This is a team that is still discovering its identity in many areas. On defense, the pass rush has been non-existent for a decade but is now looking to take an identity position. The secondary, helped in large part by the pass rush, is also playing at a higher level than most expected. No one expected Bowman and Brooks to play as they have. Even the much maligned Haralson has stepped up his game.
On offense the OL is finally coming around to provide a more dependable level of protection to allow the passing game an opportunity to assert itself, however, that has only been a fact in the most recent games. As we all know, the early season was close to a train wreck on numerous occasions. It now appears that problem has been solved, in large part by the insertion of Snyder at RG and more playing time together.
The missing piece then in the passing game is at wide receiver. As others have noted, losing Morgan, the only WR with which Alex Smith has had any significant amount of time with, has hurt the passing game a great deal. We all know how limited Crabtree's practice time has been and Edwards has only now returned to regular practice time. Other than those two, this team has only Ginn, a recognized disappointment as a receiver (though a terrific return man), and Kyle Williams who has failed to show enough to even displace Ginn in the role of the 3rd WR. Hence, it seems only logical that if Edwards and Crabtree remain healthy the potential for a much improved passing game will be realized.
Also, this is not a defense that is going to allow the team to get into a shootout with any team other than possibly Green Bay. Even then, Rodgers has been susceptible to pass rush in the past. As a result, Harbaugh will continue to game plan in the best way possible to allow the team to win. As long as the running game continues at the level it has thus far this season, we can expect to see him use that not only to move the ball, but to keep the opponent off the field.
Finally, I recall Bill Walsh's view on what I call "hire a thief to catch a thief." When George Seifert was his DC, they used to sit around and take each other's game apart. Walsh would explain to Seifert where his offense might be attacked and Seifert would do the same with his defense. The parallel is that Harbaugh knows where his team is vulnerable and where it is strong. He will continue to emphasize the strengths until the weaker areas are improved. When that happens, the overall offense will be a load for anyone. I expect that to happen in the passing game in the next 3 to 4 weeks.
[ Edited by dj43 on Oct 31, 2011 at 9:09 AM ]
