Seattle @ SF Part II (1 Viewer)

[mad sweeney]

BTW, SEA fans just love to take this bait. ItS, you gotta school them better. This is just too easy.

Now of course it's time to pretend.

 

[Shawn]

The classless threats and photo shop of the plane pulling the Seahawks banner crashing are downright immature and pathetic... when 9er fans come to Seattle, we may rib them a bit but no one stabs or threatens them!

Let's not paint with a broad brush and use the worst 49er fans to implicate the entire town. I don't think that's smart regardless of which end of it you're on (and it's annoying when you're on the receiving end of it.)

I didn't mean it to come off that way. It is a few individual fans making them look bad as a whole. In no way do I think all 9er fans are like that. I actually had a great time at the bar with a few of them before the big game last season in Seattle. I apologize if it sounded like I was calling them out as a whole because that is not at all what I intended to do. I hate stereotypes...

 

[drummer]

The only SEA fan who started a friendly (or not so sort of) rival banter here when I first joined - before all this 'wannabe' rival crap, was Doctor Detroit. I joined in 2006. Before that, I had hardly heard a peep out of other SEA fans, maybe ItS poking his head but that's it.

Now all of the sudden SEA fans want their props.

Gimme my props, gimme my props, gimme my PROOOOOPPS!

Hell, even ItS had to pimp an old thread of his begging for props.

None of who was Doctor Detroit.

That is a total bandwagon.

 

[mad sweeney]

The only SEA fan who started a friendly (or not so sort of) rival banter here when I first joined - before all this 'wannabe' rival crap, was Doctor Detroit. I joined in 2006. Before that, I had hardly heard a peep out of other SEA fans, maybe ItS poking his head but that's it.

Now all of the sudden SEA fans want their props.

Gimme my props, gimme my props, gimme my PROOOOOPPS!

Hell, even ItS had to pimp an old thread of his begging for props.

None of who was Doctor Detroit.

That is a total bandwagon.

Sorry sweetie, I've been stumping for Seattle since 03-04. As for the current rivalry between the two teams, it'd be kinda hard to enjoy the rivalry between Carroll vs Harbaugh befor Carroll and Harbaugh took over their respective teams and made them competitive and elite. Sorry that it's hard for you to live in the present.

 

[Hooper31]

The only SEA fan who started a friendly (or not so sort of) rival banter here when I first joined - before all this 'wannabe' rival crap, was Doctor Detroit. I joined in 2006. Before that, I had hardly heard a peep out of other SEA fans, maybe ItS poking his head but that's it.

Now all of the sudden SEA fans want their props.

Gimme my props, gimme my props, gimme my PROOOOOPPS!

Hell, even ItS had to pimp an old thread of his begging for props.

None of who was Doctor Detroit.

That is a total bandwagon.

2006? Does that give you some form of credibility? Great. Let's compare resumes. I date back so far posting about the Seahawks online that its nuts. I can still find my first post on the old RSFF Usenet board back in 1995.

You're finding an iFight because you're looking for an iFight. Kudos to you. I guarantee I've made more Seahawks related post than any other member in the history of this board. Your "gimme my props" statements doesn't apply to me, not does it apply to most Seattle fans that post here.

Why would anyone care about some perceived history of these teams? They are both good right now. That draws interest. Enough said?

 

[drummer]

Back in the Kurt Warner led Ram days, Ram fan used to pull that "GIMME MY PROPS" stuff all the time. I was actually glad the Rams won their first Super Bowl (and cringed when Madame Ram put her talons on it). Of course, the Rams SB win was over ten years ago, so SEA fans find that irrelevant. Because they were in the AFCW.

 

[drummer]

The only SEA fan who started a friendly (or not so sort of) rival banter here when I first joined - before all this 'wannabe' rival crap, was Doctor Detroit. I joined in 2006. Before that, I had hardly heard a peep out of other SEA fans, maybe ItS poking his head but that's it.

Now all of the sudden SEA fans want their props.

Gimme my props, gimme my props, gimme my PROOOOOPPS!

Hell, even ItS had to pimp an old thread of his begging for props.

None of who was Doctor Detroit.

That is a total bandwagon.

2006? Does that give you some form of credibility? Great. Let's compare resumes. I date back so far posting about the Seahawks online that its nuts. I can still find my first post on the old RSFF Usenet board back in 1995.

You're finding an iFight because you're looking for an iFight. Kudos to you. I guarantee I've made more Seahawks related post than any other member in the history of this board. Your "gimme my props" statements doesn't apply to me, not does it apply to most Seattle fans that post here.

Why would anyone care about some perceived history of these teams? They are both good right now. That draws interest. Enough said?

There ya go. Asking for props.

 

[Hooper31]

There ya go. Asking for props.

I'll never understand this. Act like a doosh in some attempt to be funny. Its the internet, so attempting to conduct yourself with some form of class goes out the window. HIding behind your anonymity gives you license. To each their own. Its not for me.

 

[drummer]

There ya go. Asking for props.

I'll never understand this. Act like a doosh in some attempt to be funny. Its the internet, so attempting to conduct yourself with some form of class goes out the window. HIding behind your anonymity gives you license. To each their own. Its not for me.

Well, seahawk 17 started this thread because while poking at the 49er team thread (which BTW if you notice, I hardly if ever poke at the SEA team thread, thank you very much) and then called everyone except me 'fairweather fans'. So you got a problem with your own peeps about this. I just wish threads like these existed when I first joined. It would had validated this so-called rivalry today.

I guess there is a reason why those threads weren't started.

 

[proninja]

Drummer, please be better than this. You're usually much more reasonable.

 

[drummer]

Drummer, please be better than this. You're usually much more reasonable.

Oh I know I am. I know you are. But this thread isn't about reason.

 

[Half in the bag]

Beating the 9ers to a pulp on their home field is gonna be SWEET!!!

Wilson is gonna make Rice-A-Roni out of that defense

 

[ImTheScientist]

BTW, SEA fans just love to take this bait. ItS, you gotta school them better. This is just too easy.

Im trying my best.

 

[mdlane]

Funny how Seattle fans get called out for being ring less lost souls trying to validate themselves but then ending up seeing several examples of the same thing from the teams whose very fans were leading the anti-Seattle charge. The Niners send out a memo to fans to show their support, including when to cheer loud and when to be quiet. The Saints are now having Guiness attend this SNF game to break the indoor dB record (and don't forget KC). Niner fans are trying to put up a billboard half a mile away from the Clink. Niner fans don't care about the Seahawk games yet they chant about Seattle after playing the rams. The Niner fans would have you think there's no rivalry between the two teams yet many Niners have talked this week about how much they hate each other. Etc. etc. etc.

Fans of all teams like to get involved. It's not limited to hapless fools desperately seeking validation. http://www.gofundme.com/Seattle-Billboard-Fund

There wasn't a rivalry until last December, when our local media was filled with trash talking from Seattle players after they won the game. Seriously, Sherman and Thomas were just making up crap about Harbaugh mocking their bus after Seattle lost earlier in the year, basically saying everything they could to draw attention and put Seattle on the map.Before then, no one in SF cared about Seattle, at all.

And now that Seattle is on top, of course, Sherman pretends as though games against SF don't matter, it's just one game at a time, and so on.

But basically this rivalry was an unnatural creation of Seattle and the media, looking for attention and $$.

Of course it was sweetheart. Pretty good job by the Seattle media to get the Niners fans and players to go along with it!

Not the "Seattle" media. I have no idea what goes on up there. I'm talking local SF media and national media like espn, nfl, yahoo, etc. These guys are directly benefited by creating a rivalry.

 

[mad sweeney]

There ya go. Asking for props.

I'll never understand this. Act like a doosh in some attempt to be funny. Its the internet, so attempting to conduct yourself with some form of class goes out the window. HIding behind your anonymity gives you license. To each their own. Its not for me.

Well, seahawk 17 started this thread because while poking at the 49er team thread (which BTW if you notice, I hardly if ever poke at the SEA team thread, thank you very much) and then called everyone except me 'fairweather fans'. So you got a problem with your own peeps about this. I just wish threads like these existed when I first joined. It would had validated this so-called rivalry today.

I guess there is a reason why those threads weren't started.

Probably has something to do with this current player/coach/good teams rivalry couldn't exist until both teams were good under college rival HCs.

 

[seahawk 17]

There ya go. Asking for props.

I'll never understand this. Act like a doosh in some attempt to be funny. Its the internet, so attempting to conduct yourself with some form of class goes out the window. HIding behind your anonymity gives you license. To each their own. Its not for me.

Well, seahawk 17 started this thread because while poking at the 49er team thread (which BTW if you notice, I hardly if ever poke at the SEA team thread, thank you very much) and then called everyone except me 'fairweather fans'. So you got a problem with your own peeps about this. I just wish threads like these existed when I first joined. It would had validated this so-called rivalry today.

I guess there is a reason why those threads weren't started.

I don't even know what to say, except you are one of the most unreasonable people on this board, and it's not even fun to have a normal football conversation with you.

 

[Breesisdaman]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

 

[ScottyDog]

Drummer,

Go read through all your posts. They are embarrassing, I feel bad for you. You sound like you are not enjoying your life right now so you are just mad at the world. Take some time off and relax.

 

[drummer]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

Welcome to the new NFCW.

 

[ImTheScientist]

The only SEA fan who started a friendly (or not so sort of) rival banter here when I first joined - before all this 'wannabe' rival crap, was Doctor Detroit. I joined in 2006. Before that, I had hardly heard a peep out of other SEA fans, maybe ItS poking his head but that's it.

Now all of the sudden SEA fans want their props.

Gimme my props, gimme my props, gimme my PROOOOOPPS!

Hell, even ItS had to pimp an old thread of his begging for props.

None of who was Doctor Detroit.

That is a total bandwagon.

2006? Does that give you some form of credibility? Great. Let's compare resumes. I date back so far posting about the Seahawks online that its nuts. I can still find my first post on the old RSFF Usenet board back in 1995.

You're finding an iFight because you're looking for an iFight. Kudos to you. I guarantee I've made more Seahawks related post than any other member in the history of this board. Your "gimme my props" statements doesn't apply to me, not does it apply to most Seattle fans that post here.

Why would anyone care about some perceived history of these teams? They are both good right now. That draws interest. Enough said?

You sound like you are trying to convince yourself of something. Just sayin.

 

[Breesisdaman]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

Welcome to the new NFCW.

Saints used to be in the NFCW remember?

 

[BaBastage]

The 12th Man will be well represented high above San Francisco Sunday when the Seahawks take on the 49ers at Candlestick Park, thanks to some industrious fans who've raised enough money to fly a banner from a plane before the game.

Niner fan here. I think this game could go either way from close game, to Seattle blowing out SF again.

But the above makes me lol at Seahawks fans... when you have to resort to spending that type of $$ to make your opponent want to take you seriously.... shows you've already lost the respect war. As they say, "Act like ya been there."

I don't get it.... Seattle is getting plenty of respect around here. None of the talk shows are rolling like this will be a pushover.... we're well aware that the 8 wins have come against under-.500 teams.

Looking forward to a good one tomorrow.

 

[drummer]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

Welcome to the new NFCW.

Saints used to be in the NFCW remember?

Oh I know. Things haven't been the same since.

 

[mad sweeney]

The 12th Man will be well represented high above San Francisco Sunday when the Seahawks take on the 49ers at Candlestick Park, thanks to some industrious fans who've raised enough money to fly a banner from a plane before the game.

Niner fan here. I think this game could go either way from close game, to Seattle blowing out SF again.

But the above makes me lol at Seahawks fans... when you have to resort to spending that type of $$ to make your opponent want to take you seriously.... shows you've already lost the respect war. As they say, "Act like ya been there."

I don't get it.... Seattle is getting plenty of respect around here. None of the talk shows are rolling like this will be a pushover.... we're well aware that the 8 wins have come against under-.500 teams.

Looking forward to a good one tomorrow.

So I guess the Niner fans trying to raise 3Xs that much for a billboard is ok because that's how you act when you've been there?

 

[proninja]

The 12th Man will be well represented high above San Francisco Sunday when the Seahawks take on the 49ers at Candlestick Park, thanks to some industrious fans who've raised enough money to fly a banner from a plane before the game.

Niner fan here. I think this game could go either way from close game, to Seattle blowing out SF again.

But the above makes me lol at Seahawks fans... when you have to resort to spending that type of $$ to make your opponent want to take you seriously.... shows you've already lost the respect war. As they say, "Act like ya been there."

I don't get it.... Seattle is getting plenty of respect around here. None of the talk shows are rolling like this will be a pushover.... we're well aware that the 8 wins have come against under-.500 teams.

Looking forward to a good one tomorrow.

So I guess the Niner fans trying to raise 3Xs that much for a billboard is ok because that's how you act when you've been there?

Seahawks fans are the only obnoxious ones. Haven't you heard?

 

[BaBastage]

The 12th Man will be well represented high above San Francisco Sunday when the Seahawks take on the 49ers at Candlestick Park, thanks to some industrious fans who've raised enough money to fly a banner from a plane before the game.

Niner fan here. I think this game could go either way from close game, to Seattle blowing out SF again.

But the above makes me lol at Seahawks fans... when you have to resort to spending that type of $$ to make your opponent want to take you seriously.... shows you've already lost the respect war. As they say, "Act like ya been there."

I don't get it.... Seattle is getting plenty of respect around here. None of the talk shows are rolling like this will be a pushover.... we're well aware that the 8 wins have come against under-.500 teams.

Looking forward to a good one tomorrow.

So I guess the Niner fans trying to raise 3Xs that much for a billboard is ok because that's how you act when you've been there?

if you're referring to the gofundme site, that was started in response to the banner. Seattle started it, but apparently someone here took the bait.

So yeah, I'm laughing at those 'niner fans too. Really, if they wanted to do a response in kind, someone would have called the local companies, found out who was going to fly the banner and outbid them with something to the effect of, "Nice Try"

On a slightly more serious note, this is how the genesis of all those rabid soccer fans in europe start. Fandom escalation that eventually ends with them literally killing each other.

 

[cacksman]

The 12th Man will be well represented high above San Francisco Sunday when the Seahawks take on the 49ers at Candlestick Park, thanks to some industrious fans who've raised enough money to fly a banner from a plane before the game.

Niner fan here. I think this game could go either way from close game, to Seattle blowing out SF again.

But the above makes me lol at Seahawks fans... when you have to resort to spending that type of $$ to make your opponent want to take you seriously.... shows you've already lost the respect war. As they say, "Act like ya been there."

I don't get it.... Seattle is getting plenty of respect around here. None of the talk shows are rolling like this will be a pushover.... we're well aware that the 8 wins have come against under-.500 teams.

Looking forward to a good one tomorrow.

Then what do you think of the Niners fans renting a billboard in Seattle? I think both are great for the rivalry, this is just the sort of thing that happens in college.

 

[Hooper31]

You sound like you are trying to convince yourself of something. Just sayin.

I don't have to try. I know. I know more about the Seahawks and their history than you. Lots more.

Let's not be coy. I loathe you. I loathe what you represent. You're the epitome of attitude attempting the replace a lack of substance. You're an embarrassment. Seattle fans that post here cringe when they see anything you post. I would rather not have to wade through your garbage trying to find interesting information and perspectives. You don't have a perspective. You have attitude. It can be funny for a while, but eventually it just gets annoying.

Go ahead and have your last word. Attempt to be witty. I promise, I won't reply.

 

[mad sweeney]

The 12th Man will be well represented high above San Francisco Sunday when the Seahawks take on the 49ers at Candlestick Park, thanks to some industrious fans who've raised enough money to fly a banner from a plane before the game.

Niner fan here. I think this game could go either way from close game, to Seattle blowing out SF again.

But the above makes me lol at Seahawks fans... when you have to resort to spending that type of $$ to make your opponent want to take you seriously.... shows you've already lost the respect war. As they say, "Act like ya been there."

I don't get it.... Seattle is getting plenty of respect around here. None of the talk shows are rolling like this will be a pushover.... we're well aware that the 8 wins have come against under-.500 teams.

Looking forward to a good one tomorrow.

So I guess the Niner fans trying to raise 3Xs that much for a billboard is ok because that's how you act when you've been there?

if you're referring to the gofundme site, that was started in response to the banner. Seattle started it, but apparently someone here took the bait.

So yeah, I'm laughing at those 'niner fans too. Really, if they wanted to do a response in kind, someone would have called the local companies, found out who was going to fly the banner and outbid them with something to the effect of, "Nice Try"

On a slightly more serious note, this is how the genesis of all those rabid soccer fans in europe start. Fandom escalation that eventually ends with them literally killing each other.

Who started the chanting about this non-existent rivalry by fans after a game against an entirely different opponent?

 

[biju]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

 

[Hooper31]

They guys at SB Nation do a good job of throwing questions back and forth.

Here are the question for Danny Kelly from SF. LINK

The San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks kick off Sunday afternoon, but in the meantime, I had a chance to chat with Danny Kelly from Field Gulls. We pay plenty of attention to the Seahawks, but who better to get the inside scoop than the man behind Field Gulls? He took some time to answer a few questions I had, and give us a better idea about the 49ers Week 14 opponent.

I answered some questions for Danny as well. You can read over those at Field Gulls. Additionally, if you feel in more of a trolling mood, drop in our NN/FG-endorsed trolling FanPost. It continues to roll along with over 3,200 comments. Huzzah for trolls!

1. Russell Wilson has been doing some great things this season. 49ers DC Vic Fangio said he deserved consideration in the MVP race. Can you tell us a little about both his strengths AND weaknesses in year 2?

Russell has been playing very well over the past several weeks - ‘lasered in', as he puts it - and from the eye test, has looked a lot more comfortable within the offense, in the pocket, and appears to be seeing things much better than he had been in the first six weeks or so. Wilson has been more accurate, has stuck to the pocket more frequently, has focused on the intermediate and short passing game, and just in general, has tried to become more ‘rounded' than he was early on.

After seeing inordinate amounts of pressure in the early parts of the year, which he struggled with for a time, he's settled down and improved in several key areas - namely ball protection (he had some issues with fumbles early in the year) and accuracy (he was off the mark more than we were used to here in Seattle). His YPA has steadily creeped up as he's gotten more in sync with his receivers, and his passing on 3rd downs has improved greatly after some very troublesome performances in that key area early in the year.

Since Seattle's loss to Indianapolis in Week 5, the Hawks have gone 7-0 and Wilson has completed 70% of his passes for 1,675 yards, 14 touchdowns and only two interceptions with 9.41 yards per attempt and a rating of 120.9. That's pretty good. In fact, he's still trending up - if you narrow it to his last three games, he's passed for 827 yards with a 73% completion rate with 7 touchdowns and no picks, a 141.0 rating and 11.18 yards per attempt.

Of course, Wilson's worst game as a pro came at Candlestick last year, where he went 9 of 23 for 122 yards, no touchdowns and a pick. Playing in Candlestick is no joke, so it's going to be really interesting to see how he does in that hostile environment against one of the better defenses in the NFL.

2. You guys are coming off a big win over the Saints, but there have been times where the team has scuffled. The most notable examples were against the Bucs, Texans,Titans and Rams. What were the issues in those games?

The Rams game was, for me, the most concerning, because Seattle could literally do nothing to protect their quarterback. Wilson was sacked 7 times in that game, hit 10 times total, and really took a beating the whole way through. The Hawks ended up squeaking out a victory in St. Louis, but it sure wasn't pretty - particularly on offense. Since then, they've cleaned up their protection and gotten two key starters at tackle back, so it's less concerning this week (though I'm always concerned about the Smith Brothers when we play the Niners).

Defensively, Seattle was gouged in the run game against the Rams and Buccaneers, so I'd have to think that establishing and sticking with a punishing ground attack is the way to go if you want to beat Seattle. Keep the ball out of the offense's hands, move the chains, and hope to catch the defensive secondary flat footed and maybe get a shot play or two down field. Of course, that's San Francisco's bread and butter, so things could be pretty interesting this weekend.

3. The suspension thing is frequently brought up by 49ers fans. How do Seahawks fans view the number of suspensions handed down?

49er fans bring that up? I didn't know that. ...............

It's pretty annoying, frankly, that Seattle players seem to keep finding themselves in on the wrong side of PEDs and/or Drugs tests, but overall it's not super concerning for the long-term prospects of the team. It distracts from what most believe to be a superbly led and well-managed franchise by Pete Carroll and John Schneider, and gives a bad rap to what's really a hyper competitive and positive team culture.

It's a roster filled with players that are highly involved with local charities and aid organizations and the vast majority of guys in that locker room have had no issues with rules violations. These failed tests are, of course, major miscues by a few key players likeBrandon Browner, Bruce Irvin and Walter Thurmond (and 49er fans start yelling "Richard Sherman"), but the idea that it's pervasive throughout the roster is incorrect, in my opinion. Much like Niner fans are likely to forgive a guy like Aldon Smith for his mistakes, Seahawk fans are typically able to do the same for their guys that screw up.

It's also worth pointing out that the majority of the players have been in trouble for PED use in the past and helped Seattle gain the poor reputation in this area - namely John Moffitt, Winston Guy, Allen Barbre, and Vai Taua, - are all long gone. Guy/Barbre/Taua were back-end roster guys, Moffitt got some playing time last year, but all four have since been released (Moffitt was essentially traded for nothing, as Seattle released Sealver Siliga shortly after he was acquired).

Regardless, I'm sure Niner fans will continue to call Seattle the "CheatHawks" and "Seadderal Seachickens" and hilarious things like that, and that's fine because it's easy to hate division rivals and all that, but I'm not personally worried about the leadership in this front office. It's mostly just annoying that these few guys that mess up are giving the rest of their teammates a bad name in the national media.

4. Who's an under the radar player we should keep an eye on in this game?

I'm not sure how under the radar he still is after playing extremely well last week, but CB Byron Maxwell has come on in relief of Browner/Thurmond and showed that Seattle's depth in the secondary is very strong. Maxwell and Sherman will have their hands full this week with the Niners' receiving corps finally getting some of their guys back, so he's definitely a guy to watch. He's #41.

5. What's your final prediction?

Nothing would surprise me too much, really. NFC West grudge matches are always super difficult to predict, and while I believe the Hawks will win their first game in San Francisco during the Pete Carroll era this weekend, I don't think it's going to be easy for them. Seattle's been playing very well the past few weeks, but San Francisco matches up with them in some key areas from a physical standpoint. If the Niners can get some pressure on Russell Wilson and take away Marshawn Lynch and the Seattle run game, it could get interesting.

6. I am convinced that if you swapped Pete Carroll with Jim Harbaugh, 49ers fans would love Carroll and hate Harbaugh, and vice versa for Seahawks fans. What do you think of that notion?

Yeah, I'd agree with that. I think the rivalry between the two teams and the prior rivalry between the two coaches has really spurred that along. Hell, Harbaugh has actually grown on me a little bit this year, what with his thinly-veiled yet somehow calculated lunacy and super-awkward verbal-chess-match press conferences and all that fun stuff. He's certainly not boring, and the apparent animosity between Carroll and Harbaugh is pretty funny to watch. Even if I can't bring myself to actually like Harbaugh, it's easy to recognize that he's an excellent football coach.

 

[Hooper31]

Here's the question from SEA: LINK

To preview Sunday's NFC West tilt between the Seahawks and 49ers in San Francisco this Sunday, I traded scouting reports with Niners Nation lead writer David ***illo. Make sure you head over there for more on the Seahawks' upcoming opponent, and if you feel like trolling each other, make sure you do it in this week's new blog-endorsed trolling thread. 3000 comments and counting. Big surprise.

Follow David on Twitter as well - @NinersNation. My questions in bold italic, ***illo's responses follow.

1. One of the narratives for the 49ers this year seems to be the 'regression' or leveling off of play by Colin Kaepernick. I haven't gotten a chance to watch much of the Niners of late, so what is your opinion on his play and do some of the criticisms being thrown around hold any water? How has he looked over the past few weeks throwing the ball?

The Kaepernick storylines have been the most repeated narratives of the season, and the storyline has varied depending on who you talk to. Kap got off to a strong start with a career passing day against the Packers, but he scuffled after that, showing glaring inconsistency. People have offered up a multitude of explanations. Mine reverts to his weapons. While it would be nice if Kap could turn Kyle Williams and Jon Baldwin into dynamic wide receivers, that has simply not been the case. Maybe he becomes that kind of QB down the road, but he's not a guy who throws his receivers open quite yet. That's just life.

However, he is a quarterback who with the right weapons can return to his form of last season. He had Anquan Boldin and Vernon Davis to start the season, but lost Davis to an injury in Week 2. Davis did return, but later suffered a concussion. When Davis has been absent, the 49ers offense has struggled immensely. There has been plenty of talk about the need for a deep threat at wide receiver, but Davis has been that deep threat. When he is off the field, defenders can double and triple-team Anquan Boldin without worry.

Which brings us to Michael Crabtree and Mario Manningham. The 49ers were able to bring back Manningham after their bye, and he has slowly rounded back into form. His presence helped open up Anquan Boldin in Week 12 against Washington. The 49ers saw Crabtree return last week against the Rams. He had two receptions for 68 yards. While he appeared to lack that needed extra gear, his presence opened up Anquan Boldin.

I think the return of Crabtree and Manningham will trigger improvement in Kap. There is something to be said for his performance without the two receivers, but I am more comfortable making judgments after seeing what he does with Crabtree back in the mix. I realize great quarterbacks need to be able to make things happen even when things are not ideal, but for this season, I can live with waiting for better conditions.

2. What is the injury situation looking like for the Niners? I know San Francisco is due to get some of their receivers back in action this week and Joe Staley's status is still up in the air. What kind of impact will injuries have this week, in your opinion?

The 49ers are getting healthier, but do still have some question marks on the injury front. Joe Staley is the biggest name, having suffered a sprained MCL last week against the Rams. It appears to be a fairly mild version of it, however, as he was back at practice in limited form on Thursday. He told a local radio station that he anticipates playing Sunday.

For now, Staley will play his usual left tackle and Alex Boone will play right guard. If Staley ends up unable to play, Alex Boone would move over to left tackle, and second year reserve lineman Joe Looney would play right guard. Looney was solid moving in at right guard, and Boone was great switching to left tackle, but the 49ers obviously would much prefer Staley playing if he can.

Mike Iupati suffered a sprained MCL in Week 11, but it is a bit more serious, and he remains sidelined. Adam Snyder is filling in for Iupati at left guard, and is likely to continue in that role. Snyder is a solid enough reserve lineman, but he is not a guy the 49ers want starting for an extended period of time.

Michael Crabtree is not on the injury report this week after his first game back, which is a great sign. Mario Manningham has been limited in practice since returning from his ACL tear. I suspect the team is just trying to not overdo it with Manningham. Quinton Patton was a full participant at practice, after returning from a foot fracture. The 49ers are likely to keep him inactive, as they simply don't go four-wide with all wide receivers.

Other than that, the team is relatively healthy for now. Defensive tackle Ray McDonald has been dealing with a high ankle sprain, but he returned this past week, and was a full participant in practice on Thursday. Tight end Vance McDonald is dealing with an ankle injury, but should be good to go on Sunday.

3. I must admit I haven't heard as much about Justin Smith this season as I did last year. I'm personally a big fan of Smith, so it's a little surprising that he's not getting as much national hype (or, that's my perception, anyway). Is his play up to par this year? Has he shown age at all thus far?

Justin Smith is not putting up monster numbers, but as is often the case, that doesn't remotely tell the story. Smith is not showing signs of age, and is looking as strong as he did prior to tear his triceps last December. A perfect example of Smith's impact can be seen in the 49ers win over the Rams. On the Rams second play of the game, Kellen Clemens dropped back to pass. Smith pushed his offensive lineman in to Clemens, sending Clemens to the ground. Ray McDonald touched him for the sack, but this play was all Justin Smith. This kind of thing happens every game, and unfortunately does not show up in the stat book. Maybe they can create a different kind of "assists" category for tackles and sacks where it involves a player who doesn't get a hand on the player, but does force him into the arms of another play.

Justin Smith remains the presence he has always been, but obviously chasing around Russell Wilson should make for interesting theater. If the 49ers are going to win this game, they will need to get pressure on Wilson and force quicker throws. I don't think Smith can necessarily do it all himself, but he will be a much needed weapon in this game.

4. How has the Niners' rookie class looked this season? Any standouts? Any major disappointments?

The 49ers rookie class has had one home run, one decent single, a couple early outs, and then a whole lot of taking pitches (with Seattle's Robinson Cano news, I might as well go with the baseball metaphor!). Free safety Eric Reid has been as good as the 49ers could hope. He's not perfect, but he has ably replaced former All-Pro safety Dashon Goldson. One negative has been the two concussions he has suffered (including one against Seattle), but he has actually altered his tackling to protect himself from concussions. The concern remains, but he's proactive in trying to solve this problem.

Nick Moody has only played in three games as a rookie, having suffered a hand injury that put him on short term IR after Week 1. However, he has been a solid special teams player in those three games. The team seems confident in his special teams skills, so I can give the pick a solid single for now.

Second round pick Vance McDonald has been a disappointment thus far. He came out of Rice as a great pass catcher, but he has not been able to make much of an impact in the passing game. His run-blocking has been subpar as well, which is a disappointment. I don't really know what the issue is at this point, but he continues to get his share of snaps in the 49ers tight end-heavy offense.

Other than that, the 49ers are doing a lot of red-shirting of sorts this season. The most notable is running back Marcus Lattimore. He started the season on the NFI list, is back at practice, and will likely be placed on injured reserve once his three-week practice window is up. The plan is for him to be full-go next season. Second round pick Tank Carradine is another guy who appears to be red-shirting. He was activated off the NFI list, but the team is still working to get him up to speed. There are reports the team re-started his rehab schedule because of some questionable work before the draft to get him up to speed, but that's speculation for now. The more realistic issue is that he didn't get to practice all offseason or through the first six weeks of the regular season, so his switch from Florida's State defense to the 49ers defense is a work in progress.

Overall, the 49ers have found their safety of the future, but beyond that, there are still question marks with this draft. It's disappointing to not have immediate impact players, but next year will tell us significantly more about the draft.

5. In your opinion, what is the most important thing that San Francisco has to do to win this game?

The 49ers need balance on offense. It's cliched to some extent, but they really need to find consistency in the passing game, while also getting Frank Gore going. The 49ers ground game has been slow going the last few weeks, and part of that is due to defenses crowding the box and forcing Kap to beat them. I honestly believe the return of Crabtree will open things up as teams are spread out by Crabtree, Boldin and Davis. Add in the fact that Crabtree brings strong run-blocking, and I really think we see the 49ers run game take a big step forward. Colin Kaepernick actually needs to execute in the passing game for that to happen, so I think it's a little bit of both that will be necessary.

 

[drummer]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

 

[seahawk 17]

Football Zebras.com‏@footballzebras 5 Dec

Referee for Seahawks at 49ers — Clete Blakeman

 

[ImTheScientist]

You sound like you are trying to convince yourself of something. Just sayin.

I don't have to try. I know. I know more about the Seahawks and their history than you. Lots more.

Let's not be coy. I loathe you. I loathe what you represent. You're the epitome of attitude attempting the replace a lack of substance. You're an embarrassment. Seattle fans that post here cringe when they see anything you post. I would rather not have to wade through your garbage trying to find interesting information and perspectives. You don't have a perspective. You have attitude. It can be funny for a while, but eventually it just gets annoying.

Go ahead and have your last word. Attempt to be witty. I promise, I won't reply.

I feel sorry for anyone filled with this much hate. Hate blinds you from seeing the perspective of others.

 

[ImTheScientist]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

I don't think it's anyone's Super Bowl. They all realize that is played 2 months from now. I think this game comes down to can the 49ers run the ball. If forced to pass they lose the game. Kaepernick has regressed a bit so I'm interested to see what happens if they get down fast. Do the 49er head coaches have enough faith to put the game on his shoulders. Both are great teams if the hawks do win I don't want to play the 49ers in the playoffs.....tough beating a good team 3 times in a row in one season.

 

[drummer]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

I don't think it's anyone's Super Bowl. They all realize that is played 2 months from now. I think this game comes down to can the 49ers run the ball. If forced to pass they lose the game. Kaepernick has regressed a bit so I'm interested to see what happens if they get down fast. Do the 49er head coaches have enough faith to put the game on his shoulders. Both are great teams if the hawks do win I don't want to play the 49ers in the playoffs.....tough beating a good team 3 times in a row in one season.

Harbaugh since he started Kaep has put more on his shoulders than he did with Smith. Richard Sherman talked a bit on the differences facing each QB, with Smith dinking and dunking and then toss one or two deep, opposed to the 49ers with Kaep tossing it deep more. Sherman also said he prefers the deeper throws because it offers him more opportunities to make plays, lol.

Wilson is playing lights out better than Kaep at this moment, but I don't know if Kaep has regressed (with the small sample size of few less starts than Wilson) in as much as the offense is too schizo, trying to find ways to generate offense with not much talent. The run game has regressed because they only have one real consistent RB in Gore, and he has a lot of miles on him, not in yards, but in punishment from being in Singletary's caveman offenses prior to Harbaugh with mostly scrub QB's.

Wilson may not have that much talent either at a few skill positions yet due to team health, but he has a lot more speed in the offense than than Kaep has. The Seahawks IMO are faster on offense, can score quicker, and are more explosive due to the speed. So it's up to the 49er defense to try and slow that down, the team winning the TO battle, the TOP battle, and somehow try to contain Wilson and keep him in the pocket.

It should be a fun game to watch, and I think the 49ers feel Kaep is up to it. Really, this is a big game for him, but it also means he might not throw as much due to the 49ers just wanting to grind one out playing the percentages, thus not putting it all on him.

 

[biju]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

Ok. So last year it was "the Seahawks' Superbowl". Earlier this year it was "you're not a rival". This time it's "gimme my props". I've got to hand it to you, you're good at dodging the bullet.

 

[drummer]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

Ok. So last year it was "the Seahawks' Superbowl". Earlier this year it was "you're not a rival". This time it's "gimme my props". I've got to hand it to you, you're good at dodging the bullet.

I'm not dodging bullets. You're shooting blanks and still missing the target. Thus, stop aiming and put that thing away or you'll shoot your eye out.

 

[biju]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

Ok. So last year it was "the Seahawks' Superbowl". Earlier this year it was "you're not a rival". This time it's "gimme my props". I've got to hand it to you, you're good at dodging the bullet.

I'm not dodging bullets. You're shooting blanks and still missing the target. Thus, stop aiming and put that thing away or you'll shoot your eye out.

Dude, I really think I'd like you if we met in a bar. You're pretty funny.

 

[drummer]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

Ok. So last year it was "the Seahawks' Superbowl". Earlier this year it was "you're not a rival". This time it's "gimme my props". I've got to hand it to you, you're good at dodging the bullet.

I'm not dodging bullets. You're shooting blanks and still missing the target. Thus, stop aiming and put that thing away or you'll shoot your eye out.

Dude, I really think I'd like you if we met in a bar. You're pretty funny.

Maybe sometime at the Funhouse near the Space Needle. Only bar in SEA I liked.

 

[biju]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

Ok. So last year it was "the Seahawks' Superbowl". Earlier this year it was "you're not a rival". This time it's "gimme my props". I've got to hand it to you, you're good at dodging the bullet.

I'm not dodging bullets. You're shooting blanks and still missing the target. Thus, stop aiming and put that thing away or you'll shoot your eye out.

Dude, I really think I'd like you if we met in a bar. You're pretty funny.

Maybe sometime at the Funhouse near the Space Needle. Only bar in SEA I liked.

If you're ever up in Seattle I can show you 10 places for whatever type of bar, venue, etc. you prefer. And I'll gladly buy the first round...

 

[drummer]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

Ok. So last year it was "the Seahawks' Superbowl". Earlier this year it was "you're not a rival". This time it's "gimme my props". I've got to hand it to you, you're good at dodging the bullet.

I'm not dodging bullets. You're shooting blanks and still missing the target. Thus, stop aiming and put that thing away or you'll shoot your eye out.

Dude, I really think I'd like you if we met in a bar. You're pretty funny.

Maybe sometime at the Funhouse near the Space Needle. Only bar in SEA I liked.

If you're ever up in Seattle I can show you 10 places for whatever type of bar, venue, etc. you prefer. And I'll gladly buy the first round...

Sounds good to me, but I hope the crowd isn't full of dudes wearing skinny jeans and carrying satchels. Saw a lot of that last time I was there. If there aren't, I'll by the next two rounds.

I have a few buddies that live there. It's a great city with the exception of the strip clubs. I always measure a city by the strip clubs, because in some cities, that's all they have going for them.

 

[Dinkle Heimer]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

Ok. So last year it was "the Seahawks' Superbowl". Earlier this year it was "you're not a rival". This time it's "gimme my props". I've got to hand it to you, you're good at dodging the bullet.

I'm not dodging bullets. You're shooting blanks and still missing the target. Thus, stop aiming and put that thing away or you'll shoot your eye out.

Dude, I really think I'd like you if we met in a bar. You're pretty funny.

Maybe sometime at the Funhouse near the Space Needle. Only bar in SEA I liked.

Funhouse is closed...along with a good half a dozen other good dive bars in the last 2 years.

 

[drummer]

Funhouse is closed...along with a good half a dozen other good dive bars in the last 2 years.

That's a damn shame. My buddies held a freak show there from time to time. If you ever saw a dude dressed like Elvis with dollars bills attached to his face via staple gun slicing a watermelon with a Japanese sword resting on top of a crazy looking Scot wearing nothing but a kilt and stapled dollars as well, those are my peeps.

 

[Chaz McNulty]

kind of like a bad car wreck, nothing to see here but I just can't help but stare.

The 49er fans can't help it. This is their Superbowl this year.

The problem with "GIMME MY PROPS" fan, is how not only are they trying to validate themselves to new found rival (well after being in the same division for over ten years), it's more on how bad a fan they are proving to the rest of fans of others teams.

The 49ers have gone deep in the playoffs over two consecutive seasons, and into championship games. Now, "GIMME MY PROPS" fan is trying to make this into a Super Bowl.

I bag more on the 49er fanbase than SEA's, yet still don't call Hawk fans out in their threads, or start others to call them out. I say more good things about the Seahawks than I have ever said anything bad.

But bwah! biju. Here is the kicker: a 49er fan didn't start this thread.

Welcome to the NFL Hawk fan. It's about time you showed up.

Good posting. I'm a Seahawks fan and I can see the validation needed. But I think this is true of any franchise that hasn't won (or never won) in a long time. The Patriot fans were like this after their first Superbowl. Probably moreso on the march to their 2nd Superbowl (because of the tuck rule on their first one). They really seeked validation at the time. I honestly think it's a natural reaction to a fanbase that hasn't had long-term success. Especially if it builds up during the season, rather than barely making the playoffs and getting hot.

Us Seahawk fans aren't used to having this great of a team.

I'm not sure I agree with the Superbowl statement you made. I don't see many thinking that this is a huge game for the Seahawks. It's probably more of a case of Seahawk fans poking 49er fans.

 

[biju]

Funhouse is closed...along with a good half a dozen other good dive bars in the last 2 years.

Yeah, one of my favorites (The Viking) closed last summer but there are still plenty of good dive bars around.

 

[Dinkle Heimer]

Funhouse is closed...along with a good half a dozen other good dive bars in the last 2 years.

Yeah, one of my favorites (The Viking) closed last summer but there are still plenty of good dive bars around.

Ahh..yes...the Viking. My bro in law lived in Ballard in recent years. He liked Wingmasters...I liked the Viking better for it's smaller setting .. I'm a bit of an older guy...went on a walk through Ballard a few years ago and couldn't believe how many trendy 20 somethings dominated the night scene. Crazy.

 

[Dinkle Heimer]

Funhouse is closed...along with a good half a dozen other good dive bars in the last 2 years.

That's a damn shame. My buddies held a freak show there from time to time. If you ever saw a dude dressed like Elvis with dollars bills attached to his face via staple gun slicing a watermelon with a Japanese sword resting on top of a crazy looking Scot wearing nothing but a kilt and stapled dollars as well, those are my peeps.

I took my 9 year old son to the 25th Sub-Pop festival in Georgetown neighborhood this last summer and pretty sure I saw one of those guys. My son saw Tad play live and thought it was awesome. "Dad...is that guy a farmer? He plays awesome music."

 

[drummer]

Funhouse is closed...along with a good half a dozen other good dive bars in the last 2 years.

That's a damn shame. My buddies held a freak show there from time to time. If you ever saw a dude dressed like Elvis with dollars bills attached to his face via staple gun slicing a watermelon with a Japanese sword resting on top of a crazy looking Scot wearing nothing but a kilt and stapled dollars as well, those are my peeps.

I took my 9 year old son to the 25th Sub-Pop festival in Georgetown neighborhood this last summer and pretty sure I saw one of those guys. My son saw Tad play live and thought it was awesome. "Dad...is that guy a farmer? He plays awesome music."

How is the music scene now in Seattle? SF used to have a good one, but either I grew out of SF, or SF just sold itself out to the new money that came in. I wouldn't move back to SF at all now. The Mission District was once vibrant and diverse. Now it's full of imported techies who use money to make it palatable to them. Thus, the closing of a lot of good places I used to hang.