49ers - Big test

I re-watched most of the 49ers first preseason game last night and came away much more positive than most of the fan base did.

Sure - the results were disastrous, but the little details are what caught my eye. I saw a coach who changed up his play calling to match the strengths of the players he had on the field, very un-Singletary like.

Positives

- The schemes. From Nolan to Singletary, the team's play calling has been transparent. Seeing us run out of the shotgun, throw more, and have multiple formations is a big step in the right direction. Now a result of this big fancy playbook coming into town - alot of the pressure you saw was due to missed assignments, not getting overpowered [Well, that and the Saints trying to prove something, blitzing the house all game for preseason game #1].



- The Running Game. Frank Gore, if he stays healthy, might have a career year - because he finally has a coach that knows HOW to use him, not knows just TO use him. Last few years its been watching him slam into a wall of blockers and tacklers hoping he popped out of the other side of the pile. This game he had running room, and runs to the outside, something missing from the 49ers game the past few years, actually seemed to work.

- Defense. The first team Defense was without either of its starting corners and still held Drew Brees in check. Donte Whitner made an excellent pass break up [Even if 49ers hater/Raiders fan Mr. G was complaining it should have been an easy pick] and showed dividends already. Having a stable safety that allows Goldsen to be more of a ballhawk should open up for more turnovers.

- the Rookies. I liked the flashes I saw out of all the rookies. Aldon Smith should take Harlson's spot soon, but not soon enough! Kaepernik looked like a rookie, but he made some nice plays with his legs and a couple of nice throws. Kendall Hunter had a few nice runs - shows he knows how to find open space. Converted fullback Bruce Miller saw alot of action - and will hopefully be booting Moran Norris soon. This could be a good class - too soon to tell, but a nice first step

Tonight will be a big test against the Raiders. If this season is to be a success, there will be much needed improvements shown. The line will have to do a better job keeping Smith on his feet, and Smith needs to make a few crisp throws and score some first team points. We shall see

[I know I am a bit rusty, I'm sure this will start getting better - first one back ]