San Francisco WR Update (1 Viewer)

[Faust]

Bryant Johnson - WR - 49ers

The 49ers beat writers are collectively convinced that Bryant Johnson will be more productive than Isaac Bruce under Mike Martz.

Johnson is playing Torry Holt's old split end spot with Bruce at his customary flanker. The Sacramento Bee believes Bruce benefited from playing opposite Holt and on turf in St. Louis. We wouldn't be surprised to see Arnaz Battle outscore both if he claims the starting slot position. Finding a QB, then getting him to complete passes to these guys is Martz's first task. Jul. 5 - 4:45 p.m. ET

Source: Sacramento Bee

Interesting commentary....

 

[Routilla]

Everything I've read on BJ is that he is obviously fast but needs to refine his route running. For a very late mid round pick he offers nice upside as a possible #1 WR on his team. IMO of course.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Finding a QB, then getting him to complete passes to these guys is Martz's first task.

Amen.

 

[Dirty Weasel]

Since becoming an OC in 1999, the stats under Martz have proven his love of the passing game:

1999 - Kurt Warner - 4354 yds and 41 TD's (#1 FF QB); Marshall Faulk gets 1381 rushing and 1048 receiving with 12 TD's (#2 FF RB), Isaac Bruce gets 1165 yds and 12 TD's (#6 FF WR), Az Hakim has 677 yds with 8 TD's (WR27), TE Roland Williams gets 6 TD's, and rookie Torry Holt gets 788 yards with 6 TD's (WR35)

2000 - Green/Warner combine for 380 completions on 587 attempts for 5492 yards and 37 TD's (easily the #1 FF QB combined, as Warner plays 10 games and Green plays 6); Faulk (#1 FF RB) goes for 2200 yards combined with 26 TD's, Bruce (#6 FF WR) and Holt (#7 FF WR) combine for 3106 yards - 3 players get 80+ catches

2001 - Warner once again plays a full season as the #1 FF QB, with 4830 yards and 36 TD's; Faulk's 2147 combined yds and 21 TD's makes him the #1 FF RB, Holt (81/1363/7) finishes as WR8 and Bruce (64/1106/6) as WR17

2002 - Injuries amount, as STL goes with Warner, Bulger, and Martin; they combine for 4473 yards and 24 TD's; Faulk plays in only 14 games, but gets 1490 yards combined with 10 TD's, Holt (91/1302/4) is WR15 and Bruce (79/1075/7) is WR16

2003 - Bulger steps in with 3845 yds and 22 TD's (QB8), Faulk plays in only 11 games, but gets 1108 combined with 11 TD's, Holt blows up for 117/1696/12 (WR2) and Bruce adds 69/981/5 (WR18)

2004 - Bulger plays in 14 games, but finishes as QB10, Faulk and SJax share the load at RB, Holt (94/1372/10) and Bruce (89/1292/6) finish as WR's 7 & 12

2005 - Another mixture at QB due to injury, STL still throws for 4351; changing of the guard at RB with SJax getting the bulk, Holt (102/1331/9) finishes as WR6 and Kevin Curtis steps in for an injured Bruce and gets 60/801/6 (WR27)

Martz heads to DET as the OC (he's got cajones, that's for sure):

2006 - Kitna throws for 4208 and finishes as QB6, KJ plays in 12 games and gets 1209 yards combined with 61 receptions, Mike Furrey comes out of nowhere with 98/1086/6 (WR19), and Roy has a solid season with 82/1310/7 (WR10)

2007 - Kitna throws for 4068 and finishes as QB13, KJ stinks up the joint with 780 combined and 8 TD's in 13 games, the 3-headed WR corps is Shaun McDonald 79/943/6 (WR23), Roy Williams 63/836/5 (WR33), and Calvin Johnson 48/756/4 (WR35)

Let us decipher these stats a bit:

- 41004 passing yards under Martz in the last 9 seasons, an average of 4556 per year... Holy Cow!!

- QB's under Martz are almost a sure bet to finish in the top 10, barring injury

- In 9 seasons, he has produced 9 WR1's (1-12), 6 WR2's (13-24), and 5 WR3's (25-36)

- Even his RB's become FF studs, as long as they stay healthy

What does all this mean for the SF WR's in 2008? The one who gets the bulk is gonna be a steal!

 

[Jason Wood]

Bryant Johnson - WR - 49ers

The 49ers beat writers are collectively convinced that Bryant Johnson will be more productive than Isaac Bruce under Mike Martz.

Johnson is playing Torry Holt's old split end spot with Bruce at his customary flanker. The Sacramento Bee believes Bruce benefited from playing opposite Holt and on turf in St. Louis. We wouldn't be surprised to see Arnaz Battle outscore both if he claims the starting slot position. Finding a QB, then getting him to complete passes to these guys is Martz's first task. Jul. 5 - 4:45 p.m. ET

Source: Sacramento Bee

Interesting commentary....

This statement is, of course, true. But I wouldn't worry about that; it's not as though Martz' prior fantasy stud QBs had any kind of pedigree before he got his hands on them, either.Kurt Warner was an Arena Leaguer and grocery boy before winning 2 MVPs

Jon Kitna was a middling journeyman starter

Marc Bulger was a 6th round draft pick by the Saints and on no one's radar

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

 

[buck naked]

What does all this mean for the SF WR's in 2008? The one who gets the bulk is gonna be a steal!

Which is exactly why someone should draft them both in the middle rounds and assure yourself a #1 WR from the 2 in a historically huge stat offense.

 

[Holy Schneikes]

Bryant Johnson - WR - 49ersThe 49ers beat writers are collectively convinced that Bryant Johnson will be more productive than Isaac Bruce under Mike Martz.Johnson is playing Torry Holt's old split end spot with Bruce at his customary flanker. The Sacramento Bee believes Bruce benefited from playing opposite Holt and on turf in St. Louis. We wouldn't be surprised to see Arnaz Battle outscore both if he claims the starting slot position. Finding a QB, then getting him to complete passes to these guys is Martz's first task. Jul. 5 - 4:45 p.m. ETSource: Sacramento BeeInteresting commentary....

Ike had seasons of 1781 yards, 13 TDs, and 1338 yards, 7 TD before Holt was in the league. To suggest Bruce was only good because of Holt is ridiculous. He may not be what he once was, but this guy had one of the best WR seasons OF ALL TIME (2nd behind Rice in terms of yards in a season) on a terrible team. Another interesting note, Ike Bruce has NEVER had a season under 1000 yards when he's played 16 games (8 seasons).I suspect Ike will be their best receiver, even now.

 

[Andy Herron]

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

I couldn't agree more. I've been leaning this way too.I'll be surprised if he's not the week 1 starter.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

Ike had seasons of 1781 yards, 13 TDs, and 1338 yards, 7 TD before Holt was in the league. To suggest Bruce was only good because of Holt is ridiculous. He may not be what he once was, but this guy had one of the best WR seasons OF ALL TIME (2nd behind Rice in terms of yards in a season) on a terrible team. Another interesting note, Ike Bruce has NEVER had a season under 1000 yards when he's played 16 games (8 seasons).I suspect Ike will be their best receiver, even now.

Wow. We agree.

 

[southeastjerome]

Bryant Johnson - WR - 49ers

The 49ers beat writers are collectively convinced that Bryant Johnson will be more productive than Isaac Bruce under Mike Martz.

Johnson is playing Torry Holt's old split end spot with Bruce at his customary flanker. The Sacramento Bee believes Bruce benefited from playing opposite Holt and on turf in St. Louis. We wouldn't be surprised to see Arnaz Battle outscore both if he claims the starting slot position. Finding a QB, then getting him to complete passes to these guys is Martz's first task. Jul. 5 - 4:45 p.m. ET

Source: Sacramento Bee

Interesting commentary....

I think Battle is in for a Shaun McDonald/Mike Furrey type of season.

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

Bryant Johnson is a guy who's been supposed to break through for years and hasn't. Sure, he's had two top tier guys in front of him, but he's had chances to break through and he's disappointed. I'm not buying into any big turn around for Johnson.

Isaac Bruce has been great, but not for a few years. He can still play but not at the level he once could. I don't think Martz can squeeze water out of rock, he's been fortunate or talented enough to recognize QB talent and has done well with QB's we have heard much about yet. However, the truth is those guys did have the talent, he didn't inject them with something they already didn't possess.

If the Qb's he's working with now have that talent, he'll find a way to bring it out but if they don't...they'll fail. I don't like the WR's in SF, mainly due to the QB play. I expect those guys to struggle and Martz will use Gore heavily. Gore will have a VERY strong year if he stays healthy for it.

 

[tribecalledjeff]

Bryant Johnson - WR - 49ers

The 49ers beat writers are collectively convinced that Bryant Johnson will be more productive than Isaac Bruce under Mike Martz.

Johnson is playing Torry Holt's old split end spot with Bruce at his customary flanker. The Sacramento Bee believes Bruce benefited from playing opposite Holt and on turf in St. Louis. We wouldn't be surprised to see Arnaz Battle outscore both if he claims the starting slot position. Finding a QB, then getting him to complete passes to these guys is Martz's first task. Jul. 5 - 4:45 p.m. ET

Source: Sacramento Bee

Interesting commentary....

I think Battle is in for a Shaun McDonald/Mike Furrey type of season.

ppr GOLD

and count me in the "shaun hill starts week 1" camp.

 

[joffer]

SF WRs caught 117 passes last year

Det WRs caught 268 passes last year

holy #### that's a difference

i could see SFs number going up to maybe 175, but not much higher.

 

[CalBear]

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

Shaun Hill may be better than Alex Smith, and Mike Martz may think Shaun Hill is better than Alex Smith, but given the 49er management, it seems very unlikely that Martz as OC will have any say in the matter. Alex Smith will be starting.

 

[gopherII]

It's also not inconceivable that Martz will find a way to utilize Vernon Davis in this offense. If he does, Davis could be the breakout player of the year with his talent.

If you guys are right about Shaun Hill, fantasy teams that wait on drafting a QB could be in for a pleasant surprise this year. Warner won a lot of FF championships a few years ago being drafted in the final round...

 

[David Yudkin]

I disagree with Jason. Smith is getting a ton of money . . . like almost $50 million. IMO, if he's on the roster, he's starting. He'd be a HUGE chuck of the salary cap to hold a clipboard. IMO, if they don't want him to start they would release him, take the cap hit, and move on.

As for the WRs . . . # of WR receptions under Martz as HC or OC:

07 268

06 225

05 268

04 266

03 267

02 241

01 224

00 257

99 199

 

[SF409ers]

I would be VERY surprised if Hill is the starting QB come week 1. Unless Smith gets hurt I can't see him getting benched for Hill. IMO this ship will sink or swim with Smith this year.

 

[Spike]

IMO, if any of the WRs (or Vernon Davis) have a big week in the first 3 games, we'll see a LOT of people trying to sell them high.

 

[MAC_32]

Battle's the guy to own in PPR, this is a situation to stay far far away from in non-ppr though...I'll monitor Jason Hill in camp - has the upside and finally has a mentor in Ike, probably still a year away though - but the rest? Injury/bye week fill in's at best.

 

[Marc Levin]

Same Issac Bruce that clocked a 2nd and 8th FF ranking before Holt came to town?

Of course he benefitted from playing opposite Holt. Who wouldn't? But that does not mean he can't put up damn fine numbers on his own merit, even at this advanced age. Sometimes, the obvious is the answer.

Ike catches passes at close to a 60% reception rate, BJohnson barely cracks 50%. 'nuff said on who will be able to eke the most out of that questionable QB situation.

I do not trust the opinions of beat writers before TC even opens.

 

[sfl49er]

I dont see what all the differences are about which SF receiver will top the others: most arent looking to pick these guys up on their rosters anyway. So if all the wide outs are questioned when they're all pretty equal in talent, you could assume all FOUR receivers will pretty much put up similar numbers. If you want to grasp at straws, then Lelie could have the most value with the most touchdowns this season. I see 5 players with 50+ catches this year and only 3 are receivers, so just pick 'em all guys!

 

[sfl49er]

Same Issac Bruce that clocked a 2nd and 8th FF ranking before Holt came to town?Of course he benefitted from playing opposite Holt. Who wouldn't? But that does not mean he can't put up damn fine numbers on his own merit, even at this advanced age. Sometimes, the obvious is the answer.Ike catches passes at close to a 60% reception rate, BJohnson barely cracks 50%. 'nuff said on who will be able to eke the most out of that questionable QB situation.I do not trust the opinions of beat writers before TC even opens.

 

[Jason Wood]

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

Shaun Hill may be better than Alex Smith, and Mike Martz may think Shaun Hill is better than Alex Smith, but given the 49er management, it seems very unlikely that Martz as OC will have any say in the matter. Alex Smith will be starting.

I disagree with Jason. Smith is getting a ton of money . . . like almost $50 million. IMO, if he's on the roster, he's starting. He'd be a HUGE chuck of the salary cap to hold a clipboard. IMO, if they don't want him to start they would release him, take the cap hit, and move on.As for the WRs . . . # of WR receptions under Martz as HC or OC:07 26806 22505 26804 26603 26702 24101 22400 25799 199

There's not a person in the 49ers organization whose job isn't on the line this year. Mike Nolan hasn't publicly endorsed Alex Smith, and he saw firsthand how much better Hill was than Smith even with Hostler (UGH) calling the plays. I would agree that all things being equal, Smith gets the start. But I don't expect all things to be equal. Martz' offense is predicated on not only an in depth knowledge of his complex playbook, but also having the fearlessness to throw the ball long before the receiver is open to make the catch. I don't think Smith has (nor ever had) that kind of ability. He was productive at Utah because his receivers were WIDE OPEN play in, play out.The great thing about the Smith/Hill debate is, it's not germane to the Bryant Johnson conversation. My point is, WHOEVER starts will be a guy Martz can get production from. He's done it time and again with guys with far less pedigrees. Pedigrees don't matter to Martz, only the ability to execute his playbook (and take a hit) matter.The most likely scenario, if I'm handicapping things, is that Smith looks good enough to get the nod in Week One, only to play his way out of the lineup permanently within a month or so. Hill takes over, and plays well enough to have the 49ers think long and hard about not bothering to draft another QB in the early rounds of next year's draft.

 

[sfl49er]

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

Shaun Hill may be better than Alex Smith, and Mike Martz may think Shaun Hill is better than Alex Smith, but given the 49er management, it seems very unlikely that Martz as OC will have any say in the matter. Alex Smith will be starting.

I disagree with Jason. Smith is getting a ton of money . . . like almost $50 million. IMO, if he's on the roster, he's starting. He'd be a HUGE chuck of the salary cap to hold a clipboard. IMO, if they don't want him to start they would release him, take the cap hit, and move on.As for the WRs . . . # of WR receptions under Martz as HC or OC:07 26806 22505 26804 26603 26702 24101 22400 25799 199

There's not a person in the 49ers organization whose job isn't on the line this year. Mike Nolan hasn't publicly endorsed Alex Smith, and he saw firsthand how much better Hill was than Smith even with Hostler (UGH) calling the plays. I would agree that all things being equal, Smith gets the start. But I don't expect all things to be equal. Martz' offense is predicated on not only an in depth knowledge of his complex playbook, but also having the fearlessness to throw the ball long before the receiver is open to make the catch. I don't think Smith has (nor ever had) that kind of ability. He was productive at Utah because his receivers were WIDE OPEN play in, play out.The great thing about the Smith/Hill debate is, it's not germane to the Bryant Johnson conversation. My point is, WHOEVER starts will be a guy Martz can get production from. He's done it time and again with guys with far less pedigrees. Pedigrees don't matter to Martz, only the ability to execute his playbook (and take a hit) matter.The most likely scenario, if I'm handicapping things, is that Smith looks good enough to get the nod in Week One, only to play his way out of the lineup permanently within a month or so. Hill takes over, and plays well enough to have the 49ers think long and hard about not bothering to draft another QB in the early rounds of next year's draft.

You're very knowledgeable in the game. I was just about to add my thoughts to the possible starter thoughts because of my reviews of their offseason, but you stated the fact that is, that Alex will be the starter in Week 1 because of his big money contract. He will get his last chance to start and will lose the job before Hill wins it. BUT, I dont think Alex will lose the job. He is a smart young QB who has made progress when given time to stand in the pocket. He'll learn the offense in TC and will deliver at making good reads, releasing to hot reads, avoid the rush and also connect on the deep throw which he has already proven. The issue at hand is... Will this line protect Alex to let him have more than 2 seconds before he has to run for his life?, ...the way its been for years.

 

[toxicbees]

Lets take a quick look at Alex's career thus far.

Under McCarthy he was only 21 years old and had a line that let him get sacked 29 times in 7.5 games. The best WR on the team was Brandon Lloyd, the starting RB was Barlow, enough said.

Under Norv Turner he had his best success, with Gore having a career year and letting some of the pressure off him. He finished the season with 18 total TDs, and led the team to a 7-9 season. Everything was looking up.

In 2007 Norv Turner took the Chargers job late in the offseason, after all of the best OCs had already taken jobs. Nolan gave the job to Hostler who had been Norv's apprentice, and told him to just run the same offense. Alex played in 6 games last year but was really only healthy for 3 games before tearing his shoulder in game 4. The niners won 2 of those first 3 games, even under Hostlers ultra conservative run first offense. Hostler was so bad he had to eventually relinquish some of his calls to Ted Tollner. Ted being a reject himself actually showed how much better he was than Hostler by leading the team to 3 wins in its last 5 games with Dilfer and Shaun Hill.

Alex is still only 24 years old, the age of most rookie QBs, and he's now had 5 different Offensive Coordinators in 4 years. In my opinion Alex gets the first shot at the starting job. Followed by Shaun Hill and JT O'Sullivan. JT is my darkhorse if Alex proves ineffective, as I don't have very much confidence in Hill.

All of those thinking that Shaun was so much better than Alex better check the stats again. In the three games Shaun played he threw for 181, 197, and 123 yards respectively, not exactly dominating.

 

[sfl49er]

Lets take a quick look at Alex's career thus far.Under McCarthy he was only 21 years old and had a line that let him get sacked 29 times in 7.5 games. The best WR on the team was Brandon Lloyd, the starting RB was Barlow, enough said.Under Norv Turner he had his best success, with Gore having a career year and letting some of the pressure off him. He finished the season with 18 total TDs, and led the team to a 7-9 season. Everything was looking up.In 2007 Norv Turner took the Chargers job late in the offseason, after all of the best OCs had already taken jobs. Nolan gave the job to Hostler who had been Norv's apprentice, and told him to just run the same offense. Alex played in 6 games last year but was really only healthy for 3 games before tearing his shoulder in game 4. The niners won 2 of those first 3 games, even under Hostlers ultra conservative run first offense. Hostler was so bad he had to eventually relinquish some of his calls to Ted Tollner. Ted being a reject himself actually showed how much better he was than Hostler by leading the team to 3 wins in its last 5 games with Dilfer and Shaun Hill.Alex is still only 24 years old, the age of most rookie QBs, and he's now had 5 different Offensive Coordinators in 4 years. In my opinion Alex gets the first shot at the starting job. Followed by Shaun Hill and JT O'Sullivan. JT is my darkhorse if Alex proves ineffective, as I don't have very much confidence in Hill.All of those thinking that Shaun was so much better than Alex better check the stats again. In the three games Shaun played he threw for 181, 197, and 123 yards respectively, not exactly dominating.

Sometimes its just better said by someone else, and you, my friend, have done a great job saying it.

 

[Lott's Fingertip]

Certainly an uptick in San Fran's offense is to be expected, but mad Mike Martz has never had LESS talent to utilize than he does now. He has Gore and what?

Bruce is a complementary player, Battle the same. B.Johnson was highly touted, but he did not impress when Fitz or Boldin missed time and he got a chance to show his stuff.... coupled with the dreaded WR switching teams curse, I doubt he takes the next step. Vernon Davis is still more hype than substance; we'll see if that is his fault or the OCs/QBs.

Martz's previous QBs, while short on pedigree, passed the eyeball test with flying colors when given the chance. Alex Smith has thus far failed that test.

MAYBE Shaun Hill is the next Kurt Warner and it all comes together. Maybe.

Gore is the 49er to have, MAYBE V.Davis takes the next step, the rest are likely bye weekers, IMO.

 

[drummer]

Lets take a quick look at Alex's career thus far.Under McCarthy he was only 21 years old and had a line that let him get sacked 29 times in 7.5 games. The best WR on the team was Brandon Lloyd, the starting RB was Barlow, enough said.Under Norv Turner he had his best success, with Gore having a career year and letting some of the pressure off him. He finished the season with 18 total TDs, and led the team to a 7-9 season. Everything was looking up.In 2007 Norv Turner took the Chargers job late in the offseason, after all of the best OCs had already taken jobs. Nolan gave the job to Hostler who had been Norv's apprentice, and told him to just run the same offense. Alex played in 6 games last year but was really only healthy for 3 games before tearing his shoulder in game 4. The niners won 2 of those first 3 games, even under Hostlers ultra conservative run first offense. Hostler was so bad he had to eventually relinquish some of his calls to Ted Tollner. Ted being a reject himself actually showed how much better he was than Hostler by leading the team to 3 wins in its last 5 games with Dilfer and Shaun Hill.Alex is still only 24 years old, the age of most rookie QBs, and he's now had 5 different Offensive Coordinators in 4 years. In my opinion Alex gets the first shot at the starting job. Followed by Shaun Hill and JT O'Sullivan. JT is my darkhorse if Alex proves ineffective, as I don't have very much confidence in Hill.All of those thinking that Shaun was so much better than Alex better check the stats again. In the three games Shaun played he threw for 181, 197, and 123 yards respectively, not exactly dominating.

Sometimes its just better said by someone else, and you, my friend, have done a great job saying it.

That mantra is tattooed backwards on every 49er homer's chest, so they can read it in the mirror every morning. The bottom line is: Nolan messed things up from the very start, by giving Smith the job before he even earned it. All points lead to Smith being a bust, and I don't think that's entirely on Smith either. Nolan has done everything he can to assure Smith won't turn out to be one, even so much to not have another QB on the roster as a threat, until now. When Hill was back there, the 49er offense was in rhythm for the first time in a long time. Nobody really knows what the impact Tollner had, because Nolan never alluded to it. But the guys who we thought can make plays did when Hill was QB. Hill was decisive, and we only see rare glimpses of that in Smith. At this point until TC, all 49er QBs are equal, and that ain't saying much.

 

[FUBAR]

Lets take a quick look at Alex's career thus far.Under McCarthy he was only 21 years old and had a line that let him get sacked 29 times in 7.5 games. The best WR on the team was Brandon Lloyd, the starting RB was Barlow, enough said.Under Norv Turner he had his best success, with Gore having a career year and letting some of the pressure off him. He finished the season with 18 total TDs, and led the team to a 7-9 season. Everything was looking up.In 2007 Norv Turner took the Chargers job late in the offseason, after all of the best OCs had already taken jobs. Nolan gave the job to Hostler who had been Norv's apprentice, and told him to just run the same offense. Alex played in 6 games last year but was really only healthy for 3 games before tearing his shoulder in game 4. The niners won 2 of those first 3 games, even under Hostlers ultra conservative run first offense. Hostler was so bad he had to eventually relinquish some of his calls to Ted Tollner. Ted being a reject himself actually showed how much better he was than Hostler by leading the team to 3 wins in its last 5 games with Dilfer and Shaun Hill.Alex is still only 24 years old, the age of most rookie QBs, and he's now had 5 different Offensive Coordinators in 4 years. In my opinion Alex gets the first shot at the starting job. Followed by Shaun Hill and JT O'Sullivan. JT is my darkhorse if Alex proves ineffective, as I don't have very much confidence in Hill.All of those thinking that Shaun was so much better than Alex better check the stats again. In the three games Shaun played he threw for 181, 197, and 123 yards respectively, not exactly dominating.

well said. Although Hill was very accurate during those games, he just didn't throw the deep ball Martz likes. Of course, the 49ers WRs wouldn't have caught the deep ball anyway, so it's pretty hard to tell just how good he was by looking at the stats - good rating, great %, poor yardage, no WRs to work with. Did anyone actually SEE the games?

 

[Andy Hicks]

Isaac Bruce WITH Mike Martz (1994 Martz was QB coach and this was Bruce's rookie season)

1995 (Martz was WR Coach) - 119 catches for 1781 yards and 15tds - Fantasy pts 258 Ranked as 2nd WR

1996 (Martz was WR Coach) - 84 catches for 1338 yards and 7TDs - Fantasy pts 175, Ranked as 8th WR

1999 (Martz as Off Coord) - 77 catches for 1165 yards and 12 TDS - Fantasy pts 192, Ranked as 6th WR

2000 (Martz as Head Coach) - 87 catches for 1471 yards and 9TDs - Fantasy pts 202, Ranked as 6th WR

2001 (Martz as Head Coach) - 64 catches for 1106 yards and 6 TDs - Fantasy pts 149, Ranked as 17th WR

2002 (Martz as Head Coach) - 79 catches for 1075 yards and 7 Tds - Fantasy pts 151, Ranked as 16th WR

2003 (Martz as Head Coach) - 69 catches for 981 yards and 5 TDs - Fantasy pts 132, Ranked as 18th WR

2004 (Martz as Head Coach) - 89 catches for 1292 Yards and 6TDs - Fantasy pts 165, Ranked as 12th WR

Isaac Bruce without Mike Martz

1997 (Martz was in Washington) - Injury - 56 catches for 815 yards and 5TDs - Fantasy Points 112, Ranked as 31st WR

1998 (Martz in Washington) - Injury - 32 catches for 457 yards and 1 TD - Fantasy points 55, Ranked as 73rd WR

2005 (Martz stepped down with ill health ealry in season) - Injury - 36 catches for 525 yards and 3 TDs - Fantasy pts 71, Ranked as 58th WR

2006 (Martz in Detroit) - 74 catches for 1098 yards and 3 TDs - Fantasy pts 128, Ranked as 25th WR

2007 (Martz in Detroit) - Injury- 55 catches for 733 yards and 4 TDs - Fantasy pts 07, ranked as 41st WR

Taking minor liberties with the 2005 season, but Bruce has only ever performed for Martz and he has 8 seasons with Martz and 5 seasons without Martz.

Bruce has only been injured when Martz was not around. He's only been fit in a non Martz season once in 2006.

His best season without Martz is 2006 when he ranked 25th. His worst season with Martz was where he ranked 18th.

Although he will hit 36 this year and is on a new team with an offense that has previously struggled I'm prepared to assume 2 (Bruce) + 2 (Martz) = 4 (performs well above ADP)

 

[Tanner9919]

Bryant Johnson - WR - 49ers

The 49ers beat writers are collectively convinced that Bryant Johnson will be more productive than Isaac Bruce under Mike Martz.

Johnson is playing Torry Holt's old split end spot with Bruce at his customary flanker. The Sacramento Bee believes Bruce benefited from playing opposite Holt and on turf in St. Louis. We wouldn't be surprised to see Arnaz Battle outscore both if he claims the starting slot position. Finding a QB, then getting him to complete passes to these guys is Martz's first task. Jul. 5 - 4:45 p.m. ET

Source: Sacramento Bee

Interesting commentary....

This statement is, of course, true. But I wouldn't worry about that; it's not as though Martz' prior fantasy stud QBs had any kind of pedigree before he got his hands on them, either.Kurt Warner was an Arena Leaguer and grocery boy before winning 2 MVPs

Jon Kitna was a middling journeyman starter

IMO,Marc Bulger was a 6th round draft pick by the Saints and on no one's radar

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

Jason ,fair points..but..

you're telling us you'd put all your eggs in Shaun Hill's basket, a guy who played in just 3 meaningless end-of-season games (2007)?? Thats a lot of faith in a `never-has-been`...When was the last time a backup QB , ever finished in the top 10? I know you can say Kurt Warner did it , but lets be real: St Louis had arguably the greatest set of WR's of the 1990's, and a terrific O-line with an HOF RB in Marshall Faulk, and Warner had plenty of experience, albeit it in Arena Football ( but its still more than Hill has).. SF is a far cry from the 1999 Rams..

Jon Kitna, although a journeyman, did a nice job in Detroit..but again,Kitna had years of experience as a starter and as a backup. Now, SF plans to use Hill as their starting QB in a complex offensive scheme with a shaky O-line that just lost its best player ( Larry Allen)??

Alex Smith isn't much better..

IMO, We'll be seeing quite a bit of the 2008 SF 49'ers in the upcoming release of 'Football Follies' ..Its going to get ugly..

 

[David Yudkin]

Isaac Bruce WITH Mike Martz (1994 Martz was QB coach and this was Bruce's rookie season)

1995 (Martz was WR Coach) - 119 catches for 1781 yards and 15tds - Fantasy pts 258 Ranked as 2nd WR

1996 (Martz was WR Coach) - 84 catches for 1338 yards and 7TDs - Fantasy pts 175, Ranked as 8th WR

1999 (Martz as Off Coord) - 77 catches for 1165 yards and 12 TDS - Fantasy pts 192, Ranked as 6th WR

2000 (Martz as Head Coach) - 87 catches for 1471 yards and 9TDs - Fantasy pts 202, Ranked as 6th WR

2001 (Martz as Head Coach) - 64 catches for 1106 yards and 6 TDs - Fantasy pts 149, Ranked as 17th WR

2002 (Martz as Head Coach) - 79 catches for 1075 yards and 7 Tds - Fantasy pts 151, Ranked as 16th WR

2003 (Martz as Head Coach) - 69 catches for 981 yards and 5 TDs - Fantasy pts 132, Ranked as 18th WR

2004 (Martz as Head Coach) - 89 catches for 1292 Yards and 6TDs - Fantasy pts 165, Ranked as 12th WR

Isaac Bruce without Mike Martz

1997 (Martz was in Washington) - Injury - 56 catches for 815 yards and 5TDs - Fantasy Points 112, Ranked as 31st WR

1998 (Martz in Washington) - Injury - 32 catches for 457 yards and 1 TD - Fantasy points 55, Ranked as 73rd WR

2005 (Martz stepped down with ill health ealry in season) - Injury - 36 catches for 525 yards and 3 TDs - Fantasy pts 71, Ranked as 58th WR

2006 (Martz in Detroit) - 74 catches for 1098 yards and 3 TDs - Fantasy pts 128, Ranked as 25th WR

2007 (Martz in Detroit) - Injury- 55 catches for 733 yards and 4 TDs - Fantasy pts 07, ranked as 41st WR

Taking minor liberties with the 2005 season, but Bruce has only ever performed for Martz and he has 8 seasons with Martz and 5 seasons without Martz.

Bruce has only been injured when Martz was not around. He's only been fit in a non Martz season once in 2006.

His best season without Martz is 2006 when he ranked 25th. His worst season with Martz was where he ranked 18th.

Although he will hit 36 this year and is on a new team with an offense that has previously struggled I'm prepared to assume 2 (Bruce) + 2 (Martz) = 4 (performs well above ADP)

IMO, what Bruce did in his early 20s is not really as relevant as what he's done in his mid 30s . . . with or without Martz. I agree that he should outperform his ADP, but I would not expect a rebirth to the early days.

 

[obxlegends]

Kurt Warner was an Arena Leaguer and grocery boy before winning 2 MVPs

Jon Kitna was a middling journeyman starter

Marc Bulger was a 6th round draft pick by the Saints and on no one's radar

In all fairness Jason, Kitna still is a journeyman starter. Maybe that wasn't your overall point, but to imply that just because Martz is your OC that your QB situation would be better is a bit of a stretch.

 

[Andy Hicks]

Isaac Bruce WITH Mike Martz (1994 Martz was QB coach and this was Bruce's rookie season)

1995 (Martz was WR Coach) - 119 catches for 1781 yards and 15tds - Fantasy pts 258 Ranked as 2nd WR

1996 (Martz was WR Coach) - 84 catches for 1338 yards and 7TDs - Fantasy pts 175, Ranked as 8th WR

1999 (Martz as Off Coord) - 77 catches for 1165 yards and 12 TDS - Fantasy pts 192, Ranked as 6th WR

2000 (Martz as Head Coach) - 87 catches for 1471 yards and 9TDs - Fantasy pts 202, Ranked as 6th WR

2001 (Martz as Head Coach) - 64 catches for 1106 yards and 6 TDs - Fantasy pts 149, Ranked as 17th WR

2002 (Martz as Head Coach) - 79 catches for 1075 yards and 7 Tds - Fantasy pts 151, Ranked as 16th WR

2003 (Martz as Head Coach) - 69 catches for 981 yards and 5 TDs - Fantasy pts 132, Ranked as 18th WR

2004 (Martz as Head Coach) - 89 catches for 1292 Yards and 6TDs - Fantasy pts 165, Ranked as 12th WR

Isaac Bruce without Mike Martz

1997 (Martz was in Washington) - Injury - 56 catches for 815 yards and 5TDs - Fantasy Points 112, Ranked as 31st WR

1998 (Martz in Washington) - Injury - 32 catches for 457 yards and 1 TD - Fantasy points 55, Ranked as 73rd WR

2005 (Martz stepped down with ill health ealry in season) - Injury - 36 catches for 525 yards and 3 TDs - Fantasy pts 71, Ranked as 58th WR

2006 (Martz in Detroit) - 74 catches for 1098 yards and 3 TDs - Fantasy pts 128, Ranked as 25th WR

2007 (Martz in Detroit) - Injury- 55 catches for 733 yards and 4 TDs - Fantasy pts 07, ranked as 41st WR

Taking minor liberties with the 2005 season, but Bruce has only ever performed for Martz and he has 8 seasons with Martz and 5 seasons without Martz.

Bruce has only been injured when Martz was not around. He's only been fit in a non Martz season once in 2006.

His best season without Martz is 2006 when he ranked 25th. His worst season with Martz was where he ranked 18th.

Although he will hit 36 this year and is on a new team with an offense that has previously struggled I'm prepared to assume 2 (Bruce) + 2 (Martz) = 4 (performs well above ADP)

IMO, what Bruce did in his early 20s is not really as relevant as what he's done in his mid 30s . . . with or without Martz. I agree that he should outperform his ADP, but I would not expect a rebirth to the early days.

The Bruce of 2001 to 2004 was not the same as Bruce 95-00. I wouldn't expect WR1 numbers, bottom end WR2 numbers are a possibility, but even top 30 is well above ADP (WR47 )

 

[cutler6]

Will No. 3 wideout be a third wheel in Martz's offense?

July 7, 2008

Tony Horne. Az-Zahir Hakim. Ricky Proehl. Kevin Curtis. Shaun McDonald. The names are bound to trigger unpleasant memories for long-suffering 49ers fans for they belong to former No. 3 receivers of the St. Louis Rams. And over the years No. 3 has been a No. 1 pain in the butt for 49ers defenses. Who will fill that role in San Francisco now that the architect of those Rams' offenses, Mike Martz, is with the 49ers? Perhaps a better question is whether the No. 3 wideout will be as prolific in Martz's San Francisco offense as it has been in his previous offenses.

Early indications are that it will not. Martz has a different philosophy than the one he had in St. Louis and Detroit. When he was hired this past winter, many fans were certain he would bring a much-needed shot of adrenaline to the 49ers' moribund offense. He has, but what's clear now after one minicamp and three weeks of OTAs is that he's not attempting to transform the 49ers into the 1999 Rams. To his credit, he looked at the 49ers' offensive roster and saw that its strength was, well, strength. Indeed, that was largely why he won the offensive coordinator's job - because he agreed with Mike Nolan that the 49ers would fare the best with a punch-you-in-the-face offense.

In St. Louis and Detroit, Martz had an abundance of big-name receivers, including Isaac Bruce, Torry Holt, Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson. In San Francisco, his arsenal is more varied. For the first time, he has decent tight ends, and indeed, two of those tight ends - Vernon Davis and Delanie Walker - are excellent options in the passing game. To hear Martz talk, those tight ends will be on the field together quite a bit. He also expects to use Frank Gore and Michael Robinson together in the backfield from time to time. These alignments mean the 49ers have an equal chance to run or pass on a given play. In St. Louis, and even more so in Detroit, it was a safe bet that Martz's teams were going to throw the ball on any given play.

The draft also was telling. On his previous teams, Martz has gotten excellent production out of a smallish but quick third receiver. (See: Hakim, Curtis, McDonald, Mike Furrey, etc.) The 2008 draft class was teeming with similar-sized receivers and the 49ers didn't have one on their roster. In the end, San Francisco not only waited until the sixth round to draft a receiver, they took a 220 pounder. Josh Morgan fits the mold of the wideout the pound-it-out 49ers have preferred in the past - a big-bodied guy who is a handful for defensive backs and who can block downfield.

Which is why the choice for the No. 3 receiver is an easy one in the end - Arnaz Battle. He's reliable, experienced, has good hands and is an excellent downfield blocker. And if Battle is hurt, the 49ers have two other guys - Jason Hill and Morgan - with a similar skill set. The question is that if Davis, Walker, Robinson and Deshaun Foster end up catching a lot of passes in Martz's offenses, will there be a great need for a third and fourth wideout at all?

-- Matt Barrows

http://www.sacbee.com/static/weblogs/49ers...ves/013700.html

 

[FUBAR]

Bryant Johnson - WR - 49ers

The 49ers beat writers are collectively convinced that Bryant Johnson will be more productive than Isaac Bruce under Mike Martz.

Johnson is playing Torry Holt's old split end spot with Bruce at his customary flanker. The Sacramento Bee believes Bruce benefited from playing opposite Holt and on turf in St. Louis. We wouldn't be surprised to see Arnaz Battle outscore both if he claims the starting slot position. Finding a QB, then getting him to complete passes to these guys is Martz's first task. Jul. 5 - 4:45 p.m. ET

Source: Sacramento Bee

Interesting commentary....

This statement is, of course, true. But I wouldn't worry about that; it's not as though Martz' prior fantasy stud QBs had any kind of pedigree before he got his hands on them, either.Kurt Warner was an Arena Leaguer and grocery boy before winning 2 MVPs

Jon Kitna was a middling journeyman starter

IMO,Marc Bulger was a 6th round draft pick by the Saints and on no one's radar

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

Jason ,fair points..but..

you're telling us you'd put all your eggs in Shaun Hill's basket, a guy who played in just 3 meaningless end-of-season games (2007)?? Thats a lot of faith in a `never-has-been`...When was the last time a backup QB , ever finished in the top 10? I know you can say Kurt Warner did it , but lets be real: St Louis had arguably the greatest set of WR's of the 1990's, and a terrific O-line with an HOF RB in Marshall Faulk, and Warner had plenty of experience, albeit it in Arena Football ( but its still more than Hill has).. SF is a far cry from the 1999 Rams..

Jon Kitna, although a journeyman, did a nice job in Detroit..but again,Kitna had years of experience as a starter and as a backup. Now, SF plans to use Hill as their starting QB in a complex offensive scheme with a shaky O-line that just lost its best player ( Larry Allen)??

Alex Smith isn't much better..

IMO, We'll be seeing quite a bit of the 2008 SF 49'ers in the upcoming release of 'Football Follies' ..Its going to get ugly..

Last year - Derek Anderson and Kurt Warner both. Granted, Braylon + KW or Boldin + Fitz FAR surpasses what the 49ers have, so I do agree with your point here, but it does happen.

 

[Jason Wood]

Bryant Johnson - WR - 49ers

The 49ers beat writers are collectively convinced that Bryant Johnson will be more productive than Isaac Bruce under Mike Martz.

Johnson is playing Torry Holt's old split end spot with Bruce at his customary flanker. The Sacramento Bee believes Bruce benefited from playing opposite Holt and on turf in St. Louis. We wouldn't be surprised to see Arnaz Battle outscore both if he claims the starting slot position. Finding a QB, then getting him to complete passes to these guys is Martz's first task. Jul. 5 - 4:45 p.m. ET

Source: Sacramento Bee

Interesting commentary....

This statement is, of course, true. But I wouldn't worry about that; it's not as though Martz' prior fantasy stud QBs had any kind of pedigree before he got his hands on them, either.Kurt Warner was an Arena Leaguer and grocery boy before winning 2 MVPs

Jon Kitna was a middling journeyman starter

IMO,Marc Bulger was a 6th round draft pick by the Saints and on no one's radar

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

Jason ,fair points..but..

you're telling us you'd put all your eggs in Shaun Hill's basket, a guy who played in just 3 meaningless end-of-season games (2007)?? Thats a lot of faith in a `never-has-been`...When was the last time a backup QB , ever finished in the top 10? I know you can say Kurt Warner did it , but lets be real: St Louis had arguably the greatest set of WR's of the 1990's, and a terrific O-line with an HOF RB in Marshall Faulk, and Warner had plenty of experience, albeit it in Arena Football ( but its still more than Hill has).. SF is a far cry from the 1999 Rams..

Jon Kitna, although a journeyman, did a nice job in Detroit..but again,Kitna had years of experience as a starter and as a backup. Now, SF plans to use Hill as their starting QB in a complex offensive scheme with a shaky O-line that just lost its best player ( Larry Allen)??

Alex Smith isn't much better..

IMO, We'll be seeing quite a bit of the 2008 SF 49'ers in the upcoming release of 'Football Follies' ..Its going to get ugly..

Hey Tanner...1) Just to be clear, I'm not advocating for Shaun Hill to be ANYWHERE close to the top-10 I'm simply saying that he's got a legitimate shot at starting games this year, particularly if Smith is as ineffective as I expect him to be

2) Although I'm not expecting Hill to come close to the top-10, it's actually quite common for opening day, inexperienced backups to step in and have productive (both in terms of the real NFL and fantasy) seasons:

*** Derek Anderson, 2007

*** Tony Romo, 2006

*** Chad Pennington, 2002

*** Marc Bulger, 2002

*** Tom Brady, 2001

*** Aaron Brooks, 2000

*** Shaun King, 1999

None of these guys were considered top prospects nor real threats to win the job (and hold onto it the subsequent year) yet in each case they did just that.

 

[David Yudkin]

2) Although I'm not expecting Hill to come close to the top-10, it's actually quite common for opening day, inexperienced backups to step in and have productive (both in terms of the real NFL and fantasy) seasons:*** Derek Anderson, 2007*** Tony Romo, 2006*** Chad Pennington, 2002*** Marc Bulger, 2002*** Tom Brady, 2001*** Aaron Brooks, 2000*** Shaun King, 1999None of these guys were considered top prospects nor real threats to win the job (and hold onto it the subsequent year) yet in each case they did just that.

I'm sure we could come up with a much longer list of guys that stepped in and did close to nothing as fill in QBs. I'm not predicting how Hill would or would not do should he get a chance to start, only that the pendulum swings both ways.IMO, Hill's chance to start would more likely come from Smith getting knocked out, as the SF OL gave up a ton of sacks last season and we know Martz tries to leave as few bodies behind to block as humanly possible.

 

[radballs]

I agree with some of the posters here regarding Battle. Given where you have to take each of BJ, Bruce, and Battle, I think Battle provides the most value. He's also the only one of the three that isn't the one that switched teams.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

I couldn't agree more. I've been leaning this way too.I'll be surprised if he's not the week 1 starter.

I dont want to rain on your Shaun Hill parade but I thought I read somewhere that he is having real trouble picking up the Martz O.

 

[obxlegends]

I dont want to rain on your Shaun Hill parade but I thought I read somewhere that he is having real trouble picking up the Martz O.

I actually read that J.T. O'Sullivan was having zero problems with the Martz O.

 

[Jason Wood]

2) Although I'm not expecting Hill to come close to the top-10, it's actually quite common for opening day, inexperienced backups to step in and have productive (both in terms of the real NFL and fantasy) seasons:

*** Derek Anderson, 2007

*** Tony Romo, 2006

*** Chad Pennington, 2002

*** Marc Bulger, 2002

*** Tom Brady, 2001

*** Aaron Brooks, 2000

*** Shaun King, 1999

None of these guys were considered top prospects nor real threats to win the job (and hold onto it the subsequent year) yet in each case they did just that.

I'm sure we could come up with a much longer list of guys that stepped in and did close to nothing as fill in QBs. I'm not predicting how Hill would or would not do should he get a chance to start, only that the pendulum swings both ways.IMO, Hill's chance to start would more likely come from Smith getting knocked out, as the SF OL gave up a ton of sacks last season and we know Martz tries to leave as few bodies behind to block as humanly possible.

Thanks for reminding me of something David. For those predicting Martz to work wonders this year, keep in mind that he's never inherited an offensive line this, offensive. The 49ers were last in the league in 2007 with 55 sacks allowed. That's BEFORE Martz' "throw everyone into the pattern that's eligible" offensive philosophy came to town. How on Earth is ANY SF QB going to reasonably stay healthy this year?

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

I couldn't agree more. I've been leaning this way too.I'll be surprised if he's not the week 1 starter.

I dont want to rain on your Shaun Hill parade but I thought I read somewhere that he is having real trouble picking up the Martz O.

Link? I hadn't heard that, but would love to hear about local color as to the QB battle. Martz was featured in the Sporting News this week and talked quite a bit about his offense and how he realizes he's got the futures of himself, Mike Nolan and Alex Smith in his hands. Neither he nor Nolan were willing to admit that Smith had a leg up in the interview, but obviously that's as much posturing as anything.

 

[slayer666]

Alex Smith is going to be the starting quarterback and Bryant Johnson is going to murder his ADP (11.04).

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

2) Although I'm not expecting Hill to come close to the top-10, it's actually quite common for opening day, inexperienced backups to step in and have productive (both in terms of the real NFL and fantasy) seasons:

*** Derek Anderson, 2007

*** Tony Romo, 2006

*** Chad Pennington, 2002

*** Marc Bulger, 2002

*** Tom Brady, 2001

*** Aaron Brooks, 2000

*** Shaun King, 1999

None of these guys were considered top prospects nor real threats to win the job (and hold onto it the subsequent year) yet in each case they did just that.

I'm sure we could come up with a much longer list of guys that stepped in and did close to nothing as fill in QBs. I'm not predicting how Hill would or would not do should he get a chance to start, only that the pendulum swings both ways.IMO, Hill's chance to start would more likely come from Smith getting knocked out, as the SF OL gave up a ton of sacks last season and we know Martz tries to leave as few bodies behind to block as humanly possible.

Thanks for reminding me of something David. For those predicting Martz to work wonders this year, keep in mind that he's never inherited an offensive line this, offensive. The 49ers were last in the league in 2007 with 55 sacks allowed. That's BEFORE Martz' "throw everyone into the pattern that's eligible" offensive philosophy came to town. How on Earth is ANY SF QB going to reasonably stay healthy this year?

Honestly, I think Martz has his guy in Shaun Hill. If Alex Smith becomes the starter, it's because he plays a LOT better than we've seen him prior, otherwise I think Martz goes with Hill and you have a surprisingly respectable fantasy passing attack.

I couldn't agree more. I've been leaning this way too.I'll be surprised if he's not the week 1 starter.

I dont want to rain on your Shaun Hill parade but I thought I read somewhere that he is having real trouble picking up the Martz O.

Link? I hadn't heard that, but would love to hear about local color as to the QB battle. Martz was featured in the Sporting News this week and talked quite a bit about his offense and how he realizes he's got the futures of himself, Mike Nolan and Alex Smith in his hands. Neither he nor Nolan were willing to admit that Smith had a leg up in the interview, but obviously that's as much posturing as anything.

I remember reading this at fanball:http://www.fanballnews.com/player_notes/nfl/4358

Hill struggled in mini-camp Wednesday 5/7, 9:07 AM CT

Quarterback Shaun Hill didn't look nearly as sharp as Alex Smith in the San Francisco 49ers recent mini-camp practices, according to the San Francisco Chronicle.

Our View: The rumors circulating in the Bay Area suggest this quarterback competition is a dog and pony show, with Smith being the frontrunner for the job. He was the first overall selection in the 2005 draft, and the bottom line is the organization has too much time and money wrapped up in Smith for him to be collecting splinters on the bench.

this is the sf chronicle article

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/nineri...;entry_id=26315

 

[toxicbees]

I actually think that Bryant Johnson and Arnaz Battle end up number 1 and 2 in the offense. Battle is a perfect Martz receiver, makes the tough inside catches. Bruce maybe has a year or two before he fades off into retirement. I expect Martz and Nolan to try and develop the younger WRs. The big question is if Jason Hill or Ashley Lelie steps up.

On another note, the niners just claimed Kyle Wright off waivers. http://49ers.pressdemocrat.com/default.asp...21024&mode=.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

here is what I saw from Martz in Detroit, he favored his guys, almost to fault. Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald had excellent seasons under Martz. And really Roy and Calvin suffered for it.

To me the true value play is I.Bruce. He knows the system, knows were to line-up, were to run the routes etc. There is a massive learning curve in this system and Martz to me has openly favored people with experience in the system over the more talented player who does not.

In PPR leagues I would advise grabbing Bruce as a WR4/WR5