardinals teams of so many decades past. I think looking to the homecoming of Bay Area native Mike Holmgren might be a wise idea. Just because Holmgren has stated he won't coach, doesn't mean he wouldn't entertain upper management offers from his hometown team. He has stated before that coaching the 49ers would be his "dream job"

Offer him the President/GM job, renew Singletary on a 2 year deal and go from there. Let Holmgren shop for the grocerys (much as Parcels has done in Miami), and if he decides he wants to cook again, let him cook.

Anything is better than another year of the hash the Niners keep serving us.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nolan Nearly Delirious For Mere 'Exhibition' Win

Lowell Cohn, Press Democrat

This is what I know. The 49ers were losing before the Bucs declared the game an exhibition.After Jeff Garcia threw a touchdown pass late in the second quarter, putting Tampa Bay ahead 13-7, Jon Gruden removed Garcia from the game. It had something to do with the correct priorities -- Gruden needs Garcia for the playoffs. He doesn't need Garcia against the Niners, who currently don't matter in the National Football League.After Garcia came out, the Bucs bagged the game and the Niners won. That's how the game played out and if you see it differently, if you take hope from the 49er win, you are kidding yourself.Niner coach Mike Nolan helps you kid yourself -- he is a kidder and a fooler and a purveyor of fantasies and a trickster. The 49ers now have won two in a row and, even if they lose next week in Cleveland, Nolan can tell his bosses he won two of his final three. That sounds good. Last year, he won two of his last three and he probably bragged about that, too.But if you look closely, you'll notice he lost four of six to finish things out in 2006. With Nolan, things always require scrutiny. He offers false promise and his team does not come together. I am sorry to sound critical, but I can't praise Nolan for winning a mere exhibition game.Nolan was happy, verging on delirious, after beating the semi-interested Bucs. Of course, he was."We shot ourselves in the foot early in the season," he said by way of justifying himself. It was an interesting statement and it makes you question the word "early." Before the current two-game, umm, winning streak, the Niners had lost two of three and, get this, 10 of 11. So they didn't only shoot themselves in the foot early. They shot themselves in the foot most of the time.

Basically, they are foot shooters.Among other limitations, Nolan has a short and highly selective memory and he wants to convince people his interpretation of reality is better than theirs. At his postgame news conference, he declared open competition at quarterback next season between Alex Smith and Shaun Hill. That's assuming Nolan himself has a job next season."To be a good football team, you need competition," the coach lectured. Well, wait a minute. Hill has been a pleasant surprise, has performed well in a desperate situation. But he is not Joe Montana and he's not Steve Young and he's almost certainly not Smith.I mean, let's be real about this. We have not exactly entered the Shaun Hill Era. You can badmouth Alex Smith all you want -- he's been a disappointment -- but he is a better athlete than Hill and he has a better arm and a more promising future.Hill has superior instincts than Smith. Give him that. But he will be a career backup. Nolan will try to make you think differently, but it's another of Nolan's illusions. He deals in daydreams.When Nolan, the myth maker, left the interview room, congratulating himself on the splendid progress of his team, Bryant Young came to address the media. He was saying goodbye to the home fans and to his exemplary career and to the Niners as they are now and as they used to be. He represents an end, not a beginning. Keep that in mind. He is the last Niner to win a Super Bowl -- it seems so long ago.So we praise Young, but we wonder about the 49ers, about who they are and where they're headed. I asked what he hopes for his team as he prepares to walk away."I hope they establish themselves back on top," Young said. "In time, it will happen."He didn't say how much time. Nolan has had three years and made no progress. Young might be talking decades or centuries.Young considered quitting after last season, he said. Oh, this is the saddest part. He came back because he believed in Nolan -- as we all did at the time.

In 2006, the 49ers won seven games and Young, in his loyal, earnest heart, felt he couldn't abandon his teammates on the verge of greatness. He was getting old and his body hurt, but he had come this far and he carried the standard of former Super Bowls and his teammates needed him. So he returned. It was his duty.He had swallowed Nolan's illusion, wanted to believe the best about his coach. Who can blame him?"I felt we would win 10 games or more and be right in position to go to the playoffs," he said of this miserable season. "It is what it is. When you make those types of commitments, nothing's ever promised."Well, things definitely were promised, but the promises never materialized.

Adrian Peterson stopped, but rest of Vikings run over 49ers 27-7

By GREG BEACHAM, AP Sports writer

After the 49ers schemed all week against Adrian Peterson, their plan to stop the NFL's leading rusher worked splendidly — and that was the extent of San Francisco's successes in another big win for the resurgent Minnesota Vikings. Though, to be fair, nobody could have planned for a game that began with a 311-pound man returning an interception for a touchdown on the very first play. Defensive tackle Kevin Williams rumbled into the end zone just 14 seconds in, and Chester Taylor made an 84-yard scoring run in Minnesota's fourth straight victory, 27-7 over hapless San Francisco on Sunday.

Though Peterson managed just 3 yards on 14 carries, the Vikings (7-6) still jumped to a 27-0 halftime lead while getting back above .500 for the first time since the season's opening week. Minnesota is in the sixth spot in the NFC playoff picture, controlling its own destiny in a season that nearly went out of control. "I think if you told our guys a month ago that they were going to be the hunted instead of going hunting, they probably would have asked you, 'Well, how's that going to happen?'" Minnesota coach Brad Childress said. With patient offense and another strong game from a resurgent defense, that's how — and even without help from Peterson, who finished with a career-low 3 yards on 14 carries. San Francisco linebacker Patrick Willis made eight tackles to win the meeting of two high-profile rookies.

Robert Ferguson caught a 19-yard TD pass from Tarvaris Jackson, who passed for 163 yards. Minnesota's only dynamic offensive play was Taylor's TD run, the third-longest in franchise history and the bulk of his 101 yards rushing. Yet nothing fancy is necessary to beat the 49ers (3-10) these days. "We weren't trying to force anything," Peterson said. "Chester is capable of coming out and having big games, too. You can't just focus on one guy on our team." Frank Gore rushed for 68 yards, caught eight passes for 49 yards and lost two fumbles for San Francisco, which has yet another injured quarterback after its 10th loss in 11 games. The Vikings defense turned in its third straight solid performance, limiting the 49ers' league-worst offense to 79 yards in the first half. After Trent Dilfer went out with a concussion shortly before halftime, third-stringer Shaun Hill went 22-of-28 for 181 yards and a score in the first significant NFL action of his six-year career.

"Trent's just a warrior, one of the best guys I've ever met in the game or out of the game," Hill said. "That being said, I had a job to do when I got in there, and I was excited." Dilfer's day was painful from the first snap. Williams, the Vikings' two-time Pro Bowl defensive end, was able to hang on to his own deflected pass and had the presence of mind to run with it. "That really changed the momentum in the game," Williams claimed. "We do a tip drill every week, and it paid off today, as you saw." Williams eluded Dilfer for the fourth touchdown of his career. It was even his second of the season, following a 54-yard return on Atlanta's first possession in the Vikings' season opener. "It's rare to get one of those in a career, and he's had two in a season," Childress said. "I'm just glad he didn't have to run as far on this one so we didn't have to get him some oxygen." Taylor made the third-longest run from scrimmage in Vikings history in the second quarter, breaking at least three tackles down the Minnesota sideline and sparking boos from the thin Candlestick Park crowd.

"I thought our defense stepped up to the challenge," 49ers coach Mike Nolan said. "They did give up some plays a couple times on some missed tackles. The 84-yard run was one in particular. It was right in the face of a blitz. How it came out, I do not know." Dilfer was hurt when he scrambled for a first down in the final minute of the first half. Backup cornerback Charles Gordon made the tackle with a shoulder to Dilfer's head. With Alex Smith in street clothes because of his injured shoulder, San Francisco turned to Hill, who spent four years with Minnesota before joining the 49ers last season. Hill's only regular-season snaps were kneeldowns on the Vikings' final plays in 2005. Hill immediately led a 12-play, 61-yard scoring drive culminating in Arnaz Battle's short TD catch, completing six of his first seven passes and celebrating jubilantly in the end zone — but he threw an interception on the Niners' next drive.

Notes:@ Taylor also made the longest run in Minnesota history last season, romping 95 yards against Seattle. ... Nolan said the 49ers haven't decided whether QB Alex Smith will have season-ending shoulder surgery next week, contrary to a media report. ... San Francisco's Maurice Hicks returned two kickoffs for 55 yards apiece.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-There's nothing constructive that I can say about this team this week, so don't hold your breathe for any pearls of wisdom from me in the next couple of days. Mike Nolan and this entire organization are one incredible joke right now. I am sick of watching this s@#t from these idiots week in and week out. They are just fortunate that Miami plays in this league, and that they don't play the Dolphins this year.-

Nolan's sideline rant could define his era with 49ers

Tim Kawakami , MEDIANEWS STAFF

MARK IT DOWN: Mike Nolan's last stand and public passion play began midway through the second quarter of the 49ers' 12th game of this morose 2007 season. Please note that the 49ers had just given up a 73-yard interception return for a touchdown, and they trailed the woeful Carolina Panthers 17-0. Remember that Nolan gathered his entire team around him, then screamed, gestured and raged, until his face flushed and his eyes looked like they were ready to pop all the way to the South Carolina border. Make sure it's noted that, at first, the 49ers responded -- holding steady for the rest of the quarter and jumping back into the game with two touchdowns in the third quarter.

But let it be recorded that the 49ers eventually stalled, inevitably collapsed, and repeatedly blundered their way to yet another defeat, this time by a 31-14 score to a Panthers team that had not won at home in nearly a year. When the history of the Nolan Era is chiseled into stone, we are probably going to memorialize that explosive second-quarter sideline moment, and we will know one of two things:

Either that tantrum galvanized this team for the rest of 2007 and earned Nolan a chance to coach into 2008 and prove his worth once and for all ...

Or it was the loudest, reddest-faced example of Nolan fury and frothiness, signifying nothing, no progress, and certainly no 49ers' significant victories.

I know which way I'm leaning on it, but I'm also prepared to let this play out, loss by loss, interception by interception.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Testaverde, Panthers end home skid, beat 49ers 31-14

MIKE CRANSTON, AP Sports Writer

Carolina coach John Fox heard all week that fans may stay away from the Panthers' game against San Francisco, disgusted with the team's five-game losing streak and its seven straight losses at home. There were roughly 17,000 no-shows Sunday, but the ones who did attend saw the Panthers finally end their home hex. They can thank their 44-year-old quarterback and Fox's decision to open the playbook. Testaverde threw two touchdown passes and became the second-oldest QB to start a game, leading the Panthers to a 31-14 win over the San Francisco 49ers.

"There was a lot of talk there would hardly be anybody here this week," Fox said. "I don't know what the count was, but all those people that were here today, I'm real happy for. This has been a long time coming for them, too." Using razzle-dazzle rarely seen under the conservative Fox, the Panthers (5-7) won at home for the first time in 377 days behind Testaverde, who at 44 years, 19 days became the second-oldest starting QB in NFL history. Testaverde also became the oldest starter to win, besting his own record set seven weeks ago in Arizona, Carolina's last victory.

"Any time you get on that kind of streak, it's tough to break," Fox said. "This wasn't just a monkey, it was King Kong." The Panthers' defense stepped up, too, forcing six sacks and six turnovers, including Richard Marshall's 73-yard interception return for a touchdown, spoiling the 49ers' confidence a week after they snapped an eight-game losing streak. "It's obviously very disappointing," said quarterback Trent Dilfer, who threw for 171 yards and two touchdowns, but was intercepted four times. "We wanted to build on last week. We didn't."Instead, it brought to light quarterback issues for the 49ers (3-9), who are facing uncertainty about the severity of Alex Smith's shoulder injury, which kept him out of a third straight game. "As soon as the medical staff tells me there's a possibility of a change, as far as someone's health, I will take a look into it," coach Mike Nolan said.

It was odd seeing the visiting team dealing with QB issues, not the Panthers, who lost Jake Delhomme to a season-ending elbow injury in Week 3, then watched high-priced backup David Carr get hurt, then be ineffective. Testaverde, who started the season out of the league, has led the Panthers to their last two victories. Testaverde moved into second place on the old-man list, passing Warren Moon, who was 44 years, 8 days old when he started in 2000. Steve DeBerg, at 44 years, 279 days, holds the record for oldest QB from his 1998 start. Testaverde sat out Carolina's 31-6 Carr-led loss New Orleans last week with a sore back. Testaverde was healthy Sunday, Carr was demoted to third-string and the Panthers looked like a new team. While Testaverde threw for only 153 yards and had two interceptions, he directed an offense that took risks and snapped a streak of 12 straight quarters at home without an offensive touchdown. The Panthers ran a reverse, a lateral and even a direct snap to Steve Smith — with Testaverde lining up as a receiver — in building a 17-0 halftime lead.

"We mixed it up," Testaverde said. Showing poise in the pocket missing when Carr ran the offense, Testaverde tossed a 5-yard touchdown pass to rookie Dante Rosario — who was 2 years old when Testaverde entered the league in 1987 — and a 1-yard pass to Jeff King that made it 31-14 early in the fourth quarter. That allowed the Panthers to overcome the two miscues that briefly let the 49ers back in it. Michael Lewis intercepted Testaverde on the first series of the second half, leading to Dilfer's 20-yard touchdown pass to Arnaz Battle. Nate Clements' 41-yard punt return set up Dilfer's 21-yard TD pass to Delanie Walker, cutting Carolina's lead to 17-14. As has been the case for the 49ers all season, the good fortune didn't last. Lewis muffed a punt and Rosario fell on it at the 49ers 11. Four plays later, DeShaun Foster's 1-yard TD run gave Carolina a 10-point cushion. The Panthers, who had a league-low 10 sacks in the first 11 games, came alive against the 49ers' shaky offensive line. Mike Rucker had 1 1/2 sacks and forced a fumble.

Frank Gore was held to 58 yards rushing on 12 carries, a week after he had his first 100-yard game in San Francisco's overtime win over Arizona. The lone bright spot was rookie linebacker Patrick Willis. The NFL's leading tackler had 18 more. "Today was not our best defensive performance by far," Willis said. "We made some critical mistakes out there that really hurt us."
Notes:@ Rosario and Walker each had their first career TDs. ... Panthers S Chris Harris (shoulder) and 49ers S Donald Strickland (knee) left with injuries, but they were not believed to be serious.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Recap From Nolan's Press Conference

Matt Maiocco, The Press Democrat

INJURY UPDATE (3:45 p.m.): Cornerback Marcus Hudson is expected to miss "a few weeks" with a sprain of the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, a team spokesman said. No surgery is required. Also, cornerback Shawntae Spencer has a quad strain. The team has not received the results of his MRI examination, so his status is uncertain.
* * *
Coach Mike Nolan said the team will not get overconfident after its 37-31 overtime victory against the Cardinals. Here are some of the highlights from Nolan's weekly press conference:

--Nolan took complete responsibility for allowing the Cardinals an opportunity throw the Hail Mary pass at the end of the first half. When I asked if why they didn't take a snap and throw the ball out of bounds -- or do anything -- to run some time off the clock before sending out Joe Nedney for a 55-yard field goal, Nolan answered, "You're right."

Nolan said he was particularly impressed with the way his team handled the situation at halftime. "The adversity in that situation did not get the team down." --On the plane ride home, Mike Singletary, who sits across the aisle from Nolan, leaned over and said about Patrick Willis: "Patrick's special." After the film review, Willis was credited with 15 solo and six assists for 21 tackles. He had the big play to run down wide receiver Sean Morey in overtime to prevent what would've been the game-ending touchdown. Nolan said that play showed Willis' speed and desire.

--On the game-winning play, Ronald Fields got the sack; Tully Banta-Cain jumped on the fumble in the end zone. But, perhaps, the biggest effort on that play belonged to Derek Smith. The veteran linebacker gave the tight end on the play a chuck, knocking him into Anquan Boldin, who was the primary receiver. Warner saw that and had to hold the ball, allowing Fields and Banta-Cain to make the play.

--Nolan said his MVPs of the game were little Michael Lewis on special teams, big Michael Lewis and Patrick Willis on defense, and Trent Dilfer and Frank Gore on offense. He also credited the play of Bryant Young, Marques Douglas, Mark Roman and Walt Harris on defense.

--Nolan said he couldn't really answer how Ted Tollner helped, but he reflected on his own experience. He said when he had Bill Arnsparger helping him in '99 when he was Redskins defensive coordinator, it gave him more confidence.

--Back to that Hail Mary play, Nolan said his guys just got outjumped. He said he used to have Manny Lawson deep on those plays because at 6-6, he is also the team's highest jumper. He has also considered Vernon Davis back there but he didn't want to put too much on his plate, because if the Cardinals do something other than a Hail Mary, his defensive assignment would change. Ashley Lelie could do it, but he might not be strong enough to go up in traffic with all those bodies around.

--I had to step away there for a couple minutes to go on with Fitz and Brooks on KNBR. I'll be back on at 4 p.m. (or did they tell me 4:30?) with Ralph and Tom.

--Nolan said defensive coordinator Greg Manusky made a wise decision to put together a defense that was designed to allow some give and take. The Cardinals rolled up a lot of yards, but the 49ers also made a lot of plays. The 49ers are responsible for seven of the Cardinals' 17 sacks allowed this season.

--Kwame Harris saw some action as a second tight end on selected run plays. Harris did not replace any of the starting offensive linemen when he was on the field, Nolan said.

--Nolan told the Fox crew during their Saturday production meeting that Dilfer's game against the Rams was the 49ers' best-quarterbacked game in his three seasons with the 49ers. That's an interesting statement, considering Alex Smith has started 30 games for the 49ers. Anyway, Nolan said Dilfer's game yesterday was his best, yet.

--Nolan thanked the fans for "staying with us."

49ers Beat Cardinals in Wild OT Shootout

BOB BAUM, AP Sports Writer

Kurt Warner had a big day that ended very badly for him and triumphantly for the embattled San Francisco 49ers. Warner was hit by Ronald Fields and fumbled in the Arizona end zone, and Tully Banta-Cain recovered for a touchdown and a wild 37-31 overtime victory over the Cardinals that ended the 49ers' eight-game losing streak on Sunday. Neil Rackers, whose 19-yard field goal as regulation ended forced the overtime, missed a 32-yarder that would have given Arizona the victory moments before the decisive play.

Warner completed 34 of 48 passes for 484 yards and two touchdowns, but was intercepted twice early. His completions included a desperation 48-yarder to Larry Fitzgerald to put the Cardinals (5-6) ahead 21-17 as the half ended. San Francisco is 3-8 this season, but 2-0 against Arizona. Warner's 62-yard pass to Sean Morey helped set up the field goal try that Rackers pulled to the left. The attempt was pushed back 5 yards by a delay-of-game penalty, even though Arizona had two timeouts remaining. Arizona outgained San Francisco 552 yards to 374, but the Cardinals had four turnovers to none by the 49ers. Arizona stopped the 49ers on three overtime possessions, but twice the Cardinals were pinned deep in their territory, with the help of a pair of blocking-in-the-back penalties against rookie Ben Patrick. Andy Lee's punt, combined with the penalty, pinned the Cardinals at their 3. On first down, Warner dropped back to pass, but hesitated. That's when he was hit by Fields and dropped the ball.

Frank Gore, looking like the powerhouse player of last year, ran for 116 yards on 21 carries and caught 11 passes from Trent Dilfer for 98 yards. There were three lead changes in the second half. Gore, slowed by a sore ankle much of the season, ran 35 yards virtually untouched to put San Francisco 31-28 with 1:15 left in regulation. But Warner completed five straight passes for 84 yards in the final 1:11. His last went 30 yards to Bryant Johnson, who slid out of bounds inside the San Francisco 1 with 6 seconds left.

After using their final timeout of regulation, Warner threw an incomplete lob to Johnson, then — with the ball inches from the goal line — Rackers kicked the tying chip shot. Fitzgerald caught nine passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns. He broke Larry Centers' franchise record with 30 touchdowns as a Cardinal. He also topped 1,000 yards receiving for the season. It was his 12th career 100-yard receiving game, third this season. The 49ers took a 24-21 lead in the fourth quarter on Dilfer's 57-yard pass to Arnaz Battle.

But Arizona rallied. On fourth-and-1 at the San Francisco 2-yard line, backup quarterback Tim Rattay retreated to avoid the rush, then found Patrick deep in the end zone for a touchdown.

The Cardinals committed three early turnovers, two of them interceptions of Warner. The turnovers led to both first-half San Francisco touchdowns. Joe Nedney's 19-yard field goal was set up by Michael Lewis' 51-yard punt return. The 49ers led 17-10 when Warner scrambled to his left and lofted the ball to the end zone with the final seconds of the half ticking away. The 6-foot-3 Fitzgerald outjumped the crowd, grabbed the ball for the TD, then ran for the tunnel.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rams Put It On Their Defense, Hold On To Win In San Francisco

Associated Press

SAN FRANCISCO -- The San Francisco 49ers sacked Marc Bulger six times in each of their meetings with the St. Louis Rams this season. The quarterback's second round of punishment didn't hurt nearly as much. Steven Jackson accounted for more than half of the Rams offense, and the defense did the rest as St. Louis left San Francsico with a win. Trent Dilfer drove the 49ers 68-yards on the final drive, but just couldn't get his team in the end zone as they dropped their eighth straight. Bulger passed for 155 yards and hit Torry Holt with an early touchdown pass, and the St. Louis defense was solid until the final seconds. Back in mid-September, the Rams (2-8) were heading downhill for their own eight-game skid in a one-point loss to the 49ers, who haven't won since. Bulger could barely get dressed after that defeat, but he left Candlestick Park upright and enthused by his improving club's prospects after the shortest of win streaks.

"You appreciate it more when you start out 0-8," Bulger said. "We know we're a better team now. ... It was the ribs (that hurt) last time, but there's nothing major today." Sure, Bulger realized the Rams couldn't score a touchdown after their opening drive and managed just 38 yards of offense in the second half. But the defense had little trouble with San Francisco's league-worst offense until two desperate fourth-quarter drives. And after the longest winless start in the franchise's 70-year history, the Rams have won both outings with Steven Jackson back in good health. The star running back had 92 persistent yards in his second full game after missing four weeks with a torn groin muscle and most of another game with a bulging disk in his back. "We're really showing we're not going to lay down or roll over," Jackson said. "We dug ourselves in a deep hole, and now we're trying to catapult ourselves out of it."

After Joe Nedney's third field goal cut St. Louis' lead to four points with 1:51 to play, the 49ers drove 68 yards in the final 88 seconds to the St. Louis 21. But with 3 seconds to play, Trent Dilfer's final pass was intercepted at the goal line by Oshiomogho Atogwe. Dilfer passed for 231 yards - 141 in the fourth quarter - while filling in for Alex Smith as the 49ers slid into their longest losing streak since 1999. San Francisco hasn't won since its trip to St. Louis and hasn't scored a touchdown since the opening drive of its loss in Atlanta two weeks ago. San Francisco had a chance to tie it late, but tight end Vernon Davis and Darrell Jackson dropped tough potential touchdown catches on consecutive plays leading up to the 2-minute warning. Coach Mike Nolan settled for the field goal -- an unusual tactic that nearly paid off. "I knew with three timeouts, I'd get the ball back and then we'd be playing for a win rather than overtime," Nolan said. "We had not been that effective (offensively), so if I could go for a win rather than overtime, I'd do it."

Dilfer was 20-of-42 with two interceptions in his latest chance to fill in for Alex Smith, who sat out with a sore throwing arm that caused plenty of drama in San Francisco over the past week. Until the final minutes, Dilfer couldn't spark an offense that managed 96 yards in the first three quarters before finishing with 244. The Rams' defense had its way with the San Francisco offensive line, repeatedly stopping Pro Bowl running back Frank Gore at the scrimmage line. Holt's 3-yard TD catch capped a 79-yard march on St. Louis' opening drive. Both defenses stiffened after that, particularly after halftime. Both teams combined for 29 net yards and one first down in the third quarter.

"It became pretty evident in the third quarter that they were going to struggle to score, and we were going to put it on our defense," Bulger said. "It was just up to myself and the offense ... not to turn it over, not to give them big plays." The 49ers didn't gain 100 total yards until Dilfer's shovel pass to Gore with 10:10 to play, and Nedney's 38-yard field goal cut St. Louis' lead to seven points. The Niners made another solid drive to the Rams 28, but Davis couldn't haul in a heavily defended catch over the middle. Then a solid throw to Jackson bounced off the veteran receiver's hands. "Those are the type of balls I need to have," said Jackson, who dropped a potential game-winner against Arizona earlier in the season. "It was definitely a good pass from Trent."

Notes: Rams WR Isaac Bruce had five catches for 54 yards, passing Henry Ellard to move into sixth place on the NFL's career yardage list. ... The win was the 500th in Rams franchise history. ... Smith wore his helmet while watching on the sideline, but didn't play.

-- My review --

Nolan may have put a positive spin on his bonehead decisions late by saying how confident he was in his defense to get them the ball back, but what about this team this year would make one think they would have gotten it into the red zone, let alone the endzone again? This guy should pack up his suits and go coach "J.V." somewhere. Dilfer looked better than Smith has this year at any point, which begs the question...is that finally, mercifully it for Alex Smith in San Francisco?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A Suggestion For Smith

Kevin Lynch, San Francisco Chronicle

Assessing the once-great team Hall-of-Famer Steve Young quarterbacked, Young said the current 49ers have little connection to their glorious past. Young seemed almost hurt that the 49ers looked so bad in their 24-0 loss to Seattle last night. At one point he needed a hug from Stuart Scott. So how about bringing Young in to watch film with Alex Smith, whose confidence is clearly shattered? At this point Smith might need someone from outside the organization to break things down for him. Smith's mechanics seem to be failing him and he no longer seems to trust his eyes downfield. He needs a mentor and Young has the passion for the task, lives in the area, and would probably be willing to do it.

Smith also has a connection to Joe Montana, who lives in Contra Costa now. Those two quarterbacks might be able to get Smith back to playing for the fun of it. From his body language, Smith appears beaten down. If anyone can build him back up it's a Hall-of-Famer who can provide a fresh perspective. By the way, in one post last night, I wrote the last time the 49ers only had six first downs was Dec. 10, 1960 against Green Bay. Actually, the 49ers had six first downs five weeks ago in a home loss to Baltimore.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pathetic Beyond Words

There's nothing good that I can say about this team today. I will collect my thoughts and give you a mid-season evaluation on Tuesday.

Regards,

Ninerguy

Upon Further Review...

Well, here was what I predicted as an outcome for the Niners game against the Giants. In red, I have included the actual outcome in each area. Not to toot my own horn, but I hope this stands as a wake up call out there for the overly optimistic fans, and wishfully, the coaching staff who keep trying to downplay the problems facing our boys.

NY 28 - SF 10.

NY 33 - SF 15.

Dilfer 17 - 39 for 204 yards, 1 TD and 3 INT's - does just enough to keep Smith on the bench next week too.

Dilfer 23 - 38 for 202 yards, 2 TD's and 2 INT's - did enough to probably start again, but Smith has been announced as the starter. Although alot of these yards were after the game was out of reach. Heck, at least they threw the ball for a change!

Gore 23 carries for 61 yards - not his fault, but never breaks one, and too often finds the back of the line as a brick wall.

Gore 14 carries for 88 yards - did rip off a couple long ones including a 24 yarder, which made his numbers look a bit better. Gotta get Frank some help in the air though!

No receiver with more than 3 catches, or 40 yards receiving. Davis catches a short TD and is good for an unnecessarily self-promoting celebration.

Arnaz Battle did grab 6 for 57 yards. He also was the self-promoting celebrator when they were still way behind. Do it on a semi-consistant basis and we'll talk. Until then, try to look like you've been there before. FYI - "Click-clack" Davis had 4 catches for a whopping 22 yards.

Defense - 3 sacks, 1 INT

Defense - 1 sack, 1 INT - It's like asking the poor little dutch boy to plug his fingers in the Hoover Dam waiting for this offense to do anything. I applaud the defense's resolve. It must feel like trying to brush back the ocean with a broom.

This week:

Reggie Bush, Drew Brees and the suddenly resurgent New Orleans Saints come to town. I will have my thoughts for this one on Saturday.

Tuesday Niner News & Notes - Oct. 9th

Jennings keeps private matter private

Matt Maiocco, The Press Democrat

Left tackle Jonas Jennings returned to the 49ers on Monday after being excused from the game Sunday to address a personal matter.
"When you have to handle other things outside of football then you know how important football is and how much it means to you," Jennings said.
One rumor on national radio was proved inaccurate on Monday. The report was that Jennings left the team after Nolan informed him last week he was benched. Nolan said Monday that Jennings would be back in the starting lineup against the Giants on Oct. 21.
"I don't care about rumors," Jennings said. "I don't even know what was said. I don't care. I'm telling you straight from the horse's mouth. I appreciate the support and it's a personal matter and I'm back ready to play football."

Carmen Policy Tapped To Help Keep 49ers In SF

CBS 5.com

(AP) SAN FRANCISCO - Former San Francisco 49ers president Carmen Policy has been tapped by Mayor Gavin Newsom to lead efforts to keep the team from moving to a new stadium in Silicon Valley.Policy led the team's 1997 campaign to pass a $100 million city bond measure to erect a new stadium at Candlestick Point. That stadium was never built.Policy plans to serve as the city's liaison with the team and the NFL and to seek support for a June ballot referendum that would allow construction of a new stadium at nearby Hunters Point.Niners owners favor a site in the city of Santa Clara expected to cost at least $800 million. Owner John York has said traffic concerns and a history of toxic pollution at Hunters Point, a former Navy shipyard, make the site unsuitable."There's still a lot of work to be done in terms of infrastructure, cleanup and financing, and if Carmen can help make progress in that direction, it's a very positive move," team spokeswoman Lisa Lang said. "But it doesn't change the current situation of what we're doing in Santa Clara."

Smith will definitely be in uniform vs. Giants

Matt Maiocco, The Press Democrat

Based on what 49ers coach Mike Nolan said today, there is a 100-percent chance quarterback Alex Smith will suit up against the New York Giants on Oct. 21. How do I know that? Because Nolan admitted to making a mistake that prevented Smith from being in uniform yesterday as the 49ers' No. 3 emergency quarterback. He actually wanted Smith to dress for the game and be available for emergency duty.
The mistake was made on Friday when the 49ers listed Smith as "out" on the official injury report. The league said Smith was prevented from suiting up for the game because of how he was designated on Friday.
"I could've used Alex as our third quarterback," Nolan said. "If something had happened, he could've gone in and handed the ball off. As it was, the next guy in line, the third quarterback, that's all he would've done anyway."
While it seems to be a certainty that Smith will be in uniform for the game against the Giants, there also remains a chance he could start. After all, Smith is making tremendous progress from his right shoulder separation, which he sustained Sept. 30 against the Seahawks. He threw some passes on the field before the game.
"It's amazing what surgery can do in one day," Nolan quipped, referring to the inaccurate report last week that Smith would undergo season-ending surgery.

Head Coach Mike Nolan's News Conference: click here

http://cbs5.com/video/?id=27454@kpix.dayport.com

49ers Waste Yet Another Solid Defensive Effort

Marc Hudgens, Real Football 365

Defensive coordinator Greg Manusky has to be pleased with his defense today. After all, the unit didn't allow a touchdown in the 49ers' 9-7 loss to Baltimore on Sunday. Manusky's offensive counterpart, coordinator Jim Hostler, must feel the opposite of Manusky today. Offensively, adjectives to describe the group's performance throughout the season and yesterday include anemic and inept.

Coach Mike Nolan was adamant about not placing any blame on the offensive line. That's hard not to do, though. How else do you explain only 49 rushing yards, three sacks and pressure all day on quarterback Trent Dilfer? Granted, the offense did appear to have lived up to expectations ... for a drive. Late in the third quarter, the 'O' looked as if it was hitting on all cylinders, as Dilfer threw two consecutive deep passes, the second one being a 23-yard

touchdown pass to wideout Arnaz Battle. Dilfer was fired up after his success, and the crowd was on its feet.

It was the shot in the arm that Dilfer and the rest of the offense needed. Unfortunately, however, the antidote quickly wore off, and the offense returned to its three-and-out ways. That was basically when the game ended. The defense, on the other hand, looked solid in spite of the absence of Manny Lawson and the hand injury to Walt Harris late in the third. Every Niner on that side of the ball got in on the action and made at least one tackle. Standout rookie linebacker Patrick Willis and veteran LB Derek Smith were outstanding, each racking up 12 tackles. Ultimately, the 'D' held the Ravens to only 5.0 yards per pass and about 3.0 yards runs, also allowing only seven third-down conversions on 19 attempts.

Despite how well the 49ers' defense has played this year, the sad reality is that the team's offense is awful. At 2-3, San Francisco has to right its ship immediately.

This Time, The Offensive Line Wasn't The Main Problem - Ravens Outlast Niners In "Barnburner", 9-7

John Crumpacker, Nancy Gay, San Francisco Chronicle

In contrast to a week ago, the 49ers' offensive line did not become a piñata for people to swat. The play of the unit went largely unnoticed as Joe Nedney's missed 54 yard field goal (below) with under 3 minutes to go was the difference. The game proved to be a defensive struggle in which Trent Dilfer for the most part had time to throw in Sunday's 9-7 loss to Baltimore. The 35-year-old quarterback was sacked three times (he was nailed five times against Seattle), one time when he revealed his age and tried to escape. The other sacks were by outside linebacker Jarret Johnson as he beat left tackle Adam Snyder and by nose tackle Kelly Gregg through the gap between center Eric Heitmann and right guard Justin Smiley. "Better than last week," coach Mike Nolan said when asked for his assessment. "That's all I can say right now." Snyder started at left tackle in place of Jonas Jennings, who is away from the team for what was described as a personal matter. Except for the sack by Johnson, Snyder held up well at the position. Smiley rebounded from a horrible game a week ago and played his way into anonymity for the most part. Left guard Larry Allen looked better run-blocking for Frank Gore in this game than he did a week ago.

Although Gore averaged 3.3 yards per carry (he finished 2006 at 5.4), he did have runs of 8 and 10 yards among his 16 carries. Modest as always: Tight end Vernon Davis, who missed his second game with a knee injury, said the game might have been different had he been able to play. "I think I would have made a big difference," he said. "I know they (the Ravens) would have been trying to key on me and stop Vernon. It would have opened up the offense." Asked about the offense he hasn't been a part of for two weeks, Davis said, "We got to change the offense. It sucks."

Puny output: The 49ers ran 41 offensive plays against the Ravens. That's the fewest total for the 49ers in any game since 2001. The Ravens, by contrast, ran off 76 plays. Voice of authority: When Mike Singletary speaks, people listen. The 49ers' assistant head coach, who works with the linebackers, had a few things to say in the locker room after the game. "I think we did a decent job, but we should have done a better job," he said, referring to the defense. "It comes down to doing whatever it takes to win. That should be our motto going forward. I know our offense is going to do the job. Right now, we just have to keep working. "It's not a matter of seven points or three points, it's finding a way to win."

Easy come, easy go: Cornerback Shanwtae Spencer (above) appeared to be a victim of a bad pass-interference call at the end of the first quarter when he was covering wide receiver Derrick Mason. The call ended up not hurting the 49ers as the Ravens punted at the end of the drive.
"You get some and you lose some," free safety Mark Roman said. "Eventually, it all evens out. That was just one play in the game. I think we ended up getting off the field anyway."

Injury report: The 49ers had two players on the postgame list. Safety Mark Roman strained his Achilles tendon and safety Keith Lewis strained his hamstring. Smith or Dilfer? Quarterback Alex Smith is slowly regaining range-of-motion in his separated right shoulder, but it's probably a stretch to imagine he could be ready to start when the 49ers resume play Oct. 21 against the New York Giants following their bye. "If Alex is not well, it will be Trent (Dilfer) again," Nolan said when asked who he anticipates will start the game at East Rutherford, N.J. "And I would be comfortable with that. I believe I have a lot of confidence in Trent because he's a very good leader, he's been there and he's done it. Dilfer said he would approach the bye week and the week leading up to the Giants' game as if he will start. Dilfer, Billick make nice: Dilfer's long-standing feud with Ravens coach Brian Billick was settled for good Sunday, when the 49ers' quarterback sought out his former head coach and made peace. Dilfer revealed in February that he still resented Billick benching him for quarterback Elvis Grbac following the Ravens' Super Bowl season in 2000, and that he had no interest in ever speaking to Billick again. Last week, Dilfer conceded he was wrong to hold such a grudge."I talked to (Billick) in the locker room (before the game), and once again after the game," Dilfer said Sunday, "and I told him just how sorry I was that I carried that bitterness for so long."Said Billick: "I really appreciate him reaching out that way."

"The View From The Cheap Seats"- I Think I've Seen This Before!

In the Niners' first two games -- Arizona and at St. Louis -- they played to the wire. Both contests were defensive struggles, and San Francisco was fortunate enough to eek out just enough offense to come out on top in each. But the offense appeared to continue its poor season on Sunday, as shown by its weak third-down conversion rate (5 of 15), lack of rushing yards (91 total) and lousy yards per catch average (5.7). The Niners' offense appeared to show cracks in its armor during the last two preseason games, and it continued through the Arizona and St. Louis matchups.

This time, the weakness was completely exposed. At the end of the third quarter, the the Steelers led 17-9, so the Niners were solidly in the fight. However, because of a serious lack of offensive production through most of the game, the defense fatigued and gave way to the Steelers, who scored two touchdowns and racked up a pair of converted field goals. BLAH, BLAH,BLAH... sounds like the description after every Niner game aginst a good team, doesn't it?

I found it comical that as the clock was running out on this one, the Fox broadcast crew of Kenny Albert and Darrell Johnston were quick to excuse the 49ers collapse at the end, and proclaim that they had taken strides forward and should be proud of the moral victory that they competed with the Steelers. Forget that! 3 field goals and a late meaningless touchdown are nothing to be proud of. This team did what this team always does against elite competition. The defense is solid and opportunistic and holds their fingers in the damn for 3 quarters or so, (example, Marques Douglas with a sack on Big Ben, left) waiting for any signs of life by the offense. Well, we've all seen this show before, the defense can't hold back the ocean with a broom forever and the close game turns into a blowout. But, oh wait, then the 49ers are able to move the ball for a meaningless touchdown that makes the stats look slightly less pathetic.

I don't know what the answer is for this offense. The first overall picked QB isn't getting it done, nor is the "improved" receiving corps or the upgraded offensive line. Vernon Davis was slightly better in this one, enough to make him stand out as the best 49er offensively on the field. The man who normally holds that spot, Frank Gore, was unable to get anything done, being completely shut down by Casey Hampton and the Steelers run-stuffing "D".

Brace for a long year, Niner fans, but don't be shocked if you see some changes on the horizon if things don't change and the ship isn't righted soon. If the offense can't get it together, quick, that spiffy tie of Mike Nolan is going to start to feel like a noose soon.

Steelers Pour It On Late And Blowout The Niners 37-16

The 49ers stayed competitive for three quarters, trailing 14-6 at the half and 17-9 through three quarters, but the Steelers poured it on in the final period in a 37-16 rout. About the only success Alex Smith could mount against the Steelers was with passes to tight end Vernon Davis, who complained recently about his limited involvement in the offense. Davis had four receptions for 69 yards. Smith was able to find him a couple of times when the Steelers were in a zone defense in which one of the inside linebackers trailed Davis in coverage. Frank Gore gained only 12 yards on his first four carries. After the corrections were made, he had only 27 yards on 10 carries the rest of the game. The 49ers finished with just 289 total yards. While he is apparently not seriously injured, Gore is frustrated after being held to fewer than 100 yards for the third consecutive game. He ran for 1,695 yards in 2006, with nine 100-yard games.

The Niners had won their last three road games, and had a chance early to grab early momentum. Smith quickly drove them to a first down at the Steelers 14 on their opening possession, but Gore was stopped for no gain and Smith threw two incompletions. That forced Joe Nedney's first of three field goals, a 32-yarder. Why do we have a huge Joe Nedney Pic posted here? Just in case you wanted to print off a shot of the 49ers most potent offensive weapon so far this year! O.k., a little venting there. Smith, (17-of-35, 209 yards) had plenty of chances to generate some scoring, but he couldn't get them into the end zone until hitting Taylor Jacobs for a 21-yard touchdown after Pittsburgh opened a 30-9 lead. Too little, too late. Smith also threw his first interception, which Bryant McFadden returned 50 yards for a late touchdown.

This was a "show me somethin'" game for the Niners and they didn't... Look for more analysis Monday...for now, just trying to digest the frustration after this one. Look for my new opinion article on the previous day's game starting Monday called "The View From The Cheap Seats".

Tuesday Niner News & Notes - Sept. 18th

Gore's Injury Not Serious
From 49erswebzone.com

According to Mike Nolan, the team did not suffer any serious injuries on Sunday against the St. Louis Rams. Fans were concerned for running back Frank Gore when he left the field late in the game and appeared to be injured. Nolan said that it was a simple leg strain and that none of the injuries to Gore or wide receiver Darrell Jackson were likely to prevent any of the players from playing this weekend against the Steelers. Jackson had tweaked his back. Gore and Jackson may not practice on Wednesday.

Nolan said that he would meet with Frank Gore once he returns Tuesday night from his mother's wake and funeral to see where he is at. Running backs coach Bishop Harris, fullback Moran Norris and tackle Jonas Jennings traveled with Gore after the game on Sunday.

Nap time: the 49ers are on offense

From Sacbee.com

You've suspected it for years. Mike Nolan is turning the 49ers into Baltimore Ravens West, a town where passing statistics go to die. Sure, there were always the former Ravens - guys like Marques Douglas to Chad Williams to Trent Smith --Nolan brought to San Francisco. And there was Patrick Willis, who reminded Nolan so much of his beloved Ray Lewis that he not only drafted him 11th overall this spring, but gave him Lewis' number, 52. The latest - and most damning - evidence is an offense that bears an uncanny resemblance to that of the Ravens', circa 2000. It's blah. It's cautious. It does the bare minimum. It's 11 men in a plain brown wrapper. It's the Gerald Ford of NFL offenses. Even writing about it makes me... (yawn) ... want ... to ... fall ... zzzzzzzz.

Nolan, of course, doesn't think so. He resisted the comparison Monday (he seemed ready for the question), noting that he spent his first two seasons rebuilding the offense not the defense. "We're not trying to build a football team like that at all," he said. "... I want to be well-balanced."

The truth is that the 49ers have more offensive talent than the Ravens did during their Super Bowl run. They don't need to throw two-yard dumps to the fullback on third and eight. They don't have to run six straight times at game's end. They have two capable wideouts in Arnaz Battle and Darrell Jackson. They have a tight end, Vernon Davis, who insists he is open on every play. The only thing Nolan and the 49ers must do is, you know, actually use them.

View Mike Nolan's Press Conference

From CBS5.com

Click this link below:

http://cbs5.com/video/?id=26781@kpix.dayport.com

2-0..But Pressure Building On The "O"

The 49ers are 2-0 for the first time in nine years, and, even more improbably, they lead the NFC West by a game. For the second consecutive week, the 49ers were dominated statistically, failing to reach 200 yards and making enough seemingly critical errors to doom them as the Rams are currently doomed.The 49ers are still a careful, conservative team offensively, hesitant in stressful times to do anything more creative than give the ball to Gore. True, it worked well enough on Gore's two touchdowns, especially the 4th-and-1 in the third quarter that Gore turned into a 43-yard, four-tackle-breaker touchdown.

Still, this is a team that has been playing with one arm tied behind their backs, with a defense that is asked to bend but not break, and an inefficient offense that needed to jump on ever error the Rams offered the 49ers to win by a point. This is a legitimate point of concern for them and their growing bandwagon, because they have played two bad teams, and now face two good ones. Pittsburgh and Seattle are the next two opponents, and luck won't be enough.

So make that all the necessary votes for staying a conservative course - because it is Nolan's comfort level with this offense at this point. Mike Nolan, who makes it increasingly clear with every week that when push comes to shove, he will error on the side of caution with the play calling. The proof Sunday is the seven consecutive run calls (including a play nullified by penalty) on the final two meaningful possessions, all with backup guard David Baas as an extra blocker. But even he must know that this isn't going to continue to fly. The Rams held the 49ers to 186 yards with an injury-riddled defense, six days after the traditionally soft-spined Arizona defense held them to 194. Either Nolan isn't secure enough in his offense to challenge down field, or he has built the offense to do nothing fancy until it's time to play catch up.

Clearly, the 49ers see Alex Smith as a "game manager" and Nolan appears more and more to be following a Baltimore blueprint from his days as a coordinator there. Don't get me wrong, the glass IS half full. This team is 2-0 and has beaten the 2 teams that have been put in front of them so far. It just feels like there is a wake-up call headed their way in the form of a blow-out remainisant of last year, when the defense won't be able to keep their fingers in the dam long enough for Smith and co. to "get their fingers out", so to speak. Nolan seems to want to do this with smoke and mirrors, not wanting to expose Smith to the possibility that he may not be "the guy". Well, so far, so good, but at some point, Alex Smith will have to lead this team through the air, the way his predecessors have and put the ball up 35-40 times for them to win. I just hope that he gets that experience sooner than later to get through the trial and error of it all. It would be really disappointing if it had to come later when the Niners playoff chances were to hang in the balance and the band wagon was at full capacity. I don't know, maybe the internal, unspoken plan is to put a bandaid on the offense until next year's draft and go offense with their picks.

Get Smith his throws now! This "J.V." offense is not going to get you to a Super Bowl, Mike.