*** Official 2011 San Francisco 49ers Thread *** (1 Viewer)

[Wingnut]

The 49ers received good news Tuesday when eight of their players were named to the NFC’s 43-man Pro Bowl roster.

San Francisco (12-3) will be represented by six starters in Honolulu in punter Andy Lee, placekicker David Akers, defensive tackle Justin Smith, linebacker Patrick Willis, cornerback Carlos Rogers, and left tackle Joe Staley. Running back Frank Gore and safety Dashon Goldson are reserves. Staley, Rogers and Goldson are first-time Pro Bowlers.

The six Pro Bowl starters matches the most in franchise history. They also had six starters in 1971. San Francisco and New England, which also had eight players selected, have the most Pro Bowlers of any NFL team this season, and the Niners’ eight are their most since they had 10 in 1995.

Willis, a five-year veteran who was named to his fifth Pro Bowl, is thrilled to have company this season. In 2008, Willis was San Francisco’s lone Pro Bowl representative.

“I remember when it was just me over there, and now to have more of us be a part of it speaks a lot about our team,” Willis said.

The Niners also had 10 players named Pro Bowl alternates: linebackers NaVorro Bowman and Ahmad Brooks, special teamer Blake Costanzo, tight end Vernon Davis, return specialist Ted Ginn, center Jonathan Goodwin, guard Mike Iupati, defensive tackle Ray McDonald, fullback Bruce Miller and safety Donte Whitner.

One notable omission was rookie linebacker Aldon Smith (14 sacks), who is one sack from breaking the NFL’s record for sacks by a rookie; he ranks fifth in the NFL in the category. Denver linebacker Von Miller (11.5 sacks) was named as a starter on the AFC roster. Miller and Smith are viewed as the NFL’s top defensive rookies.

 

[Wingnut]

When I did my pro bowl voting, I couldnt find Aldon Smiths name to vote...maybe it was because he wasnt playing enough snaps to qualify?? In any event, its a traveshamockery that he didnt get named to the squad.

 

[drummer]

When I did my pro bowl voting, I couldnt find Aldon Smiths name to vote...maybe it was because he wasnt playing enough snaps to qualify?? In any event, its a traveshamockery that he didnt get named to the squad.

I think it's because he is a situational pass rusher who isn't on every snap. He is in the drivers seat for DROTY. To have 2 of those on the same team (Willis) would be awesome.

 

[Uncle Humuna]

When I did my pro bowl voting, I couldnt find Aldon Smiths name to vote...maybe it was because he wasnt playing enough snaps to qualify?? In any event, its a traveshamockery that he didnt get named to the squad.

I think it's because he is a situational pass rusher who isn't on every snap. He is in the drivers seat for DROTY. To have 2 of those on the same team (Willis) would be awesome.

Assuming they can sign Brooks, and assuming they can stay healthy, the prospect of a Smith/Willis/Bowman/Brooks starting LB corp is awesome.They might have the potential to make this list:http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/story?confirm=true&id=09000d5d808a901f&template=with-video-with-comments

 

[Wingnut]

LMAO...T.O. campaigns for a job w/ 49ers through ex Buffalo teammate:http://www.csnbayarea.com/blog/niners-talk/post/Owens-campaigns-for-49ers-job-through-ex?blockID=620316&feedID=5936

All indications are that the 49ers plan to stay within the building to replace waived wide receiver Braylon Edwards on their 53-man roster.That didn't stop Terrell Owens from volunteering his services via Twitter. Owens has 153 career touchdowns and six Pro Bowl appearances but has been out of the NFL in 2011 after spending last season in Cincinnati.The 37-year-old Owens has been rehabilitating a left knee injury that required surgery. He had 72 receptions and nine touchdowns in 14 games for the Bengals in 2010.The 49ers did not contact such veteran players as Owens and Jason Hill, who have histories with the franchise.Ted Ginn and Kyle Williams are iffy for Sunday's regular-season finale against the St. Louis Rams. Ginn is improving after missing a game with a left ankle sprain. And Williams will likely be limited early in the week due to a concussion he sustained Saturday against the Seattle Seahawks.Both Ginn and Williams are expected to 100 percent for the playoffs, so that would place the 49ers' wide-receiver position back at where it was for most of the season.All 49ers might need is a short-term solution that could be best-filled with the promotion of either Joe Hastings or John Matthews from the practice squad.If the 49ers were to look outside the building, the top candidate would likely be veteran Brian Finneran, who impressed the team during a workout in October when Brett Swain was signed.Owens went to Twitter to campaign for a job with the 49ers through his former teammate Donte Whitner.And Whitner responded by publicly vouching for Owens: @terrellowensTerrell Owens@DonteWhitner: Let em kno if they need me, I'm ready homie!! I'm ready 2 take em deep!!@DonteWhitnerTWHITNER @terrellowens I know u are! And I'm ready to Vouch for...and let everyone kno how GREAT of a teamate u were in buffalo!

Interesting tidbit about Finneran though...Whats his deal, did he get injured or something? I dont remember hearing that he was out of football this offseason.

 

[5Rings]

Nice to see Rogers get some love. Guy has been huge and (outside of QB) filled our biggest hole this season. I thought Iupati got the shaft; he should have made the team over the name recognition votes outta NO and TB. In the same vein, I don't think Staley deserved it. I don't think he had that great of a season.

 

[Wingnut]

13-3 and 2nd seed, baby!!!

 

[Wingnut]

I for one will be rooting for the Lions against the Saints...if New Orleans wins, they will be our first playoff opponent. If Detroit wins, they will go to Green Bay, and we will play the winner of the Falcons vs (Giants or Cowboys).

 

[5Rings]

Citing league sources, CSN Bay Area's Matt Maiocco expects impending free agent Alex Smith to eventually sign a two-to-three year extension at $8-11 million per season.

Pretty expensive for a guy I'd like to see backing up Kap a year from now...

 

[Dr. Awesome]

Alex Smith surprised us all this season. He wasn't elite but he was good enough and much better than expected. If Harbaugh thinks he's the best option available (Flynn, Kaepernick, rookie) I'll trust his judgement. And who knows - maybe Alex Smith will take another step forward? And worst case scenario, the team could still move on from Alex after next year. Wouldn't be the first time a team cut a contract short.

 

[5Rings]

Alex Smith surprised us all this season. He wasn't elite but he was good enough and much better than expected. If Harbaugh thinks he's the best option available (Flynn, Kaepernick, rookie) I'll trust his judgement. And who knows - maybe Alex Smith will take another step forward? And worst case scenario, the team could still move on from Alex after next year. Wouldn't be the first time a team cut a contract short.

Exactly. Who knows, under Harbaugh's tutelage... (in before "but he's still Alex Smith")...

 

[wdubb]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

 

[drummer]

Alex Smith surprised us all this season. He wasn't elite but he was good enough and much better than expected. If Harbaugh thinks he's the best option available (Flynn, Kaepernick, rookie) I'll trust his judgement. And who knows - maybe Alex Smith will take another step forward? And worst case scenario, the team could still move on from Alex after next year. Wouldn't be the first time a team cut a contract short.

Exactly. Who knows, under Harbaugh's tutelage... (in before "but he's still Alex Smith")...

If Smith took the step he was supposed to take after Norv Turner left, then that step is 11 INTs less, 1 TD pass more, and around 160 more yards passing. Thats comparing 2006 Smith to 2011 Smith. Dunno if this qualifies for "still Alex Smith".

 

[Wingnut]

Fleet footed 49ers: Akers and Andy Lee kick their way into the record books in 2011

For the second straight week and the eighth time in his 13-year career, 49ers placekicker David Akers was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week.

Akers became the second player this season to win an NFL player-of-the-week honor in consecutive weeks, joining Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (Weeks 1 and 2). Akers also became the first player to be named NFC Special Teams Player of the Week in consecutive weeks since Chicago’s Devin Hester in 2006 (Weeks 13 and 14).

Akers set single-season NFL records for most field-goal attempts (52) and for the most points by a kicker (166), breaking the mark of 164 set by Minnesota’s Gary Anderson in 1998. Akers’ also set the NFL record for most made field goals in a season with 44.

Andy Lee broke his own record as the punter with the most average net yards per punt in a season with 43.99 (he had 41.0 in '07), and was named the NFL special teams player of the week in week 15.

 

[Dr. Awesome]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

1 - Respect doesn't win games. I don't see why anyone should care if they're picking SF or not.2 - While anything can happen and I think this team will be a serious contender for a long while to come, if you had to put your life savings on the outcome of the game would you really wager on SF beating the Saints (assuming Detroit loses)?

 

[butcher boy]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

They're probably going to be matched against the current hottest team in the NFL. I dont give them much of a chance either. Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

 

[wdubb]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

1 - Respect doesn't win games. I don't see why anyone should care if they're picking SF or not.2 - While anything can happen and I think this team will be a serious contender for a long while to come, if you had to put your life savings on the outcome of the game would you really wager on SF beating the Saints (assuming Detroit loses)?

I agree with one wholeheartedly, I don't care much about it, but it's weird to see such a unanimous thought in today's NFL.2-maybe on the spread I'm not saying the Saints aren't favorites (assuming Detroit loses), but not many people think we can beat them, which is kinda surprising given that 1)Saints haven't won in playoffs away EVER 2) Saints barely beat 49ers in candlestick last year in reg. season and in general were much more pedestrian on the road. and3) Saints need to beat the Lions first, who are also really hot on offense.4) Saints lost in the first round last year on the road to a 7-9 Seattle team who everyone also thought was one and done.

 

[wdubb]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,saints lost to the seahawkspats lost to the jetsindy lost to the jetspackers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

 

[Dr. Awesome]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

1 - Respect doesn't win games. I don't see why anyone should care if they're picking SF or not.2 - While anything can happen and I think this team will be a serious contender for a long while to come, if you had to put your life savings on the outcome of the game would you really wager on SF beating the Saints (assuming Detroit loses)?

I agree with one wholeheartedly, I don't care much about it, but it's weird to see such a unanimous thought in today's NFL.2-maybe on the spread I'm not saying the Saints aren't favorites (assuming Detroit loses), but not many people think we can beat them, which is kinda surprising given that 1)Saints haven't won in playoffs away EVER 2) Saints barely beat 49ers in candlestick last year in reg. season and in general were much more pedestrian on the road. and3) Saints need to beat the Lions first, who are also really hot on offense.4) Saints lost in the first round last year on the road to a 7-9 Seattle team who everyone also thought was one and done.

We definitely have a chance. In my playoff league I went heavy on the Saints. I figured if they get past SF I at least win my league. If they lose to SF I'm really happy. If they lose to the Lions SF gets an easier matchup so I'm still stoked.

 

[Wingnut]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

1 - Respect doesn't win games. I don't see why anyone should care if they're picking SF or not.2 - While anything can happen and I think this team will be a serious contender for a long while to come, if you had to put your life savings on the outcome of the game would you really wager on SF beating the Saints (assuming Detroit loses)?

I agree with one wholeheartedly, I don't care much about it, but it's weird to see such a unanimous thought in today's NFL.2-maybe on the spread I'm not saying the Saints aren't favorites (assuming Detroit loses), but not many people think we can beat them, which is kinda surprising given that 1)Saints haven't won in playoffs away EVER 2) Saints barely beat 49ers in candlestick last year in reg. season and in general were much more pedestrian on the road. and3) Saints need to beat the Lions first, who are also really hot on offense.4) Saints lost in the first round last year on the road to a 7-9 Seattle team who everyone also thought was one and done.

We definitely have a chance. In my playoff league I went heavy on the Saints. I figured if they get past SF I at least win my league. If they lose to SF I'm really happy. If they lose to the Lions SF gets an easier matchup so I'm still stoked.

Nice hedgework

 

[drummer]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,

saints lost to the seahawks

pats lost to the jets

indy lost to the jets

packers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.

defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

The 49ers aren't an elite passing defense.ETA: they are definitely not an elite passing offense either.

Plus, there maybe only a handful of 49er players that have been to the playoffs.

 

[goldenchild]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,

saints lost to the seahawks

pats lost to the jets

indy lost to the jets

packers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.

defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

The 49ers aren't an elite passing defense.ETA: they are definitely not an elite passing offense either.

Plus, there maybe only a handful of 49er players that have been to the playoffs.

Something that comes to mind is the 2002 Superbowl b/w OAK and TB.Would you consider the 2002 Raiders an elite passing offense? How about the 2002 Bucs Defense? Elite?

I don't remember the Bucs D being elite and they won the Superbowl for that team that year.

Just some food for thought.

 

[drummer]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,

saints lost to the seahawks

pats lost to the jets

indy lost to the jets

packers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.

defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

The 49ers aren't an elite passing defense.ETA: they are definitely not an elite passing offense either.

Plus, there maybe only a handful of 49er players that have been to the playoffs.

Something that comes to mind is the 2002 Superbowl b/w OAK and TB.Would you consider the 2002 Raiders an elite passing offense? How about the 2002 Bucs Defense? Elite?

I don't remember the Bucs D being elite and they won the Superbowl for that team that year.

Just some food for thought.

I don't think you remember a lot about that Super Bowl. Like how Gruden beat the team he built...

 

[Wingnut]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,

saints lost to the seahawks

pats lost to the jets

indy lost to the jets

packers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.

defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

The 49ers aren't an elite passing defense.ETA: they are definitely not an elite passing offense either.

Plus, there maybe only a handful of 49er players that have been to the playoffs.

Something that comes to mind is the 2002 Superbowl b/w OAK and TB.Would you consider the 2002 Raiders an elite passing offense? How about the 2002 Bucs Defense? Elite?

I don't remember the Bucs D being elite and they won the Superbowl for that team that year.

Just some food for thought.

The Bucs defense was definitely elite that year. They were lead the league in total defense, points allowed, and interceptions (1st team to do that since the 1985 Chicago Bears). They also held opposing quarterbacks to an unbelievable 48.4 passer rating for the season, and are considered one of the best defenses in the modern era. Just sayin.

 

[goldenchild]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,

saints lost to the seahawks

pats lost to the jets

indy lost to the jets

packers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.

defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

The 49ers aren't an elite passing defense.ETA: they are definitely not an elite passing offense either.

Plus, there maybe only a handful of 49er players that have been to the playoffs.

Something that comes to mind is the 2002 Superbowl b/w OAK and TB.Would you consider the 2002 Raiders an elite passing offense? How about the 2002 Bucs Defense? Elite?

I don't remember the Bucs D being elite and they won the Superbowl for that team that year.

Just some food for thought.

I don't think you remember a lot about that Super Bowl. Like how Gruden beat the team he built...

Well, I did read about the audibles and how OAK kept all of the lingo the same, so you do have a point. The biggest thing I remember about that year was that Gannon was on fire up until that game.

 

[goldenchild]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,

saints lost to the seahawks

pats lost to the jets

indy lost to the jets

packers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.

defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

The 49ers aren't an elite passing defense.ETA: they are definitely not an elite passing offense either.

Plus, there maybe only a handful of 49er players that have been to the playoffs.

Something that comes to mind is the 2002 Superbowl b/w OAK and TB.Would you consider the 2002 Raiders an elite passing offense? How about the 2002 Bucs Defense? Elite?

I don't remember the Bucs D being elite and they won the Superbowl for that team that year.

Just some food for thought.

The Bucs defense was definitely elite that year. They were lead the league in total defense, points allowed, and interceptions (1st team to do that since the 1985 Chicago Bears). They also held opposing quarterbacks to an unbelievable 48.4 passer rating for the season, and are considered one of the best defenses in the modern era. Just sayin.

Just dug this up...2002 TB Bucs

Finished season 12-4

Points scored 346 (21.6/g) - Rank 18

196 points allowed (12.2/game) - Rank 1

Differential of 150 points (9.4/game) - Rank 1

Takeaway/Giveaway Differential +17 - Rank 1

2011 SF

Finished season 13-3

Points scored 380 points (23.8/g) - Rank 11

229 points allowed (14.3/g) - Rank 2 ***only 87 points allowed at home (11/g)

Differential of 151 points (9.4/g) - Rank 4

Takeaway/Giveaway Differential +28 - Rank 1

If you considered TB an elite D that year, then would that not make SF an elite D?

All that said, I'm ecstatic that we made it this far, and as the #2 seed no less. I will be bummed if/when we get bounced, but it was a fun ride and I can't wait to see how next year shapes up.

 

[drummer]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,

saints lost to the seahawks

pats lost to the jets

indy lost to the jets

packers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.

defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

The 49ers aren't an elite passing defense.ETA: they are definitely not an elite passing offense either.

Plus, there maybe only a handful of 49er players that have been to the playoffs.

Something that comes to mind is the 2002 Superbowl b/w OAK and TB.Would you consider the 2002 Raiders an elite passing offense? How about the 2002 Bucs Defense? Elite?

I don't remember the Bucs D being elite and they won the Superbowl for that team that year.

Just some food for thought.

The Bucs defense was definitely elite that year. They were lead the league in total defense, points allowed, and interceptions (1st team to do that since the 1985 Chicago Bears). They also held opposing quarterbacks to an unbelievable 48.4 passer rating for the season, and are considered one of the best defenses in the modern era. Just sayin.

Just dug this up...2002 TB Bucs

Finished season 12-4

Points scored 346 (21.6/g) - Rank 18

196 points allowed (12.2/game) - Rank 1

Differential of 150 points (9.4/game) - Rank 1

Takeaway/Giveaway Differential +17 - Rank 1

2011 SF

Finished season 13-3

Points scored 380 points (23.8/g) - Rank 11

229 points allowed (14.3/g) - Rank 2 ***only 87 points allowed at home (11/g)

Differential of 151 points (9.4/g) - Rank 4

Takeaway/Giveaway Differential +28 - Rank 1

If you considered TB an elite D that year, then would that not make SF an elite D?

All that said, I'm ecstatic that we made it this far, and as the #2 seed no less. I will be bummed if/when we get bounced, but it was a fun ride and I can't wait to see how next year shapes up.

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

 

[wdubb]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,

saints lost to the seahawks

pats lost to the jets

indy lost to the jets

packers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.

defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

The 49ers aren't an elite passing defense.ETA: they are definitely not an elite passing offense either.

Plus, there maybe only a handful of 49er players that have been to the playoffs.

Well, we know they aren't an elite passing offense. I agree about passing defense more or less too, the secondary is average. however we weren't talking about passing defenses, but rather defenses in general. You would think in the league dominated by QBs airing it out a top rushing D with an average secondary wouldn't be anywhere the top 5...yet we're top 2 D in the league. This front 7 is the best one in the league right now.

 

[wdubb]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

 

[butcher boy]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

So what do you think will happen when the guy who just broke the record for QB passing yards attempts far more passes than average? Can Alex Smith keep up?I really hope I'm wrong. I just think the Saints are too hot a team right now.

 

[Wingnut]

Man the Niners are getting no respect whatsoever in the playoffs. You don't know how many people I've heard say we are one and done team

Elite passing offenses beat elite defenses.

in the playoffs ? not really. especially if they dont have decent defenses along with their elite passing offenses.just last year,

saints lost to the seahawks

pats lost to the jets

indy lost to the jets

packers were a big ben drive away from losing the 'chip after key defensive players like woodson got hurt.

defenses still win championships. you just don't hear about it as much anymore

The 49ers aren't an elite passing defense.ETA: they are definitely not an elite passing offense either.

Plus, there maybe only a handful of 49er players that have been to the playoffs.

Something that comes to mind is the 2002 Superbowl b/w OAK and TB.Would you consider the 2002 Raiders an elite passing offense? How about the 2002 Bucs Defense? Elite?

I don't remember the Bucs D being elite and they won the Superbowl for that team that year.

Just some food for thought.

The Bucs defense was definitely elite that year. They were lead the league in total defense, points allowed, and interceptions (1st team to do that since the 1985 Chicago Bears). They also held opposing quarterbacks to an unbelievable 48.4 passer rating for the season, and are considered one of the best defenses in the modern era. Just sayin.

Just dug this up...2002 TB Bucs

Finished season 12-4

Points scored 346 (21.6/g) - Rank 18

196 points allowed (12.2/game) - Rank 1

Differential of 150 points (9.4/game) - Rank 1

Takeaway/Giveaway Differential +17 - Rank 1

2011 SF

Finished season 13-3

Points scored 380 points (23.8/g) - Rank 11

229 points allowed (14.3/g) - Rank 2 ***only 87 points allowed at home (11/g)

Differential of 151 points (9.4/g) - Rank 4

Takeaway/Giveaway Differential +28 - Rank 1

If you considered TB an elite D that year, then would that not make SF an elite D?

All that said, I'm ecstatic that we made it this far, and as the #2 seed no less. I will be bummed if/when we get bounced, but it was a fun ride and I can't wait to see how next year shapes up.

I absolutely think SF's defense this year is elite, and it gives them a legit shot at winning in January, IMO. That said, Im not sure we could beat a team like the Saints, but Im not gonna worry about it...the future is looking pret-ty pret-ty good.

 

[shadyridr]

i cant wait! i waited ten years until football was relevant again. and of course its the year i cancel my directv

 

[wdubb]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

So what do you think will happen when the guy who just broke the record for QB passing yards attempts far more passes than average? Can Alex Smith keep up?I really hope I'm wrong. I just think the Saints are too hot a team right now.

No doubt Saints are hot. And it won't be an easy game by any means. I just think that people take Brees destroying our D for granted, especially away. I look at Saints record away and it doesn't scare me like it should be given the people's view of that offense.Tight wins over CAR TEN and ATL (that one is special, Mike Smith Im looking at you), losses to STL, TB and GB...comfortable wins against jags and minny.Will the saints win ? more likely than not, but the general feeling around the playoffs I think is that SF wont be able to keep up. Like you've said, Alex probably won't be able to keep up if Brees starts putting up 30+. But I don't see Brees going off like that in Candlestick. I think the game (if it happens) will be tense and only decided by 3-5 points.

 

[goldenchild]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

So what do you think will happen when the guy who just broke the record for QB passing yards attempts far more passes than average? Can Alex Smith keep up?I really hope I'm wrong. I just think the Saints are too hot a team right now.

That same QB you are talking about scores 2 less TDs/game on the road. Just sayin'

 

[wdubb]

If that makes more sense, I'm worried about Sproles on NOs offense a lot. We can stop the run up the middle but have had trouble in the last few years against outside runs and screens cuz the OLBs arent that great at run D.

That's actually what NO did last year at Candlestick- they threw a boatload of screens dumpoffs and short passes to Bush.

 

[butcher boy]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

So what do you think will happen when the guy who just broke the record for QB passing yards attempts far more passes than average? Can Alex Smith keep up?I really hope I'm wrong. I just think the Saints are too hot a team right now.

That same QB you are talking about scores 2 less TDs/game on the road. Just sayin'

That might be all they need if we put up another David Akers 12 point special.

 

[goldenchild]

If that makes more sense, I'm worried about Sproles on NOs offense a lot. We can stop the run up the middle but have had trouble in the last few years against outside runs and screens cuz the OLBs arent that great at run D.That's actually what NO did last year at Candlestick- they threw a boatload of screens dumpoffs and short passes to Bush.

What I love about Harbaugh is that he keeps you guessing with the game plan. I can't wait to see what he'll have in store for NO if/when they come to town.

 

[goldenchild]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

So what do you think will happen when the guy who just broke the record for QB passing yards attempts far more passes than average? Can Alex Smith keep up?I really hope I'm wrong. I just think the Saints are too hot a team right now.

That same QB you are talking about scores 2 less TDs/game on the road. Just sayin'

That might be all they need if we put up another David Akers 12 point special.

Touche.Although I believe the laws of averages are on our side for that likely matchup. SF puts up 27.63/g @ home and NO puts up 27.25/g on road. I'll take it!

 

[shadyridr]

and suck it dr awesome... this obnoxious yankee fan is also a 9er fan

 

[Dr. Awesome]

and suck it dr awesome... this obnoxious yankee fan is also a 9er fan

Been saving that one for awhile?

 

[shadyridr]

and suck it dr awesome... this obnoxious yankee fan is also a 9er fan

Been saving that one for awhile?

lol nah. i dont think anybody on this site knows im a 49er fan. i dont really stick my head in here much. i grew up loving montana and rice and stuck with them ever since. yankees still take precedence though. anyway im so looking forward to next saturday. i dont think they can beat the saints but i def think they have a chance which nobody seems to be giving them. with their def, special teams, and coaching they definitely can pull off the upset!

 

[drummer]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

DAL and PHI each passed over 400 yards on them. Teams like AZ, CLE, STL, CIN, have passed less than 200 yards on them. The 49ers haven't faced a Brees or Rodgers this season.

 

[drummer]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

So what do you think will happen when the guy who just broke the record for QB passing yards attempts far more passes than average? Can Alex Smith keep up?I really hope I'm wrong. I just think the Saints are too hot a team right now.

That same QB you are talking about scores 2 less TDs/game on the road. Just sayin'

Against the QB whose offense didn't score a first half TD pass in 7 of it's last 8 games?

 

[goldenchild]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

So what do you think will happen when the guy who just broke the record for QB passing yards attempts far more passes than average? Can Alex Smith keep up?I really hope I'm wrong. I just think the Saints are too hot a team right now.

That same QB you are talking about scores 2 less TDs/game on the road. Just sayin'

Against the QB whose offense didn't score a first half TD pass in 7 of it's last 8 games?

I'm talking about the offense that puts up almost 28pts per game at home. If that takes a TD'less 1st half to get us to 28, then so be it.Who's side are you on, anyways?

 

[drummer]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

So what do you think will happen when the guy who just broke the record for QB passing yards attempts far more passes than average? Can Alex Smith keep up?I really hope I'm wrong. I just think the Saints are too hot a team right now.

That same QB you are talking about scores 2 less TDs/game on the road. Just sayin'

Against the QB whose offense didn't score a first half TD pass in 7 of it's last 8 games?

I'm talking about the offense that puts up almost 28pts per game at home. If that takes a TD'less 1st half to get us to 28, then so be it.Who's side are you on, anyways?

I'm on the side that needs an offense to improve from the bottom of the League on 3rd down and in the Red Zone.

 

[drummer]

BTW for anybody going to that game:

Tell the fans near you to not do The Wave. Especially if they are on offense. That's not the HFA you're looking for.

Just in case they can't read the instructions Jed and Co. printed on how to act like a fan.

 

[wdubb]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

DAL and PHI each passed over 400 yards on them. Teams like AZ, CLE, STL, CIN, have passed less than 200 yards on them. The 49ers haven't faced a Brees or Rodgers this season.

um OK, yea they did. nevertheless, we won one game and lost a very close OT game at home. giants also passed for 300+ yards, but we forced turnovers. yardage, again, isnt the end of everything. steelers got a lot of yards out of gimpy Ben too, but since every drive of theirs started at the very most on the 20 yard line, and ended in a pick or a stop, they couldnt score much.the 49ers offense will get a decent amount of points against the Saints because the Saints defense is as scheeks. the only thing Im worried about on offense is the preseason game in which Payton brought the heat nearly every down. That's what Baltimore did and it wasn't pretty, especially on the right side of the oline.if people think Alex Smith and the offense are winning this game on their shoulders or keeping them in the game, they're delusional. We'll live and die with this D and the front 7.

 

[goldenchild]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002. SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

So what do you think will happen when the guy who just broke the record for QB passing yards attempts far more passes than average? Can Alex Smith keep up?I really hope I'm wrong. I just think the Saints are too hot a team right now.

That same QB you are talking about scores 2 less TDs/game on the road. Just sayin'

Against the QB whose offense didn't score a first half TD pass in 7 of it's last 8 games?

I'm talking about the offense that puts up almost 28pts per game at home. If that takes a TD'less 1st half to get us to 28, then so be it.Who's side are you on, anyways?

I'm on the side that needs an offense to improve from the bottom of the League on 3rd down and in the Red Zone.

 

[drummer]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002.

SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

DAL and PHI each passed over 400 yards on them. Teams like AZ, CLE, STL, CIN, have passed less than 200 yards on them. The 49ers haven't faced a Brees or Rodgers this season.

um OK, yea they did. nevertheless, we won one game and lost a very close OT game at home. giants also passed for 300+ yards, but we forced turnovers. yardage, again, isnt the end of everything. steelers got a lot of yards out of gimpy Ben too, but since every drive of theirs started at the very most on the 20 yard line, and ended in a pick or a stop, they couldnt score much.the 49ers offense will get a decent amount of points against the Saints because the Saints defense is as scheeks. the only thing Im worried about on offense is the preseason game in which Payton brought the heat nearly every down. That's what Baltimore did and it wasn't pretty, especially on the right side of the oline.

if people think Alex Smith and the offense are winning this game on their shoulders or keeping them in the game, they're delusional. We'll live and die with this D and the front 7.

Still doesn't discount the fact the Michael Vick alone had almost 500 yards on you.

 

[wdubb]

TB passing defense was ranked 1st in 2002.

SF passing defense is ranked 16th in 2011.

By total yards. that ranking in this year is skewed, as teams generally attempted far more passes against the Niners than against an average team. 49ers also ranked 9th best in net yards allowed on a pass play, a much better indication of a defense imo.Not to mention, Andy Lee gave the Niners D best field position in the league iirc. For a bend and not break defense like the 49ers, those yards are less important as opposed to a big play/stop before the endzone or redzone

DAL and PHI each passed over 400 yards on them. Teams like AZ, CLE, STL, CIN, have passed less than 200 yards on them. The 49ers haven't faced a Brees or Rodgers this season.

um OK, yea they did. nevertheless, we won one game and lost a very close OT game at home. giants also passed for 300+ yards, but we forced turnovers. yardage, again, isnt the end of everything. steelers got a lot of yards out of gimpy Ben too, but since every drive of theirs started at the very most on the 20 yard line, and ended in a pick or a stop, they couldnt score much.the 49ers offense will get a decent amount of points against the Saints because the Saints defense is as scheeks. the only thing Im worried about on offense is the preseason game in which Payton brought the heat nearly every down. That's what Baltimore did and it wasn't pretty, especially on the right side of the oline.

if people think Alex Smith and the offense are winning this game on their shoulders or keeping them in the game, they're delusional. We'll live and die with this D and the front 7.

Still doesn't discount the fact the Michael Vick alone had almost 500 yards on you.

so you decide bring semantics into the equation. good job. next season when I wake up for that 10am game on sunday to watch every snap, just like I've been doing every gameday for the last 10 years, through monster hangovers and no sleep, I'll make sure to remember that I should never refer to my team as 'we' otherwise I'll be faced with the wrath of the bold font as far as Vick, yea he threw for a lot and ran for a lot as well. Niners have had trouble defending a mobile QB/fast RB on the edges, that much is obvious.

but that by itself doesnt matter at all. The Jets last year, a top 5 passing D, gave up 400+ yards to Brady. We all know what happened when they faced Brady again in the playoffs. Oh, and Jets lost that regular season game. Niners won theirs.