Posted By: oneniner (12/09/2007 9:10:45 AM)
Comment: shootme...you are wrong..AZ was playing a diff. scheme from last yr....they were playing both 3-4 and 4-3....last yr they didnt play much 3-4, if any at all, i saw more blitzes from them reminded me of the steelers, dont listen to mike and mike they are unreliable, the strength coach shouldnt be given that much credit.....and New guy if we didnt pay that much to smith someone else would have....its the way it is...i do agree they need a rookie salary cap...

Posted By: New Guy (11/09/2007 4:44:14 PM)
Comment: Hey Mike G. that was obsolutely ridiculous statement "we got Alex cheap." We overpaid for himand because of that Russell got a lot more than he should have. Many NFL teams were upset with the 49ers when Alex was signed because we went 20% higher than Manning the year before and that reset the market. Now Russell is getting even more than he would have otherwise. On that topic when is the NFL going to get its act together and put a rookie salary cap similar to the NBA. These guys have proven NOTHING and they are getting A player money. All it would take at this point is one miss and a team's salary cap is hurt for years. Now all that said I'm glad Smith is on our team.

Posted By: mike (11/09/2007 3:23:11 PM)
Comment: oneniner..your right about AZ's D, they are an impressive group to me. Berry is a force & the safety Wilson what an absolute freakin' stud. 6'3 w/that kind of strength, speed, aggression, & playmaking..he's all over the place. He's a SS I believe but I would love to have a similar guy in a FS. I think the Rook Goldson will add something extra to our secondary when he returns. I'm curious to see in the next few weeks how AZ's D plays against other teams esp the good one's to see how we compare. Our OLine is learning each other on that right side but overall they still need some work picking up the blitzes. I saw our center stay double-teamed w/Allen & he didn't break off to catch the blitz down the middle when Alex got hit & couldn't step into his throw. What I said about BMoore restwise, I think he's better as a starter before Smith but we need Smith for the defensive calling right now training Willis. I believe Smith giving Moore breaks now & then while Moore starts is better once Smith can pass the torch to Willis. I do think Hostler was protecting Smith some once we saw the protection breaking down early but there's scheming to get him some confidence early in his passing. Roll him out w/some misdirection & throw short to a TE pulling out, screens, slants, crossing routes, etc...like I mentioned before to get the passing game going. Get him warmed up, calmed down, & into the flow of the game. I forgot to say Frank is the absolute MAN..his blitz pickups were outstanding though he was late on 1 of them. And Manny had a solid game as well. I'd like to see him bulk up some more than he already has. Someone mentioned VDavis' blocking..right on, he is a SOLID blocker. I know he's frustrated w/t D's keying in on him but we'll get him the ball. Where was DWalker though? MLewis played solid as well. 1 other thing..BWilliams, yeah I know he's got solid hands & we need the no critical mistakes made on PR's but there's no comparison when I see other good teams playmaking PR's who are explosive (SD,Bears/Hester, etc). Our ST's played fabulous, they were awesome. Remember when we concerned about the D in preseason? We have made excellent strides & will only get better, just a GREAT showing by our group & Manusky. Back to the drawing board w/t "O"..I believe we're better there too definitely, we just need more time to get it together there. C'MON people it was a VICTORY, a "W"..everyone, this is a good week! The FA & Draft picks showed up for us!!

Posted By: shootme (11/09/2007 3:10:06 PM)
Comment: oneniner - "bring on the sorry rams" My issue watching this game was how amazingly poor the offense looked. I was VERY surprised at how well the defense played, but the offense was anticipated to be MUCH better than they showed against a defense like that of the cards. The cards made virtually no offseason moves to bolster their defense (as the niners did), their biggest move was bringing in a strength trainer. Now, how much better was the cards defense last year than the rams? AZ finished 29th in total defense this year. Two spots behind the niners, with the Rams coimng in 23rd. Let's face it... a strength and conditioning coach doesn't turn a lowly defense like that into the ravens. Sure, Wisenhunt will help. But by all accounts, with the talent the niners have on the offensive side of the ball... as well as how they've bolstered their defense through offseason moves... that game should have been a rout. If they played this poorly against a defense that projects to be in the lower echelon of the NFL once again this year, what are they going to do against the likes of Pitt and the Ravens in the next month? I'm really hoping this was just a fluke and/or the issues facing the offense are those that can be corrected through some form of scheme change. Unfortunately, you can't scheme drops... and Smith looked completely lost out there. They could have called the game a bit differently to offset the barrage of blitzes, but with those two problems, you can't blame the playcalling completely. PS - whoever mentioned it earlier... yes, Gore was FANTASTIC in blitz pickup last night. I was very impressed.

Posted By: shootme (11/09/2007 3:08:15 PM)
Comment: oneniner - "bring on the sorry rams" My issue watching this game was how amazingly poor the offense looked. I was VERY surprised at how well the defense played, but the offense was anticipated to be MUCH better than they showed against a defense like that of the cards. The cards made virtually no offseason moves to bolster their defense (as the niners did), their biggest move was bringing in a strength trainer. Now, how much better was the cards defense last year than the rams? AZ finished 29th in total defense this year. Two spots behind the niners, with the Rams coimng in 23rd. Let's face it... a strength and conditioning coach doesn't turn a lowly defense like that into the ravens. Sure, Wisenhunt will help. But by all accounts, with the talent the niners have on the offensive side of the ball... as well as how they've bolstered their defense through offseason moves... that game should have been a rout. If they played this poorly against a defense that projects to be in the lower echelon of the NFL once again this year, what are they going to do against the likes of Pitt and the Ravens in the next month? I'm really hoping this was just a fluke and/or the issues facing the offense are those that can be corrected through some form of scheme change. Unfortunately, you can't scheme drops... and Smith looked completely lost out there. They could have called the game a bit differently to offset the barrage of blitzes, but with those two problems, you can't blame the playcalling completely. PS - whoever mentioned it earlier... yes, Gore was FANTASTIC in blitz pickup last night. I was very impressed.

Posted By: shootme (11/09/2007 3:07:27 PM)
Comment: oneniner - "bring on the sorry rams" My issue watching this game was how amazingly poor the offense looked. I was VERY surprised at how well the defense played, but the offense was anticipated to be MUCH better than they showed against a defense like that of the cards. The cards made virtually no offseason moves to bolster their defense (as the niners did), their biggest move was bringing in a strength trainer. Now, how much better was the cards defense last year than the rams? AZ finished 29th in total defense this year. Two spots behind the niners, with the Rams coimng in 23rd. Let's face it... a strength and conditioning coach doesn't turn a lowly defense like that into the ravens. Sure, Wisenhunt will help. But by all accounts, with the talent the niners have on the offensive side of the ball... as well as how they've bolstered their defense through offseason moves... that game should have been a rout. If they played this poorly against a defense that projects to be in the lower echelon of the NFL once again this year, what are they going to do against the likes of Pitt and the Ravens in the next month? I'm really hoping this was just a fluke and/or the issues facing the offense are those that can be corrected through some form of scheme change. Unfortunately, you can't scheme drops... and Smith looked completely lost out there. They could have called the game a bit differently to offset the barrage of blitzes, but with those two problems, you can't blame the playcalling completely. PS - whoever mentioned it earlier... yes, Gore was FANTASTIC in blitz pickup last night. I was very impressed.

Posted By: shootme (11/09/2007 3:05:49 PM)
Comment: oneniner - "bring on the sorry rams" My issue watching this game was how amazingly poor the offense looked. I was VERY surprised at how well the defense played, but the offense was anticipated to be MUCH better than they showed against a defense like that of the cards. The cards made virtually no offseason moves to bolster their defense (as the niners did), their biggest move was bringing in a strength trainer. Now, how much better was the cards defense last year than the rams? AZ finished 29th in total defense this year. Two spots behind the niners, with the Rams coimng in 23rd. Let's face it... a strength and conditioning coach doesn't turn a lowly defense like that into the ravens. Sure, Wisenhunt will help. But by all accounts, with the talent the niners have on the offensive side of the ball... as well as how they've bolstered their defense through offseason moves... that game should have been a rout. If they played this poorly against a defense that projects to be in the lower echelon of the NFL once again this year, what are they going to do against the likes of Pitt and the Ravens in the next month? I'm really hoping this was just a fluke and/or the issues facing the offense are those that can be corrected through some form of scheme change. Unfortunately, you can't scheme drops... and Smith looked completely lost out there. They could have called the game a bit differently to offset the barrage of blitzes, but with those two problems, you can't blame the playcalling completely. PS - whoever mentioned it earlier... yes, Gore was FANTASTIC in blitz pickup last night. I was very impressed.

Posted By: Mike G. (11/09/2007 3:00:10 PM)
Comment: For those people who think we were crazy in giving that large contact to Alex Smith when he was the No. 1 pick in 1995. Just look at across the Bay and see what the Raiders shelled out to JaMurcus Russell. I say we got Alex Smith pretty cheap.

Posted By: Carole Carlisle (11/09/2007 2:52:46 PM)
Comment: Hostler needs some imagination! Before the Niners last field goal the ball was at the 12 with 1st down. We ran Gore into the line at least two times with 2 a yard gain. Both times the D crowded the line on the right and Gore tried to plow through them. The ENTIRE wide side of the field(left) was wide open. If Smith had run a bootleg it would have been better than his bootleg against the Seahawks last year. I was screaming from my seat but I guess Hostler didn't hear me.

Posted By: oneniner (11/09/2007 2:33:59 PM)
Comment: ok..i think the true fans are starting to come...nice one Mike, i agree with most of your thoughts...honestly i really don't think our offense was that bad (compared to last yr), i mean give credit were it is due the cards defense played well, if this was a yr ago smith would have thrown a int.....and fo is right...the awareness of djack saved the game....he recovered the fumble which means i dont care about his drops in this past game......also glad we didnt have any major injuries....i did jump on staley after his sack....but i guess he played well....he looked like he belong...i see the diff. btw him and harris....staley plays until they blow the whistle, harris play until the play stops.....Byoung is a beast...they were holding him all game....thats my last word on week one...bring on the sorry rams

Posted By: H9er (11/09/2007 2:30:52 PM)
Comment: Re first and one. Don't remember if it was a running or passing play. However, four yard gain, five yard penalty called. Add five yards to end of run, replay first down.

Posted By: mike (11/09/2007 2:11:22 PM)
Comment: The Defense looked fantastic! PWillis is Mr EXCITEMENT man..love hearing his pads explode & LAY THE WOOD. I've been studying him on shaking off blocks & still make the play. He's definitely capable, but we want the DLine to hold the blockers. Franklin looks good there & can anchor the point. HUGE PROPS for our secondary playing well TOGETHER. Harris looks back to form already. Clements leading, directing, & communicating great out there & making plays. He's a difference maker!! But man, Walt looks to be the INT specialist. This was a good step for us before playing elite offenses. BYoung looked great & is a HUGE difference on our left side. TBC looks like he needs to lose a little weight so he can pick up a little more speed. He made some good run stops & pressures on the QB though. Douglas looked good, no missed tackles..way to pull down Leinart fr behind. Got to give Manusky some props for the schemes & blitz packages, liked the confusing movement @ the Line. DSmith looks OK, but no explosiveness. BMoore is better, but I agree w/Nolan, Moore plays well with rest between plays. Future: I'd love to see a compliment to Willis to have at least 2 explosive LB's. DLine upgrade is a must 1st. OFFENSE: Painful to watch because we had so many opportunities & constant good field position to help our D & to put pressure on the Cards. I'd like to see Alex run more if our offense is struggling-some surprise rush plays for him. Great mobility. Much respect for Battle...he's a football player no doubt. But I think Lelie should be #2 for playmaking/long ball & Battle @ 3, still respectable. Jacobs..very disappointed, how long will he be given opportunities..clocks ticking, Jacobs at #4 might be better for him w/less pressure. Staley..yeah he got beat. He's finally getting experience w/elite pass rushers. Berry is a beast. No false start penalties..you've got to give him at least 3-4 games to pass judgement. DJax good outing, must work on the drops. Hostler..I don't know yet. He was very conservative..maybe he's just getting his feet wet & also seeing what this offense has. Matt..what's your thoughts of him being on the field? I tend to agree w/Nolan & the experts that he s/b in the booth, how do you see what the D is doing? In the start of the games I think w/a young QB you could do what Walsh did (RIP my man) & that's build his confidence w/short dink & dunk passes to get him comfortable. Screens, TE pulling out, WR slants & crossing patterns, RB/FB out of the backfield..designed short passes to get him warmed up. Also c'mon you've got to stretch the field & take some shots deep. Take it early & make them think about it. Hey a win is a win..it was an ugly one but our DEFENSE is what mainly gave it to us. Alex deserves credit esp on his 4th down run & Battles clutch catch/blocking. Got to work on the offense but a good start the season...GO NINERS!!!

Posted By: Smith is Over-rated (11/09/2007 2:09:25 PM)
Comment: The D looked great, as did special teams. Smith and Hostler are a bad combo. Whatever happened to making the opponents PAY once in a while for blitzes? Are audibles allowed on the Niners? The offense was DISMAL despite excellent field position most of the game. Reality check: we barely beat a sorry team at home.

Posted By: Gunner49 (11/09/2007 1:33:13 PM)
Comment: Hi Matt- For those of us who were not at the game and would like to see the video tribute to Coach Walsh, would you happen to know of a link to it? Thanks !!

Posted By: BIG DADDY T (11/09/2007 1:16:39 PM)
Comment: Matt: 2 Thumbs up on defense. Dis kid Willis is da bomb. What enthusiasim. Offense was a joke. Smith i have my doubts about. Where was lelie? Bring on da Rams!

Posted By: fo (11/09/2007 1:01:24 PM)
Comment: ... a little reminder for those of you doubting DJax: if it wasn't for him recovering Battle's fumble in the end zone, we would be 0-1 today. Think about it.

Posted By: NinerfanDan (11/09/2007 12:43:22 PM)
Comment: Well, you know what all of it means... 1 win that's what it means. Was it a perfect game? No. Was it a great game? No. Was it good enough for a win. Yes, and my friends that's what counts. Why you may ask? Well, because this game is over and now we prepare for the next one. It don't matter how pretty it is or if it's by a inch or a mile winning is winning.

Posted By: oneniner (11/09/2007 12:39:57 PM)
Comment: Hi Jason...i cant believe this posts either...i really think these are other fans trying to jump on the bandwagon or fake niner fans.....after what we have been thru in 3 seasons....i cant believe there isnt more positive comments on here....some of this so called fans are used to losing and never experienced the niner winning seasons...its a shame....its like they want everything to be perfect not considering our opponent the cards is a team who knows us very well.....i mean how can you not be proud of shutting two probowlers down for 50 yards combined....am serious 50 yards....and yu think this was a ugly win......in baltimore when the defense plays like this they say its a great game.....i think niner fans better get used to a low scoring defensive game because that is nolan's philosophy....i really think some fans are used to losing....also noticed not alot of cards fans are online dissing their team or complaining that their big receivers only had 50 yards combined....niner fans better get use to this....our defense will win games for us....

Posted By: BJ (11/09/2007 12:09:14 PM)
Comment: Spot on Nevyn. First great call of the day by Hostler, and good springboard for next game.

Posted By: Nevyn (11/09/2007 11:53:22 AM)
Comment: John, the risk of getting stopped out of the endzone is what makes the play to Battle so effective. The defense assumes pass, or something like QB sneak where its easy to get back up to the line. They aren't ready for it, and that makes it a good gamble. We DID have enough time to stop the clock (or fake the spike and throw the Td) if we had to. We didn't have to. Nice play.

Posted By: John Frank (11/09/2007 11:44:14 AM)
Comment: 1. Clock management? Can you break down what Nolan was thinking? If Battle is tackled on end around, no timeouts left? 2. Alex Smith is much more dynamic throwing deeper patterns than short West Coast style quick outs and slants, where he lacks touch. Please tell Hostler. And the o-line. 3. I still wish we took Haloti Ngata over Vernon Davis. I get shouted down every time I mention it since draft day last year. But it's worth mentioning. 4. You keep saying the company line about Taylor Jacobs over Lelie(he's better in practice, etc.) But can someone please ask Nolan what Lelie needs to do to get on field? Thanks for all the good work, Matt.

Posted By: Jason (11/09/2007 11:39:40 AM)
Comment: Can you believe all the posts?

Posted By: jfresh (11/09/2007 11:24:49 AM)
Comment: My take on the Defense is....AWESOME. From the players to Manusky. DL can get better and will, especially on our outside containment. Offense i would have to blaim Hostler. When your D gets the ball for you on 3 straight series, as a OC you need to sieze those opportunties. When you run on 1st down, 3 straight series is what you call PREDICTABLE. Play action on a couple of those 1st downs, especially when AZ stacked the box on 1st downs. Also, there weren't any plays to loosen AZ Defense, like swing passes or reverses or end arounds (only at the end). Thats what made the offense move last year. Hostler needs to understand that and I hope he does quick.

Posted By: BJ (11/09/2007 11:17:52 AM)
Comment: My sense is that Hostler and A. Smith both suffered a bit from Firstgameitis (a syndrome that can inflict young and developing players and coaches). Even when you factor in the great blitzing and overall defense that the Cards played, both the play calling and Smith's play were uninspired and jittery until the final 3 minutes. But, hey, it's OK, this was only the FIRST GAME. I suspect you will see the offense progress nicely in the coming weeks. Too many weapons, less rust on Gore, the O line will gel better as the season progresses, etc. I thought special teams (except a couple of bone headed plays like running into the kicker) were really good -- especially both kickoff teams. Arizona rarely started beyond the 25 and the 'Niners were almost always starting beyond the 30. If the offense indeed improves, then with continued strong showing from the defense and special teams, it should be a very good year. I also agree with Mike that wind might have been a factor in the passing game. I was on the sidelines before the game and it was cold and blowing pretty hard, as it only can in Candlestick at night (remember Giants fans?) Afternoon day games will be better.

Posted By: New guy (11/09/2007 11:13:27 AM)
Comment: I'm really not sure why we were running behind the right side of the O-line when we have two STUDS on the left (at least when they are healthy) and on the right side we have a rookie that has trouble run blocking. As much as this pains me, if we are going to run behind both sides equally (balance-always a good idea) bring back Harris, at least he will open up some holes for Gore and the way the D played we have to have a good running game.

Posted By: MrSardonicus (11/09/2007 11:09:17 AM)
Comment: Ninerfan22, I think it was a screw-up by the refs. It should have been either 2nd and 1 or 1st and 10, though I also don't think a 5-yard face mask is an automatic first. Anyway, I've never heard of a 1st and 1.

Posted By: Dirk (11/09/2007 11:05:41 AM)
Comment: End zone fumble: Forward fumbles in the last minutes of a half and/or the 5 yard line (and perhaps on 4th down in general; I am not certain with NFL and NCAA rules being different) can only be advanced by the player who committed the fumble. If one of his teammates recovers the ball it is placed at the spot of the fumble. This rule prevents players from intentionally fumbling into the end zone as the last chance to score.

Posted By: J-Jack (11/09/2007 10:54:30 AM)
Comment: A win is a win! That being said be real about it oneniner; the play calling was questionable, but it was Hostler's first real game in that situation so it's understandable. "yes the offense was conservative but it was because of the constant blitz..." Well there are plays that can be called to slow down the blitzing; ie screens, misdirections, slants, outside runs, etc. I mean even if VD is double teamed you can split him out wide and have him isolated with a DB or LB depending on the coverage. Hos had a rough game but he bounced back after Alex Smith bailed him out on that 4th down. (By the way why don't you call out HOS for 4 straight passes on 1st and 1 like you called out Wisenhunt for 3 straight runs in the 4th quarter.) I'm not getting down on Hostler, I'm sure he'll get it together by watching film and recognizing where he could have exposed or even slowed down that blitzing up the middle. - Kudos to the defense, people laugh at their fantasy value, but they have major upside potential-

Posted By: Matt is the Man! (11/09/2007 10:49:13 AM)
Comment: mick13, sorry but I disagree about the shoes. They look much tougher in black! Reminiscent of Ronnie Lott! Let's just bring back the old uni's! What happend at the end last night was destiny!

Posted By: Pat (11/09/2007 10:45:59 AM)
Comment: Hey "tgflynn" DJax for a 4th rounder was not a fast one. Check the success rates on 4th round picks. And, we had 4 4th rounders, not all those guys would even make the team. If you look up "fast one" in the dictionary, the definition would be: Brandon Lloyd to Skins for a 3rd AND 4th round pick....

Posted By: Alex Smith is My Hero (11/09/2007 10:42:46 AM)
Comment: Mike in SF, great observations! Thanks from all of us who weren't there. As for the ESPN crew, they sucked @ss! Mangirl and the Meatball (aka Mike and Mike) had a love affair with Arizona and Matt Leinhart! They were practically ready to propose to the guy! Ditka actually gave credit where it was due, but he's just not fit for calling live games. I was looking for something lower than mute on my remote but couldn't find it! Tried the radio, but HDTV has a delay :(

Posted By: P-WILLY (11/09/2007 10:42:35 AM)
Comment: Watching our offense come out and sputter last night was harder than watching Brittany Spears open the Video Music Awards. LACKLUSTER. P-WILLY has arrived! What a pick at #11! How many teams are kicking themselves now for missing out on such an impact player? Rams? How's Carriker looking now?

Posted By: Willis4DROY (11/09/2007 10:41:11 AM)
Comment: Everyone is rightly calling out Hostler for the first 11 series full of vanilla runs and short dumps. However I haven't seen a single post yet that has given props to the other new guy the "Man"usky. He called a great game against a really talented offense. Perfect use of his personel, using blitzes and trusting his corners in man coverage against fantastic receivers. I was also blown away by all the movement on D pre-snap. At first I thought we were just confused, then when they kept doing it I realized it was intentional to throw off Leinarts reads. Now if Hostler just gets back to attacking like he did in the first two preseason games I think we'll easily get 10 wins if not more.

Posted By: Dirk (11/09/2007 10:33:54 AM)
Comment: Facemask 5 was enforced from the end of the run. It does not include a loss of down against the offense. As a general guideline downs are not used up on live ball penalties. Even if the play stands. Intentional grounding is one of the very few exceptions. Facemask is not.

Posted By: MJ (11/09/2007 10:32:55 AM)
Comment: This D is going to keep us in a lot of tight low scoring games until the offense finds its groove and starts rattling off some extended drives. Having "gelled" this well by week one, the secondary has potential to be one of the greatest ever by season's end. The next Defensive Rookie of the Year, P-Willy is lights out. That hit on Leinhart was by far the highlight of the game for me. Where was TBC all night? I only saw him in the backfield once. Gotta love the way Manny played the edge though, and a big night from Mark Roman has boosted confidence in our safeties' coverage abilities. Not much to say for the offense but I've still got faith they'll start dialin it in. The Dome next week will be a much better venue to evaluate our passing attack. Bulger's thanking his lucky stars he got paid before he's had to face this D twice a year. With a depleted line and blanket coverage courtesy of nate&walt, he's meat.

Posted By: ninerbob (11/09/2007 10:31:35 AM)
Comment: Am I the only one who thought they stepped into a time machine and saw Ray Lewis circa 2000 on the field? Patrick Willis is AMAZING!!!

Posted By: mick13 (11/09/2007 10:31:00 AM)
Comment: If the Niners are going to wear the throw-back unis, then they have to change into white -- not black -- shoes and get the color right on the helmets. Metallic gold was not the color of the '80s helmets. It was a more subtle shade. Check it out

Posted By: ZOLO76 (11/09/2007 10:29:09 AM)
Comment: Matt, Exactly what was up with that end zone fumble? I don't know all the NFL rules & was wondering why it was brought back to roughly the 1 yard line.

Posted By: AJ (11/09/2007 10:27:55 AM)
Comment: Cody Pickett hit it on the nail! The play calling was horrible. They are as predictable as the Ravens. Maybe that's what Nolan wants - a good Defense and an offense that doesn't make any mistakes. Nolan has to let his ego go. Why sit Lelie? He's way better than Jacobs. In fact I saw Jacobs drop a pass. They need Lelie's speed to open up the middle. Where were the screen passes or draws to counter the blizting?

Posted By: Ima Ninerfan (11/09/2007 10:25:46 AM)
Comment: Ninerfan22, on the previous drive by Arizona it was 1st and 10 when B.Y. stuffed the RB in the backfield. 2 and long and Banta-Cain stopped the run. The refs had some problems with the game clock and next thing you know, it's 2nd down again! They ended up getting stuffed twice more and punting, but how could nobody have noticed this? Maybe the mistake you mentioned was a make up call.

Posted By: tgflynn (11/09/2007 10:19:14 AM)
Comment: I guess everyone thought that Mike Holgren had a senior moment when he allowed his leading receiver (catches) to be traded for a fourth round draft choice to his strongest rival in the division. Especially since that player, Darrell Jackson was still in his prime. Now I dislike people who jump to conclusion on very limited evidence but despite catching a few passes DJack let a couple get away and short-armed another near the Arizona goal line. If I were a betting man, oops I am a betting man and my bet is Mike pulled a fast one.

Posted By: oneniner (11/09/2007 10:14:22 AM)
Comment: Josh - Yreka,CA ...i totally agree with you.....look at the chargers and bears game.....nobody said it was ugly....i am suprised on how many people just dont like Smith....i dont get it...the guy is good looking, he his humble, and does not over do things....i think a lot of people didn't like he got picked number 1....i dont get it...

Posted By: oneniner (11/09/2007 10:10:06 AM)
Comment: how can you throw the ball deep if the qb has no time due to crazy blitzing....am i the only one that saw this....Smith had no time at all, i am not even blaming the O-line....i am extending the respect where it is deserved, the cards are an aggressive team....that is why they had so many penalties...there front seven-eight played well enough for them to win.....the difference was our secondary played way way better...am still shocked ....if someone had told me we would face two probowlers in the first game of the season and only allow 50 yards combined....again 50 yards combined, i would have said no way.....guys that was the difference....Hey MATT in one your last report you wrote about uniforms but wasn't has specific or sure they would change them back....you must have heard this from a higher source..can you explain a little further on why you think they're definitely considering a uniform change......i really hope they do.

Posted By: Pat (11/09/2007 9:59:04 AM)
Comment: also - Vernon is a stud blocker. On one of Gore's longer runs, VD dominated his assignment sealing the edge. Very underrated part of his game and huge to our run game.

Posted By: Josh - Yreka,CA (11/09/2007 9:56:34 AM)
Comment: Funny how Brett "just retire" Favre wins an ugly game and he's a hero and his team is "for real" but Alex and the niners win a division game against a team the haven't beat in 2 years from behind with less than 3:00 on the clock and they emphasize the "Sloppiness" of the game. I watched the Packer/Eagle game and that was a way more sloppy game than last nights! Also, everyone is saying how Seattle has nothing to worry about in the division....but the only scored 20 pts. against the Bucs! The only reason the Seahawks won is because Garcia went out and the Bucs Defense was on the field FOREVER and thy still only had 20 pts to show for it! Okay I feel better I got it off my chest! Thanks for letting me vent matt!

Posted By: Craig95005 (11/09/2007 9:56:10 AM)
Comment: Offensive line was terrible, though under difficult circumstance. The 49ers blitzed almost as much as the Cardinals, but Leinart usually had several seconds to pass and it was only the unbelievable coverage by the secondary that made him so ineffective. Smith often had about a second and no quarterback can do well under those conditions - bad memories of two years ago. If Phoenix hadn't gone into a semiprevent defense, which gave Alex more time, very unlikely that the 49ers would have won. Of course the offensive play calling was so predictable that Phoenix could blitz without worrying. Where were the misdirection plays, the short drop quick passes, the rollouts, keeping extra men in to block? Surely there are plays to combat the blitz that should have been called and weren't. But, my friends, we have a defense. A real honest to God shut down secondary and good linebackers. Don't want to assume too much from one game, and our strengths and weaknesses will become clearer as we face other opponents, but it's wonderful to have a defense that we can count on. Off season signings look brilliant at this point. And our coverage teams look all-world.

Posted By: Pat (11/09/2007 9:22:13 AM)
Comment: My comments- Those are beautiful uniforms, make the change - We would draft Alex over Leinart on mobility alone - Willis was a steal at #11, didn't look like a rookie in his first game - We showed nothing of our blitz packages in preseason, I was excited seeing the shifting LB's and seeing Willis/Lawson blow into the backfield - Brandon Williams is not a dynamic PR - Taylor Jacobs is a wasted roster spot, short striding, looks timid, no big play ability, doesn't come back to the ball - Special Teams played awesome, great coverage on kicks - Nolan is the man, looks great in the suit, and listening to his interviews, sounds like a guy I'd run through a wall for - Surpised they couldn't get VD open in space, and if he was being doubled, I'd think there would be more shots available downfield - Great confidence boost for Alex ! Nice Win!!

Posted By: Jason (11/09/2007 9:19:49 AM)
Comment: I know the whole passing game was thrown off by the Cards blitzes, but all I saw from Jackson and Jacobs was drops. Jackson had the one key catch on the final drive, but should have also had the TD pass. I think Lelie has got to get a chance. He caught everything thrown his way in the pre-season. If they are going to go 3 WR, it has to be Battle (underneath), Jackson (Middle-In) and Lelie (Middle-Out). Thrown in Davis and there is no way any secondary can cover them. Overall horribly called game by Hostler, never made the Cards pay for being blitz happy. If he doesn't start making teams pay, not only are they going to see 8 in the box but they are going to more and more blitz packages.

Posted By: Ninerfan22 (11/09/2007 9:09:30 AM)
Comment: Question regarding the face mask penalty on the final drive: We completed a 4 yard pass on 1st down and received a 5 yard facemask penalty. Why then, was it 1st and 1 when we lined up again? 5 yard facemasks are not automatic 1st downs, so it seems to me that it should've been 2nd and 1. Considering the fact that we eventually went to 4th and 1, this really stood out to me. Can someone help me out with this one? I've never seen this scenario before.

Posted By: Mike in SF (11/09/2007 9:05:07 AM)
Comment: Matt - I was on the sidelines before the game and watched from the stands and I am a little surprised that no one has mentioned how cold and windy it was on the field. All of Linehart and Smith's passes fluttered and got lost in the wind, yet no one has written/mentioned that. When I got home and watch the game on TIVO with the ESPN commentators - zero comments about the windy conditions. While Linehart and Smith are young and still growing into good NFL QBs, I have to think those conditions are a major reason neither was effective past 10 yards and both completed around 50%. A few more observations from the stands: P Willis is a beast and all over the field, Smith had very little time to set his feet until that last drive, Cards receivers (two of the leagues best) couldn't get open - Leinhart constantly had time but nowhere to throw the ball. Brandon Moore is much more effective as a situational player, Manny will chase down at least one play a game behind the line of scrimmage, Vernon was doubled the entire game, Gore looked rusty, let's hope the Cardinal's successful runs at the left side of our D-line (B.Y. and Manny's side) wasn't a weakness spotted on film (more the Cards having two new starters on their ride side). Next up - Playing in a dome against a Pace-less and Incognito-less Rams offensive line.

Posted By: Ninerfan22 (11/09/2007 9:03:26 AM)
Comment: I've got a question regarding the face mask penalty that occured on the final drive. Now, I've watched a lot of football in my time and like to think that I have a solid grasp on all of the rules, but I don't recall ever seeing what I saw last night. We completed a 4 yard pass, got a 5 yard penalty on top of that, yet when we lined up again, it was 1st and 1. Now, given the fact that a 5 yard facemask isn't an automatic 1st down, it seems to me that it should've been 2nd and 1. And given the fact that we eventually went to 4th and 1, this really stood out to me. Can someone help me understand this one?

Posted By: marc (11/09/2007 8:56:08 AM)
Comment: well it looks to me like baas played in the early 3rd quarter. i cant really tell, but it doesnt look like smiley.

Posted By: Dustin (11/09/2007 8:52:41 AM)
Comment: Lots of drops early, Gore, Jackson, etc. Playing calling was a little subject. Lots of running to the right side, very few to the left, I don't know why. We do have Allen on the left side remember. The AZ linebackers did exactly what the CHI lbs did, they watched Alex and Gore after every snap, judging on that it was easy to guess the play each and every time. Wasn't enought Play Action early to keep the LBs honest. We need to sell our plays better. Alex showed a lot of heart not giving up and making the throws in the end. You can tell he was nervous all night, all of his throws came with heat and with that all were high. Overall, we won, and thats what matters most. Bonus points for putting together the come from behind 4th quarter drive. Oh, side question, does anyone else think the running into the kicker rules should be reevaluated. I'm not sure what should be done, but I think its unfair for a player like Lewis was already in the air jumping to block the ball and the kicker, held up leg gets bumped and they call that. I think they need to put better judgement into those calls.

Posted By: Cody Pickett (11/09/2007 8:51:51 AM)
Comment: Except for the end-around on the last offensive play, Hostler's play calling was atrocious: Conservative, unimaginative, predictable, guaranteed to keep the Arizona D in its comfort zone. . . . To get Ariz out of its comfort zone, Hostler needed to call a few deep passes down sideline, off a short drop, where Smith's only options were to hit the receiver, or (if he was double covered) throw it away. And speaking of deep passes to stretch the D, where were Lelie & Davis? . . . This offensive game plan looked just like pre-season, where 49ers purportedly were deliberately "not showing anything". . . . My recommendation: Let Hostler remain on the field, but have someone else call the offensive plays from upstairs. . . . PS: I like the defensive play-calling - It too started out too conservative, but once we figured out what we could get away with whithout getting burned, the play-calling was creative & effective.

Posted By: Yvan (11/09/2007 8:50:12 AM)
Comment: Good lord (I live in Montreal, Canada), I almost fell asleep in the 4th quarter, good thing that Alex woke me up on the final drive. Maybe Mike should have a 2-minute clock just for Alex (i.e. Rainy game at Seattle, Last game against Denver and now yesterday). Tough to be a niners fan in the Eastern time zone :-)

Posted By: JohnL (11/09/2007 8:48:48 AM)
Comment: Two Points: First, the offensive line was terrible -- and not just against the blitz. The whole right side, and especially Smiley, was weak throughout. I'd like to see more Baas and better Staley. Second, the play-calling (till the Drive) was horrendous. Rarely did they spread receivers; no quick slants; and no mis-direction (I think the TD was the ONLY reverse). Hostler scares me with his lack of creativity (has he even thought of putting VD in motion?). Still, great defense, strong special teams (will be better when Williams stiops fair-catching everything), and a really great final drive -- and kudos to Alex on that!

Posted By: pearson (11/09/2007 8:41:04 AM)
Comment: Matt, why did we see so much of Billy Bajema and so little of Delanie Walker, after having seen him so much in preseason? Is the feeling that he is not ready as a blocker or did he do something to deserve a benching?

Posted By: Maurice in Stockton (11/09/2007 8:30:50 AM)
Comment: That last drive reminded me of the montana days...Those uniforms are HARD!!! cherry red and actual gold...none of this metalic gold that we use now.we need to go back to those unis.Matt-did you ever find out if the 9ers were really considering a uni change or was that just a rumor in one of ur past blogs?

Response: Yes, they're definitely considering a uniform change. --Matt M.

Posted By: Colfax Fan (11/09/2007 7:22:37 AM)
Comment: I agree with oneniner. This was game one. Having what looks like a very good defense does not suck. In a division that features running backs Alexander, Jackson, James and Gore, and receivers Bouldin, Fitzgerald, Branch, Holt and Bruce, it is important to have a solid D. The offense will get it together. They have to much talent to collectively play poorly for the season. The offense Coordinator will learn about his tendencies, and hopefully work to correct them and become more effective as the season continues. By the way, he also needs to get credit for the end around call at the end of the game, which was very creative and effective. The new defensive coordinator has Singletary and Nolan to lean on for questions. The O coordinator does not have many great offensive minds to lean on in the organization. I think that the NFC West is truly a wide open race. A win against a division opponent is huge. Now the offense owes the defense one. Go niners!

Posted By: SonocoNinerFan (11/09/2007 7:14:42 AM)
Comment: Way too many snap judgements and generalizations after one game. Kudos to the secondary and the kick/punt coverage teams. They were tight ALL NIGHT LONG. Willis started slow but had a MONSTER game. I can't help but think that being on the sideline is hurts an OC's ability to call a game. Matt- I know it's only one game, but do see a possible change with Hostler going back-up to the booth?

Response: No, Hostler is not going up to the booth. He's simply more comfortable on the sideline. By all accounts, QBs coach Frank Cignetti is very proficient up there. --Matt M.

Posted By: oneniner (11/09/2007 6:55:49 AM)
Comment: Can you please delete my last comment..... I don't think most of you are fans....you guys are blind...yes the offense was conservative but it was because of the constant blitz...and Djack even though didnt catch the td has some key catches during the game, there was no Vernon Davis because the cards made sure there was no vd, and i think when plays were called for VD we got ourselves in trouble because first Smith had no time and second VD was double covered and the check down Gore was dropping passes, it wasnt a ugly game, compared to the ravens 6 fumbles and the rams play on sunday or even the the seahawks play...you guys need to relax.....on defense we looked good, it was a disciplined defense, defense had to shut down to probowlers 4-22, 3-20 and keeping in mind they had good running game, the raiders had a better defense and couldn't stop the detroit receivers.....P. willis is a beast, D.Smith needs to be rotated more, and soap wasnt that great but overall we played toghether especially in the secondary which we have never done before...the one thing about this game is Smitthy, this guy is the real deal and i will take him over lenairt anytime....he kept his poise and can you believe he had no int, though he didn't throw the ball deep that much but with all the blitzing you will at least think he should have an int....great first game.....all of you guys yelling play calling should shut up, its not like they were playing against a college team, everybody in the universe knew smith had more reps with VD in the offseason, why wont you think they would put two guys on him all night, would you have prefered the arizona coach who ran the ball three times in the late minutes.......great game, huss even though it was conservative you stuck with your game plan of playing it safe against an agressive defense instead of just panicking like a rookie and throwing the ball downfield...geat job.....hey MATT i told you "show me the Jacobs"....so far he shows up in practice but not in games,...and battle looks great...am so happy for him (been watching him since notre dame), Robinson great block on the td...think about it guys... we are in a great shape, Gore, VD, Lielie had a no show ..can you imagine when they do show up... RAMS we are so ready for you ...bring it on

Posted By: jeremy (11/09/2007 6:41:05 AM)
Comment: Ashley Lelie where was he????What did this guy do to Mike Nolan? He has proven that he can play why keep him on the sideline? Can anyone please help me understand this one?

Response: By my count, Lelie played one snap. Through practices and all the offseason work, Taylor Jacobs won the No. 3 job, in Nolan's eyes. Of course, that could change if Lelie proves to Nolan he deserves the promotion. --Matt M.

Posted By: NinerFanStuckinDC (11/09/2007 6:26:38 AM)
Comment: Matt, are u going to do an article on Willis? He was phenomenal flying around last nite. I think the rest of the niner defense stepped it up to stay with is enthusiasm. I can't get over that play where he blew up the running back on the screen play in the 4th. Great first game for the young man.

Posted By: Jake (11/09/2007 6:06:56 AM)
Comment: A win is a win and it was a huge divisional win for the 49ers. The one thing I took from this game is that the 49ers punt coverage team is one of the fastest units I have ever seen. They are like wild horses getting after the kick returners. Keith Lewis penalty on roughing the kicker really hurt early, Brandon Williams gives us nothing in the return game but a fair catch, at least he doesn't fumble I guess. The offensive play calling was very predictable tonight, you knew Gore was getting the ball up the middle on every first down. THE 49ERS HAVE TO FIND A WAY TO GET VERNON DAVIS THE BALL INSIDE THE 20 OR HE WILL BE THE HIGHEST DRAFTED MOST EXPENSIVE RUN BLOCKING TIGHT END IN NFL HISTORY. THE GUY IS NON-EXISTENT RIGHT NOW! COACHING STAFF GET A LITTLE CREATIVE!

Posted By: BHF (11/09/2007 5:38:00 AM)
Comment: Very disappointed with the OL. They were not picking up the Cardinal blitz as Smith was getting hit all night. That said Alex earns huge respect points with his teammates with that last drive.

Response: You can't blame it all on the offensive line. The Cardinals were bringing more bodies than the 49ers could block, on occasion. I can think of one sack where Gore did a nice job of picking up a linebacker up the middle. But the linebacker got back on his feet and still got to Smith. --Matt M.

Posted By: Darrell 'man o steel' Jackson (11/09/2007 3:01:50 AM)
Comment: I've got to say I'm not too impressed with Darrell Jackson. Sure he had a couple of decent catches, but when it mattered, he showed no heart. At one point early in the third the niners were in the red zone, poised to score. An alex smith 3rd down pass appears to whistle harmlessly through the back of the end zone. At first it seemed as if it was just the usual from smith, after all, he hadn't been lighting it up from the get go. Then the replay comes on and shows Jackson streaking across the endzone and the ball is perfectly placed. As Jackson reaches the critical point, he jumps lamely and half heartedly extends his arms. This was the most glaring, and embarrassing, but the other drops hurt just as much. I can see why he was let go.

Posted By: Krimzen&Gold (11/09/2007 2:45:21 AM)
Comment: Can someone PLEASE ask Nolan why he insists on starting Derek Smith over Brandon Moore. Screw tackle stats, Smith was missing tackles all over the place, and let Matt freaking Leinart outrun him several times. How about the play when he was covering the back out of the flat and instead of tackling him when he caught the ball he just stood there and watched him run for a 1st down? Derek Smith is NOT a good player. Brandon Moore had tackling problems in pre-season, but he looked much better tonight. He isn't very fast himself, but at least when he hits someone they drop, and don't drag him for 5 yards like Derek Smith lets them.

Posted By: marc (11/09/2007 2:19:56 AM)
Comment: i watched this game twice already....my initial thots(these) still stand. sorry about the language the first time. -when we cant run the ball, we cant do anything else -michael lewis actually covered well tonight, that is his weak spot -patrick willis is beastly.he could have decapitated leinart. he doesnt miss tackles at all. his first tackle was a forced fumble. -walt harris played lights out -nate clements gave up 3 passes for a total of 19 yards against 2 great receivers. he was thrown at 10 times i believe. -last year we BITE on the flea flicker. not this year. -our defense played great. we did well against a very good back. james got every yard he could. under 4.0 a carry. ill take that. -manny lawson was everywhere. him and willis r beastly. lawson was great when they ran at him and away from him. -banta cain looked TERRIBLE vs the run in the first half, in the 2nd he was very good -phantom call on BY. it ws a 5 yard facemask. they call it 5 and its 3rd and 9 at SF 47. huge bad call -d jack did well. his drop in the end zone was a very tough catch to make over the shoulder. not a biggie. -aubrtayo franklin played well. -derek smith played well against the run. very good game. he is the reason willis is free for the tackles. he does the dirty work. -special teams was superb. -we still need a better pass rush -keith lewis makes bone head plays. period. -gore had nowhere to run. at all.smiley played like shit. -when BAAS played he was far more effective than smiley. -joe staley got beat 1 time. it was very costly but he did great vs a great pass rusher. -frank gore is every bit responsible for that last drive as alex was. did u see his blitz pick ups? amazing. -battle wont fumble again this year. fluke. -VD was nonexistent. not his fault tho. -play calling was bad.we always run screens in 3rd and long and also late in the half..pisses me off. -we stopped a great passing attack. -hudson looked very good in the secondary -spencer played ok. didnt give up the big play. -huge win to start the year. it was ugly but a win is a win its not how, but how many

Response: Thanks for your observations. You must have better eyes than me, because I never saw Baas on the field. Please let me know when you saw him play. --Matt M.

Posted By: marc (11/09/2007 1:29:05 AM)
Comment: excuse my language. that was copy and pasted. sorry if i offended. but yes i watched it twice. u kno ppl have DVRs nowadays. with the power of that plus a fast forward button it can happen. and raider blog??? wtf?? i broke the game down pretty well i believe.

Response: Mark, I deleted your previous message because of the language. Please edit and re-submit. Thank you. --Matt M.

Posted By: MT (11/09/2007 1:28:48 AM)
Comment: Anyone else notice how virtually all of Smith's passes were checkdowns? Doesn't that mean he's gone through his progression and receivers 1, 2 and 3 were, for whatever reason, unable to evoke Smith's actually throwing the ball? There was a play in the 3rd quarter where he threw a checkdown to Norris over the middle for about 4 yards. On the replay they showed it from the overhead camera, the one that is about 15 feet above the field, behind the offense. You could Vernon Davis 15-20 yards down the middle with about 3 yards separation from an Arizona DB. I think Smith's problem, and the 49ers offense's problem is not Hostler's play-calling, but is more that Smith is tentative, prone to panic and just looks for the easy checkdown for 3 yards. Smith, on almost every passing play, makes motions as if he's about to throw - not pump-fakes - just nervous, jittery and indecisive. It seems, when watching replays that he is continually missing open receivers. I really think the missing pieces for the Niners are D-line talent, receiver talent and QB talent. Until they have upgrades in those three areas (which could come from individual improvement, as opposed to trades, drafting, and free agents) they will be destined to be mediocre and aggravating. The O-line seemed pretty good to me for the most part (with the obvious exception of Staley getting beat for the sack and fumble.) I just think Smith takes waaay too long to find an open target and throw. No O-line can protect for 7-8 seconds - unless it's a team that plays the Niners pass-rushless D-line.

Posted By: Brian (11/09/2007 1:25:38 AM)
Comment: When are we going to learn to let Smith throw the football? We let him throw early in the preseason and then out of nowhere we abandon this strategy. When we are desperate, we let Smith throw at the end and he does great just like EVERY time when we allow him to throw.

Posted By: Alex Smith is My Hero (11/09/2007 1:08:37 AM)
Comment: Wow! Matt, do you know if they will re-air this game anytime soon? marc, he's right, please tone down the language.

Response: I don't know who would want to re-air it. Let's face it, it was a horrible game to watch for all but the final eight minutes. --Matt M.

Posted By: jeremy (11/09/2007 1:02:57 AM)
Comment: OMG we have a long way to go but i will say this if the defence and cont. to play that hard we will win at least 8 games. Play calling i did not like at all but i give the Arizona team credit for playing good D.Where was Ashley Lelie man if he would of been out there we could have been able to look down field a little more

Posted By: marc is lying (11/09/2007 12:55:49 AM)
Comment: marc, the game just ended an hour ago! How can you have already watched it twice? Keep it real or go back to your Raider blog!

Posted By: Gore_is_a_Beast! (11/09/2007 12:52:18 AM)
Comment: I really feel like the Arizona defense was geared to stop the run today and our offense didn't take advantage of that with a solid passing attack. I feel like they let Gore down. What are your thoughts on that? Also, why didn't Alex get the ball more into Vernon Davis' hands? The man is so fast a linebacker covering him should be a mismatch.

Posted By: 49erAli (11/09/2007 12:52:09 AM)
Comment: The Good: Our DEFENSE was amazing! Clements, and Willis look outstanding! And could this be the game that starts it all for Alex Smith? (ie could he be the next comeback kid)? The Bad: Offensive play calling & blocking was horrendous! Could Kwame Harris be one of the reasons we ran so well last year? The Ugly: The refs made a lot of bad calls... 15yd face mask on B.Y. and alot of holding non-calls against him, they missed the intentional grounding against Leinhart, and what was that 15yd Unsportsmanlike conduct against Roman?

Posted By: Cyrus (11/09/2007 12:45:42 AM)
Comment: Matt, I don't know if you're free to comment on coaching tendencies, especially this early in the season, but it sure seems to me that Hostler has some Mooch in him. After every 1st down incompletion, 2nd down was a running play that set up 3rd and long. How would you rate Hostler's play calling as a whole?

Posted By: Ima Ninerfan (11/09/2007 12:45:27 AM)
Comment: Wow! What a game! I need help! My tivo screwed up and recorded espn2 (only got the 1st few minutes of the game)! Do you know if the game will re-air at all?

Posted By: Aaron (11/09/2007 12:41:03 AM)
Comment: Patrick Willis was un-freaking-believable. Its amazing that no one seems to be talking about this kid because every time I see him I become more and more convinced he is the next great MLB. Matt, what were the overall impressions of Willis' debut? How long before teams start to gameplan for him? This kid is going to need a nickname quick, fast, and in a hurry. I've been working on it for the last week and haven't come up with anything good. Any thoughts?

Posted By: FunkTaFyde (11/09/2007 12:40:37 AM)
Comment: They say winning is the best perfume. God, I hope so because our offense stunk so bad I need a shower. We've got a lot of work to do in a short week if we're going to beat St Louis.

Posted By: Tyler (11/09/2007 12:38:04 AM)
Comment: Way to tell it like it is Matt. Did it seem like Hostler had jitters in his first game, lacked vision being on the field, or every available Niner had to pick up the blitz cause the play calling seemed a bit unimaginative. Gore picked up the blitz really well, but was hardly dumped the ball on screens with Allen and JJ pulling. I am so stoked Smith pulled it out, but we need to work out the glitches in our offense. What was up with DJackson tonight? He looked really flat.

Posted By: Ken (11/09/2007 12:37:29 AM)
Comment: What's wrong with Hostler, his play calling is so conservative and predictive. The OL is terrible at pass blocking. Alex Smith was running for his life!

Response: If there weren’t so many dropped passes, poorly thrown passes and missed blocking assignments, your opinion about the first-year offensive coordinator might be a lot different. --Matt M.

Posted By: michael (11/09/2007 12:34:56 AM)
Comment: The Niners showed a lot of heart tonite.Alex kept his cool when it mattered. Nolan has molded a team that is disciplined and united in adversity.

Posted By: dexdah (11/09/2007 12:34:35 AM)
Comment: Thanks Matt! It was a great win. Kudos to Manusky for the outstanding defense. Key run by Smith on 4th down of last drive. Up next, beat rams.