SANTA CLARA – When Michael Crabtree speaks to the media – he rarely does, but on Wednesday he did – he’s detached, like he’s watching himself talk. He keeps an ironic distance from the interview. It always seems like he has another private thought and you’d love to know what it is, but he’ll only give you 25 percent. He looks at you through sleepy, mysterious eyes. These are all very good qualities for a professional athlete to have.
Today, I asked Crabtree what excites him about his role in the 49ers’ offense, and here’s what he said: “Everything. It’s football. Every day I come out here I’m looking to do something new, not the same old routes I’ve been doing. I’m really just trying to fit in with the rest of the guys and have fun and make some plays.”
I asked offensive coordinator Greg Roman the same question – what excites him about having Crabtree in the offense? Here’s how Roman responded: “A lot of things. Mike’s a very sure-handed guy, he’s got really good size, he’s and extremely good runner after the catch. I think he’s a really good all-around player. When we needed some big plays last year, he sure stepped up. The one in Seattle really comes to mind.”
Pro Bowl cornerback Carlos Rogers spoke at the podium, too, so I asked him what made Michael Crabtree tough to cover. Here’s what Rogers said: “No. 1, his speed is much better. He recognizes defenses better and what he has to do. Instead of running a 10-yard route, he may cut it off at 8 knowing we’re already sitting at 10 yards. Things like that. A younger guy may run the route exactly how it’s supposed to be on paper.
“Crabtree’s got a quick step, and we’ve always known him to have hands, so anytime the ball gets in his area, nine times out of 10 he’s going to catch it. I think dealing with all the talk about bringing in new receivers: ‘We’ve got to get more receivers. Our receivers didn’t show up in the playoffs.’ Our receiving corps took that to heart. They can get the job done and they’re going to work to not have an output like they did last year.”
In the preseason opener against the Minnesota Vikings, Crabtree caught one pass for 3 yards. Last season he caught 72 passes for 874 in the regular season, but only 5 catches for 28 yards in two playoffs games.
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Good article Grant,
I know what you mean about his interviews, and he definately come across that way.
If you had to pick one receiver to have a breakout year, just from watching practices and such, would it be Crabtree.?
And from what you’ve noticed has Alex and Michael’s chemistry gotten better?
Thanks
Their chemistry doesn’t need to get better. They both just need to PLAY better and everything else will fall into place. This isn’t a marriage.
I just hope Crabs’ feet hole out ’till (at least) ..
the Super Bowl is over ! :)
(yeah… if that’s being presumptious … so be it !)
+1
Your articles come across a bit defensive, Grant. These days you always have an extra line in there, explaining what you meant or justifying your statement. Are the comments getting to you?
I doubt anything has gotten to him but, he’s just horrible. He and especially his son really seem to be quite proud of the little niche they have found for themselves. They talk pure crap.
If you two geniuses can’t keep straight who you’re talking about, as you evidently can’t, you just make yourselves look stupid/ignorant. Don’t like it? Vote with your feet (mouse) and take your whiney act somewhere else. Nobody’s making you read this stuff.
@brother tuna: You’re looking like the real simpleton here. Read my post- where in there did you figure out that I can’t keep my writers straight? I referred to Grant directly, didn’t mention his dad (or his son, erroneously) like the other post did. Don’t throw us both into the same boat.
Simple reading comprehension.
brother tuna- Sounds like you’re the one having trouble with reading comprehension here. I got my writers straight. Don’t throw us both in the same boat, otherwise, your put your low-IQ on display for everyone.
Okay Fabio, I’m down with the reading comprehension game: where is the defensive sentiment in this article?
hi
welcome john.
John, as you noticed from Ninermd’s “welcome”, there are those looking for nothing but drama here. They think they are junior Skip Baylesses in training – take this advice, let them blow their hard right past you.
Not to mention borderline racist (“blue eyes” Smith ?? Are you kidding me, md? wtf is that supposed to mean?).
In other words, welcome to the jungle, John :)
Awwwww Ribby is upset because he wasnt named in the Smith fan club. Im sorry little fella. Blue eyes term is meant for you stalkers that are in love with the man. When did I call you a racist Ribby? Ds’s hate for a non white WR or qb is obvious. I mean it didnt see a practice and refused to believe a writter, but said ST was its next man in line. Hates MC for his attitude? Claims J Smith is the best defensive player we have? Ribby Im pretty sure this new guy John is smart enough to see through yours and the other Smith fans crap. Its just a matter of time. If he isnt a Smith fan, Im sure it will be a gang up on aisle 4. Lets see if he has ANY critism of Smith.
md, even if he’s not smart (Not casting aspersions, John), your unbidden “welcome” is enough to show him the writing on the wall.
Accusing DS of being a racist, are we? He’s a fan of a sport dominated by African-Americans and a racist too? md, your imagination (socialist President… lololol) never ceases to amaze me. Are you good at drawing up offensive plays? The team might need some wacked creativity.
LOL Share the wealth Ribby. You are not on the old uptake I see. And how do you know ds is a he? And it is funny that ds is a fan of a sport dominated by A.A’s huh? Except it only praises the white folks. Ribby you are a hero of all mankind. What color is your cape? And since you want to call me out on the socialist term…….Can you provide me with some facts that Obama isnt? Because I could provide you with some facts that he is. But Im sure it will take you a couple of days to actually find out what it means. Tell you what Ribby. Ill leave the “politics” alone with you. Its obviously no match. Lets talk about why you have Alex Smith on your avatar instead of a team logo. Betting its because you love drama. Nobody mentions you and you come in with your cape and duh dunt da dunts….. Wheeew!
md, you need to sober up, then resume posting.
You are digging a hole that will be hard for even you to climb out of.
Can you provide me with some facts that Obama isnt? Because I could provide you with some facts that he is.
I don’t think you can.
LMAO!!!! Riiiight Ribbed. And Claude. If you are a smart as you think you are, you know he is. This is a football blog, and one comment about a socialist pres trying to revoke vets rights to vote, is all of the proof I will provide. If you want to debate that, Im all ears. But since you two dummys keep avoiding that comment, Ill end the Socialist talk and keep it to 1st Admen and football. NN Kayy. A hole. HA HA HA HAAAAAAA. Getting out debated or smarted by Ribico on Football or politics……HA HA HAAAAAA
I’m siding with Ninermd on this one. That said, let’s not taint this blog with politics.
I think John’s really sorry he said hi!!!
claude
I guess md didn’t get to the part about how it is on the one making the accusation to prove he is right. Not the accused to prove his innocent. Innocent till proven guilty is what we say. md somehow skipped that part in his yap about the first ammendment.
Really, MontanaMan! lol. His two letter posting must be a record for the shortest in setting off the usual suspects.
Beware of an Alien called Ds, a stalker named oneniner, and a wanna be smart guy named Claude. I dont know your stance on our qb yet, but feel free to bash or undermind any player or coach except Alex “blue eyes” Smith. For that will not be tolerated on this sight. And Ps…..Ds says that Smith is as good as Joe Montana. Welcome. YOU’VE BEEN WARNED!!!!!!!
Probably scared the poor guy away. : >)
“Welcome, keep an eye on your hat & coat!”
LOL. Having some fun with the special kids.
“undermind” ? Are you serious ? See that’s not a spelling mistake, you pronounce it like that too. That makes you a real meathead. Meathead.
Yeah the “big bus” kids…
Lol get a load of the newest loaf. Since you want to talk about grammar mister perfect. How do you spell exam??? Beat it newbie!
Glad to hear (from him, Roman, Rogers, and earlier Harbaugh and Alex) that he is working to improve his game.
Moss, Crabtree and Manningham will cause headaches for DB’ and Off.Cords this season, and become the piece of the puzzle to the offense that was missing last year.
“ALL IN!”
Moss, Crabtree and Manningham will cause headaches for DB’ and Off.Cords this season
I hope they don’t cause headaches for Greg Roman.
Have ‘faith’ Claude (lol).
I hope they make Roman (Org) look like a genius before it’s all over!
Moss has something to prove. He heard the media ‘talking-heads’ and one his best friends (Cris Carter) call him a ‘quitter.’ I have to believe that he does not want that written on his legacy.
Crabtree has something to prove as well. He heard all the criticism after the championship game and no doubt reads the proverbial writting the wall with the A.J. pick and WR free agent signings.
Manningham knows he has a great opportunity to become the 3rd WR and also be 1st up if one of the above mentioned is injured or fails to produce.
So at least for the time being; Roman should be licking his chops! (lol)
The only headache Roman will have is trying to give each one enough playing time.
it aint poker, its football….
All the new talented blood at WR will no doubt light a fire under the butts of those who need it lit. Not to mention the same tactic for the QB position. Clever, those Balke/Harbaugh guys.
Hey Ribico……Didnt you use to have the name Alex Smith? Gotta feeling you’re that same guy from the old Press Dem.
No.
Guess Ill take your word. If you’re lying then I guess you already know. Nice picture Ribby. Where did you get it? Was the pics of maaaybe oh I dont know a 49er logo or team pics not available?
>>Nice picture Ribby. Where did you get it?
You know how to use Google, right md?
But why one guy? Why not a TEAM logo or fanhood of the team Ribby?
I’ll take the comment as being directed at Houston 9er. He has a picture of a Rams player on his avatar. At least mine has been a Niner through and through.
(just kidding Houston … I think md must be drunk posting)
Oh not because you love drama and want to stir it up daily huh? Hmmm Its funny because all I have to say is Smither and there you are. I even mentioned others and not you….And low and behold. Here you are. Shocking. Life at home a little boring Ribbed?
md
You’re the drama queen here. You turned football posts into political/racist/general hate.
Try this for a week. Don’t post the first thought that comes to mind. Because you’re a horrible person. Try to hide it here. Is that too hard?
Hey ds…….Try this for a week. Try sticking to your word and dont read my comments. Hows that sound? Ds you are pathetic. How about getting a real job as a cop and quit trying to police this blog? That job actually pays.
lol horrible person. Didnt know you knew me Ds. Horrible? Naaa I just dont agree with your warped racist outlook. Because you have the same dummys that got one of your disgusting backs, you feel cool for once. Newsflash Ds… Cyberworld is different than the real one. And Im betting you lost and now escape to fantasy land. You are the poster child for a loser in life. Must suck Ds.
Ninermd
Easy, dude, Rib’s been on here a lot longer than you; almost always brings football content. His perspectives come from outside the Bay Area and thus can be fresher, and he’s one of our spies on East Coast Media biases. IMO he’s part of the team; brings same as you & me. Well, maybe less goofy than me and less angry than you sometimes are.
There’s plenty of Trolls already.
PS @ Ninermd
In fairness, bro, I will say I remember a time, last year I think, when you were going off on something or someone and somebody teased you about chillin’ a lil bit; you said you were enjoying being mad and we should just let you enjoy! I had to laugh.
To your point last night, yeah freedom of speech is great, but picking your shots is good too. None of us should be weighing in here, imo, about religion or politics; our commonality is football. And that, of course, is just an opinion too. Go Niners.
Hey brotha…. Mad? Over what? People over a computer? I don’t put stock into people who sit behind a computer with the world of knowledge at their fingertips. Face to face would be more impressive. No outlet of easy funding knowledge. That simple. I enjoy everyday of my life. I am a very happy person. And what you consider my “angry” responses. I am literally laughing. And as far as Claude being on here longer. Hmmm 6 years ago I never heard of balls. The only ones I remember from years ago are onelame, Tim, and hoffer…. Don’t know how long you’ve been on here, but you ate wrong. Unless mr balls is going by a different name now.
Ps… Brotha. Taking a quick shot at the pres and first amendment rights. Look again and see who got offended and started this whole debate off. It’s simple. If ribby or balls didn’t like my slam at Obama then keep rolling. They want to debate then let’s do it, but don’t put the finger on me only. Those two are the best at popping in and starting crap. I can’t remember the last time I read a comment from them two that started with their own outlook. That should say a lot about their character. But hey that’s them and this is me.
@ Ninermd
I was referring to Rib, not Claude, but no biggy. Sorry if you thought I was putting it all on you; not. It always takes two to tango and more than two to rumble.
Sometimes it gets, ummm, ……enthusiastic around here.
Ribby hasn’t been around that long either. Unless he is ??????? Lol. Dude I really don’t take this serious. I respect all for their opinions. Although they are wrong… :-). Hell on gameday I’d probably hand a drink to them at the tailgate. Except onelame and ds. There is no love for those two. They are not 49 er fans. Wheeew!
>>Those two are the best at popping in and starting crap.
Yes, says the guy who unilaterally initiated the debate by posting incendiary views on a completely off-thread, off-forum, off-site topic.
@brotha:
I’ve been around for a couple of years at most. thanks for having my back, but it’s best to keep far away from drama tussles ;)
I am not on the MC bandwagon, however he is a Niner and to wish him nothing but success is just wrong. All I want from MC is to keep his mouth quiet in public, catch passes throwen at him, and get good enough to achieve double coverage constantly. As far as who number one is, I dont really care, we have Crabs, Moss, Manningham, along with any combination of 2, Jenkins, Williams, Owusu, Ginn, and Palmer. Thats quite the receving corps dont you all think? All the Crabtree dissadents and the ones promoting Crabs all have valid arguements. A la AS. Wonder who it will be next year?
‘combination of 3′
why does he need to keep his mouth shut “in public” why would that even be apart of your response? that was the problem with entire misconception about MC. He doesnt talk in Public or in Private so people (such as yourself) want to put labels on the guy and define the guy. instead of him just being a quite guy who doesnt like to speak to people he doesnt know or are familiar with, he is “a diva”, “stand-offish” aloof”. why dont you just be a good 9er fan and cheer for the entire team equally and dont worry about “a mouth” you/we never hear
Thats not what I said, I am the first in the world to uphold the 1st amendment. I dont air out dirty laundry from family to the world, do you? He had a problem, take it up with the person he having the problem with. And I didnt label MC never have never will. I dont care if he is a diva, standoffish, or whatever, never entered my mind. See you guys are way to defensive about him. As far as I am concerned Crabs can be whatever he wants be whatever he wants doesnt matter to me, keep family stuff in the family. He is young he will learn that.
All I want from MC is to keep his mouth quiet in public,
Thats what you wrote under……..Thats just not right dude. I havent heard him say things to harm the team. He wasnt happy with his qb and said nothing. Its the first right in this country dude. Dont you think our socialist President is burning enough of the constitution daily as it is? Cmon man. I grunted for this kind of talk?
undercenter,
You said yourself that you did not hear Crabtree’s comments after the NFCCG, instead that you heard about them 2nd and 3rd hand.
You want the guy to shut his mouth, but you don’t even know what he said, how he said it, or the context.
>>He wasnt happy with his qb and said nothing.
You missed his post NFCC comments?
>>you think our socialist President is burning enough of the constitution daily as it is?
lol. Don’t get us started again, comrade.
Holy crap. Is Ninermd really going to try and talk politics? This should be good.
Sorry Ribby………I dont take kindly to a pres that tries to silence vets votes Partner. Try staying current. Vets are hero’s. Dont forget that New Yorker!
Oh Claude…..Im sure you back the socialist party. Its written all over your fat face. and liberal bleeding heart love for a millionare that didnt earn his money till last season. What cha got Balls? Do you back a pres silencing vets right to vote?
md, you are halucinating. keep your focus on the topic you are only slightly more knowledgable in, k?
MD I was only refering to family stuff, if that didnt read as infered, certainly my apologies to all, As far as remarks made they were not of the TO variety as of yet. Oh by the way he was probably speaking the truth but I just feel its a family thing keep it there. And you should know I am not about calling anybody names well except Bay once. I spent a year in combat MD, and dont get me started on Nobama, so I am 100 percent behind the constitution. Some things need to be kept in family dont ya think. And yes we all have a right to speak our mind!!! period end of that discusion.
>>Is Ninermd really going to try and talk politics?
claude, he has before and it was.
Atta boy Under….. Well said, but I disagree on family not being mentioned. Its his right and he should exercise it however he feels. But hey different strokes. And since youre a B.I.A. Im sure you didnt mean it that way. Hooraaa!
Not Politics just facts Ribby. Do you back a Pres trying to silence Vets votes? Yes or No.
Ninermd:
I have absolutely no interest in defiling this blog with political talk.
But you should feel free to continue posting as much ignorant nonsense as you like. It is entertaining.
It is clear from your comments that you have no idea what is going on and are merely parroting someone else’s description. I’ll bet you cannot explain how Obama’s actions actually would restrict anyone’s voting rights, but I eagerly await your attempt.
@Jack
Actually Jack I have heard it and your right it wasnt a big deal, my reference wasnt to that and I didnt want to get into details as you and myself and the 25 or so other guys that post here regular have hashed out. It shouldnt matter if I like Crabs or not, he is on the fence with me, but he is a Niner and I would like to see him a Pro Bowler, as I would AS, is that going to happen I dont have the slightest clue. I do not hate this man, I am rooting for him, I do have questions about him, so be it. And dont give me that #1 receiver stuff either he is like AS is/was by default. (that should stir it up real good eh) :)
md, back away from the Rush.
Fly by Night? Tom Sawyer? Working Man? Songs to live by Ribby.
You mean Rush, the *canadian* band? Those canooks are beer-fed socialists up there, md. Better back away from that Rush too.
You’ve covered racists, socialists, vets, prog-rock, insulted your favorite pals, went on some wacky detour on what player photo is acceptable in the world of md – care to talk any football tonight?
How about this. Though way too early to tell, the first preseason game the niners rocked the ground game and crushed their opposition. They gained, what – 150 yards in the air. Are you going to piss and moan if they continue to do that in the regular season? Throw for less than 200 but still dominate the game?
Ill entertain you just this one time Balls. FAACT; In July the DNC filed suit in Ohio againts a state law that lets vets recieve an extra 3 days to vote in person. Why is Obama and his camp trying to stop this law? Are our vets not worth it? Its been a law for years. Why and who would try to change a law like this? Now just so you dont think Im a Republican or Democrat……Use what Ribby suggested and type in the Ohio law and the Nazi Dems trying to abolish it. And try getting off of the left wing whacko or right wing whacko stations or sights to research it Balls. Now Im done with this talk, I have plenty of other Americans to talk with about this and other Political subjects. Back to Football. Thank you. Come again!
Hey They are a good canadian band at least. Nothing wrong with those guys. Even though their country is a horrible place to live. ;=/………… And yes Ill piss and moan, because I bet big time on Smith that he will crack top 7 this season. Yes Id be happy if they won a Superbowl on the legs of our RB’s and Defense, but it would be just a tad bitter.
Add to my list of md’s scattershots Nazis as well. Invoking Godwin’s law, this thread is over. Sorry, Crabtree.
md, really man…. Get back to football before you REALLY embarrass yourself.
>>And yes Ill piss and moan, because I bet big time on Smith that he will crack top 7 this season.
OK, so there’s a wager at stake. That’s cool. Though sucks to be you when our #8 rated QB is hoisting the Lombardi ;)
Not my fault you had to repost part of my convo with Under and started up a whole new convo. You could have let it go, and now you want to talk like Im all over the place? Wheeew! Nice try Ribbed. Im just entertaining a super hero. If you dont want to hear me talk about our socialist pres, dont wear your cape and bring it back up. Isnt that easy? I could start up a Muscle Melky convo next. Dont hate on my knowledge range. lol
Md, you got a problem with Canada?
Hey if he’s hoisting the Trophy while being ranked 8th, All it means is that Im wearing a Bears jersey and my party wont be free. I could def live with that. Shoot I was close last season.
LOL Prime…. Never been there, but I can say some friends from there dont even like their socialist Gov. Hey to each their own. Just not my great country. Got nothing but love for our Northern neigjhbors. And another thing. They have produced some great Bands and Singers over the years. Hockey??? Well its better than Soccer. ;-)
>>If you dont want to hear me talk about our socialist pres, dont wear your cape and bring it back up.
If I don’t want to hear you prattle on about concepts completely above your head like socialism, then I won’t seek you out at rushlimbaughforum, redstate, freerepublic or wherever else you are getting your “knowledge” from. I don’t want to hear about it in Niner land in the first place, dig?
>>Dont hate on my knowledge range.
Hate is not the word I’m using.
LOL Oh Ribby…… I can Bash Bush too. But then you will probaly call me a Democrat. It seems you have your mind made up Ribby. Wheeew! But hey Ill share the wealth and accept Obama care because he and the Government told me too, and against mine and the will of others who voted against it. Does this make you feel better? O.k back to football, Maaaaybe you can up your game in that talk.
MD I disagree with you on some stuff, and I dont care what the others say about you, your willing to bash both Bush and Obama – now thats what I call an American. I too, do the same. :)
And my apologies to all, my bad semantics set this all off, that wasnt my intentions what so ever. Lets get back to football.
All good Under……Good ol Ribby loves stirring up problems. Its partialy my fault for playing his little game. But hey….. Marines fight for these rights to be idiots. And I love everyone of them. This is the beauty of our country. You’re allowed to be an idiot. lol Have a great night Brotha, you too Ribby and Balls. 2 things we cant argue.
1 GO 9ERS
2 GO LAKERS….. LOL
@Ninermd:
As I thought, you do not know what you are talking about. Your facts are made up.
In 2004, Ohio passed a law that allowed all voters to cast early ballots until the Monday before Election Day. Republicans recently enacted a statue that pushed the early voting deadline back to the Friday before Election Day for everyone except for certain classes of veterans. The DNC lawsuit merely seeks to strike down the recent change and reinstate the prior law, which allowed everyone to vote early up until the Monday before Election Day.
You are as ignorant about current events as you are about football.
Claude
What MD was talking about was on FOX, so it must be true :)
@Nick:
I have no idea where he gets his “information,” but it’s factually incorrect. Of course, that’s nothing new.
Lol. And where you get your “facts” must be the true source of truth huh Claude. See the problem with picking and choosing who to believe works both ways. But then again balls is always right. Lol
And Nick….. Never watch or read anything by fox. Way to be simplistic. Dummy.
@Ninermd:
Lol. And where you get your “facts” must be the true source of truth huh Claude.
Actually, it is. Here is a link to the the complaint filed by the DNC. If you bother to read it, you will see that your presentation of the facts was inaccurate and that mine is accurate. The DNC lawsuit does not seek to restrict anyone’s early voting rights; it merely seeks to reinstate early voting rights for all eligible citizens. (Note, it an earlier comment, I mistakenly stated that a law was passed in 2004. Actually, it was passed in 2005 in response to voting problems in the 2004 electiont.)
http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/files/husted-complaint.pdf
Lol that.
See the problem with picking and choosing who to believe works both ways.
No, it doesn’t. The facts are the facts. You either get them from a reliable source or you find them yourself. You clearly chose to rely upon an unreliable source.
*in an earlier comment
*in the 2004 election.
Sorry for the typos.
I will laugh at that balls. Where did I say “for all Ohio residents? Where does this lawsuit mention veterans? There is a LAW already in place for the vets getting a 3 day extension. I do NOT agree that booths should be extended for dem or rep, EXCEPT veterans. And obamas vultures don’t. THAT’S what I was talking about. Way to spin it Claude. You’re not fooling anyone. So yeah. This court document is correct, but it’s the wrong subject dummy. Ha ha ha haaaaaaa
@Ninermd:
Your willful ignorance is appalling. The lawsuit I linked to is the very one that you have been referring to throughout this thread. Do you think that the DNC filed two separate voting rights lawsuits in Ohio in July? The lawsuit doesn’t match with what you were talking about because you had the facts wrong.
Are you really that thick, or are you just yanking my chain?
>>2 things we cant argue.
2 GO LAKERS….. LOL
NOW you are stirring the pot, md. Grrrr! I’ll refrain from that discussion lest my Laker hatred boil over and melt my keyboard.
Claude,
This is nothing you don’t know already, but people slant politics and religion as much as they do Football. There is no winning an argument when it comes to these topics because people will choose willful ignorance over accepting reality.
The Country is in a sad state because of poor decisions made by both Repulicans and Democrats. They’d rather continue to point fingers and engage in partisan politics than work together to help the economy get back to where it needs to be.
Ok I’m off my soapbox now, back to football.
It is pretty easy to tell that you specifically Grant and a majority of the media are just waiting in the grass, waiting, listening, hoping Crabtree slips up and says something negative. He is paid to play football, not stand in the front of the very people who constantly bash him and ask the same lame ass questions about his foot. And yes I know it is in a players contract to talk to the media but, no wonder he never wants talk. Ever since he got here, it’s been negative question after question, speculation and what not about his foot, work ethic, whatever. It is obvious the guy is shy, big deal. All I care about is production on the field, not the “sleepy mysterious look in his eyes.” Stop taking it so personal Grant, just like you did with Anthony Davis.
Read the whole thing carefully, at the end of the paragraph
grant says “these are all very good qualities for a professional athlete to have” Does that sound negative in any way?
Yeah, MC always keeps some distance. Did you see or read Matt M.’s interview with Mike? He was not hostile but very guarded, and he got a bit defensive when he thought Matt might be putting words in his mouth when MM asked if he was frustrated.
I think he is kind of shy. I didn’t see Grant’s description as taking any shots at him..
he is guarded cuz he knows the clock is ticking on him, lot to prove this year, better watch out mikey, mario, randy, and aj and teddy looking for touches too, best man wins………….
In case you haven’t heard Latino, Crabtree has embraced having those guys in the WR corps.
there is a misconception on here where certain people think that whatever the players or coaches say that it somehow is 100% absolute truth, wake up people, the number one rule in the nfl, don tell the media squat…
whats crabs suppose to say, yeah i know there is a bulls eye on my back, they brought two free agents who are proven in, they used a first round pick on a guy who plays my position, and yeah I was terrible in the playoffs and people are saying im slow and lazy…..
midwest, yur a big boy, read between the player and coach jargon for what it really means…..
Crabtree is confident in his abilities Latino.
Not only are you the blog policemen who has been viewing from afar all these years, now your a mind reader in knowing what Crabtree thinks, wow, you are the jack a$$ of all trades!
You’re right 23Prime.
Latino, when I read Crabtree’s comments today they read to me as though he has confidence in his abilities.
This big boy has proof.
MidWestNiner says:August 15, 2012 at 2:29 pm
He might look smaller, but he isn’t.
http://blogs.mercurynews.com/49ers/2012/08/15/crabtree-on-49ers-wr-additions-you-need-that-depth-at-receiver/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+49ersHotRead+%2849ers+Hot+Read%29
Since the draft, Crabtree has thought he was a lot of things, elite, fast, a #1, and deserved to be well paid. Well at least he got paid, year 4 and still waiting on the others. Can’t wait to see what he does against the Pack!
Primate
It sounds like you’re rooting against a member of the team you claim to be a fan of. I guess you’re seeking your ‘I told you so’ moment regarding MC.
Nickrow you just can’t stay away can you? I told you a million times, I dont speak dumbinese, therefore I have no clue what your saying to me. Stop stalking me and read a book!
Primate
Be a man and keep your word, hypocrite. As long as you continue with your hypocracy, I’ll continue to expose it. You can’t refute that, so you resort to ad hominem attacks. Is that the best you’ve got?
lol if you think that blog post is heaping praise on Crabtree then there is no point in even arguing. Detached, 25%, sleepy mysterious eyes. Explain to me how this relates to good qualities in an athlete. To me it comes off as small jabs at his character, and then hypocritically ends it with a statement saying the exact opposite.
Mr. Crabs will continue to improve. We’re lucky to have him and I wish him good health throught the campaign this year.
Hopefully, we’ll see the reason people speak highly of Crabtree on the field this season.
All Alex smith has to do is get Crabtree the ball. Simple. Right?
MC has to catch it. That whole thing goes hand in hand
I think Crabs is going to have a very good season.
He faced bracket coverage most of the time last season, was forced to play at split end (not his forte), and dealt with a broken foot. Even with all that, he was starting to come on in the 2nd half of last season (I know he didn’t light it up in the playoffs).
You watch, this is his year…
Hey! New to the blog. Just wanted to post my 2 cents. If Crabs can stay healthy this year, he will pass 1,000 yds IMO.
Welcome Classic Niner.
With JH saying we will rotate WR’s in/out, and knowing our offensive philosophy to be balaned (not throw it 30 times a game) I don’t think any WR gets 1000 yards. Maybe VD can since we keep him in, but I doubt it.
Guys we are not the Saints. We are the Niners of the JH era. We are hoping to get more efficient in the red zone. Not to imitate the Saints.
Couldn’t you just welcome the newbie DS? And Crabtree will have close to 1,200 yards receiving this season.
Welcome Classic
Midwest
I had a much ruder reply as my welcome last year when I supported AS. Just saying by comparison my pst above was rated G.
1200 more yards is 300+ more than last year. That is a lot. With all these new weapons, MC isn’t getting as many touches.
Besides why bother setting stat expectations? If he has 600 yards and 12 TD’s, then by your own measure he will have failed for getting half as many yards. Just keep it to “Big plays in big moments in big games” and the stats will take care of themselves. Don’t get into fights about yards. It means nothing.
It’s called a prediction DS. Nothing more, nothing less. I predict the team will win the Super Bowl. I don’t expect anything because anything can happen in football that I never see coming, like and injury or a team catching lightning in a bottle at the right time for them. I believe Crabtree will hit that mark. I never said I expect him to.
Welcome Classic Niner! If the team improves on their 3rd down efficiency the added opportunities might be enough to get him over that plateu despite the balanced nature of the Harbaugh/Roman offense.
Thanks for the welcome guys. I just think he will be the best reciever on the team so he will get the most ‘looks’ his way and make the best of it. There playing a lot of high scoring teams this year so there passing game is going to be put the the test. Its also starting to sound like Alex gets it. Big things this year!
DS,
You have a point tho. As long as long as they perform in crunch time!
How can you trust a guy named Melky?
What has that got to do with anything?
Tainted Melk
Promotional idea for the Giants next homestand, “Free Juicers to the first 5,000 fans.”
Prime Time says:
August 15, 2012 at 6:21 pm
Since the draft, Crabtree has thought he was a lot of things, elite, fast, a #1, and deserved to be well paid. Well at least he got paid, year 4 and still waiting on the others. Can’t wait to see what he does against the Pack!
Prime Time says:
August 15, 2012 at 6:21 pm
Prime:
“Since the draft, Crabtree has thought he was a lot of things, elite, fast, a #1, and deserved to be well paid. Well at least he got paid, year 4 and still waiting on the others. Can’t wait to see what he does against the Pack!”
@Prime
Once again you manage to isolate MC as if he were QB and WR (lol).
You continue to look for reasons to bash/hate MC every day. Do you and 23J have a contest to see who can hate more?
The head coach, off.cord, AS, and teammates have defended MC from haters like you, but your hate train continues to build momentum and is completely out of control.
Here it is again. AS and MC are connected at the hip whether you chose to believe it or not. You can protect AS as much as you like, but he will be scrutinized again this season. We did not go after R.Moss and MM to have AS throw 7-10 yrd safe passes. AS will need to do something he hasn’t done in a couple of seasons; Deliver more long balls with accuracy.
Would you say that VD was AS’ go-to receiver last year? I would say he was. And why wouldn’t he be? He is a mismatch for virtually every LB in the league wouldn’t you agree to that?
And yet, MC was our leading WR!
I chose to believe that AS will have a better season then last year. I feel the same way about ALL our WR’s.
I expect it will take you a little more time, but you and DS along with your young intern LH will be getting on the MC bandwagon soon then later (lol).
You are the one that thinks AS and MC are the same and need to prove a lot this year. I have seen all I needed to see of MC in the playoffs. That told me a lot about #15.
I also have seen all I need to see from #11. He like Crabtree needs to do this year, stepped up big time, in the playoffs played well against NO and played good enough to win against the Giants. I think AS is doing all the right things again this year this offseason and into camp. I see progress.
MC still has a lot to do. You keep telling me he is our leading WR, floppy, that was last year, it’s over now. Entirely new WR core and for the 100th time, listen carefully AES, Hack, and anyone else who has a problem with my take on Crabs, I don’t hate him, I just think Moss and Mannigham are a better tandem. Don’t like it, disagree with it, stuff it, come week 1 and beyond we will see the best players start and perform.
Prime
If MC plays like VD did in the playoffs this coming postseason (pretty cool I’m able to really say that isn’t it) then that will end any doubts. We will also win the Super Bowl.
MC getting 1299 yards in the regular season means squat. He needs to shine when it matters most. That is playoff time. The regular season to me is just ann extended rehearsal for the playoffs.
Prime, funny thing is that it was AS that missed a wide open KW over the middle and DW on an out route on the sideline which may have gone for the winning TD.’ But hey, who’s counting AS’ miscues right Prime? (lol).
Let’s just say that AS only performed better than MC against the G-men, but he certainly was far from the hero you make him out to be bud.
A couple of muffed punt returns killed us, but that’s ok prime, blame it all on MC. Haters find ways to feed their hate. Some people such as youself just can’t help it.
I’m blaming the entire WR unit, the fumbles and the fumble non reversal.
A couple missed throws in the 1st Q you think would have won us the game? I doubt the Giants woukd have packed it in tgat early. That’s weak! How bout MC not winning any battles or gettin any separation the entire game as a better reason. Think about that one for a minute!
EM missed more throws in the 1st half. And practically no game is won or lost in the 1st quarter. A school child knows that.
AES
Why do you bring me/LH up in a response to Prime who didn’t mention us?
Keep it to Prime please. He wrote it. And is more than able to answer any of your questions. Unlike yourself who never answer any.
He’s scrambling DS, worried about #15′s performance in camp and the other players vying for a starters role. I don’t see MM or RM happy about playing a situational role or sporadic playing time. They also did not come to SF to be the 3rd or 4th WR. Those guys are competing hard in TC and vying to be every down players. It will all play out but I sense some nervousness about that from certain individuals.
Prime, “I don’t see MM or RM happy about playing a situational role or sporadic playing time.”
So are you saying MM was lying last week when he said he didn’t care about playing time or numbers as long as the team is successful?
Prime
Exactly. We didn’t get a bunch of WR’s so that they may compete for #3. MM was a #3 at NY. If he was fine with that, he stays with the champs. And RM has never been anything but a 1.
Now MC can end up being the #1. But it was far from a fact that MC had that role as tightly as PW does. And whoever is #1 better keep working at it. Because there are some other guys who signed here to be a starter. Not a cliff note to the 2012 Niners.
Sorry DS. But you, prime and your young intern LH have been at the forefront of the MC hate agenda. You guys have hardly gone one full day over the last two weeks without taking shots at MC.
It is what it is, like it or not. You three are now connected at the hip. You three can decide who is the middle person (lol).
Grow up!
AES
You haven’t gone a day without picking a fight with us. When we aren’t discussing MC, you bring it up. Want it to stop? Quit bringing it up every day.
And I concur with Prime. Grow up will ya. Your post above is reminiscent of why I don’t discuss details with you. You take the discussion to a level of personal attacks. Too much time with Jack has rubbed off on you.
The term ‘connected at the hip’ has been around for ages. Not meant to be taken in a harsh context as you seem to be alluding too.
Your post below at 9:10 has more than 1 comment that wasn’t needed for your point to be made. Read it.
Prime Time says:
August 15, 2012 at 8:53 pm
“He’s scrambling DS, worried about #15′s performance in camp and the other players vying for a starters role.”
@Prime
A little delusional eh Prime?
I’ve been saying since day one of Crabtree’ TC injury that he is our 2012-13 WR. If that sounds ‘worried’ than you don’t understand the term (lol).
You guys have tarnished this blog for the last two weeks with your MC hate agenda, all the while reading all the high praise from coaches and teammates. At the very least you should respect their remarks regarding MC, but you guys can’t pull yourselves to agree with anything they have to say. You have given AS the benefit of a doubt and hung your lives on every positive word Harbaugh has said about AS. But your insatiable hatred of Crabtree will not allow you guys to do the same.
Sad commentary for 49er fans. It’s a good thing visiting bloggers who cheer for other teams don’t see your avid hate for a 49er player who continue to bash like an arcade game.
Good night, buds
They’re pathetic AES. Time to just ignore them. They preach about loving the niners and every member of the team when people trash AS, but are first on board to insult MC, who by the way has shown much more upside in his first 3 years than AS did. No point in arguing with them. Let the season do the talking and watch as they eat piles and piles of crow.
I’m okay with folks not liking Crabtree. Like a few other members of the offense he has been a huge disappointment as a high 1st round draft pick.
Cutting him at this point makes no sense though from a salary cap perspective thanks to the old rookie contracts. The 49ers had to wait until year 5 to stick Alex with a huge pay cut for the same reason. Next year is a different story; if Crabtree continues to be average the 49ers can move on with minimal salary cap implications.
The same goes for Smith, Anthony Davis, Moss, Manningham and Ted Ginn. Baalke has been very good at protecting the 49ers’ cap from mediocre players; unlike McDrunkAgain.
I would like to add though; it’s interesting that Crabtree isn’t getting 7 years worth of excuses.
Again Msclemon, facts and excuses are two different things completely. Same thing can be said for Crabtree. However, the reasons for both their failures are not here this season, and like I’ve been saying, barring the offense being decimated by injuries, this will be both Smith and Crabtree’s make-or-break season.
his rookie-season holdout counts as 4 years in ribico-land ;)
Thats because QB is much harder to play than WR. There are less than 20 good-great Qbs in the world and there are 32 teams with 2 starting WR some have more. There is a reason that Qbs are the highest paid position in football it is arguably the toughest and most important position in sports.
One more thing on the AS MC debate. When Norv turner was here AS showed flashes of being able to become a good QB (Sea game) thats why we as fans wait for him to allways play as he did in that flash what we want is consistency. IMO MC has not shown enough flashes for us to believe he has it in him.
Can anyone tell me a MC defining moment a a pro?
We have the crab who saved christmass and what else?
He might be our #1 WR but I for one want my 1WR to average more than 4 td a season
Prime Time says:
August 15, 2012 at 9:00 pm
“I’m blaming the entire WR unit, the fumbles and the fumble non reversal.
A couple missed throws in the 1st Q you think would have won us the game? I doubt the Giants woukd have packed it in tgat early. That’s weak! How bout MC not winning any battles or gettin any separation the entire game as a better reason. Think about that one for a minute!”
DS94everXev says:
August 15, 2012 at 9:21 pm
“EM missed more throws in the 1st half. And practically no game is won or lost in the 1st quarter. A school child knows that.”
@Prime/DS (ok, try to convince me you are not connected at the hip, lol)
Eh, do remember the 49ers under eh, B.Walsh?
Did those teams win the majority of their games in the 1st QTR/Half?
Glad I didn’t go to your school DS (lol). You and Prime need to review some 49er history. You two think very much alike. Enough said!
JM was the leader in 4th quarter come backs when he retired. Not to mention his 2 biggest moments were the 81 title game, and Super Bowl XXXIII. Both were comebacks.
WOW! Didn’t know your Niner history was lacking so much.
What HC agrees with you AES? Where games are won in the beginning and not the end.
I think most HC’s would agree that games are won by how you play throughout the entire game, not just at the end.
If you look at every playoff game of the SB teams that Montana played on you will find that those 2 games you mention are the only 2 where they had to pull it out in the 4th quarter. Almost all of the others were decided before halftime.
In the other THREE Super Bowls that Montana won the 49ers were comfortably ahead at half-time.
And Montana himself said that 4th quarter comebacks only meant he wasn’t good in the 1st 3 quarters.
You need to stop putting Montana (Hall of Famer, best QB of all time) and Alex Smith (near bust, rescued from trash heap by Harbaugh) in the same posts, much less the same sentence. Every time you do you remind everyone how much Alex sucks.
>>I think most HC’s would agree that games are won by how you play throughout the entire game, not just at the end.
I don’t know, I think most HC’s would agree that games are won by looking at the final score when the clock runs out.
Quibbling over the value of comebacks now, are we?
No Rib.
Of course it is all about the final score, but I can assure you that a coach would rather be up all game and milk the clock instead of coming back in the 4th quarter.
Suggesting otherwise is not smart.
msc
So then how come JM had so many come back wins? And in 81 the defense saved JM with their goal line stand. And where did I say something about AS above? Read what is written. Not what you want it to have said.
>>No Rib.
I think a coach will take a win, no matter how they come. Especially a coach who earned the nickname “Captain Comeback” during his playing days.
Rib,
Of course winning is all that matters. DS asked, “What head coach would agree that games are won at the beginning, and not at the end?” to which I replied they would almost unanimously say they are won by how you play throughout. What are you taking exception to here?
At the end of the game, all that matters is who won. If you can get up by 21 in the first and hang on like they did in the ’94 championship game, or come back like they did against NO, a win is a win. A coach can go through games they won or lost and point to key plays throughout the game that contributed to the win or loss.
Jack, Ffr a coaches peace of mind, when it comes to winning, no doubt they prefer a blowout, rest the starters, grind out the clock, start next week’s game planning a little earlier. All that points to is inferior competition.
But by the same token, if a coach *really* wants to see what he and his team is made of, what better yardstick is the comeback win against a quality foe?
Ribico,
Who cares about the quality of the opposition and finding out what the team is made of? Those weren’t a part of the question. No coach WANTS to have to come back to win. They would all prefer to get up early and grind it out. The suggestion to the contrary is just silly.
Games are won by how you play in the beginning, middle and end. Not just the end.
>>Who cares about the quality of the opposition and finding out what the team is made of?
Someone who wants to know how his team would face up to adversity. Because it will come over the course of a season.
Ribico,
You seem like a somewhat intelligent person. Again, the question that I responded to was, “What HC agrees where games are won in the beginning and not the end.” to which I responded that they would unanimously say that they are won by how you play throughout, the beginning, middle, and end. You then questioned me on that. What part of my response do you not agree with?
You started out saying that Jack, but then you veered into how coaches would prefer playing what kinds of games. I nominally agreed with that and said so upthread. I’m also saying it’s hard to imagine coaches not appreciating the team effort that goes into a satisfying comeback victory.
We’ve beaten this horse into dogfood. We don’t need to comeback to it.
How can you guys bash Crabs? He’s a 49er. Stay faithful! It took Alex 7 years to become an average qb.
lol
I’m often asked which player I “like.” To me it depends on context. Do I measure their skills relative to their draft position, or relative to an average NFL player?
Of course I like Bowman, Willis and Aldon. Their play has met or exceeded their draft status. A joy to watch on the field.
But what about players like Alex Smith, Michael Crabtree and Anthony Davis, who have not played up to their lofty draft status? They all turned out to be solid pros that continue to improve. (and A.D. is just a baby by O-linemen years).
If I asked myself “can this player be easily replaced by someone inside or outside the 49ers?”, the answer is still “no” despite the draft position disappointment. (This is not to say Kaep or another QB could emerge as an improvement in the near future)
So, I do “like” Alex Smith, Michael Crabtree and Anthony Davis. The 49ers would not be as good without them.
I still think Anthony Davis has big potential. He’s still very young. Not sure when his contract is due. Not for a few seasons I think. If I were Baalke, I be considering re-signing him to a longer contract before his current one expires.