It's more like Alex has figured out defensive coordinators!
[ Edited by verb1der on Oct 17, 2011 at 11:55 AM ]
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Originally posted by PRIMETIME21:
alex smith needs to eventually take that next step and be the reason why we win games if we want to win a superbowl and beat the packers.
what, alex carried us weeks 1-3 when are running games was non-existent. Now it's really kicking ass.Originally posted by unst4bl3:Originally posted by Wubbie:I was listening to a discussion of Alex Smith/49ers offense on SI, and the conversation went like this:
- Jim Harbaugh knows Alex Smith's strengths/weaknesses, and that's why Alex has succeeded.
- Because Jim Harbaugh knows his weaknesses, is that why he's running the ball so much?
- If we've got a good running game, we should use it. It's gotten us to 5-1.
- Don't you think that defensive coordinators around the league will figure this out?
- It's a passing league, but it works to run the ball if you can run well and you have a quarterback that can manage the game.
I thought it was an interesting discussion. My thoughts on it are this:
- EVERYBODY already knows that we're going to run the ball and limit Alex Smith's throws.
- Yet... We're 5th in the league in running, and Alex Smith is having the best season of his career so far.
- I think the reason it's all working is because the coaching, the passing game, and running game are all in sync with eachother. There's great balance. Nolan and Singletary tried to establish the running game, but they didn't set anything up. This year, it's different. In some drives, the 49ers will come out throwing on 1st, 2nd, and 3rd down. Passing sets up the run. Running sets up the pass. In the past, I could guess what play was being called, but I find I can't do that anymore this year.
- I do wonder if teams will figure out our running "style." We HAVE done a lot of things in the running game I haven't seen too much from our team in recent years. I do think teams will key in on that in the future. Alex Smith WILL need to do more.
This has been a given since week 1, but so far teams haven't stopped our running game enough to require Alex to carry the team. So until then, he doesn't need to do more. And when that time comes, then we will see if he has really improved or not.
Originally posted by 9er_84:The reason why defensive coordinators cant figure us out and stop the run and why alex smith is excelling...is because of our play calling, specifically our play formations...the team is lineing up in double te sets but the d has no clue if wer gonna run or pass with the way we line up and shift around.
Originally posted by PRIMETIME21:alex smith needs to eventually take that next step and be the reason why we win games if we want to win a superbowl and beat the packers.
Originally posted by 9er_84:
The reason why defensive coordinators cant figure us out and stop the run and why alex smith is excelling...is because of our play calling, specifically our play formations...the team is lineing up in double te sets but the d has no clue if wer gonna run or pass with the way we line up and shift around.
Originally posted by Godsleftsock:
Originally posted by 9er_84:
The reason why defensive coordinators cant figure us out and stop the run and why alex smith is excelling...is because of our play calling, specifically our play formations...the team is lineing up in double te sets but the d has no clue if wer gonna run or pass with the way we line up and shift around.
Ya, Suh was absolutely frozen at times yesterday
Originally posted by okdkid:I don't think this is a passing league. I think overall defensive play (along with rule changes) has regressed in the league over the years. Look no further than the state of tackling around the league. It's atrocious. That has made it easier to pass the ball.
However, if you have a top defense and win the turnover battle, you'll win most weeks. That's what we do. This team doesn't need a 300 yard passer. It just needs a guy who can throw the slant, not turn the ball over and take advantage of play action. Check, check and check.
Originally posted by lyer:
alex isn't* making piss poor decisions like has in past seasons.
coaching has gotten us to 5-1, not doubt.
Originally posted by Godsleftsock:what, alex carried us weeks 1-3 when are running games was non-existent. Now it's really kicking ass.