The San Francisco 49ers

Since there never seems to be too much happening down here, I thought I could start a thread about my beloved 49ers. Despite being a hardcore fan and official board moderator, I'm shocked that the Niners have rebounded so quickly. I thought we were at least 1 year, if not 2, away from returning to the playoffs.

I still think the Super Bowl is a long shot, but after seeing the Niners dismantle the defending AFC Champions, I guess stranger things have happened. Chime in with your thoughts on the Niners.

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I think the amazing thing with the Niners is how Alex Smith has finally started to click. I always defended Smith, because he's had so many OCs and so much overturn over his career. But it was getting harder and harder for me to argue that he "just needed the right coach." Until now, that is. Harbaugh has found something in him and turned him into a really good centerpiece for the 49ers. Everyone talks about their defense, but honestly they're a very balanced team, and that offense can move the ball.

As a Saints fan, I was disappointed they beat the Steelers, but I can't deny their talent. If the Saints have to go into Candlestick to beat them, it isn't something I would love (although I do think the Saints can beat them if they get a quick start and force SF to abandon the run).

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Originally Posted by The JNR

I think the amazing thing with the Niners is how Alex Smith has finally started to click. I always defended Smith, because he's had so many OCs and so much overturn over his career. But it was getting harder and harder for me to argue that he "just needed the right coach." Until now, that is. Harbaugh has found something in him and turned him into a really good centerpiece for the 49ers. Everyone talks about their defense, but honestly they're a very balanced team, and that offense can move the ball.

As a Saints fan, I was disappointed they beat the Steelers, but I can't deny their talent. If the Saints have to go into Candlestick to beat them, it isn't something I would love (although I do think the Saints can beat them if they get a quick start and force SF to abandon the run).

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Harbs knows how to form an offensive gameplan. Neither Mike No-win or Singletary understood offensive strategy. The 49ers seem to understand the strengths of their weapons and are maximizing them rather than running Frank Gore into the ground week after week.

Of course, the D is amazing. While the spolight this week was on Big Ben's ankle, there was very little coverage given to the fact that the 49ers were without their sackmaster and best player, Patrick Willis. Aldon Smith and Justin Smith really stepped up to put the heat on Big Ben.

I actually think the 49ers match up better against Green Bay than New Orleans. The 49ers' front 7 can put the heat on Rodgers and the Gore/Hunter/Dixon combo can keep the Packers O off the field. That would be a very close game. New Orleans, however, has so many offensive weapons (and they are hot at the right time) that they could turn the game into a shootout. That doesn't favor the Niners, especially if they can't lock down the #2 seed. If we have to face the Saints in the Superdome, I'm afraid our season is over.

I still don't trust Smith. Winning 3 in a row is easier than winning 2 in a row, for sure. The Saints is the team that, I think, may be most likely to take them out if they end up paired. I think they'd have an easier time with the Packers, actually, but I don't see that happening sooner.

I'm not sure if the Saints can beat the 49ers on the road. That's why watching the 49ers win at Seattle yesterday was heart-breaking. Don't know if they will lose at the Rams next week. If the Saints win tomorrow night, they may think about resting the guys next week. I remember last season Graham, Jenkins, and Ivory all got injured in the season finale against Tampa. I don't expect the Niners to lose to the Rams.

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Originally Posted by Hornets78

I'm not sure if the Saints can beat the 49ers on the road. That's why watching the 49ers win at Seattle yesterday was heart-breaking. Don't know if they will lose at the Rams next week. If the Saints win tomorrow night, they may think about resting the guys next week. I remember last season Graham, Jenkins, and Ivory all got injured in the season finale against Tampa. I don't expect the Niners to lose to the Rams.

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We'll need to beat the Rams, so I expect Harbs to play all available starters. Not only do we have a much better chance against the Saints in SF (although even that might not be enough), we need the extra week to deal with a plethora of injuries.

I know one thing, the 49ers will HAVE to do better in the red zone against the Saints. a TD and 3 FGs isn't going to be enough to top Brees and his cornucopia of targets.

With the Hornets struggling, it certainly feels good for the Niners to get their first playoff win since 2002. I was really worried before the game and when it was 32-29 with 40 seconds left, I thought it was over. The offense grew up tonight.

That was a CRUSHING end to our season. I'm still not over it, and I doubt I ever will be. Moderating the Niners' MB was certainly no party after that.

You'll get over it with a Super Bowl win. That's how Saints fans got over that blowout in Chicago in 2006. Up until 2009, that was still stinging really badly.

You've got a good team, and it was a hell of a year. The NFC West isn't getting any harder, and the Niners will be back at it again this year. But I'm being honest, I can't wait for the Niners to come to the Superdome this year, and I want the Saints to get some revenge.

I'm a huge Niners fan since I was young but my Saints are my true love. I was really hurt from the lost because I knew we were the best team. Even the Superbowl champs said they knew that and was happy to face the Niners. But I believe were destined to e the first team to host a Superbowl and win because no one can beat us at home. So NO main focus should get the number 1 seed at home !!!

We added Randy Moss to bolster the passing game. Our biggest deep threats have both been TEs, so it will be nice to have a long ball WR. Plus, it's a one-year contract; we can cut our losses if he decides to start acting like a baby.

Sheesh! We'll open 2012 in place were we haven't won in over 2 decades: Lambeau. Gee, that's encouraging.:help:

What an improbable way to start the season: beating down the Pack in their own house--22 years since that last happened. It's Super Bowl or bust this year.

You guys have my favorite player of all-time on your squad in Randy Moss. But the questions is Alexa Smith, because the rushing game is there but Smith was making some bad throws today. Of course he did more good then bad so it will over run the bad, no-one shall never for get the bad no matter how much good. :)

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Originally Posted by Trell

You guys have my favorite player of all-time on your squad in Randy Moss. But the questions is Alexa Smith, because the rushing game is there but Smith was making some bad throws today. Of course he did more good then bad so it will over run the bad, no-one shall never for get the bad no matter how much good. :)

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Smith's play isn't the issue, it's his health. The 49ers are a defensive team, so Smith doesn't need to put up monster numbers. He just needs to be careful with the ball and be his usual efficient self. However, we have nothing but inexperience behind him and his reconstructed shoulder.

3-1 after spanking the Jets. The O still isn't clicking like they should, but it's still early. The D is NASTY. I love the intensity.

In the last 2 games, the 49ers have outscored their opponents 79-3. I like numbers like that; they remind me of the glory days.

Also, words cannot express how much I want to humiliate and brutalize the Giants this Sunday.

It seems like we can beat everyone but the Giants.

And the Vikings.

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Originally Posted by Hornets78

And the Vikings.

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I think we could take the Vikes in a rematch. I think we could take anyone in the NFC, including the ATL filthy turds, but we now have a mental stumbling block in the NYG.

Also, I don't care if Smith struggles every once in awhile (it's inevitable), Harbs better NEVER try that QB rotation strategy again. It was a bigger disaster than Topher Grace as Venom.

He's been doing that rotation for the last few games, and I don't think it's working well for either quarterback.

Harbaugh knows he can only go so far with Smith. I think he's trying to get the young guy more reps because Smith won't be able to win a Super Bowl.

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Originally Posted by Hornets78

Harbaugh knows he can only go so far with Smith. I think he's trying to get the young guy more reps because Smith won't be able to win a Super Bowl.

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Enough mediocre-to-bad QBs have Super Bowl rings to prove that an Elway type is helpful, but not necessary. Smith wasn't the reason the Niners missed the SB last year, it was special teams. The Niners have the talent to win a Super Bowl, but Harbs is going to have to admit to himself (regardless of the WR additions) that this is still a run-first offense.

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Originally Posted by Hornet Hysteria

Enough mediocre-to-bad QBs have Super Bowl rings to prove that an Elway type is helpful, but not necessary. Smith wasn't the reason the Niners missed the SB last year, it was special teams. The Niners have the talent to win a Super Bowl, but Harbs is going to have to admit to himself (regardless of the WR additions) that this is still a run-first offense.

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Smith was terrible in the NFC title game. 1-13 on 3rd downs. And recent Super Bowl winners have been stud QBs. The days of game managers winning Super Bowls are over. Harbaugh knows it.

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Originally Posted by Hornets78

Smith was terrible in the NFC title game. 1-13 on 3rd downs. And recent Super Bowl winners have been stud QBs. The days of game managers winning Super Bowls are over. Harbaugh knows it.

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I couldn't disagree more with that statement. The last 2 Giants vs Pats SBs have proved the exact opposite. The team with the record-breaking QB lost to the defensive team with the just better-than-average QB.

And Smith's shortcomings, which are obvious, would have still landed him in the SB if a) a backup returner hadn't muffed 2 punts or b) Harbaugh would have had the awareness to get Williams out of the game. Remember, just one week beforehand, the 49ers beat a former SB team with a future HOF QB. What ultimately decided the 49ers' fate in the NFC title game was inexperience both on the field and on the sidelines.

While I wouldn't have a problem with the 49ers upgrading QB (or any position), I still think the position is vastly overhyped. QB might be the most important position, but it's still a dependent one and one that can't directly effect 2 other phases of the game: defense and special teams. If Trenterception Dilfer and Rex Grossman can take teams to the Super Bowl, then obviously a great QB isn't needed for the big dance.

I actually wrote this article yesterday about this qb rotation: http://thefootbawlblog.com/2012/10/1...ck-experiment/

GIANTS destroyed the Niners! NY is the best team in the NFC we as speak. Will they maintain? Thats your headline for today.

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Originally Posted by Hornet Hysteria

I couldn't disagree more with that statement. The last 2 Giants vs Pats SBs have proved the exact opposite. The team with the record-breaking QB lost to the defensive team with the just better-than-average QB.

And Smith's shortcomings, which are obvious, would have still landed him in the SB if a) a backup returner hadn't muffed 2 punts or b) Harbaugh would have had the awareness to get Williams out of the game. Remember, just one week beforehand, the 49ers beat a former SB team with a future HOF QB. What ultimately decided the 49ers' fate in the NFC title game was inexperience both on the field and on the sidelines.

While I wouldn't have a problem with the 49ers upgrading QB (or any position), I still think the position is vastly overhyped. QB might be the most important position, but it's still a dependent one and one that can't directly effect 2 other phases of the game: defense and special teams. If Trenterception Dilfer and Rex Grossman can take teams to the Super Bowl, then obviously a great QB isn't needed for the big dance.

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Your insane if you think Eli is just a better than average QB. He's an elite QB and much better than Alex Smith.

The 49ers weren't driving on the Giants in OT or in the 4th. Their offense couldn't do anything late in the game. Smith didn't get it done when it counted and he won't get it done again. Harbaugh knows that. Look how awful Smith has looked the last two weeks at home.

The only reason the 49ers beat the Saints was the Saints DC was stupid enough to blitz with 40 seconds left in the game. If he plays it straight up, the Saints win that game. Even with 5 turnovers, the Saints should have won that game.

Dilfer took the Ravens 12 years ago and Grossman won it in a very weak NFC. The NFC is much tougher now and the fact is, Alex Smith isn't good enough to lead this team to the Super Bowl. Harbaugh knows it. Its about time you did as well.

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Originally Posted by gerryv

GIANTS destroyed the Niners! NY is the best team in the NFC we as speak. Will they maintain? Thats your headline for today.

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Originally Posted by gerryv

GIANTS destroyed the Niners! NY is the best team in the NFC we as speak. Will they maintain? Thats your headline for today.

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As we speak, that's a fair statement, because I'm not buying into the Falcons' hype. Yet Green Bay was the best team in the whole NFL until the last couple of weeks last year. I still believe the Niners can beat anyone if they execute.

The problem is that Harbs seems to be struggling with what he wants the O to become. The WRs aren't getting separation, but the plays are still being run for them. The TEs aren't getting the ball and Gore isn't being utilized enough. Of course, maybe Harbs is just trying to keep his aging legs fresh for the playoffs.

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Originally Posted by Hornets78

Your insane if you think Eli is just a better than average QB. He's an elite QB and much better than Alex Smith.

l.

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Manning's career stats aren't awe-inspiring, nor was his first SB. The Giants' D won that SB and proved the old adage: the game is won and lost in the trenches. That doesn't make for cool video games or fantasy football points, but it's the simple truth. They pressured Brady made the golden boy look vulnerable, much in the same way the Pats' D did to then-golden boy Warner in their first SB win.

The 49ers are only going to go as far as their front 7 and the legs of Frank Gore take them. Team vision & team execution > gaudy QB plays. End of story.

I'm new to the Forum, haven't been posting about the Hornets since have not gotten to see them yet (will be in NOLA next week, going to game #2). But living in Jersey I have seen the Giants alot (was at the game this past Sunday), and if anyone doesn't think he's an elite QB they either just wish he wasn't or they don't know football. The fact that he had a few yrs where he struggled some doesn't mean he's not at the top of the list now. He puts up great numbers - but even if his stats were lacking a little he's a winner. And that is what a QB has to be - there are plenty of guys who can throw for alot of yards and TDs - but they aren't winners, because of their temperment or whatever.

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Originally Posted by GUYMAN

I'm new to the Forum, haven't been posting about the Hornets since have not gotten to see them yet (will be in NOLA next week, going to game #2). But living in Jersey I have seen the Giants alot (was at the game this past Sunday), and if anyone doesn't think he's an elite QB they either just wish he wasn't or they don't know football. The fact that he had a few yrs where he struggled some doesn't mean he's not at the top of the list now. He puts up great numbers - but even if his stats were lacking a little he's a winner. And that is what a QB has to be - there are plenty of guys who can throw for alot of yards and TDs - but they aren't winners, because of their temperment or whatever.

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He's clutch, but "elite" denotes a top 5 at his position. Off the top of my head, I can think of 5 QBs who are clearly better than Eli: Brady, P. Manning, Brees, Rodgers, Rivers. I also think it's arguable that Roethlisberger is better than Eli. A player who is the 6th or 7th best at his position isn't elite.

Last Sunday vs. the Redskins was a Manning game in a nutshell: 26/40, 337 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs. Those are solid, but a long way from elite.

And all this is beside my original point about the silly, QB-centric media. In 2007, every blabbing head in the air or in print was expecting the coronation of the Patriots because the golden boy, Tom Brady, was just sooooo awesome! They didn't give the Giants a chance because the then-mediocre Manning ( 79.3 rating, 23 TDs, 20 INTS in '07) couldn't possibly lead them to victory.

But the Giants front 4 disagreed. They held the golden boy and his "unstoppable" offense to a mere 14 points. They put Brady on his back 5 times and harassed him all game long. The team with the mediocre QB--to the shock of the media--actually won.

So my point remains that great QB play isn't always necessary to win a Super Bowl. Championships are won in a variety of ways. Having a Joe Montana-like leader is only one of them.

6-2 to cap the first half of the season. Harbs implemented a better gameplan tonight. Smith was 18-19, Gore gashed the Cardinal D. But, as always, the D was story. They BRUTALIZED Zona.

I hope we continue to improve and lock up the NFC West.

Niners cap an erratic and drama-filled season with another NFC West title. I really don't know which Niners team will show up for the playoffs, but it's nice just to make the post-season again.

It's also nice to see the Dallas Demon Spawns and Eli the overrated goober get eliminated on the same day.

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Originally Posted by Hornet Hysteria

Niners cap an erratic and drama-filled season with another NFC West title. I really don't know which Niners team will show up for the playoffs, but it's nice just to make the post-season again.

It's also nice to see the Dallas Demon Spawns and Eli the overrated goober get elimnated on the same day.

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Haard to call anyone with 2 SBs overrated.

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Originally Posted by BallSoHard

Haard to call anyone with 2 SBs overrated.

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Not when that guy gets waaaaay to much credit for what those around him did. He turned in another good (but far from great) year, but he's never been good enough to carry his team on a regular basis. At least well get a break from the Goober-to-the-Hall of Fame talk, at least until he has another one of his 3 or 4 great performances per year.

If his great performances are in the Superbowl, that's all that matters.

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Originally Posted by BallSoHard

If his great performances are in the Superbowl, that's all that matters.

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Not at all. Truly elite QBs elevate their team year after year. The 49ers will face one such man next week: Aaron Rodgers. He's played at an MVP level for 5 straight years now--far better than the Goober. That's what a HOF-worthy players do.

And even though I respect Rodgers as much as any player in the game, I hope the Niners hit him so hard next week that the aftershocks will be felt in Wisconsin.

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Originally Posted by Hornet Hysteria

Enough mediocre-to-bad QBs have Super Bowl rings to prove that an Elway type is helpful, but not necessary. Smith wasn't the reason the Niners missed the SB last year, it was special teams. The Niners have the talent to win a Super Bowl, but Harbs is going to have to admit to himself (regardless of the WR additions) that this is still a run-first offense.

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:hihi: Colin

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Originally Posted by Ceedee M

:hihi: Colin

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LOL...he better be ready in 2 weeks. He'll be looking at one inspired, nasty D on the big day.

Looks good for you! Thanks for beating the birds.

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Originally Posted by Joe Gerrity

Looks good for you! Thanks for beating the birds.

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The Niners and Ravens are mirror-image teams. It will be a hard-hitting, throwback kind of game.

I'm still not over the game. The refs were horrendous. I only refer to 2/3/13 as the New Orleans Screwjob.

I'm still not over the N.O. Screwjob, but it's starting to feel like football is on the horizon.

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Originally Posted by Teal Lantern

I'm still not over the N.O. Screwjob, but it's starting to feel like football is on the horizon.

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Your team got the benefit of a ton of calls that night. Refs were bad on both sides. Plus if the power didn't go out, Ravens would have won easily. So go away.

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Originally Posted by Pelicans78

Your team got the benefit of a ton of calls that night. Refs were bad on both sides. Plus if the power didn't go out, Ravens would have won easily. So go away.

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Eh, NO. 2 of Baltimore's first 4 TDs came on horrendously blown calls. They had multiple dead ball fouls, including the shoving of an official, inexplicably not called. Then there was the Ed Reed no call on the 2 point conversion and 2 missed calls that decided the game on the last drive. I firmly believe that the entire crew should have been suspended for the entire season next year and Roger "No Integrity" Goodell should publically apologize to the 49ers.

This wasn't just a case of a couple of honest mistakes. The NFL let the Ravens get away with being thugs and handed them a championship.