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NO-BITE NINERS / Disappointed defense can't get off field
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
Now into the meat of their early schedule, the 49ers suddenly are gumming their food, having left their choppers in a glass of water on the nightstand. This is a team that clearly needs its teeth, canines preferably sharpened. Sunday's 30-21 loss to the New...

49ers notes: WRs didn't give O'Sullivan much help
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
J.T. O'Sullivan's receivers did him no favors in the 49ers' 30-21 loss to New England on Sunday. In a game with precious little offense by the 49ers, tight ends Delanie Walker and Vernon Davis and wide receiver Arnaz Battle did not help matters by dropping...

49ers handed loss by New England
Philly.com | October 06, 2008
That has become the ongoing story for Eagles kicker David Akers every time he attempts a field goal of 45 yards or more.

JAWS OF DEFEAT / S.F. defense looks toothless in loss to Pats
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
Now into the meat of their early schedule, the 49ers suddenly are gumming their food, having left their choppers in a glass of water on the nightstand. This is a team that clearly needs its teeth, canines preferably sharpened. Sunday's 30-21 loss to the New...

Receivers didn't give O'Sullivan much help
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
J.T. O'Sullivan's receivers did him no favors in the 49ers' 30-21 loss to New England on Sunday. In a game with precious little offense by the 49ers, tight ends Delanie Walker and Vernon Davis and wide receiver Arnaz Battle did not help matters by dropping...

Patriots doing what 49ers can only talk about
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
The Patriots lined up on 4th-and-goal from the 2 on Sunday, completely undaunted by the fact that they had moved backward a yard on the previous two plays. They were up by three points already, with more than a quarter left to play, so they didn't absolutely...

Tough to win games without having the ball
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
It is 5:30 p.m. Candlestick Park is nearly empty, the seagulls have completed their late-afternoon meal, the yellow jackets who guard the field from the ravages of civilian shoes have left ... ... and the 49ers' defense is still on the field, waiting for...

NFL MONDAY / Nancy Gay's look at Week 5
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
QUICK SLANTS You don't want to be ... - QB Sage Rosenfels, Texans: The Colts scored 21 fourth quarter points for the 31-27 comeback win in Houston, and Rosenfels - subbing for an ill Matt Schaub - was the target of all the boos. Rosenfels turned the...

49ers schedule
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
DateOpponentTime/Res9/7ArizonaL, 23-139/14at SeattleW, 33-30 OT 9/21DetroitW, 31-139/28at New OrleansL, 31-1710/5New EnglandL, 30-2110/12Philadelphia1:15 p.m.10/19at N.Y. Giants10 a.m.10/26Seattle1:15 p.m.11/2Bye11/10at Arizona5:30 p.m.11/16St. Louis1:05...

Patriots 30, 49ers 21 / Scoring summary
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
First Quarter - SF: Gore 16 pass from O'Sullivan (Nedney kick), 8:57. Drive: 4 plays, 30 yards, 1:35. Key plays: Clements 13 punt return; O'Neal 5-yard defensive holding penalty on 3rd-and-2. 49ers 7, New England 0. Score: 49ers 7, Patriots 0 -- NE:...

Patriots 30, 49ers 21 / GAME REVIEW
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
Offense RATING: (SNOOZING VIEWER) With a terrible time of possession differential, the 49ers were not able to do much after the first quarter. J.T. O'Sullivan looked sharp in throwing three touchdown passes, but he was constantly harried after that. The 49ers...

49ers have no answer to Patriots' ground game
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
The Patriots pounded out 144 yards rushing led by a relay team of four running backs who did everything but pass a baton. The backs and their line outmuscled the 49ers, and maybe they even had a ghost pushing behind them. A what? "I thought we had a good...

FROM THE INSIDER
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
Excerpts from Kevin Lynch's Niner Insider blog on sfgate.com during Sunday's game: Once again, it's the secondary that lets the 49ers down. It is the most experienced secondary in the league, but lack of speed could be an issue. - - - I don't know what the...

NOW WHAT? / Eagles look for hearts in S.F.
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
After Sunday's 23-17 home loss to Washington, the Eagles are the only NFC East team with a losing record and are 21/2 games behind the division-leading Giants. They were the only NFC East team to miss the playoffs in 2007, finishing last, and now they are in...

FOREVER EIGHT / Hall of Fame QB gets to see jersey retired
San Francisco Chronicle | October 06, 2008
Steve Young took it all in, with a small army of family members and 18 of his former 49ers teammates behind him, as a sign commemorating the retirement of his jersey was revealed in the southeast corner of the upper deck on Sunday. The sign was placed next to...

Patriots get rest in Bay Area after beating Niners
Boston Globe | October 06, 2008
The first stop on the New England Patriots' tour of California was a smashing success, and now they're hoping a week in the Bay Area will put them in position to be a big hit in San Diego and beyond.

Pats get back to winning ways, 30-21 over 49ers
Boston Globe | October 06, 2008
Ever since Tom Brady went down with a season-ending knee injury, the deep-strike New England Patriots had turned into a mostly dink-and-dunk offense.

Problems just never stopped for the Niners
Boston Globe | October 06, 2008
SAN FRANCISCO - This one could be distilled into the simplest of explanations. When the Patriots had the ball, the 49ers didn't stop them. When the 49ers had the ball, the Patriots did stop them. Who said football was that hard to understand?

Pats back to winning ways, punch out 49ers 30-21
USA Today | October 05, 2008
From Randy Moss' dynamic 66-yard touchdown catch to Kevin Faulk's score on a direct snap, the New England Patriots returned to ...

Pats-49ers analysis: First things first
Patriots.com | October 05, 2008
In a game of firsts, the Patriots got back to doing what they do best in beating the San Francisco 49ers 30-21.

Patriots at 49ers: Game Notes
Patriots.com | October 05, 2008
New England Patriots moves to 3-1 on the season with a 30-21 win over the San Francisco 49ers. The following are notes from the game.

Patriots rebound with 30-21 win over 49ers
Patriots.com | October 05, 2008
The New England Patriots overcame a 14-7 deficit to beat the 49ers going away, 30-21 in a game in which New England dominated the second half in all aspects.

49ers Postgame Quotes - 10/5/2008
Patriots.com | October 05, 2008
San Francisco 49ers players comment on their loss to the New England Patriots at Candlestick Park on Sunday, October 5, 2008.

Looking back at Steve Young's 49er career: No. 8's Top 8 games
San Francisco Chronicle | October 05, 2008
He was a unique NFL player and the memories and moments he crafted are a similarly one of a kind, as befits the only left-handed quarterback in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. When the 49ers retire Steve Young's No. 8 jersey today at halftime of their game...

No Brady, but Patriots still pose big challenge
San Francisco Chronicle | October 05, 2008
This was supposed to have been the day that Tom Brady, the local boy who made very, very good, returned to San Francisco to face the team he rooted for while growing up in San Mateo. What a scene it would have been, with pockets of Brady-philes scattered...

Patriots at 49ers (1:15, Ch. 5)
San Francisco Chronicle | October 05, 2008
49ers today Who: Patriots vs. 49ers Where: Candlestick Park When: 1:15 p.m. TV/Radio: Channel: 5 Channel: 13 Channel: 46 /107.7 FM, 680 AM WHAT'S ON THE LINE The 49ers want to prove their embarrassing loss at New Orleans was the exception, not the beginning...

Top 8 moments in terrific career
San Francisco Chronicle | October 05, 2008
He was a unique player in the history of the NFL and the memories and moments he crafted similarly are one of a kind, as befits the only left-handed quarterback in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. When the 49ers retire Steve Young's No. 8 jersey today at...

49ers today
San Francisco Chronicle | October 05, 2008
49ers today Who: Patriots vs. 49ers Where: Candlestick Park When: 1:15 p.m. TV/Radio: Channel: 5 Channel: 13 Channel: 46 /107.7, 680 WHAT'S ON THE LINE The 49ers want to prove their embarrassing loss at New Orleans was the exception, not the beginning of the...

Pats get back to winning ways, 30-21 over 49ers
Boston Globe | October 05, 2008
Randy Moss streaked downfield with more urgency than he ever showed during two years playing on the other side of the Bay, grabbing Matt Cassel's stellar throw and speeding away for a score before the first quarter was even half over.

Pats get back to winning ways, 30-21 over 49ers
Boston Globe | October 05, 2008
From Randy Moss' dynamic 66-yard touchdown catch to Kevin Faulk's score on a direct snap, the New England Patriots returned to their usual regular-season form in an unusual place.

Banta-Cain is off the bench, back into the fire for 49ers
San Francisco Chronicle | October 04, 2008
So far, this season has been one big DNP for TB-C. Actually, make that IA, as in inactive. A year ago, Tully Banta-Cain was a 10-game starter for the 49ers at outside linebacker in his first year with the club. It was a triumphant return for Banta-Cain, a Bay...

Off the bench, back into the fire
San Francisco Chronicle | October 04, 2008
So far, this season has been one big DNP for TB-C. Actually, make that IA, as in inactive. A year ago, Tully Banta-Cain was a 10-game starter for the 49ers at outside linebacker in his first year with the club. It was a triumphant return for Banta-Cain, a Bay...

O'Sullivan takes a step back
San Francisco Chronicle | October 03, 2008
Ever since Mike Martz arrived in Santa Clara with his bailout plan for what had been the most bankrupt offense in the NFL and installed J.T. O'Sullivan as his starting quarterback, the practice field has seen more long balls than at any time in the facility's...

Gore ready for match of wits
San Francisco Chronicle | October 03, 2008
Playing in Mike Martz's offense and leading the league in yards from scrimmage has running back Frank Gore in a fine mood these days. It doesn't take much to make him happy. Talking about facing the New England Patriots on Sunday and their "genius" of a coach...

O'Sullivan takes a step back
San Francisco Chronicle | October 02, 2008
Ever since Mike Martz arrived in Santa Clara with his bailout plan for what had been the most bankrupt offense in the NFL and installed J.T. O'Sullivan as his starting quarterback, the practice field has seen more long balls than at any time in the facility's...

Gore ready for match of wits
San Francisco Chronicle | October 02, 2008
Playing in Mike Martz's offense and leading the league in yards from scrimmage has running back Frank Gore in a fine mood these days. It doesn't take much to make him happy. Talking about facing the New England Patriots on Sunday and their "genius" of a coach...

49ers rookie Morgan regaining energy after infection
San Francisco Chronicle | October 02, 2008
It's fair to say Josh Morgan's rookie season did not get off to the most promising of starts. The wide receiver taken in the sixth round from Virginia Tech picked up a staph infection in the preseason and lost weight and energy as a result. He's starting to...

Sims has escaped the 'circus' that is Oakland
San Francisco Chronicle | October 02, 2008
After toiling nine years in Oakland, tackle Barry Sims is well qualified to speak of life as a Raider. Not that he was particularly eager to do so Wednesday, however. Nevertheless, the 49ers' current starting right tackle was asked about the latest...

Fantasy Man: Help is here for hurting owners
San Francisco Chronicle | October 02, 2008
If LaDainian Tomlinson hadn't scored those two touchdowns in the fourth quarter against the Raiders ... If you had Brett Favre on your bench last week ... Could this have been you? A 35-year-old man was arrested in Punta Gorda, Fla., on Monday morning after...

Patriots - 49ers Injury Report - 10/1/2008
Patriots.com | October 01, 2008
The New England Patriots (2-1) and the San Francisco 49ers (2-2) have announced the following player injuries and practice particpation for Wednesday, October 1, 2008.

49ers rookie Morgan regaining energy after infection
San Francisco Chronicle | October 01, 2008
It's fair to say Josh Morgan's rookie season did not get off to the most promising of starts. The wide receiver taken in the sixth round from Virginia Tech picked up a staph infection in the preseason and lost weight and energy as a result. He's starting to...

Fantasy Man: Help is here for hurting owners
San Francisco Chronicle | October 01, 2008
If LaDainian Tomlinson hadn't scored those two touchdowns in the fourth quarter against the Raiders ... If you had Brett Favre on your bench last week ... Could this have been you? A 35-year-old man was arrested in Punta Gorda, Fla., on Monday morning after...

Sims has escaped the 'circus' that is Oakland
San Francisco Chronicle | October 01, 2008
After toiling nine years in Oakland, tackle Barry Sims is well qualified to speak of life as a Raider. Not that he was particularly eager to do so Wednesday, however. Nevertheless, the 49ers' current starting right tackle was asked about the latest...

Knapp: 49ers, Raiders Bar Set Pretty Low
San Francisco Chronicle | September 30, 2008
After another blowout win over the Falcons, Steve Young often talked about the bar, and he wasn't referring to his law degree. He meant the standard that the 49ers set for themselves. They went into each week expecting not merely to win, but to find moments...

Saints liked to hug O'Sullivan
San Francisco Chronicle | September 30, 2008
Maybe J.T. O'Sullivan again was holding onto the ball too long. Maybe his receivers weren't getting separation as quickly as they should. In any case, the 49ers' pass protection leaked like a bad trumpet valve in New Orleans. O'Sullivan was sacked six times...

Emotion got the better of tight end Davis
San Francisco Chronicle | September 30, 2008
Vernon Davis said Monday he wasn't screaming at the coaches to send more passes his way Sunday after he made his only catch. It only looked that way. "It was just me being me," he said. The tight end explained, "I was just fired up. I didn't say anything to...

Patriots to play Niners in San Francisco
Patriots.com | September 29, 2008
The Patriots return to action following their bye week with an Oct. 5 matchup against the 49ers in San Francisco. New England will play the 49ers on the road for the first time since 1995 and for just the fourth time overall.

Nancy Gay: O'Sullivan's inexperience shows
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
There will be a game soon where J.T. O'Sullivan will go the way of Carson Palmer - to the training room in the middle of a game, for an X-ray or an MRI, then off to the sideline or worse, injured reserve. The 49ers' quarterback cannot continue to sustain...

49ers notes: No one played well
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
Mike Nolan's postgame comments after his team lost to the Saints 31-17 on Sunday were simple and stuck to a recurring theme. "We didn't play well in any of the three areas - offense, defense or special teams," the 49ers' coach said. "With turnovers and...

No pressure on cool Brees
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
No rush to the passer With all his passing yards and long completions and gaudy passer rating, there was still a big, fat zero by Drew Brees' name on the final statistics Sunday. As in, number of times sacked - zero. He put the ball up 35 times, and the 49ers...

Up next for the 49ers: New England
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
You don't want to play the Patriots. You don't want to face a team that was crushed 38-13 by the Dolphins - the Dolphins! - on Sept. 21, handing New England its worst home loss in 10 years and ending the Pats' 21-game regular-season winning streak. Meaning,...

49ers game review
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
GAME REVIEW Offense RATING: (SNOOZING VIEWER) The 49ers did some good things against the Saints but not nearly enough of them. They had 312 total yards, converted on fourth down and made a two-point conversion, and Frank Gore averaged 5.1 yards per carry. But...

Brees, Saints a reality check for Niners
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
Taking the long and upbeat view, the 49ers remain tied for the lead in the NFC West after the first quarter of the season is in the books. Granted, it's not much of a division with the 49ers and Cardinals at the top at 2-2 after each team was torched by the...

SAINTS 31, 49ERS 17 / REALITY CHECK / Niners take a step back in New Orleans
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
Taking the long and upbeat view, the 49ers remain tied for the lead in the NFC West after the first quarter of the season is in the books. Granted, it's not much of a division with the 49ers and Cardinals at the top at 2-2 after each team was torched by the...

No pressure on cool Brees
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
With all his passing yards and long completions and gaudy passer rating, there was still a big, fat zero by Drew Brees' name on the final statistics Sunday. As in, number of times sacked - zero. He put the ball up 35 times, and the 49ers scarcely got a hand...

SAINTS 31, 49ERS 17 / Scoring summary
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
Score by quarter 49ers3338- 17Saints021010- 31 First Quarter - SF: FG Nedney 47, 7:22. Drive: 10 plays, 63 yards, 5:26. Key plays: O'Sullivan 9 pass to Battle; O'Sullivan 23 and 9 passes to Bruce; O'Sullivan 10 pass to Morgan. Score: 49ers 3, Saints 0...

SAINTS 31, 49ERS 17 / GAME REVIEW
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
Offense RATING: (SNOOZING VIEWER) The 49ers did some good things against the Saints but not nearly enough of them. They had 312 total yards, converted on fourth down and made a two-point conversion, and Frank Gore averaged 5.1 yards per carry. But two end-...

NOW WHAT? / Beware of angry Patriots
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
You don't want to play the Patriots. You don't want to face a team that was crushed 38-13 by the Dolphins - the Dolphins! - on Sept. 21, handing New England its worst home loss in 10 years and ending the Pats' 21-game regular-season winning streak. Meaning,...

49ers schedule
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
DateOpponentTime/Res9/7ArizonaL, 23-139/14at SeattleW, 33-30 OT 9/21DetroitW, 31-139/28at New OrleansL, 31-1710/5New England1:15 p.m.10/12Philadelphia1:15 p.m.10/19at N.Y. Giants10 a.m.10/26Seattle1:15 p.m.11/2Bye11/10at Arizona5:30 p.m.11/16St. Louis1:05...

New Orleans throttles O'Sullivan
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
J.T. O'Sullivan threw two interceptions and lost a fumble in New Orleans on Sunday. Above, he releases one of his 14 fourth-quarter passes. Six were completed. At far left, he gets instruction from offensive coordinator Mike Martz just before the half. At...

FROM THE INSIDER
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
Excerpts from Kevin Lynch's Niners Insider blog on sfgate.com during Sunday's game The words of Mike Nolan must be ringing inside the helmet of O'Sullivan. He said this would be his greatest challenge and O'Sullivan is struggling. He just fumbled because he...

Notebook: No one played well
San Francisco Chronicle | September 29, 2008
Mike Nolan's postgame comments after his team lost to the Saints 31-17 on Sunday were simple and stuck to a recurring theme. "We didn't play well in any of the three areas - offense, defense or special teams," the 49ers' coach said. "With turnovers and...

Nolan fumes after 49ers' dissection
Biloxi Sun Herald | September 29, 2008
NEW ORLEANS - The San Francisco 49ers had lost four straight to the New Orleans Saints before taking the Louisiana Superdome field on Sunday afternoon.

Saints, McAllister roll over 49ers 31-17
USA Today | September 28, 2008
New Orleans running back Deuce McAllister gained 83 yards, converting key third downs and scoring his first touchdown, and the ...

49ers today
San Francisco Chronicle | September 28, 2008
Who: 49ers at Saints Where: New Orleans When: 10 a.m. TV/Radio: Channel: 2 Channel: 40 /1050, 107.7 WHAT'S ON THE LINE For the 49ers, it's a chance to earn respect around the league as well as win three games in the same month for the first time since 1998....

Safety Roman heads home, but it won't be a holiday
San Francisco Chronicle | September 28, 2008
For only the second time in his nine-year career in the NFL, Mark Roman gets to play a game in his home state when the 49ers face the Saints in the Superdome. The mere mention of the game set Roman off on a wistful tangent as the 49ers' free safety reveled...

Reggie Bush expects to be in 49ers' cross-hairs
Biloxi Sun Herald | September 28, 2008
A stalker will follow New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush everywhere he goes Sunday afternoon.

49ers today
San Francisco Chronicle | September 27, 2008
Who: 49ers at Saints Where: New Orleans When: 10 a.m. TV/Radio: Channel: 2 Channel: 40 /1050, 107.7 WHAT'S ON THE LINE For the 49ers, it's a chance to earn respect around the league as well as win three games in the same month for the first time since 1998....

Safety Roman heads home, but it won't be a holiday
San Francisco Chronicle | September 27, 2008
For only the second time in his nine-year career in the NFL, Mark Roman gets to play a game in his home state when the 49ers face the Saints in the Superdome. The mere mention of the game set Roman off on a wistful tangent as the 49ers' free safety reveled...

Pass rusher Green has found a home on 49ers roster
San Francisco Chronicle | September 27, 2008
There are only two players in the NFL from the University of Central Missouri, which was known as Central Missouri State, a Division II school, until 2006, and both play for the 49ers. One of the Mules was tight end Delanie Walker, who has become a dangerous...

49ers start to play defense on offense
San Francisco Chronicle | September 26, 2008
"Symbiosis" is not a word commonly heard in NFL locker rooms, and indeed, it wasn't this week as the 49ers prepared to play the Saints on Sunday in the Superdome. Nonetheless, San Francisco will seek symbiosis from their offense and defense as the one tries...

This week's picks
San Francisco Chronicle | September 26, 2008
GAME OF THE WEEK Redskins (2-1) at Cowboys (3-0), 1:15 p.m. Sunday A great clash in the league's best division through Week 3. Redskins QB Jason Campbell is thriving in coach Jim Zorn's scheme. But the Cowboys are scoring at an impressive clip each week. Not...

Young gets his day in sun next month
San Francisco Chronicle | September 26, 2008
The 49ers are running out of jersey numbers. They lost another one Thursday with the announcement that Steve Young's No. 8 will be retired at halftime of San Francisco's game against New England on Oct. 5 at Candlestick Park. Young's will be the 11th jersey...

NFL News: Steve Young's jersey being retired by the 49ers
Kansas City Star | September 26, 2008
SANTA CLARA, Calif.| Steve Young, a two-time league MVP, will be honored by the San Francisco 49ers when the team retires his No. 8 jersey at halftime of the team’s game against New England on Oct. 5.

Niners to retire Steve Young's No. 8
San Francisco Chronicle | September 25, 2008
The San Francisco 49ers will retire Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young's No. 8 jersey in a halftime ceremony during their game against New England on Oct. 5. Young is a two-time league MVP who led San Francisco to its fifth NFL title in the 1995 Super Bowl,...

49ers start to play defense on offense
San Francisco Chronicle | September 25, 2008
"Symbiosis" is not a word commonly heard in NFL locker rooms, and indeed, it wasn't this week as the 49ers prepared to play the Saints on Sunday in the Superdome. Nonetheless, San Francisco will seek symbiosis from their offense and defense as the one tries...

Young gets his day in sun next month
San Francisco Chronicle | September 25, 2008
The 49ers are running out of jersey numbers. They lost another one Thursday with the announcement that Steve Young's No. 8 will be retired at halftime of San Francisco's game against New England on Oct. 5 at Candlestick Park. Young's will be the 11th jersey...

Serving notice on NFL / 49ers are brimming with confidence after beating Lions
San Francisco Chronicle | September 25, 2008
Frank Gore was on a roll. He and his teammates are together, focused, "as one." He said they love offensive coordinator Mike Martz and believe in themselves as never before. And then he got a little extra burst, just as he does on the field. "If we get...

First pick was special for 49ers cornerback
San Francisco Chronicle | September 25, 2008
Whether the subject is as lofty as love or as pragmatic as picking off a pass, you always remember your first. Thus, Tarell Brown has plans for what to do with the ball that represents his first interception in the NFL. "I dedicate that ball to my parents,"...

GIANTS ON DECK
San Francisco Chronicle | September 25, 2008
TODAY Opponent: Rockies Time: 7:15 p.m. TV: CSNBA Pitchers: De La Rosa (9-8) vs. Zito (10-16) FRIDAY Opponent: Dodgers Time: 7:35 p.m. TV: Channel: 11 Pitchers: Lowe (14-11) vs. Hennessey (1-2) SATURDAY Opponent: Dodgers Time: 6:05 TV: CSNBA Pitchers: Kuroda (...

Fantasy Man: Time to start trading
San Francisco Chronicle | September 25, 2008
Most fantasy leagues are won with trades, and this week is a great time to start making some with so many star players off to slow starts and the first bye week staring some owners in the face. Buy low and sell high is what you want to do, but sometimes you...

Mutual respect between 49ers, Saints
San Francisco Chronicle | September 25, 2008
In each of the last two seasons the Saints managed to make short work of the 49ers, winning 34-10 in 2006 and 31-10 in '07 to account for two of Sean Payton's 18 wins as an NFL head coach. Payton sees a better 49ers team in 2008. "We've got a ton of respect...

Serving notice on NFL / 49ers are brimming with confidence after beating Lions
San Francisco Chronicle | September 24, 2008
Frank Gore was on a roll. He and his teammates are together, focused, "as one." He said they love offensive coordinator Mike Martz and believe in themselves as never before. And then he got a little extra burst, just as he does on the field. "If we get...

Spencer's season to end with knee surgery
San Francisco Chronicle | September 24, 2008
When the 49ers kept 12 defensive backs on their 53-man roster, it seemed like an inordinate number. Not anymore. Cornerback Shawntae Spencer will undergo season-ending surgery today to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, the team...

NFC West: Risk at QB paying off for 49ers
Kansas City Star | September 23, 2008
One thing about the National Football League is that it is a league of copycats. If one team finds success a certain way, other teams are sure to try it themselves.

49ers' "Cowboy" gets game ball
San Francisco Chronicle | September 23, 2008
At first, 49ers coach Mike Nolan wasn't going to award a game ball after Sunday's 31-13 win over the Lions. So many players had made important plays, he told the team in the locker room, that it wouldn't be fair until he had seen the video of the game....

Spencer's season to end with knee surgery
San Francisco Chronicle | September 23, 2008
When the 49ers kept 12 defensive backs on their 53-man roster, it seemed like an inordinate number. Not anymore. Cornerback Shawntae Spencer will undergo season-ending surgery today to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, the team...

NFL: 49ers O'Sullivan's rapid ascent continues (Honolulu Advertiser)
Yahoo! News | September 22, 2008
SAN FRANCISCO The prolific career at Jesuit High in Sacramento. The touchdown factory he supervised at UC Davis. The muscular arm, the nimble footwork, the quick release, the quicker mind.

Ostler: Martz/O'Sullivan combo quietly making a statement
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
Mike Martz, as usual, chose not to speak to the media after Sunday's game, in which the 49ers Martzinized the Detroit Lions 31-13. But the 49ers' offensive coordinator did release a prepared statement: "Mwah-hah-hah-hah!" Just kidding. Martz is keeping a low...

Lions not surprised by what Martz threw at them
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
Of course the Lions saw this coming. They know what goes on inside Mike Martz's ticking brain. It might be exasperating to work with him, but he is an offensive savant, the crazy, mad, vindictive genius who once made their offense somewhat effective. That's...

Martz/O'Sullivan combo quietly making a statement
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
Mike Martz, as usual, chose not to speak to the media after Sunday's game, in which the 49ers Martz-inized the Detroit Lions 31-13. The 49ers' offensive coordinator did release a prepared statement: "Mwah-hah-hah-hah!" Just kidding. Martz is keeping a low...

49ERS 31, LIONS 13 / AS GOOD AS THEY GET / Most lopsided victory since Nolan took over
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
Taking a big early lead on the Lions is nothing to gush about; everybody does that. The 49ers, however, kept the pressure on Sunday and turned Detroit's high-octane passing machine into an assembly-line lemon. By the standards of more successful NFL teams, a...

Cool invention helps tired players bounce back
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
Players for the San Francisco 49ers trotted off the field during Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions and grabbed for the requisite towels and Gatorade. A few went for something else on the bench, slipping their hands into a coffee-pot-like contraption...

Big Detroit receivers put up some puny numbers
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
After getting worked over by Arizona's Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald two weeks ago, the 49ers made sure Detroit's tag team of Calvin Johnson and Roy Williams didn't do the same Sunday. Cornerback Nate Clements was giving up 5 inches to the 6-foot-5...

49ERS 31, LIONS 13 / GAME REVIEW
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
Offense RATING: (POLITE APPLAUSE) The only negative is that this game shouldn't have been this close. J.T. O'Sullivan threw two TD passes and had no turnovers. He completed passes to eight receivers. Frank Gore rushed for 130 yards with a strong performance...

From The Insider
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
Excerpts from Kevin Lynch's Niners Insider blog on sfgate.com during Sunday's game Frank Gore scored on a 4-yard touchdown out of a 4-receiver set! Forget that two-tight (end), two-back disaster. The 49ers aren't stout enough to get tough yards out of run...

NOW WHAT? / When 49ers go marching in
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
New Orleans should be fighting mad in Week 4 when the 49ers visit the Superdome. The Saints have lost two squeakers on the road - they're two plays away from being 3-0 - and lost to the Broncos 34-32 on Sunday despite Drew Brees' 421 yards passing and a...

Battle's lofty goal falls well short of end zone
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
As soon as Arnaz Battle saw that Jason Hanson's onside kick was headed directly toward him, he had this immediate thought: touchdown. He thought he saw a clear path to the end zone as he grabbed the Lions' desperation kick with under seven minutes to go....

49ers schedule
San Francisco Chronicle | September 22, 2008
DateOpponentTime/Res9/7ArizonaL, 23-139/14at SeattleW, 33-30 OT 9/21DetroitW, 31-139/28at New Orleans10 a.m.10/5New England1:15 p.m.10/12Philadelphia1:15 p.m.10/19at N.Y. Giants10 a.m.10/26Seattle1:15 p.m.11/2Bye11/10at Arizona5:30 p.m.11/16St. Louis1:05...

O'Sullivan takes Niners past lowly Lions 31-13
USA Today | September 21, 2008
Frank Gore rushed for 130 yards and a touchdown, and Mike Martz's new offense methodically chewed up his former team's defense ...

Niners' Martz silent about reunion with Lions
Detroit News | September 21, 2008
SAN FRANCISCO -- Mike Martz could have mouthed all the usual platitudes that spout from any NFL coach before a meeting with an ex-employer.

Mike O'Hara: Lions have edge at 49ers ... no, really
Detroit News | September 21, 2008
I'm picking the Lions to win at San Francisco on Sunday, but please keep reading, even if you think it's a ludicrous prediction. There is logic behind the pick, with the 49ers favored by four points.

Knapp: 49ers, Raiders proof that reform is needed in three areas
San Francisco Chronicle | September 21, 2008
In the last two weeks, as Alex Smith's career as a 49er came to an unhappy end and the Raiders descended from opaque chaos into the painfully transparent variety, the Bay Area franchises became leading exhibits in three cases for reform in the NFL. 1) Rookie...

49ers' Gore takes pride in his blocking
San Francisco Chronicle | September 21, 2008
On 3rd-and-7 from their own 23-yard line, the 49ers needed to make a first down in overtime to keep from turning the ball over to the Seahawks last week. The play call was a downfield pass to Isaac Bruce. Frank Gore looked at the Seattle defensive alignment...

49ers today
San Francisco Chronicle | September 21, 2008
WHAT'S ON THE LINE The 49ers can't afford to stumble, playing at home against a team that has lost nine of its last 10 games and has given up 82 points in two games this year. WHAT TO WATCH FOR Don't expose J.T. again: The 49ers need to pass-protect better,...

Gore takes pride in his blocking
San Francisco Chronicle | September 21, 2008
On 3rd-and-7 from their own 23-yard line, the 49ers needed to make a first down in overtime to keep from turning the ball over to the Seahawks last week. The play call was a downfield pass to Isaac Bruce. Frank Gore looked at the Seattle defensive alignment...

49ers' Spikes is beginning to fit in
San Francisco Chronicle | September 20, 2008
Steadily becoming more comfortable in the defense, linebacker Takeo Spikes gets a first-hand look Sunday at the other team he seriously considered joining before the 49ers in mid-August. Spikes admits he liked what he saw of the Detroit Lions' organization...

Sunday games
San Francisco Chronicle | September 20, 2008
49ers Opponent: Lions Where: Candlestick Park When: 1:05 p.m. TV/Radio: Channel: 2 Channel: 40 /1050, 107.7 Raiders Opponent: Bills Where: Orchard Park, N.Y. When: 10 a.m. TV/Radio: Channel: 5 Channel: 13 Channel: 46 /560, 1170 (Spanish)...

Will 49ers, O'Sullivan make Lions regret his departure?
USA Today | September 19, 2008
In the aftermath of the Detroit Lions' 2007 season, the departure of J.T. O'Sullivan was merely a footnote. O'Sullivan had won ...

Martz not out for revenge
San Francisco Chronicle | September 19, 2008
Either Mike Martz couldn't care less about settling any score with the Detroit Lions, or he's simply not voicing any vengeful thoughts to his players or the media. It's business as usual for the 49ers' offensive coordinator, who was cashiered by the Lions...

This week's picks
San Francisco Chronicle | September 19, 2008
GAME OF THE WEEK Cowboys (2-0) at Packers (2-0), 5:15 p.m. Sunday Channel: 11 Channel: 3 Channel: 8 Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers came off the bench in a high-stakes game Nov. 29 at Texas Stadium: 18-of-26 passing for 201 yards and a touchdown in relief of...

Recurring shoulder problem frustrates tackle Jennings
San Francisco Chronicle | September 19, 2008
Jonas Jennings doesn't know if his right shoulder will need surgery for the third time since he's been with the 49ers. He does know this: He's embarrassed and frustrated with his latest injury. The offensive tackle's shoulder popped out during the second...

For a week, Niners and Raiders benefit from Fool's 'kibosh'
San Francisco Chronicle | September 19, 2008
It's nice to know I haven't lost my touch. I can remember at least five anti-Giants columns that launched unexplainable winning streaks. When I've said nice things about the A's, the Elephants were soon swept. Wait, when did I say nice things about the A's?...

49ers' Wragge went from Home Depot to the NFL (San Jose Mercury News)
Yahoo! News | September 18, 2008
During his long and often rocky road to a starting NFL position, 49ers guard Tony Wragge has learned some valuable life lessons.

Jennings back on the shelf
San Francisco Chronicle | September 18, 2008
Starting offensive tackle Jonas Jennings (shoulder) and backup cornerback Shawntae Spencer (knee) won't play against the Lions on Sunday, 49ers coach Mike Nolan said Wednesday. Jennings, who left the Seattle game in the second quarter, will be replaced by...

Detroit's Kitna raves about O'Sullivan
San Francisco Chronicle | September 18, 2008
Jon Kitna is among the crowd of NFL quarterbacks J.T. O'Sullivan has played behind. To listen to Kitna, it's all the more amazing that O'Sullivan didn't get his big break until he got to San Francisco. "I've never been around a person who can throw the ball...

Early 'must' win for both 49ers, Lions
San Francisco Chronicle | September 18, 2008
The NFL doesn't offer up too many must-win games in September. The Detroit Lions' visit to Candlestick on Sunday qualifies, promising to be a playoff game for the have-nots. For the 49ers, failure to beat the Lions would mean that they have become the Lions,...

This week's picks
San Francisco Chronicle | September 18, 2008
GAME OF THE WEEK Cowboys (2-0) at Packers (2-0), 5:15 p.m. Sunday Channel: 11 Channel: 3 Channel: 8 Green Bay's Aaron Rodgers came off the bench in a high-stakes game Nov. 29 at Texas Stadium: 18-of-26 passing for 201 yards and a touchdown in relief of...

Recurring shoulder problem frustrates tackle Jennings
San Francisco Chronicle | September 18, 2008
Jonas Jennings doesn't know if his right shoulder will need surgery for the third time since he's been with the 49ers. He does know this: He's embarrassed and frustrated with his latest injury. The offensive tackle's shoulder popped out during the second...

Detroit's Kitna raves about O'Sullivan
San Francisco Chronicle | September 17, 2008
Jon Kitna is among the crowd of NFL quarterbacks J.T. O'Sullivan has played behind. To listen to Kitna, it's all the more amazing that O'Sullivan didn't get his big break until he got to San Francisco. "I've never been around a person who can throw the ball...

Early 'must' win for both 49ers, Lions
San Francisco Chronicle | September 17, 2008
The NFL doesn't offer up too many must-win games in September. The Detroit Lions' visit to Candlestick on Sunday qualifies, promising to be a playoff game for the have-nots. For the 49ers, failure to beat the Lions would mean that they have become the Lions,...

Jennings back on the shelf
San Francisco Chronicle | September 17, 2008
Starting offensive tackle Jonas Jennings (shoulder) and backup cornerback Shawntae Spencer (knee) won't play against the Lions on Sunday, 49ers coach Mike Nolan said Wednesday. Jennings, who left the Seattle game in the second quarter, will be replaced by...

49ers, Raiders fans - your revolution starts in England
San Francisco Chronicle | September 17, 2008
For those of you who seek regime change in your favorite team, we bring words of hope. Those words: Newcastle United. Yeah, we're sure those were the words you were thinking of, too. Since the Lane Kiffin Cavalcade of Fun reached its latest crescendo, Raiders...

On the NFL: Raiders, 49ers take care of on-field business
San Francisco Chronicle | September 17, 2008
The 49ers and Raiders rebounded impressively from their opening-weekend flops by winning Week 2 division games on the road. True, they knocked off a pair of deeply flawed opponents in the throes of decline - but the NFL shows no mercy for rosters ravaged by...

On the NFL: Raiders, 49ers take care of on-field business
San Francisco Chronicle | September 16, 2008
The 49ers and Raiders rebounded impressively from their opening-weekend flops by winning Week 2 division games on the road. True, they knocked off a pair of deeply flawed opponents in the throes of decline - but the NFL shows no mercy for rosters ravaged by...

49ers, Raiders fans - your revolution starts in England
San Francisco Chronicle | September 16, 2008
For those of you who seek regime change in your favorite team, we bring words of hope. Those words: Newcastle United. Yeah, we're sure those were the words you were thinking of, too. Since the Lane Kiffin Cavalcade of Fun reached its latest crescendo, Raiders...

Pressure was all on 49ers in win
San Francisco Chronicle | September 16, 2008
When a team comes from 14 points down to pull an upset on the road in a noisy stadium, as the 49ers did Sunday, it can be argued that its offensive and defensive strategies worked. That essentially was coach Mike Nolan's stance Monday, when he was asked about...

Nedney's 40-yard FG in OT lifts 49ers past Seattle
The Olympian | September 15, 2008
Times appear to be changing in the NFC West. Joe Nedney shook off a missed field goal as time expired in regulation and kicked a 40-yarder 4:40 into overtime Sunday, sending the San Francisco 49ers past the Seattle Seahawks 33-30.

Hawks go 0-2 as defense unravels before home crowd
Seattle Post-Intelligencer | September 15, 2008
On a day when the Seahawks' injury-depleted offense really needed the defense to step up, it didn't happen as the San Francisco 49ers converted big play after big play in their 33-30 overtime victory at Qwest Field.

O'Sullivan, 49ers silence Seattle
San Francisco Chronicle | September 15, 2008
Showing exactly why the 49ers made a starting quarterback out of an NFL nomad, J.T. O'Sullivan survived eight sacks and guided San Francisco to within range of a game-winning field goal in regulation time. When that didn't work, he did the same thing in...

49ERS GAME REVIEW
San Francisco Chronicle | September 15, 2008
OFFENSE RATING: (POLITE APPLAUSE) Considering that the 49ers gave up eight sacks, the offense moved the ball when it had to do so. J.T. O'Sullivan had a 106.4 passer rating, completing 20 of 32 passes for 321 yards without an interception. Frank Gore was held...

49ers scoring summary
San Francisco Chronicle | September 15, 2008
Score by quarter 1234OTTotal49ERS 3101433-33SEAHAWKS1460100-30 First Quarter - SEA: J.Jones 27 run (Mare kick), 9:12. Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 2:41. Key plays: Hasselbeck 14 pass to Payne; Babineaux recovery of blocked punt and 24 run; Hasselbeck 17...

49ers schedule
San Francisco Chronicle | September 15, 2008
49ers schedule DateOpponentTime/Res9/7ArizonaL, 23-139/14at SeattleW, 33-30 OT 9/21Detroit1:05 p.m.9/28at New Orleans10 a.m.10/5New England1:15 p.m.10/12Philadelphia1:15 p.m.10/19at N.Y. Giants10 a.m.10/26Seattle1:15 p.m.11/2Bye11/10at Arizona5:30 p.m.11/...

First pick-off goes long way for Willis
San Francisco Chronicle | September 15, 2008
Patrick Willis hadn't scored a touchdown since high school, but when he took off after catching a tipped pass for an interception, he looked like he didn't need to stop for directions. His 86-yard return for a touchdown in the third quarter was the longest...

49ers, O'Sullivan hand slumping Seahawks 0-2 start
USA Today | September 14, 2008
Joe Nedney shook off a missed field goal as time expired in regulation and kicked a 40-yarder 4:40 into overtime Sunday, sending ...

Ratto: Nolan's career highlight came in Seattle
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
The absolute zenith of Mike Nolan's career occurred here, two years ago, on a Thursday night assembled in hell itself. The 49ers gimped into town, just a step ahead of a particularly vicious Arctic storm that flung up 60-mph winds and an effusive rainstorm...

Seattle trip should be a breeze for Nedney
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
Maybe it's a minor break for the 49ers in their rugged early-season schedule that they don't have to weather Seattle in December as they have in the past. They play the Seahawks at Qwest Field today, and the weather is expected to be fine. That's OK with...

49ers at Seahawks (1 p.m., Ch. 2)
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
49ers today Who: 49ers vs. Seahawks Where: Qwest Field, Seattle When: 1:05 p.m. TV/Radio: Channel: 2 Channel: 40 /1050, 107.7 WHAT'S ON THE LINE The 49ers would love to pull an upset of the four-time defending NFC West champions. The Seahawks' injury problems...

O'Sullivan, 49ers silence Seattle
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
Showing exactly why the 49ers made a starting quarterback out of an NFL nomad, J.T. O'Sullivan survived eight sacks and guided San Francisco to within range of a game-winning field goal in regulation time. When that didn't work, he did the same thing in...

49ERS GAME REVIEW
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
OFFENSE RATING: (POLITE APPLAUSE) Considering that the 49ers gave up eight sacks, the offense moved the ball when it had to do so. J.T. O'Sullivan had a 106.4 passer rating, completing 20 of 32 passes for 321 yards without an interception. Frank Gore was held...

First pick-off goes long way for Willis
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
Patrick Willis hadn't scored a touchdown since high school, but when he took off after catching a tipped pass for an interception, he looked like he didn't need to stop for directions. His 86-yard return for a touchdown in the third quarter was the longest...

49ers (0-1) at Seahawks (0-1) / This trip should be a breeze for Nedney
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
Maybe it's a minor break for the 49ers in their rugged early-season schedule that they don't have to weather Seattle in December as they have in the past. They play the Seahawks at Qwest Field today, and the weather is expected to be fine. That's OK with...

49ers today
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
49ers today Who: 49ers vs. Seahawks Where: Seattle When: 1:05 p.m. TV/Radio: Channel: 2 Channel: 40 /1050, 107.7 WHAT'S ON THE LINE The 49ers would love to pull an upset of the four-time defending NFC West champions. The Seahawks' injury problems at wide...

49ers schedule
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
49ers schedule DateOpponentTime/Res9/7ArizonaL, 23-139/14at Seattle1:05 p.m.9/21Detroit1:05 p.m.9/28at New Orleans10 a.m.10/5New England1:15 p.m.10/12Philadelphia1:15 p.m.10/19at N.Y. Giants10 a.m.10/26Seattle1:15 p.m.11/2Bye11/10at Arizona5:30 p.m.11/16St....

Seattle once provided Nolan with best of times
San Francisco Chronicle | September 14, 2008
The absolute zenith of Mike Nolan's career occurred here, two years ago, on a Thursday night assembled in hell itself. The 49ers gimped into town, just a step ahead of a particularly vicious Arctic storm that flung up 60-mph winds and an effusive rainstorm...

Seahawks vs. 49ers
Seattle Post-Intelligencer | September 13, 2008

Banged up Seattle may be cure for what ails 49ers
San Francisco Chronicle | September 13, 2008
The 49ers would seem to have the Seahawks right where they want them. Injuries have taken out Seattle's starting running back and its top four wide receivers, including the punt return man. Nate Burleson, the punt returner, and Ben Obomanu are out for the...

Are the Niners and Raiders this bad? Maybe worse?
San Francisco Chronicle | September 12, 2008
You hear it all the time in betting circles, and sometimes sewing circles: "Don't overreact after one game." You've done it, you've watched others do it and as hard as you try, you can't avoid it. Maybe that's because ESPN and its constant onslaught of...

Martz prefers a little chaos / Seattle fans good for game
San Francisco Chronicle | September 12, 2008
Considering that Seattle's Qwest Field is known for the decibel level of its fans, Mike Martz's position going into Sunday's 49ers-Seahawks game goes something like this: Bring in 'da noise, bring in 'da funk. "It's kind of nice when they are loud," the 49ers'...

Banta-Cain an angry sub
San Francisco Chronicle | September 12, 2008
Outside linebacker Tully Banta-Cain didn't have the 2007 season expected of him after joining the 49ers from the New England Patriots. Now he's totally healthy - and not playing at all. Banta-Cain said Wednesday he was "devastated" he was not on the active...

49ers put QB Smith on injured reserve
Detroit News | September 11, 2008
SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- The San Francisco 49ers put quarterback Alex Smith on injured reserve with a shoulder injury, probably ending the former No. 1 draft pick's four-year career with the team.

49ers QB Smith's season ends with shoulder injury
Kansas City Star | September 11, 2008
Alex Smith's season is over with another shoulder injury. The high-priced quarterback's short career with the San Francisco 49ers is probably finished as well.

Martz prefers a little chaos / Seattle fans good for game
San Francisco Chronicle | September 11, 2008
Considering that Seattle's Qwest Field is known for the decibel level of its fans, Mike Martz's position going into Sunday's 49ers-Seahawks game goes something like this: Bring in 'da noise, bring in 'da funk. "It's kind of nice when they are loud," the 49ers'...

Banta-Cain an angry sub
San Francisco Chronicle | September 11, 2008
Outside linebacker Tully Banta-Cain didn't have the 2007 season expected of him after joining the 49ers from the New England Patriots. Now he's totally healthy - and not playing at all. Banta-Cain said Wednesday he was "devastated" he was not on the active...

NFL WEEK TWO / This week's picks
San Francisco Chronicle | September 11, 2008
GAME OF THE WEEK Eagles (1-0) at Cowboys (1-0), 5:30 p.m. Monday ESPN The Eagles had three 100-yard receivers in Week 1, including rookie DeSean Jackson. The Cowboys will try to counter with big play strikes against the Eagles' risk-taking blitz scheme....

49ers QB Smith on IR - likely ending his tenure with team
San Francisco Chronicle | September 11, 2008
Alex Smith's rocky career with the 49ers apparently is over, little more than three years after he was the top pick in the NFL draft. The 24-year-old quarterback was placed on injured reserve Wednesday because of an injury to his surgically repaired right...

Knapp: Smith, 49ers doomed from the start
San Francisco Chronicle | September 11, 2008
One pass in the Napa Valley this summer said it all. In a joint practice between the 49ers and Raiders, Alex Smith threw a textbook spiral that bounced out of his receiver's hands. The quarterback's shoulders immediately slumped. His head went down, not too...

Seahawks' receiver corps falls into disarray
San Francisco Chronicle | September 11, 2008
After facing Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald of the Cardinals in the opener, the 49ers will face anybody's guess at wide receiver for the Seahawks on Sunday in Seattle. The Seahawks' wideout corps has been wrecked by injuries, which explains why Wednesday...

49ers fill spot with an old hand
San Francisco Chronicle | September 11, 2008
Jamie Martin's principal receiver for the past few months near his home in St. Louis has been his 10-year-old son. "He can catch the soft ones," Martin said. Now he's back on the same team as Isaac Bruce, his former teammate on the Los Angeles Rams. Yes, Los...

Niners place QB Alex Smith on IR again
USA Today | September 10, 2008
The San Francisco 49ers put quarterback Alex Smith on injured reserve Wednesday with a broken bone in his right shoulder, probably ...

Seahawks' receiver corps falls into disarray
San Francisco Chronicle | September 10, 2008
After facing Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald of the Cardinals in the opener, the 49ers will face anybody's guess at wide receiver for the Seahawks on Sunday in Seattle. The Seahawks' wideout corps has been wrecked by injuries, which explains why Wednesday...

Knapp: Smith, 49ers doomed from the start
San Francisco Chronicle | September 10, 2008
One pass in the Napa Valley this summer said it all. In a joint practice between the 49ers and Raiders, Alex Smith threw a textbook spiral that bounced out of his receiver's hands. The quarterback's shoulders immediately slumped. His head went down, not too...

49ers QB Smith on IR - likely ending his tenure with team
San Francisco Chronicle | September 10, 2008
Alex Smith's rocky career with the 49ers apparently is over, little more than three years after he was the top pick in the NFL draft. The 24-year-old quarterback was placed on injured reserve Wednesday because of an injury to his surgically repaired right...

On the NFL: Give the 49ers' and Raiders' owners an earful
San Francisco Chronicle | September 10, 2008
Bay Area NFL fans, you are angry, fed up, frustrated. Don't apologize. You have earned the right. Now it's time to do something about it. If you are sincerely disgusted with the state of your once-mighty franchise, be it the 49ers or the Raiders, then take...

Waiting for word on Smith's shoulder
San Francisco Chronicle | September 10, 2008
Quarterback Alex Smith and the 49ers were still waiting Tuesday night for a determination from Dr. James Andrews on whether he will need more surgery on his injured right shoulder. Andrews, one of the top orthopedic surgeons in the country, performed Smith's...

49ers' QB Smith awaits injury update
San Francisco Chronicle | September 09, 2008
While Alex Smith's status remained in limbo another day, the man who replaced him as the 49ers' starting quarterback mulled over his missed opportunities in Sunday's 23-13 opening loss to the Cardinals. J.T. O'Sullivan completed only four passes to his wide...

On the NFL: Give the 49ers' and Raiders' owners an earful
San Francisco Chronicle | September 09, 2008
Bay Area NFL fans, you are angry, fed up, frustrated. Don't apologize. You have earned the right. Now it's time to do something about it. If you are sincerely disgusted with the state of your once-mighty franchise, be it the 49ers or the Raiders, then take...

Waiting for word on Smith's shoulder
San Francisco Chronicle | September 09, 2008
Quarterback Alex Smith and the 49ers were still waiting Tuesday night for a determination from Dr. James Andrews on whether he will need more surgery on his injured right shoulder. Andrews, one of the top orthopedic surgeons in the country, performed Smith's...

Injury may be season-ending for Niners QB
Seattle Post-Intelligencer | September 08, 2008
SAN FRANCISCO -- Quarterback Alex Smith could find out Monday whether his latest shoulder injury will end his season and his tenure with the San Francisco 49ers.

Niners fall to Cards' methodical attack
Seattle Post-Intelligencer | September 08, 2008
SAN FRANCISCO -- No loose balls skittering around the end zone. No overtime thrills. Not even any trick-play shenanigans, unless you count Arizona's pooch kickoff to a fumbling San Francisco linebacker.

FUMBLING, BUMBLING AND STUMBLING / Sloppy 49ers can't handle Warner, Cardinals
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
The 49ers couldn't get their hands on the ball for practically the whole third quarter. When they did get the ball the rest of the time, they couldn't keep from letting it go. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals took advantage of the that telltale third quarter -...

Knapp: DEALING WITH TURNOVER AT QB / O'Sullivan gives it away 3 times in first start
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
At times on Sunday, J.T. O'Sullivan took Candlestick Park back to the days when the downfield pass existed as a real threat for the home team. On a few plays, he took the stadium back to a time when Jeff Garcia's improvisational skills resuscitated drives...

Ratto: Nothing to see here 49er fans, move along
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
It's early. Lots of football left to play. A work in progress. Some good signs out there. See? Even you, the most committed 49ers fan that ever was, can't spit those out with any conviction. You saw what you saw, and the phrases stick like pet hair in your...

Smith may be done as a 49er
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
Smith may be done Alex Smith sat out Sunday's game, wearing a red warm-up suit on the sideline. It's possible he has thrown his last pass as a 49er. Smith confirmed after the game that an MRI had revealed a fracture in his throwing shoulder, on which he...

CARDINALS 23, 49ERS 13 / FUMBLING, BUMBLING AND STUMBLING / 49ers are sloppy in Arizona victory
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
The 49ers couldn't get their hands on the ball for practically the whole third quarter. When they did get the ball the rest of the time, they couldn't keep from letting it go. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals took advantage of the that telltale third quarter -...

Nothing to see here, move along
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
It's early. Lots of football left to play. A work in progress. Some good signs out there. See? Even you, the most committed 49ers fan that ever was, can't spit out those with any conviction. You saw what you saw, and the phrases stick like pet hair in your...

SAD-SACK 49ers / 5 turnovers help doom 49ers to a defeat at the hands of the Arizona Cardinals in season opener at Candlestick Park
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
San Francisco 49ers quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan is sacked by the Arizona Cardinals' Travis LaBoy and fumbles in the fourth quarter of a lackluster game Sunday that Arizona won 23-13. San Francisco turned over the ball five times during the loss, which...

Smith might be done
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
Alex Smith sat out Sunday's game, wearing a red warm-up suit on the sideline. It's possible he has thrown his last pass with the 49ers. Smith confirmed after the game that an MRI exam had revealed a fracture in his throwing shoulder, on which he underwent...

Dealing With Turnover At QB
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
At times Sunday, J.T. O'Sullivan took Candlestick Park back to the days when the downfield pass existed as a real threat for the home team. On a few plays, he took the stadium back to a time when Jeff Garcia's improvisational skills resuscitated drives that...

Arizona plays keep-away and benefits from giveaways
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
The 49ers swept the Cardinals in 2007 and both games came down to late quirky fumbles that did not go in Arizona's favor. Those bad bounces, and the Cardinals' failure to control the clock in both losses, led to Ken Whisenhunt's admonition to his team before...

From The Insider
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
Excerpts from Kevin Lynch's Niners Insider blog on sfgate.com during and after Sunday's loss The 49ers' last drive for a field goal of 60 yards and 13 plays looked very un-Martz like. His draw on 3rd-and-7 - very questionable. The drive proved the offense is...

49ers schedule
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
49ers schedule DateOpponentTime/Res9/7ArizonaL, 23-139/14At Seattle1:05 p.m.9/21Detroit1:05 p.m.9/28At New Orleans10 a.m.10/5New England1:15 p.m.10/12Philadelphia1:15 p.m.10/19At N.Y. Giants10 a.m.10/26Seattle1:15 p.m.11/2Bye11/10At Arizona5:30 p.m.11/16St....

NOW WHAT? / Sawed-off Seahawks
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
The 49ers' best chance in Seattle would have been if the Seahawks were still overconfident from beating San Francisco twice last season by a combined score of 47-3. Well, that chance was left in Buffalo buried under Matt Hasselbeck's back print in the turf....

Rossum's first day far from special
San Francisco Chronicle | September 08, 2008
Allen Rossum, the 49ers' new return man, had a 44-yard kickoff return, but he had only one other return in a quiet afternoon for the 11-year veteran. He fielded the opening kickoff deep in the end zone and took a touchback. Later in the first quarter, he...

Warner, Cardinals grind out 23-13 defeat of 49ers
USA Today | September 07, 2008
Kurt Warner and the Arizona Cardinals took all the unpredictable fun out of an NFC West rivalry known for some of football's ...