Week 7 - 49ers vs. Panthers

Paying it forward...

Last week, the 49ers broke out of the winless column and this week, they passed on the favor to the Carolina Panthers so now they have their first win. Another loss for the Niners on a late field goal; remember guys, being close doesn't cut it. There are no points for 2nd place (that's a line from 'Top Gun').

What to do with this team? After putting all their eggs into one basket with Alex Smith, and now he's injured? All the fans that screamed "We want Carr!" in recent home games - you got what you wanted... how was it? Still, in defense of David Carr, he hardly got any reps leading up to the game - should he expect to get the same patience in developing his game with the starters as Alex did? What now? Shaun Hill was passed over and then traded because of a weak throwing arm; is Carr's arm capable of stretching the field? Even if it was, would there be any plays to capitalize on it? Nate Davis has all the instincts and intangibles in the world (and a helluva strong arm), but hasn't yet gotten a grasp on the playbook and has a learning disability to boot - can he take over? What can Troy Smith bring to the table? "A fine mess you've gotten us into, Ollie... "

A regular reader of this blog would know that I like Mike Singletary and have been a supporter of his throughout his time with the team. But the one thing I don't like is the team's win-loss record. Whether or not he's not the one on the field making the plays, committing the penalties, etc. the old adage stands: The Buck Stops Here (as in the head coach). It's his imprint that is on the team, his philosophy. Whatever it is, this team's efforts just aren't doing it, they're not winning. It could be lack of focus, chemistry, preparation - I don't know but the bottom line is clear: they are 1-6 so it's time to start looking forward to next season and doing what's best for the team. Is it still possible to finish the season 10-6 or 9-7? Well, yes, mathematically it is. Can they still make the playoffs? Ugh, the prognosis isn't looking good. Even if the Niners finish with a respectable record, can they realistically expect the other teams in the division to not qualify for the playoffs? I'm sorry, but even I'm not that positive.

And one last thought: what's up with the playcalling? The 49ers are making it a habit of scoring a touchdown on their first drive of the game... so then the defense of the other team makes an adjustment and the 49ers are rendered ineffective for the rest of the game? Explanation, please!