49ers sign free agent running back Brian Westbrook
by James Brady on Aug 16, 2010 3:23 PM PDT
in San Francisco 49ers News
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PrintBarrows is reporting that the team signed Brian Westbrook to a one-year deal. While financial terms are not yet available, I'm happy with the signing for right now. The signing comes after Glen Coffee announced his sudden retirement on Friday. It's important to remember that, while Anthony Dixon had himself a very good game against the Colts on Sunday, it's still preseason, and the Niners always seem to have a plethora of good runners in the preseason.
I've seen on here, some of you folks saying that Westbrook has "no upside." At thirty years old, I say he doesn't need one. He's reliable in every sense except for the fact that him and Michael Lewis may accidentally collide and simultaneously end each others' careers. He's been a productive runner in this league and I see the 49ers being able to use him and take some snaps from Frank Gore, especially as a reliable target out of the backfield in the passing game.
Anthony Dixon slots into the number three role and will continue to get long looks this preseason. Michael Robinson, as intended, is no longer on the running back depth chart except as an emergency fourth runner. Let's hope we don't have some Denver Broncos-esque injuries.
As I type this, Adam Schefter tweets that it's a done deal. "Signing now," he says. I just refreshed to see that we have a fanshot on this, but since this is typed up, I'll say thanks to pwarren85 for getting the fanshot up, but I'll be locking the comments on it.
UPDATE: The Brian Westbrook press conference will be streaming on CSN Bay Area at 5 p.m. pacific and the link is here.
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Wow good pickup.
Low-risk/ high-reward guy
"The No. 1 thing (fans need to know): we’re going to do our damnedest to bring the Warriors to respectability on the basketball court." - Joe Lacob
FREE AT LAST
FREE AT LAST
THANK GOD ALMIGHTY, OUR RUNNING GAME IS FREE AT LAST
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 3:28 PM PDT reply actions
POUND THE ROCK
We are gonna run all over teams. What are they gonna do? They can’t stop us.
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Aug 16, 2010 3:30 PM PDT reply actions
You rang?
Sooooo stoked for this pickup though! SOOOO stoked! Alex Smith has got to be loving this.
by Poundtherock on Aug 16, 2010 4:36 PM PDT up reply actions
Why thank you!
You know your name is quite awesome yourself!
Regardless, Kentwan is gone, Coffee has officially retired (I wish him well and its hard to see him go), and then Brian freaking Westbrook signs with the best possible team for him (and us!). What a crazy day!
by Poundtherock on Aug 16, 2010 4:44 PM PDT up reply actions
Haha i TOTALLY called this...
well not on here, but I was talking about possible replacements for Coffee with my bro and a friend, and I said Westbrook would be a good/obvious choice, and they were all talking about him going to the Rams…but honestly, which team would you want to play for between those two choices? lol
You guys think he signed with us...
…over the Rams/Redskins because we’re more poised to win games and make the playoffs? He was really close to a deal, I heard.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
maybe
i wouldnt sleep on the redskins this year though. with mcnabb and shanahan, anything could happen with them.
"There is no pressure. Pressure only exists when you're not prepared."
-The Samurai
Alex Smith is garbage...
Harder division, less chance of playoffs.
That’s my line of thought. Plus the Redskins have a crowded backfield, presently.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
That's what I think
Reportedly the terms are one year $1.25 million with another $1 million available through incentives. You know the Rams and ’Skins were offering more than that.
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
I completely agree, they, especially the Rams, were offering more than that for certain. Westbrook is set.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
that and...
He would get slaughtered by their OLine. Less head injuries? Yes please! lol
Santa Clara, You are the Father!
Yes, Yes and Yes
Rams, Bills, Skins or 49ers . . . the Skins wouldn’t be so bad except they already have 3 veteran RBs praying to hold onto a roster spot. The Rams and Bills are projected to be the two worst teams in the league.
Screen Game
Maybe now we can run the screen game is successfully. This would be good for the whole offense including taking some pressure off the O line.
Good running back for Alex Smith to check down to
Bad running back for Raye to run up the gut with
1. Pat Devlin QB 2. Jack Crawford DE/OLB 3. Kendric Burney CB 4. DeAndre Brown WR 5. John Estes C 6. Chris Hairston OT 7. Stephfon Green RB 7. Julian Posey CB
This is a good thing.
"I just struck out looking three times, but in any other ballpark those would have been home runs." - Aubrey Huff
This is a comment that says true things.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
Hey like i said b4 i would really appreciate if ya''ll could keep my ''mom''in your
prayers she’s been in the hospital the last 2 weeks dealing with ‘’brain cancer’+im trying 2 quit smoking at the same time so i ’’apligize’’becuzz ive been a little heated lately got alot on mind but its still not a exscuse 4 me being ‘’arguementive ’’so im sorry 4 that.
by 49er_diva_recieva's on Aug 16, 2010 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions
Hey man.
That was pretty random, either way – my thoughts are with you, brother. They really are, stay up and I hope you have the strength to quit smoking.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
Hey ya'll thanks alot i know it has nothing 2 do with ''westbrook''but i let my emotions
spill over in that other ’’thread’’and i was ‘’TOTALLY WRONG’’so i just wnted 2 apoligize 2 EVERYONE 4 that..that being said i like the pick-up westbrook used 2 kill us in his philly days so its good 2 see him with us.
by 49er_diva_recieva's on Aug 16, 2010 4:05 PM PDT up reply actions
I like it!
He’s a solid back who’s been known to be a beast at times. Not exactly an up the middle guy anymore, but he can pass protect and catch passes out of the backfield, and, in a pinch, should Gore get hurt (heaven forbid), be able to be a starter and keep our offense moving. I really like it.
Z!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tweet Tweet.
Not a fan
Someone deserving just got bumped from the roster. I think this helps us for the half a season Dixon might’ve made mistakes and hurts us thereafter. Bad trade IMO
No, I disagree. The team had an open roster spot once Coffee retired. Westbrook isn’t bumping anyone, he’s filling the void Coffee left.
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 3:45 PM PDT up reply actions
I’m not quite sure I understand your line of thought here. The 49ers were poised to keep Gore, Coffee, Dixon and Robinson, and no amount of hard-running would have made Dixon the number two over Coffee, even if he completely outperformed him. It’s essentially the same roster but with Westbrook instead of Coffee, which is a huge, huge upgrade.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
by James Brady on Aug 16, 2010 3:45 PM PDT up reply actions 7 recs
This comment should be recommended, because it is truth…and clears up the main misconception about this move.
Z!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tweet Tweet.
by ZeroIndulgence on Aug 16, 2010 3:51 PM PDT up reply actions
Reasoning is that...
we could’ve gone into the season with 3 RBs instead of 4. There are a couple places where injuries are forcing us to trim positions elsewhere that we might’ve kept- like we might have to carry 5OLB, etc. These accommodations will cost us elsewhere on the roster, e.g. DL, CB, WR, where we have people that have the potential be a factor years down the line but that might not be important this year. Here I’m thinking a guy with upside like Mitchell or Alex Boone, etc.- someone we might lose if we cut. So Westbrook costs them a roster spot in exchange for making them more competitive in the short term.
What can I say, I am not risk averse when it comes to making the playoffs vs. missing them. I want us to aim to be an elite team, which requires developing A LOT of talent.
But we wouldn't have.
We were going to take four, and it really wasn’t “four” anyway because I’ve been adamant that we consider Michael Robinson at a DST position, ie. “designated special teamer.” We have three running backs and a special teams captain. We have a lot of guys coming up like Diyral Briggs and the like, and I am also adamant that we are cultivating that talent effectively and that he, along with others, will make the roster.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
Plus..
We needed a backup. We can’t say right now that Anthony Dixon is ready to be a second string running back on a team with a starter who is good for at least one injury a season. We made that mistake with Glen Coffee last year, who completely blew up the preseason and then was abysmal in the regular season.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
I agree
The 49ers had to get another RB. They weren’t going to go into the season with an unproven rookie at the RB position again. If they didn’t sign Westbrook they would have had to scour the waiver wire or see if any halfway decent RB was put on a practice squad. This is a huge upgrade over anyone else they could have gotten and they didn’t have anyone else from within.
Don't trust this guy. He lies.
We're still going into the season with 3 RBs
M-Robinson is listed as a running back but he’s really just a ST guy
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
I understand that most/all of you disagree with me...
and legitimately so. But is it ok if we agree that Westbrook will take a roster spot that if we didn’t sign him would go to someone else currently in our training camp? I think that is objectively true, and it’s the basis for the argument I’m making.
My scenario is Robinson/Dixon back-up/sub for Gore during the season vs. Westrbook/Dixon. The former has an extra running back. The latter is more effective (ok, much more) for the time that we can count on Westbrook, and until Dixon gets all those snaps anyway because he’s a beast. I would council for the latter if anyone was seeking my council. Luckily for you guys, that’s not the case.
No, I don't think that's true at all
Assuming Westbrook didn’t sign and Cofee didn’t quit—we’d still carry 4 “RBs” in Gore, Coffee, M-Rob and Dixon.
We’re just exchanging Coffee for Westbrook which is a huge upgrade
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
Yipe
I’m taking Coffee’s resignation as a given. This is not a trade of Coffee for Westbrook. This is a signing of Westbrook. The alternative is no 4th RB. Can we at least agree that this is objectively the case?
No that's not the case.
With Coffee gone, there was going to be another running back, no matter who it was. This IS a trade of Coffee for Westbrook. As opposed to Coffee for one of the other free agent running backs. That’s what it is.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
See my comment below
I can find you the blog posts of the beat reporters. This was not at all an assumption I read, nor did I see anyone report inside sources saying this was the case.
In any event it still wasn’t a trade at all- objectively and indisputably not. It was a decision by the team after Coffee had resigned to not go into the season with Robinson and Dixon as back-ups to Gore. That decision is the one I disagree with not Westbrook’s iteration of it, if that wasn’t clear by now.
I responded below.
You’re suggesting that we go into the season with another rookie running back as the primary backup to a starter who is good for one injury a year on a team that has a playbook built around running the ball? We did that last year and it didn’t work. Coffee looked BETTER last preseason than Dixon did on Sunday.
We needed a backup. Singletary even said that Dixon had a helluva lot of work to do. It was going to be four.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
that's the crux of it
whether or not Dixon/Robinson could handle the back-up role credibly. I am arguing that it was worth the risk to try that, as that is clearly our future at backup for the moment, and that would afford us an extra roster spot. You are disagreeing with me on that point. But you can’t just ignore the fact that someone is going to get cut because of that decision, because that is indisputably the case.
I’d have to disagree is all I can say. My point is that Westbrook isn’t taking a spot from anyone, and if anything, Anthony Dixon, the unproven running back, is doing so.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
I think most people aren't considering Robinson a RB
He’s more of a ST player only who can be an emergancy RB if needed. Without Westbrook the 49ers only had 2 RB’s.
Don't trust this guy. He lies.
I don't think so.
If Westbrook wasn’t signed, another running back would have. That spot was going to a roster spot, and nothing else.
For the most part, when someone is injured and a person is signed, it’s to fill that position. We’ve had a recent happening that is a little different than that, though – Scott McKillop. He’s a special teamer, so his replacement can come anywhere. Like when he went down, I said this guarantees that Diyral Briggs would make the roster even though he’s an outside linebacker.
But this situation is different.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
My usual the cup is half full approach says...
Last year no respectable free agent would have signed with the 49ers (or even talked with them). The fact that we can compete in the open market (in this case starting Saturday, at best) speaks volumes for our credibility as an up and coming franchise.
by seafood lover on Aug 16, 2010 4:31 PM PDT up reply actions
so… you would rather have michael robinson as a backup RB than BRIAN WESTBROOK
your opinion, though
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 4:07 PM PDT up reply actions
It's Michael Robinson plus a roster spot
not just Michael Robinson. And it’s a scenario where Dixon does most of the back-up work, not Robinson anyway.
Listen, if the case was that we were definitely going to carry a 4th running back then I’m all for Westbrook. However, that’s not what I’ve been reading. Maiocco for example speculated on his blog that we might just get another scrub RB for camp instead of going out and signing someone that we would intend to carry on the final 53. I think Barrows did as well.
What I’m saying here is a lot less controversial I think than it’s being made out to be.
It's not M-Rob plus a roster spot
like Ninjames said we were going to get another RB regardless. We weren’t going into the season with a depth chart of Gore/Dixon/M-Rob.
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
We were going to.
Maiocco, for one, is a horrible, horrible judge in roster projections and things of that ilk, and I believe he’s admitted as such in the past.
It was four running backs. The only alternative to that was the lingering thought that Dixon might be practice squadded if Coffee had a great preseason, which is out the window.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
It wasn't just Maiocco
in any case, the point is that I don’t agree with the reasoning and think Dixon/MRob/roster spot is better than Dixon/MRob/Westbrook regardless of what assumptions the front office was making.
Tomlinson started his rookie season. It’s really not beyond the pale to ask a rookie to serve as a full-time back-up to your main RB.
Tomlinson was the fifth overall pick in the draft.
Singletary said that Dixon has far too much work to do.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
We're talking past each other
my point is that it’s worth the rookie bumps, and that it’s not beyond the question that a rookie could be called upon to have a lot of involvement in the offense in his rookie year. There are copious examples, of which Tomlinson is but one (and Coffee but another).
Your point is that there’s no way that Dixon is ready, as substantiated by Singletary’s quotes. That’s a reasonable point, but it doesn’t rule out a difference of opinion on whether the team can afford that unreadiness for what it gives up to bring on a new back as they have with Westbrook. And I’m not arguing that the team is stupid and I’m smart- I’m just articulating an argument that includes the fact that part of the cost of not having Dixon back up Gore is that someone currently at camp will not end up on the final 53.
Whatever else you think about the idea of Dixon backing up Gore (and plenty of knowledgeable football folks including the beat writers who cover the team for a living seemed to think the idea entirely reasonable- to such an extent, in fact, that many of the leads to the Westbrook story referenced Dixon’s performance yesterday), you cannot deny that adding Westbrook just got someone else left off the final 53. The only way you could deny it would be if, as appears you did with your post above, you were making the novel case that the signing of Westbrook just made Dixon redundant and that therefore we should cut him instead. That would be a pretty adventuresome point of view, but at least it is internally consistent).
My point is not that Dixon isn't ready.
That is simply a quote and another thing to substantiate my much larger point.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
Roinson is a ''bum''2 me i know thats kind of harsh but dude has no
skills 2 me no ’’wiggles’’what does he bring honestly as far as a RB not ST a RB i see no skills at all?
by 49er_diva_recieva's on Aug 16, 2010 4:22 PM PDT up reply actions
As a running back...
…when he has space, he’s good. He was counted on for the touchdown for a reason. He had that blunder in that Arizona game, but people are quick to forget his role in that situation in the pass. He had that fumble in the preseason, which kills, but yeah.
He’s not a sexy option, but if we saw a whole lot of Robinson on offense (which I don’t want us to have to, mind you), I’d wager we’d see more good than bad.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
Here’s the official page for the signing at 49ers.com.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
Dude
Sweet.
Seriously, this is a pretty darn good signing by the 49ers. I hope Westbrook can stay healthy and provide excellent value spelling Gore in situations other than third down. Is there any chance we get to see Westbrook as early as this Sunday Night?
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 3:44 PM PDT reply actions
It's possible, I'm sure. He's fit and ready to play.
But he’s the kind of guy we don’t need to see much of right away. I’m thinking in the third game we’ll see what he can bring to the offense. Having that Westbrook security blanket for Alex Smith should be invaluable.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
He'll get 5 carries but NBC will just rotate glamour shots of Favre so you won't see them
by bignerd on Aug 16, 2010 5:59 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
I’m looking forward to watching the game on mute with my eyes closed.
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 7:41 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Speaking of watching stuff with your eyes closed
when my wife and i were first dating we went to see a movie and in the row behind us an old man and woman were sitting. during the entire movie the woman kept talking to her husband and it was driving me nuts (it’s one of my biggest pet peeves and one reason I watch movies alone).
Well when the movie was done I saw that her husband was blind. She was describing the scenes to him. I went from being pissed off to feeling sheepish and embarassed.
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
could’ve been worse, you could have stood up, turned around and told them to shut it.
regardless, moments of going from pissed to embarassed are always humbling.
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 8:18 PM PDT up reply actions
I've done that before
But that’s normally when it’s teenagers who won’t shut up
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
I was expecting some hilarious story. Now I feel a little humbled too. That’s a powerful story in many ways. Actually, I am somewhat of an amateur writer (hopefully someday a professional!). Could I use this idea as a short story? I feel the emotions coursing through this potential narrative. As I am typing, the more I think this has potential. I would want your permission before I start writing, though.
I’m smileyman’s agent, and we’ll have to head into the war room to begin negotiations. I get 5% of whatever smileyman gets, so I’m aiming for a Boras like figure.
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 8:27 PM PDT up reply actions
I got one for you ....
… there was a movie called , Night at the museum ( I think ) were all the characters came alive and so forth … how about this , Night at the Hall of Fame , were all the football great’s came alive etc , etc , etc …E-mail me the Money when your done …!!
Gotta love a woman that wear's knee pad's to work ...!!
Or you could of said , can you shut up and juz ( watch ) the movie ...!!
Gotta love a woman that wear's knee pad's to work ...!!
He's 30 but he has low miles
Since he played his whole career in pass happy philly, he hasn’t taken the pounding other feature backs would take. He has 1308 caries in his career compaired to 2880 for Tomlinson who’s 31. If the knee holds up he could be a great COP back for Gore.
Don't trust this guy. He lies.
“could be a great COP back for Gore.”
This. Westbrook is a legitimate COP. While not a burner, he does run differently.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
by James Brady on Aug 16, 2010 3:47 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
Didn’t the Niners learn their lesson with Steve Young about players who are concussed multiple times?
Good thing it’s a low-risk/high-reward signing.
"Dodger fans aren’t happy when foul balls get into their section, because it interferes with their playing with the beachball"- Mike Krukow
I’m not too sure there’s a lesson to be learned here.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
yeah… the guy took us to a super bowl victory. i sure learned my lesson
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 3:53 PM PDT up reply actions
How much do you expect him to play?
Once these guys are concussed once, it happens more and more and it happens easier than before. One wrong hit and he could be done for the season.
"Dodger fans aren’t happy when foul balls get into their section, because it interferes with their playing with the beachball"- Mike Krukow
I don't understand.
We didn’t just sign a starting running back. We signed a backup. I like his chances to not get a concussion over the course of, say, three-four games total playing time over sixteen games, which is what he feels he can still do.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
Okay, nevermind
I like the signing now.
http://www.sharapovasthigh.com/2010/08/twitter-trash-talk-cardinals-darnell.html
"Dodger fans aren’t happy when foul balls get into their section, because it interferes with their playing with the beachball"- Mike Krukow
and the dockett butthurt continues.
jesus… just demand a trade to us already, butthurt guy
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 4:01 PM PDT up reply actions
We traded kentwan ''MIA''balmer 2 the seahawks?
by 49er_diva_recieva's on Aug 16, 2010 4:48 PM PDT up reply actions
one wrong hit and anyone can be done for the season.
also, OH NO WE SIGNED HIM TO A 1 YEAR CONTRACT IF HE GETS INJURED OUR ENTIRE FRANCHISE GOES TO HELL
dude… he’ll be a 3rd down/COP back and nothing else. you act like we drafted jahvid best #1 overall or something
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 3:56 PM PDT up reply actions
Yeah, that's the risk...
But the same could be said for anyone…one wrong hit and their season is done. It’s more of a risk with Westbrook, but he’s also going to be playing much less than he was before. In his limited playing time, he could be very productive. Also, he’s a veteren with loads of experience and a reknowned work ethic…not a bad role model to have around for the kids (Dixon).
It’s a low risk-high reward move because we aren’t expecting him to carry the load, and if he gets hurt, well, we still have Gore carrying the load, and Dixon will have had that much more time to develop.
Z!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tweet Tweet.
by ZeroIndulgence on Aug 16, 2010 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions
I honestly think ''philly''blew that concusison up more than it was supposed 2 me
only because they were going with that youngster,they had love 4 westbrook so they didn’t want 2 embaress him so they blew his concussion issues up????
by 49er_diva_recieva's on Aug 16, 2010 4:26 PM PDT up reply actions
That's... a pretty good point.
I mean, not to a huge extent but that’s a possibility, certainly.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
Remember back when we wanted to draft CJ Spiller at #13?
:D
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 3:48 PM PDT reply actions
Spiller would have been great.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
this kind of helps make up for it a bit
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 3:53 PM PDT up reply actions
considering we needed him to be change of pace and a returner and we already have the returner(s)
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 3:54 PM PDT up reply actions
No doubt. It was just kind of one of those things where you reminded me he exists and I got that dreamy look in my eyes, sighed and stared off into space, wondering what could have been between the two of us.
The 49ers and Spiller, that is.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
Ew
What we've got here is a failure to communicate.
"I'm just like you, but 10 times better"
by SportsChicken on Aug 16, 2010 4:07 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
You'd probably like it better if I was imagining myself and Spiller.
/ san francisco 49ers gay joke
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
obviously
What we've got here is a failure to communicate.
"I'm just like you, but 10 times better"
by SportsChicken on Aug 16, 2010 4:16 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
LMAO
Thanks for reminding me.
I got my wish
:)
What we've got here is a failure to communicate.
"I'm just like you, but 10 times better"
by SportsChicken on Aug 16, 2010 4:03 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
I love this signing
I love Frank but it seems like every year he has to miss at least one or two games because of injury so now if Gore doesn’t get hurt (hopefully he doesn’t) we have two pretty good backups
by 49erEmpire on Aug 16, 2010 3:48 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
whoops
I meant if Gore does get hurt
by 49erEmpire on Aug 16, 2010 3:49 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
hell yeah!
the more I look at our team the more I am reminded of the 02 bucs. If we could be a top 5 defense this year and run the ball all over the other team, we have a chance to go deep into the playoffs. Our running game will be very dangerous this year.
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Aug 16, 2010 3:49 PM PDT reply actions
YEAH
I really like this signing, I think Westbrook has alot of left in the tank, and this might revive his declining career(like how Grant Hill signing with Phoenix revived his career) also I know two different sports, also I have always admired how he burned teams over and over with his skills, and I hold him in higher standards than LT-21, GO 49ers, hope the team can stay helathy and i just remembered Westbrook can also help out in the PR/KR spots.
Our Offense is gonna be so much more Dynamic
With Westbrook and Gore. Jimmy Raye needs to add some more pages to his playbook.
bringing the total to 2
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 3:57 PM PDT up reply actions 1 recs
well played sir.
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 4:00 PM PDT up reply actions
Exactly. But it’s actually more around three pages. Page two is an on-going doodle of Raye as a cowboy that he works on during 3rd and long situations when his first page is useless.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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ME LIKEEE on 3rd and short
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 4:02 PM PDT reply actions
let me rephrase that
cardinals, where are you gonna go? you gonna stuff dockett up the middle for gore? you gonna keep a safety back for ginn? you gonna drop a LB back for vernon? you gonna bring a CB in the flat to guard westbrook? WATCHU GONNA DO
Dashon, Mays, and Bamm Bamm will get the record for most decapitations in one season
by MichaelClutchtree on Aug 16, 2010 4:05 PM PDT up reply actions
I even might like Delanie over Ginn in some situations.
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Whatcha gonna do? When my ninjas come for ya!
by mr. instigator on Aug 17, 2010 8:24 AM PDT up reply actions
Our 2 TE set
would be pretty nasty. Davis and Walker both pretty fast cant catch. and Gore and Westbrook in the backfield that is some major receiving those are some major receiving threats in play action
Yeah
He tweeted he is proud to be a 49er! The clouds are suddenly brighting up!
Santa Clara, You are the Father!
I like it
But I just get the feeling that its going to be D. Foster all over again?
I doubt Jimmy Raye manages to use him effectively though
What we've got here is a failure to communicate.
"I'm just like you, but 10 times better"
by SportsChicken on Aug 16, 2010 4:06 PM PDT via mobile reply actions
umm
Westbrook is the eagles alltime rushing (total yardage?) leader. Deshaun foster was…well nothing besides a name I irrationally liked…
tho you may not be wrong about Raye misusing him
by foosball4949 on Aug 16, 2010 4:08 PM PDT up reply actions
I don't see that. Foster was never anything special.
Westbrook has always been dynamic. Foster was a runner who just took the ball and hoped he had a hole to stumble through. Westbrook creates something out of nothing.
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Just a feeling
And I was referring to how Foster was used in 08. He only saw the field when Gore got hurt.
I doubt Westbrook will be used in creative plays.
What we've got here is a failure to communicate.
"I'm just like you, but 10 times better"
by SportsChicken on Aug 16, 2010 4:21 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
They really don't have to be creative.
I think (hope) Raye recognizes a good checkdown running back who can make plays when he sees one.
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If nothing else
having Gore and Westbrook in the backfield on 3rd down suddenly makes the offense even more dangerous
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
?
You really think Westbrook and Gore will be on the field together?
What we've got here is a failure to communicate.
"I'm just like you, but 10 times better"
by SportsChicken on Aug 16, 2010 4:25 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Why not?
I would put them on the field together at least a few times a game.
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
great
I wish you were the OC
What we've got here is a failure to communicate.
"I'm just like you, but 10 times better"
by SportsChicken on Aug 16, 2010 4:32 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
Yeah, I really do. It’s easy to think they won’t, but teams never do that until they have the personnel for it. Now it happens pretty frequently around the league.
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I like this idea, but I also like the idea of Gore being taken out on some third downs to preserve him for another 4-5 years.
Four-five years is really, really stretching it.
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True, he will probably only be 1000+ runner for another 2-3 years, but we could have running by committee with his heir for his last two years or so.
This is all ideal, and I really hope that this is the case because Gore has been the very definition of a running back that any team would want his entire career, complete with steal draft status and all, but with running backs, ideal almost never is the case. Of all the positions where a player gets embarrassed, etc and has to move on before he wants to – running back has the highest rate.
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This is true. Plus, Gore has a bum knee, which only hurts him.
The only reason I am going to hope a little bit is because of Gore’s ability to surprise me always. He goes out, every game, and just puts on a show. I believe in this man. Not saying you don’t, or anything. I just want to be a naive little fanboy when it comes to Gore because he is so awesome.
I don't believe in Jimmy Raye
Sue me.
What we've got here is a failure to communicate.
"I'm just like you, but 10 times better"
by SportsChicken on Aug 16, 2010 4:56 PM PDT up reply actions
I don't either. I consistently refer to his playbook as a children's coloring book.
But it’s not something that’s rare or complex.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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I don’t think it’s Raye’s playbook that’s the problem, it’s the actual playcalling. As we all saw last year, the offense can be closer to exotic than junior varsity. Theproblem is, when you call 90% of the run plays up the middle, it really does make the playbook look like something you find in a first grader’s lunch pail.
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 7:40 PM PDT up reply actions
This
Raye’s got the plays in there. He just doesn’t use them. I think he’s go the old Packer mentality where they ran the sweep all the time and nobody could stop them because they did it so well (but even that’s a mis-characterization of that offense)
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
The press conference, as I stated in my update, will be streaming live at CSN Bay Area.
5:00 p.m.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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Really don't like the way CSN does press releases ...
… can never hear the question’s …!!
Gotta love a woman that wear's knee pad's to work ...!!
That's usually the case for most press conferences through all of sports.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
Twitter me and what not.
A caption would be nice ... 49er.com does a nice job of that ...!!!
Gotta love a woman that wear's knee pad's to work ...!!
Epic Brian Westbrook press conference live post to follow?
What we've got here is a failure to communicate.
"I'm just like you, but 10 times better"
by SportsChicken on Aug 16, 2010 4:24 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
We juz got about 12 sec's on ESPN about Westbrook ...!!
Gotta love a woman that wear's knee pad's to work ...!!
Low risk/high reward seems to be the prevailing thought.
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Good to hear.
I was sort of bashing on this earlier, but I thought he would have to trade for him, not just sign him from Free Agency. I like this more now.
Why would we trade for him? He wasn't signed with any team.
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
I imagine it was just a slip of the brain. Kind of surreal when you think of Brian Westbrook being a free agent as opposed to still being with the Eagles.
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Very little downside
he is built like a house of cards and has scrambled eggs for brains now, but for 1.25M non-guaranteed, whats the risk? The roster spot being taken up by nameless RB schmo #3? If he gets a concussion, IR him and get someone else. Who knows, maybe can give us a couple games down the stretch, and if he holds up and gives 5-10 touches a game that would be a steal.
Concussions are always scary, but they were never an issue with him before last season. I’ve been telling people all offseason that the injuries people should worry about as far as Westbrook goes are his chronic knee and ankle conditions. He’s battled with a bad knee since college and it’s gotten worse and worse over the years. The knee and the ankle are why he missed so many games over the years. They’re why he rarely ever practiced. He was a gametime decision every week for his last 3 years as an Eagle.
It’ll be interesting to see how an offseason of rest affects him. He sat all of training camp last year with the bad knee and never had the explosiveness you expect from him… then the concussions came. With a whole offseason off you’d think the knee would be in better shape for the first few weeks of the season.
But hey, he was still able to effective for several years where he would knee swell up so bad he could barely jog until Sunday… So the guy is used to playing with pain.
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Thanks for the insight. Would you have been opposed to keeping Westbrook at a good price for the Eagles? I really like McCoy, seems like he would have made Westbrook redundant at that point.
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Yeah, it would have been kinda weird to relegate Westbrook to a backup in Philly.
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McCoy is the unquestioned starter, right? I haven’t kept as up-to-date on the Eagles. I was saying he could be a star in that offense.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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maybe with a huge reduction in week-to-week workload his knee will hold up better. But you know it is going to swell every sunday regardless.
There’s no doubt. Less work can only help it. I’m sure it will swell up anyway, but like I said he had many productive seasons were he played through that.
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he played right through it during his best seasons, which is why the concussions are more worrisome to me. He is a trooper, and he will give you all he has, and if its just some knee pain and swelling he is gonna suck it up. But if he gets a concussion its game over. The doctors wont let him play, and rightfully so.
PRESS CONFERENCE THREAD
At 4:45 I’m posting a thread with embedded video to watch the Brian Westbrook press conference live. I’ll add a link here then.
what grade do you give this acquisition?
“A” for me.
1) Westbrook > Coffee
2) Good receiver
3) Only one year deal
4) Added Depth
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Aug 16, 2010 4:27 PM PDT reply actions
It’s an “A”, so long as we’re grading on a scale where an “A” doesn’t equate to something like “pro bowl”. It’s an “A” based on the circumstances, in my mind.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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Yeah
It gives Dixon another year to grow and gives him experience behind two of the best. Westbrook is an excellent receiver and will open things up for alex when he’s in trouble.
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Aug 16, 2010 4:30 PM PDT up reply actions
A
We’re not paying an arm and a leg for him, he brings valuable experience to the table, and no matter how excited we might be about Dixon’s potential Westbrook is going to be better.
He’s definitely an upgrade over every RB we have on the roster except Gore
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
"He’s definitely an upgrade over every RB we have on the roster except Gore"
Look, Brian Westbrook is one of my all time favorites. I still own his jersey. I’ll always be a fan…
But are you so sure of that? Did you see anything he did last year? He was really struggling. Even before the concussions. Running backs don’t typically fade away in the NFL… they fall off a cliff. I hope for his sake that Westbrook isn’t done and being a backup player and skipping training camp will help… but I wouldn’t make the mistake of thinking 2006/2007 Brian Westbrook is walking through the door.
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Yeah I'm sure
We’ve got an undrafted rookie free agent in Anthony Dixon and a career STer in Michael Robinson.
Plus a 250 lb FB in Jehu Caulcrick.
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
Dixon is a sixth rounder, bruva.
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I’m sure of it, solely because our third stringer (now fourth string) isn’t really a running back (converted quarterback who runs hard and is a special teamer above all else) and our second stringer (now our third stringer) is an unproven sixth round pick, who, admittedly, I feel really good about for the future.
On a one-year deal, I’ll bite.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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But we might be paying
A knee and an ankle…
by mr. instigator on Aug 17, 2010 8:29 AM PDT up reply actions
you forgot that Westbrook is an A+ pass protector
which is why he’ll be on the field instead of Dixon all year long.
First Balmer, now Coffee...who knew McBooFoo had such an eye for quitters?
Eagles Run Blocking Sucks
The bEagles are a pass-happy team that gets very little practice in run blocking. They are always one of the top pass percentage teams in the NFL. Their run blocking has been crappy since Andy Reid has got there. Most of Westbrook’s rushing yardage has been his own doing. With the 9ers focus on the running the ball we might actually see some talent and maybe even durabilty that we didnt see in philly.
Yeah it’s not like he ran behind 3 pro bowl offensive lineman or something…
The Eagles line has always been really good at run blocking, which is why it can be so frustrating that Reid doesn’t use them as much as we want!
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Yeah. I’ve never viewed them as very good in run blocking, but that’s likely because I don’t pay that much attention. I’ll say that they probably pass bock better than they run block, I think I wouldn’t be too far off saying that, but I’m not sure where he’s getting the bit about them sucking.
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I think a lot of Eagles fans would tell you they run blocked better than they pass blocked in Westbrook’s heyday. Jon Runyan, Tra THomas, Shawn Andrews… these guys were road graders. We always complained that Reid tried to take a road grading run blocking line and turn it into a finesse pass blocking unit.
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Runyan was a beast and a half, but he was definitely a better pass blocker than a run blocker, he’s one of the few I’m in a good position to even talk about.
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I suppose we’ll have to agree to disagree. Of all of them, Runyan was easily the best run blocker and the most suited to a power running game.
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He definitely was a good run blocker. Very good, in fact, but that is just speaking more to overall how good he was. He was still a better pass blocker, and better known for it, too. Saying he was best at past blocking is taking nothing from his run blocking.
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they were probowlers because of pass blocking. With how long McNabb held the ball he needed probowlers. They were very good at screen blocking, but they often missed assignments on run blocking. I’m sure i dont need to remind you of their red zone TD%.
They didn’t often “miss assignments on run blocking.” Sorry.
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McNabb
What could have been. . .Oh well at least we got one of em…
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Aug 16, 2010 4:36 PM PDT reply actions
Said it before, will say again.
McNabb wouldn’t have fit the 49ers system very well. Then again, I have confidence (yikes) in Alex Smith.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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confidence
"Confidence is contagious; so is lack of confidence".
~Lombardi
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Aug 16, 2010 4:39 PM PDT up reply actions
sorry
Just playing fantasy football in my head
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Aug 16, 2010 4:40 PM PDT up reply actions
mos def.
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fantastic rapper
"All during film, I'm calling him Bam-Bam, like from 'The Flintstones,' because he hits everything. He is the truth" - Chad Ochocinco on Patrick Willis
I like his acting in Hitchhiker’s Guide.
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 8:17 PM PDT up reply actions
Haven't seen that
don’t want to ruin my memories of the book
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
Never read the book, watched a few episodes of the old TV show. To be perfectly honest, I thought the movie was fantastic. Splendid casting made for great chemistry on screen. A friend of mine is a huge Douglas Adams fan, and he thought the movie was excellent. Not everyone that loved the books hated the movie, so it might be worth your time.
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 8:22 PM PDT up reply actions
I’m not much of a reader. I’m still trying to finish the Dark Tower series that I started reading 7 years ago. I’m on book 5 of 7, and have been for about 3 years now.
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 16, 2010 8:28 PM PDT up reply actions
I loved the movie.
And I’m a huge Hitchhikers Guide fan. (my one and only tattoo is going to be the number 42) Like. HUGE fan. And I loved the movie for what it was. And Mos was the perfect Ford.
The new book is good, too.
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You an X-Files fan?
Mulder’s apartment number was 42.
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
Not a huge fan, but enough to know that.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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He's my favorite rapper, actually.
Black on Both Sides is one of my top rap albums of all time.
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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Either way
Im just ecstatic we got Westbrook. NOW, I think we are ready to run with anyone.
by Iupati_like_its_1999 on Aug 16, 2010 4:41 PM PDT up reply actions
Nice, this move just makes a ton of sense
As soon as I heard about Coffee’s surprise retirement the first name that popped into my head was Westbrook’s. The Niners couldn’t really go into the season with Dixon and Robinson as the only back-ups for Gore and while Westbrook has some injury concerns he can really help the offense when healthy. The Niners don’t have a lot committed to him so worst-case scenario he gets injured and we’re back in the same position we were in yesterday.
We all know Gore is a stud, and Dixon showed some good stuff yesterday, now add Westbrook into the mix and it looks like a pretty good RB corp.
I think its a good move
a proven veteran player to add to the roster and replace Coffee. He has good leadership skills and he is a very versitile back. Hope his concussion issues are behide him which I think it is because last year he came back too early from the first one. Good pickup.
Beat Em To The Punch - Bill Walsh
This signing say's a lot for this organization ...!!
Gotta love a woman that wear's knee pad's to work ...!!
Love it
Correct me if I’m wrong, but it almost looks like we may now have a RB corps that could be along the lines of Barber/Jones/Choice from 2008-2009. I actually will feel a lot better this year than last year if and when Frank goes down during the season. We may actually want to do a little bit of platooning between him (with Frank getting the bulk of the touches of course) and Westbrook, maybe even all three just to try to minimize the chance of injury. The offense has just turned it up a gear. Just stay healthy Brian!
27 da. . .Shut up mango :P
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It can only equal that if we can come up with a nickname for our RB corps that compares to Smash, Dash, and Tash! Any suggestions out there?
7
Gore, Soar and Roar?
I will gladly eat crow if Brandon Jones does well for the 49ers in 2010.
by Andrew Davidson on Aug 17, 2010 8:30 AM PDT up reply actions
Love this move
I think is move is great. Huge upgrade over Coffee, love his big play ability. Also, probably would not want to risk injury, but we know he can return punts too, if need be.
I doubt Dixon is gone
"Son, I'm going to break you like a wild horse." - Mike Singletary
uhhhhh what?
And then God created Saturn... and he liked it, so he put a ring on it.
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As far as I know
There is only one Mr. Instigator!
27 da. . .Shut up mango :P
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by Mangoman on Aug 16, 2010 7:58 PM PDT via mobile up reply actions
@ovalshine..
Are you kidding me? Westbrook is filling in the spot Coffee left open. Dixon is not going to be leaving the Niners “unless he has a spiritual revelation” lol.
If you have a RB on your team who can make a CB look like a crash dummy with a stiff arm you’re probably going to keep him. Plus who else saw the play when evaded two tacklers in the backfield and turned a play that would’ve been for a loss into a 20 yard or so run. Now if you get rid of a player who does those things and who can pass block pretty good than you must not be a fan of that team.
Hmmm ... Crash test dummy's was a band i'm think'n ...!!
Gotta love a woman that wear's knee pad's to work ...!!
Have to agree with several posters here:
Low risk/high possible reward signing. Westbrook has been a very productive back in the past, and he may still have a few miles left in those legs. As a 2nd stringer, he wont see a ton of action, and that is really what he needs at this point in his career. This might be his last season, so hopefully he is productive and is able to retire with his head up. Even if he doesn’t have a great season, he has had a great career. If he is even half as productive as he was in 2006, we have upgraded our backfield significantly. Westbrook is a great receiver out of the backfield, and Alex Smith is the checkdown king! Westbrook is good in space and I bet he can still run a screen. He may not be pounding it up the middle like when he was younger, but he will contribute.
Another year, another chance to hope for the team !!
I this this may be one of your shortest comments ever
Logic merely enables one to be wrong with authority
Westbrook might be able to run a screen ...
… but it’s been awhile since the Niner’s have run one that work’s …!!!
Gotta love a woman that wear's knee pad's to work ...!!
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