2012 NFL Playoffs: 49ers Welcome Saints In Divisional Round Matchup
by David Fucillo on Jan 9, 2012 7:30 AM PST
in 2012 NFL Playoffs
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PrintThe wild card weekend wrapped up with some wild play in yesterday's Broncos-Steelers game, but all that matters for 49ers fans is Saturday's result. The New Orleans Saints used a monster fourth quarter to send the Detroit Lions packing and advance to a divisional showdown of 13-3 squads.
The Saints started off slow on Saturday as the Lions landed the first punch and showed a strong counter punch throughout the first half. The Lions scored on their opening drive, and then added a second touchdown right after the Saints evened it up. Unfortunately their blows were not sufficiently strong as they could not convert a pair of first half Saints fumbles into points. It was only a matter of time before the Saints offense found its gear in the Superdome. The Lions did get screwed on some calls, but they blew enough opportunities that at the end of the day they have nobody to blame but themselves.
Now, the Saints get to test out their high octane offense on the soft, damp Candlestick Park grass. The big story line heading into Sunday's game is the 49ers strong defense against the Saints high-flying offense. The proverbial unstoppable force meets the immovable object. There are numerous story lines, but much of the focus in the media will be simplified down to the Saints huge passing attack versus the 49ers defense.
And yet, that is not an entirely accurate portrayal of that matchup. From the 49ers side, one of the biggest question marks for the 49ers defense has been its susceptibility to the big play. The 49ers are fifth worst in the NFL in giving up plays of 40+ yards, with twelve such plays. Matt Barrows broke down the six longest such plays. Twelve total plays over 16 weeks is not exactly a monstrous total, but it comes down to one such play every five or so quarters, which can add up.
The Saints performance on turf versus grass aside, how can the 49ers avoid the big plays? Pressure, technique and discipline.
It is absolutely essential the 49ers get pressure on Drew Brees. If any quarterback gets enough time they can make big plays, but Drew Brees has made an art form out of picking apart defenses as his offensive line keeps pass rushers at bay. We'll have more on this, but Aldon Smith will be pivotal. The 49ers will likely be in a nickel defense for much of the game given the Saints passing attack, which means Aldon Smith will be on the field for much of the game. He and the rest of the 49ers pass rush will have to make Drew Brees aware of their presence.
Technique and discipline will sort of go hand in hand for the defense. The Detroit Lions blew numerous opportunities in this game thanks to shoddy tackling. In 2011, the 49ers defense has made its bones on solid tackling. There have been plenty of instances of poor tackling, but for the most part the 49ers have done a good job in taking down ball carriers.
This is most notable against the run, but even against the pass, the 49ers have managed to keep teams out of the end zone. Quarterbacks have thrown for pretty sizable passing yardage totals against the 49ers, but they have struggled to get into the end zone. A perfect example of this was the game against the Lions. Calvin Johnson hauled in 113 receiving yards, but he never hit pay dirt. The 49ers defense can afford to give up big yards so long as they clamp down in the red zone.
Mike Sando put together a table breaking down Drew Brees' performance on passes of 15+ yards as compared to the 49ers defense's performance on plays of 15+ yards. The 49ers have given up the big 40+ yard plays, but they have also picked off a league-leading 17 interceptions and compiled a league-leading 56.9 Total QBR. So, this is not a simple case of a significant strength against a dire weakness.
There is of course also the issue of playing out in the elements. Even though the Saints do not perform at the same level when they are outdoors, they are a sufficiently dynamic offense that will provide a stiff test to the 49ers. Just the sheer volume of weapons makes for a tough contest. They will try to establish some manner of rushing attack, but at the end of the day they will go as far as their passing attack carries them.
The 49ers will get to prove their mettle against Drew Brees and his band of merry men: Marques Colston, Jimmy Graham, Darren Sproles, Robert Meachem, Devery Henderson and Pierre Thomas. They will have to take the hard road to the Super Bowl, but I can live with that. A playoff win is all that matters, no matter the opponent, but getting a chance to knock off the much-vaunted Saints is a little extra sweet.
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LET'S GO SAINTS!!!
We willl crush the 49ers spirits! Let’s make them feel ashamed and depressed! Make them consider other careers!
Who dat!
by HollywoodSaint on Jan 9, 2012 7:46 AM PST reply actions 1 recs
Umm...hello
Lindsay Lohan
Joe, Jerry, Steve, and....Who is next?
by 16to80fan on Jan 9, 2012 10:10 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
lol
…sooooooooo that’s who that was.
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no no no
it’s who dat donna do drolling
by sanfranfanmdk on Jan 9, 2012 8:35 AM PST up reply actions
Stay classy little one and thanks for playing ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
We will expose Alex Smith as a fraud and a charlatan!!! This is the time that truths will be revealed!
by HollywoodSaint on Jan 9, 2012 8:22 AM PST up reply actions
Wait til Mom & Dad get home and see that you were on their computer ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
by Edggy on Jan 9, 2012 9:06 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Yes , i can see him now ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
thanks for the nightmares
Checking under my bed tonight
by mcwagner on Jan 9, 2012 10:11 AM PST via mobile up reply actions
I'm here for ya Bro , no thanks needed ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
is that skip bayless?
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
by Kidd2Petrovic on Jan 9, 2012 10:27 AM PST up reply actions
You’re probably embarrassing the other Saints fans who are reading this
"Can Manchester United score? They always score... Peter Schmeichel is forward... Beckham, in towards Schmeichel- it's come for Dwight Yorke. Cleared... Giggs with a shot- SHERINGHAM!"
Keep Brees out of the field
Sustain long drives with short throws, pound Gore up the gut, run Hunter over the edges, slant it to VD and put a couple of trick plays in the mix. And best of luck, guys!
And...
Smith Drew Brees.
Smith (v)- 1) to terrify utterly, to ransack, to reduce to smouldering ashes. 2) To humiliate, to throw one to the ground, and glory over a vanquished opponent. 3) (adj) To be a complete and utter badass, a honey badger, an athletic freak, and a relentless punisher, e.g. “Wow…that Patrick Willis is a real Smith!”
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:49 AM PST up reply actions 2 recs
I blame the lack of caffeine
In my third definition, it should read say noun, not adjective. Use as adjective would have to modify the noun, i.e. “That Navarro Bowman is a real Smith player! Did you see him run down Sproles from behind and knock him out of the game?!?”
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:58 AM PST up reply actions
"It should read say"
Dammit. I’m going to quit while I am less behind. Nonetheless, I still think the definitions are valid.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:58 AM PST up reply actions
I'm so excited
Not going to get anything done at work this week!!!
Does Barrows not like Reggie Smith
His article makes it seem like he’s the biggest constant in us giving up big plays this season.
Consider the source ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
I've read similar sentiments posted around these parts.
A quick search for “Reggie Smith” in the comments reveals that Ougadas in particular does not approve of his coverage abilities.
"My father's name is art, and my name's pride, and while my destiny reads a recipe for confusion I'm looking for whoever writes, so empty inside." -Slug
Reggie is inconsistent
Occasionally, he produces big plays and turnovers. At other times, there are some blown coverages. Not entirely unlike Dashon, actually.
With time though, perhaps he can turn into more of a Smith. If not, Notre Dame has a safety named Smith we could probably draft in the mid-rounds.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 12:33 PM PST up reply actions
His article was only showing the longest plays this season the defense allowed...
It’s really not his fault Reggie was a major point in many of them…
greetings for csc
i’m originally from LA.. been up to the city a few times.. it’s a great place
good luck to you guys this week. i’m really looking forward to this game. it really seems that this game will either validate the 49ers defense or the saints offense.
last season, i think it was week 2, mnf, we BARELY squeaked out a win against a lesser 49ers team. with your team looking so much better, i’m anxious and nervous and excited for saturday.
Aldon Smith crucial
If there was ever a time to make sure Aldon Smith is in on 1st down; it’s against the Saints. Throwing on 1st down helped the Ravens move the ball against our D and that was with Flacco at QB. The Saints will throw on about 80% of their 1st down plays. Need to keep Aldon out there to thow Brees’ timing off. Curious to see how Fangio plays it.
One small correction:
Need to keep Aldon out there to thow Brees’timing offinto the ground. Repeatedly.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:18 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
That
I definitely didn’t see it coming, and I think very few others did as well.
I am irritated that Tebow Time has been extended another week, but funny things happen in the NFL playoffs.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 12:34 PM PST up reply actions
R-E-S-P-E-C-T !
Consider this a 4 Round (quarter) heavyweight fight…with the winner earning the respect that will be due!
Round 1 winner is…..
Round 2 winner is…
Round 3 winner is…
Round 4 winner is…
Results to come…..Stay Tuned !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Going to be a lot of trash talk and Saints fans bashing Alex
Attack this team just like the Giants and Steelers….come out throwing quick passes, work in the run game and mix in some deep throws.
Their weak defense accounts for any shortcomings Alex may have. As long as we can control that clock which we should with them giving up 5.0 yards per carry on the ground, then that minimizes Bress’s chances to make something happen… we’ve only been giving up 10.9 points per game at Home.
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30 points in the last 4 games... Total...
And most of that was 1 game, if I remember correctly…
Yes....Q.B. performance play a Big part in playoff wins !
Simply look at this past weekend…..the hottest Q.B. played key roles in keeping drives alive and making the pressure pass completions.
Our defense of course will be One key….But, it always gets down to the Q.B performance.
I just hope our O-Line gives Alex as much time as Denver O-line gave Tebow…that guy had all day & night to make his passes, nobody on the Steelers got close.
Yes , see Tebow ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
At least Ted Ginn and Kyle Williams will be back to 100%.
Ginn should help in field position … and who knows… he may just break one lose for 6.
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I love how so many fans and media dummies think this will be a cake walk for the Aints
It will make it that much sweeter when the Niners punch them in the mouth and send them home crying to their mommy’s
Hey good luck to a good team… from Cleveland.
Liked posting with you guys during our game this year. Hope we can put it together next year like you guys did this year.
Good luck
"A drug person can learn to cope with things like seeing their dead grandmother crawling up their leg with a knife in her teeth. But no one should be asked to handle this trip." Thompson
Thanks and good luck to you next year
It will certainly be tough competing with 3 playoff teams in your own division
by sanfranfanmdk on Jan 9, 2012 8:34 AM PST up reply actions
The Browns should use some of those picks they got from the Falcons and Colt McCoy and trade with the Colts to get Luck
by sanfranfanmdk on Jan 9, 2012 8:37 AM PST up reply actions
That’s the big issue… Luck or RG3. We can more logically get Griff, but need all the picks we can get.
I say draft RG with the 4th pick and grab a WR or RT with 22. But everything changes draft day.
"A drug person can learn to cope with things like seeing their dead grandmother crawling up their leg with a knife in her teeth. But no one should be asked to handle this trip." Thompson
and how do you sell Colt McCoy to anyone?
"A drug person can learn to cope with things like seeing their dead grandmother crawling up their leg with a knife in her teeth. But no one should be asked to handle this trip." Thompson
By offering a buy one get Two free draft picks ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
Well if the Bengals can commit Grand Theft Draft Picks on the Raiders for a QB they were finished with
i’m sure the Browns can think of something lol
by sanfranfanmdk on Jan 9, 2012 9:19 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Thanks man
You guys were some of the most chill fans I’ve ever seen. I really enjoyed chatting with you all. Good luck in the draft and next season. Playing in as tough a division as you have you’ll surely need some! :)
Thanks
Your fans were some of the best we interacted with this year IMO. When we played the Steelers and told their fans how chill and friendly you guys were they just wouldn’t believe it lol.
Maslow's theory of higher needs does not apply to Patrick Willis. He only has two needs: tackling people and finding people to tackle.
I always had good experiences with Saints fans from that blog.
But I’ve read a few things over there that they are saying we are talking trash about them like they’re some slouch team or something. I don’t think a single Niners fan thinks that. A lot of us think we can beat them at home… but that’s because how they’ve played on the grass. If we were going to their house, I think a lot of us would be changing our tune just a bit in our chances of winning.
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this is funny to me
But I’ve read a few things over there that they are saying we are talking trash about them like they’re some slouch team or something
because a lot of the comments I’m reading from Saints fans saying the EXACT same thing about the Niners.
Maslow's theory of higher needs does not apply to Patrick Willis. He only has two needs: tackling people and finding people to tackle.
There's a few on each side but I think for the most part people are keeping the game in perspective with rational
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Hate to break it to you
Your probably on year 3 of a long 6 year, 49ers like rebuild plan. The Browns are getting more talented but still some ways to go, especially in that division.
I’’m fairly sure Indy is gonna grab Luck. How could you not?
"A drug person can learn to cope with things like seeing their dead grandmother crawling up their leg with a knife in her teeth. But no one should be asked to handle this trip." Thompson
I think RGIII is the smart pick at #4
Has he declared yet though?
The other thing is this- I don’t think he lasts that long. Whoever is picking at 2 or 3 has to consider grabbing him, and considering a deal that same day for whoever they want plus extra picks.
It’s weird to see the Bengals poised to be sort of successful- hope the Browns can achieve a similarly remarkable turnaround.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:22 AM PST up reply actions
This is what concerns me with Alex compared to Brees....
Brees has an 8.33 avg yds per attempt / Alex has 7.1
Brees has only been sacked 24 times / Alex 44 times
So Brees throws for bigger chunks of yardage and gets sacked a lot less.
Because the don't have Frank Gore ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
We have the #6 rushing team in the league
We dont have 1 primary back we use RB by committee which works great for us and keeps our backs fresh
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 9, 2012 9:59 AM PST up reply actions
Ok , thanks for playing ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
Committee of scrubs
“RB by committee” is just a fancy way of saying “We don’t have a premier RB, so we rely on multiple different average (at best) RB’s to mix things up.” Too bad none of that was against the #1 run defense in the league. Saints will be entirely 1-dimensional and everyone knows it.
That's definitely oversimplifying things.
Sproles is as explosive and elusive as they come, Ivory is a solid north-south runner, Pierre Thomas is a well-rounded back, and Ingram is capable as well when he’s healthy. Any one of these guys would put up solid numbers in a full-time gig, and Sproles did put up big numbers this year. Payton just uses them in a way that complements their skill-sets best. It’s really been masterfully done.
With that said, it doesn’t matter, because the Niners’ run D is obscene. 68.6 yards per game and zero TDs allowed at home this season.
"My father's name is art, and my name's pride, and while my destiny reads a recipe for confusion I'm looking for whoever writes, so empty inside." -Slug
True
Their run game is solid, and would do the job against ALMOST any team in the league. We just happen to be the exception. Nice choice of “obscene”; I just don’t think filthy properly conveys how relentless our run defense is.
Look for Brees to throw it 40-something times, get sacked 5 times, and hit 10. Lots of incompletions, a couple picks, and the Niners beat the mortal team that the Saints are when travelling.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:34 AM PST up reply actions
What are you like 10 years old
And been watching football for 2 years
You haven’t got a clue what your talking about
I think I’ll wait and talk to someone with atleast a jr.high education
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 9, 2012 11:01 AM PST up reply actions
Lay off
Don’t come over here throwing personal insults around, none of us have been doing that.
Attack this day with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind. ~ Jack Harbaugh
Seconded
Also, if you are going to make fun of people by implying less than a middle school education, it would probably behoove you to add a question mark after a question, and punctuation at the end of your sentences in general.
Though, perhaps it’s merely poetry, in which case, the four-line format is intriguing.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 11:09 AM PST up reply actions 6 recs
lol took the words from my mouth
Maslow's theory of higher needs does not apply to Patrick Willis. He only has two needs: tackling people and finding people to tackle.
And so you know a few facts
Our committ of scrubs has made us the 6th ranked rushing team in the NFL
And your premier back has made your team the 8th ranked rushing team
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 9, 2012 11:05 AM PST up reply actions
Also your defensive back field is weak
You claim to have the best defense but your ranked 16th in pass defense
And you have never faced a passing game like the Saints
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 9, 2012 11:11 AM PST up reply actions
And we certainly didn't play them
last year.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 11:48 AM PST up reply actions
Philly's not to shabby either ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
but we have not met a passing game like the Saints
except for teams that are have a passing game like the Saints
by mcwagner on Jan 9, 2012 11:53 AM PST up reply actions 5 recs
But we have not met a passing Team like the Saints ...
… except for teams that are have a passing game like the Saints…!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
So everybody here thinks
The Cowboys,Lions,Steelers,Eagles and the Giants measure up to the Saints in passing
I hope your team thinks like that it will be a one sided blowout
Saints by 20
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 9, 2012 1:35 PM PST up reply actions
yep just like you guys think
the Titans, Jags, and Lions measure up to the Niners defensively….
Maslow's theory of higher needs does not apply to Patrick Willis. He only has two needs: tackling people and finding people to tackle.
by 49erLou on Jan 9, 2012 1:37 PM PST up reply actions 2 recs
I hope your team thinks like that it will be a one sided blowout
Saints by 20
I can assure you they don’t think like that and respect the Saints game very much…. which is why we’ve been spending the past two weeks game planning against you opposed to any other playoff team.
But that doesn’t mean the 49ers will back down, or lose.
I think it is safe to say that we have not seen an offense like the Saints have and the Saints have not seen a defense like the 49ers have.
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That's because nobody can run on us.
Teams start passing when they are getting absolutely nothing on the ground. It’s not rocket science.
Guarantee the Saints don’t sniff the 170ish rushing yards they had against Detroit.
I think you are underestimating a defense with some pretty good pro bowlers. On the line, at LB, AND in the secondary. And Bowman and Aldon Smith should have been pro bowlers (at least Bowman). We know how good your O is, but you seem to have no clue about our defense.
"The Harbaughcolypse is upon us. No one in the NFL is safe"
Well we have 3 probowlers on our line also
No one doubts your running defense its your passing defense that is suspect
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 9, 2012 2:05 PM PST up reply actions
There is a significant difference between suspect and average.
Attack this day with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind. ~ Jack Harbaugh
Just between 2 of our defensive backs, they have 12 INT's...
Most of that has been caused by our vicious front seven. They may have 3 badass Olinemen but we have 7 badass guys in that box. Fangio will have to send extras from time to time when the formation allows for it though. And the Niners defense will have to thrive when those opportunities present themselves.
If they line up in that compact shotgun stuff like they do sometimes, that would be the time to get in there… I think the Packers in that first game sent all sorts of DB’s that got in and got to Brees enough.
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Teams knowing the can't rush or aren't able to do so , skews the numbers on pass Defense , hence the inflated stats ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
You missed the point.
Of course our pass D looks suspect, because teams can’t run, so they sling it. We force enough turnovers in the secondary to not be “suspect”. The saints are similar in that their style (scoring a ton) forces teams to pass more, skewing the numbers.
If Brees makes any mistakes like he did against Detroit, rest assured our DBs won’t be dropping those INTs like they did.
"The Harbaughcolypse is upon us. No one in the NFL is safe"
I think our front seven is gonna surprise some Saints fans.
Big time.
"The Harbaughcolypse is upon us. No one in the NFL is safe"
No one doubts your front 7
You have 2 of the best defensive players in football with Willis and Bowman
I just believe Sean Payton can come up with a blocking scheme and short passing game to counter it
It’s not knocking your team it’s believing in the Saints and their coaches to keep doing what they do
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 10, 2012 3:31 AM PST up reply actions
That's the only thing that concerns you when you compare those two?
Listen, I am an Alex fan. I think that he is having a good year. I think he is good enough to lead them to a Super Bowl and a win in this game. I think that next year he is going to be even better.
-Receivers back to full health
-2nd year in the same system
-2nd year with Harbaugh’s guidance
And all that kid of stuff.
But Brees is in another stratosphere. I haven’t checked the stats, but other than # of INT’s I would think that Brees is better in every other category. If the game came down to Alex vs. Drew the 49ers would be in a lot of trouble.
Luckily it doesn’t and so I think we will pull out the win.
Joe, Jerry, Steve, and....Who is next?
Indeed
Brees is a phenomenal quarterback, but he doesn’t play defense or special teams, and even the best have difficulty completing passes while on the run from the Smiths.
I am looking for Aldon to have a coming-out party this game. If it were in NO, I’d be tempted to cover my eyes and not look. Our field, our house, our fans- we’ve got this.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:26 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Problem is...
Most Saints fans, if not all, remember the old Alex… this perception is skewing their view on what exactly he has accomplished this year. He may have been a top 5 quarterback in efficiency… and by that I mean not turning the ball over and making sound decisions. Due to dropped passes in the endzone, or on the way to the endzone, he should have a good 4-5 TD’s minimum. That puts his TD total well over 20 for the year. He has 2 rushing TD’s as well.. so he can beat you with his feet (unlike Brees) as well.
Brees is obviously the better QB in the game. Nobody questions that. But people that are discounting our QB, who has been night and day from seasons past, have no clue as to just what he truly is capable of. To say the team is winning in spite of Alex Smith, really don’t know what they are talking about contextually. He has done a lot of things this year to help the team get the victories they did.
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Is true for me because I have not seen any 49er games this year...
although he (Smith) did play well in the game against the Saints last year—the last 49er game I watched. I think the Saints will try to stay balanced on offense by running it inside even if they are not always successful. The run game has been there all year and our backs are healthy except for the rookie Ingram and our line has done a good job opening holes this year and I would not be surprised if they have success even if the 49er rush D is the best around.
I think that will be a big key and also our DT’s are better than last year so I think we will hold up against the run better in the playoffs this year. Toward the end of last year, they were getting pushed around a lot and then there was that Seattle game—sigh.
Reporter: What would you say a Greg Studrawa offense is like? Stud:
"Attack and be very physical…fly around…attacking, come after you and come after you and come after you…." Me: I love this answer.
GET TO THE RIM HEAT (and SKY)! ATTACK THE PAINT!
You guys are not going to run on us... and to be quite honest, I doubt Sean Payton even tries that much.
You can beat us on some of the screens and stuff like that as a substitute but it would be very unwise to try and get a ground game of any kind rolling on our front seven.
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I think he likes to stay balanced and made an it a priority to get better with the run this year...
and the Saints have the line and backs to do it. You have to run it to be balanced and I hope the Saints challenge the 49ers that way and think they will. I hope they are successful (and again would not be surprised if they are successful) but the idea that you should not try because the other guy is too good puts you one dimensional to start with. Not good.
Reporter: What would you say a Greg Studrawa offense is like? Stud:
"Attack and be very physical…fly around…attacking, come after you and come after you and come after you…." Me: I love this answer.
GET TO THE RIM HEAT (and SKY)! ATTACK THE PAINT!
Everyone has thought they could run on us this year as well... and only the Seahawks really did.
Result = Nope, Sorry.
I agree… one dimensional is not good.
But the Niners plan will be keep everything in front… and eventually chances to make plays on the ball will present themselves. In regards to stopping the run, they are not going to change much, if at all, anything in run-stopping defense.
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Your offensive line has 3 pro bowlers... That's exceptional, ludicrous even...
Our front 7 has 3 first team ALL-PROs… That’s insane…
We can talk about the QB’s and the yards and the best offense/best defense thing…
But this game is the best offensive line in the league against the best defensive front 7 in the league, and that’s the matchup to watch…
by Takeo33 on Jan 9, 2012 5:01 PM PST up reply actions 2 recs
rec'd
Reporter: What would you say a Greg Studrawa offense is like? Stud:
"Attack and be very physical…fly around…attacking, come after you and come after you and come after you…." Me: I love this answer.
GET TO THE RIM HEAT (and SKY)! ATTACK THE PAINT!
I do like the Saints Men upfont on the O side , not too sure about the D , know they have many there ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
Well, that is where I'm at for the most part but I'm a lot more optimistic with....
the DT’s this year. The addition of Franklin and Rodgers have helped beef up the front rotation. Teams were really pounding it last year toward the end. Ellis is not as big but he is very quick. Im sure the 49ers will test them right away.
Reporter: What would you say a Greg Studrawa offense is like? Stud:
"Attack and be very physical…fly around…attacking, come after you and come after you and come after you…." Me: I love this answer.
GET TO THE RIM HEAT (and SKY)! ATTACK THE PAINT!
De La Puente (their center) came off our practice squad.
The rest are good… but if it were me, I would hammer away at that guy.
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Justin will likely line up right in his face...
Gonna test him early and often… He’ll need help…
Yeah...
Their guards are gonna have to double him up, but then that leaves Aldon one-on-one on the edge… either way, one of them will be single blocked.
I also think that Brooks and McDonald are due for very big games. They’ve been biding their time.
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I'd say there were three games
That we would not have won without some solid contributions and performances by Alex.
Oddly enough, I think the same is also true of Andy Lee. This is not to take away from what Alex did; it’s more a commentary on what an obscenely fantastic punter Lee is.
I am excited to see what Alex can do next year, and it’s been a long time since I felt that way.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 11:07 AM PST up reply actions
I'm working on a fanpost about just how good Andy Lee was this year.
I don’t know if I’ll ever end up putting it up, since punting statistics are awfully hard to find, but it was historic.
"My father's name is art, and my name's pride, and while my destiny reads a recipe for confusion I'm looking for whoever writes, so empty inside." -Slug
Basically though, Andy Lee had one of eight seasons all-time
With a gross average over 50 yards, and as far as I can tell that combined with Brad Seely’s coverage unit led to the best net average for a punter, ever.
"My father's name is art, and my name's pride, and while my destiny reads a recipe for confusion I'm looking for whoever writes, so empty inside." -Slug
Indeed
This might be useful: http://www.advancednflstats.com/2011/12/how-important-is-opponent-starting.html
I think the signature moment for me on what a badass Andy “DeathStar” Lee is was the season finale against the Rams- he drops the ball inside the 10, gets it called back on a penalty, has to back up and re-kick, and then pins them at the 4.
He and Akers both had record setting years. The fact that we are even talking about a punter in the post-season is tribute to phenomenal Lee has been.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 11:28 AM PST up reply actions
He's gotta be the only must-watch punter in the league.
"My father's name is art, and my name's pride, and while my destiny reads a recipe for confusion I'm looking for whoever writes, so empty inside." -Slug
by the guy on Jan 9, 2012 11:35 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
It’s bizarre how nobody gives credit to great defense. At least, our great defense.
When the unstoppable force meets the immovable object in football, the pundits always take the side of the unstoppable force, as if a great defense has never gotten the best of a great offense.
If the Niners win on Saturday, they’ll say Brees had an off day. It’s just how the script is written.
"Can Manchester United score? They always score... Peter Schmeichel is forward... Beckham, in towards Schmeichel- it's come for Dwight Yorke. Cleared... Giggs with a shot- SHERINGHAM!"
Eli Manning had an off day when he played us as well.
So did Stafford and Big Ben and Vick. Etc. The Niners are just lucky like that.
It's been a long time coming, And the tables' turned around
Cause one of us is goin', One of us is goin' down
Reply Fail to Useful_Idiot
It's been a long time coming, And the tables' turned around
Cause one of us is goin', One of us is goin' down
Seems like everyone wants to call the Niners lucky or a fluke
Oh, Ben’s ankle hurt, Vick played badly, Stafford had an off day, etc, etc.
Ougadas on Vernon Davis and the anemic 49ers offense:
" Our best weapon (is) a 6’3" 250 pound ballerina with cinderblock hands..."
Saying Vick played badly isn't all that true
He threw for a career high in yards that game.
I'm in love with a man. A man called Harbaugh. Does that make me gay? Am I gay for Harbaugh? You betcha!
by Haggardninja on Jan 9, 2012 10:16 AM PST via mobile up reply actions
It's a little irritating
But if Brees and the Saints have yet another “off day” at Candlestick, I’m fine with the outcome.
I wonder if the Giants can shock the Packers- I don’t consider it likely, but it definitely seems possible. Oddly enough, I like our chances in Green Bay- assuming they win their playoff opener, they definitely seem ripe for an upset thereafter- back to back Super Bowls are rare for a reason.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:30 AM PST up reply actions
Vick played badly
While throwing for a career high in yards and rushing for like 100 yards? Okay….
extrabaggs
"Just your typical Giants scoring rally: A faceburger on the basepaths, two errors from the second baseman and a bases-loaded balk."
by Badly Browned on Jan 9, 2012 10:37 AM PST up reply actions
People said it, not us...
That is the way the media has approached us this year… It’s whatever though, Harbaugh just uses it to fuel the fire…
49ers play their game at home they will be fine....
Let the pundits have at it with their “useful” stats! Still have to play the game in the end!!
Niners,Nets,Reds & USC!!!
The Most Interesting Man In The World---->Mikhail Prokhorov!!!
Um
Now, the Saints get to test out their high octane offense on the soft, damp Candlestick Park grass.
It hasn’t rained in over a month (and it’s not supposed to again before gameday).
"Aaaaaaaal Apalachicola"
Sprinklers accidently left on overnight
It's been a long time coming, And the tables' turned around
Cause one of us is goin', One of us is goin' down
I actually seem to recall Walsh doing this...
It's been a long time coming, And the tables' turned around
Cause one of us is goin', One of us is goin' down
bwahaha, really? One more reason to adore the man.
Win or lose, at the end of the day I'm just happy to see the Niners play well... Okay, winning is good. I prefer winning.
"Yeah, I do get emotional. It fires me up. It fires me up a lot. I'm not going to apologize for that. If that offends you or anybody else, then so be it." ~ Jim Harbaugh
Since he's no longer available..
(RIP), I will try to do the same.
Should I fail in the attempt (read: get arrested for trespassing), I will merely explain to the police what I was trying to do, and see if they can get the Fire Department to just hose down the field on behalf of the city.
As far as uses of taxpayers funds go, I am pretty sure most SF residents could get behind that.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:37 AM PST up reply actions
I do hope this is considered.
Harbaugh would be nuts not to use it – that kind of planning is right up his alley.
Make it so.
Well , I had the Buffalo Hot Wing crew set the watering time for 24/7 and sent over two tons of Miracle grow ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
I thought we get some sprinkles by Saturday?
by mcwagner on Jan 9, 2012 9:35 AM PST via mobile up reply actions
Tebow ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
Give to Gore
He’s a mudder and always keeps his feet. I propose using Hunter early and often with some counter plays and stretching the field to get their D tired of chasing him. once the turf turns to peanut butter let Franky tear them up.
by mcwagner on Jan 9, 2012 9:33 AM PST via mobile reply actions
I wonder if anyone calls him "Francis"
his given name.
I also figure if we tear up the field, it will help slow down the Giants after they upset the Packers, and then come to SF looking for a rematch.
Unfortunately, they will absorb another beating, and Victor Cruz will turn an ankle while attempting to salsa during pre-game warmups.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:41 AM PST up reply actions
Franklin Delano Gore
The Dude: Oh boy. How ya gonna keep 'em down on the farm once they've seen Karl Hungus.
by slapsy on Jan 9, 2012 2:26 PM PST via Android app up reply actions
Delano?
Damn, if only his last name began with an R, then he could be FDR.
Ah well, Gore is already a reasonably famous/cool name to share; though Al never ran for more than 1,000 yards in a season.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 10:16 PM PST up reply actions
Smith and Smith are crucial.
Get to Brees, win the game.
"My father's name is art, and my name's pride, and while my destiny reads a recipe for confusion I'm looking for whoever writes, so empty inside." -Slug
With this many Smiths on the roster, Smith is always crucial.
Attack this day with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind. ~ Jack Harbaugh
True.
Definitely talking about the pass-rushing Smiths here, though. I’m comfortable with what I expect from Alex Smith in this game. I expect a very Alex Smith-y under Harbaugh performance. Nothing about the Saints’ defense scares me, since the only thing they do well (force turnovers) is negated by what the Niners’ offense does best (avoid them).
Justin Smtih and Aldon Smith, on the other hand, I think are the keys to the whole shebangabang.
"My father's name is art, and my name's pride, and while my destiny reads a recipe for confusion I'm looking for whoever writes, so empty inside." -Slug
getting anxious
Cant wait to see Aldon Smith in this game. Finally he will be on the field for more than 60% of the snaps. If there is one game that should shut up all the nay-sayers, its this one. Its going to be a great game, probably ahead of the NY\GB game as NO is apperently the best team on this planet.
Anyone find it a little weird
That the Saints blog has yet to make an article even mentioning the fact that they are playing the 49ers. Theres nothing. Everything is still on their win vs the Lions and the Falcons pathetic lose. Hope the Saints team are worrying about those things more too.
they're relishing their
beatdown of the pussycats for the moment
Let's hope the Saints team is doing the same
I'm in love with a man. A man called Harbaugh. Does that make me gay? Am I gay for Harbaugh? You betcha!
by Haggardninja on Jan 9, 2012 12:32 PM PST via mobile up reply actions
most of them aren't worried about it
they just see us as a quick stop on the way to another SB.
Maslow's theory of higher needs does not apply to Patrick Willis. He only has two needs: tackling people and finding people to tackle.
Agreed
The 49ers are just another speed bump on the way to Indy
by mississippisaintsfan on Jan 9, 2012 11:23 AM PST up reply actions
yep
go on believing that.
Maslow's theory of higher needs does not apply to Patrick Willis. He only has two needs: tackling people and finding people to tackle.
You might find the outcome from Saturday’s contest less than desirable.
We will fill your eyes with disappointment!
We will fill your hearts with shame!
Bow your heads, for the Saints are fixing to come marching in or something
by HollywoodSaint on Jan 9, 2012 11:26 AM PST up reply actions
well I'm convinced
that was very enlightening. I like how you persuaded us by using real game situations and statistics to prove your point.
by mcwagner on Jan 9, 2012 11:43 AM PST up reply actions 2 recs
Not worried about your team's road woes at all?
Not worried about the best D in the league at all? Not worried about your soft, turnover driven defense playing the team with the best turnover differential in the league? Ok. You really know your stuff.
"My father's name is art, and my name's pride, and while my destiny reads a recipe for confusion I'm looking for whoever writes, so empty inside." -Slug
They clearly aren’t here for discourse & debate about actual football, just mindless fanatical ranting…which is fine.
Attack this day with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind. ~ Jack Harbaugh
Yeah
I suggest ignoring the entirely, until, desperate for attention, they say something inflammatory enough to warrant a ban.
There are definitely people at Canal Street Chronicles worth talking too- these simply are not them.
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 11:31 AM PST up reply actions
thinking a team with a first round bye
Is just gonna be a speed bump is really thinking at the level of a preschooler… Ahh the irony!
by Clark_Kent on Jan 9, 2012 11:35 AM PST via iPhone app up reply actions
Wrong (imo)
Most of us are taking this very seriously. For the most part we haven’t see a defense like this and there are a ton of variables in this game. I have a ton of confidence in my team but out of all of them besides the Titans this game has me the most worried.
Seriously, calm down, IT'S ONLY MONDAY AND IT'S THE PLAYOFFS
For one, our blog has a certain flow. They like to reflect on the last game with player grades, etc., before moving onto the next game. It has nothing to do with how we feel about the next opponent, it’s just how things are done and it’s done that way regardless if the Saints won or lost.
If you look now under the Fleur-de-Links you will see some links to articles regarding the upcoming game. As the week progresses you will see more coverage. Some of you are so caught up in your “no one respects the 49’ers” you failed to realize it’s only Monday and people like to reflect on the game to see what went right versus what changes need to be made before Sat.
Calm down?
No one is excited, he was just making an observation.
Attack this day with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind. ~ Jack Harbaugh
More than a few of you guys had already decided we think you are just a speed bump
It’s only Monday, lol.
Because many of you have said as much.
And when they have we’ve replied to them specifically and given our opinions, we haven’t labeled an entire blog based on the comments of a few people.
There are plenty of you Saints fans that are giving the 49ers plenty of respect.
Attack this day with an enthusiasm unknown to mankind. ~ Jack Harbaugh
It's a toss up...
The 49ers have been preparing for the Saints since last week. The short week of preparation will not hurt the Saints. They’re going to play their type of football meaning they are going to pass a lot on offense and blitz a lot on defense. Regardless of opponent, they have been forcing their type of football because they’re good enough to do so.
The Saints definitely played better at home. They have had their highest scoring points at home. They have scored 30 pts or more on 7 occasions at home. 40 or more on 5 occasions at home. Their lowest scoring output at home was 27 pts.
Now on the road, it’s a different story. They scored 30 or more pts three times on the road. One of those 30+ pt games were in a dome. Two of those games were on grass (week 1 opener at Green Bay on September, 08 and October, 09 against a very bad Panthers’ defense). Three other games on grass resulted in the Saints scoring 23, 20 and 22 pts. There were a total of 5 games played on grass. 3 of the 5 resulted in no more than 23 points. The other two were against statistically bad defenses. Defenses that were statistically bad the entire season, not just for those games. 11 of the Saints games were played in domes. 10 out of 11 were over 30+ points. Only one was below 30 (26 at Falcons).
So it’s obvious that the Saints are not the same team on grass, in an open air stadium. With that said, the Saints are still capable of scoring maybe 24 points against a very good 49ers’ defense. So if the 49ers’ can score more than 24 points, I think they win.
In 8 home games, the 49ers have scored at least 20 points or more. In 5 of those games, the 49ers scored more than 24 points. So I don’t think the Saints will run away from this one. This WILL BE ONE OF THE BETTER GAMES next weekend and it will be interesting to see how it plays out.
It’s also worth noting that the last time the 49ers played the Saints it was the Monday Night game where the Saints won 25-22. This game was in New Orleans. The 49ers played a lot of the same type of defense that they play today. It’s pretty much the same scheme except the 49ers now have a better pass rush and a better Secondary. Saturday’s game will be anyone’s game. It won’t particularly favor the Saints nor 49ers.
by Thrashard340 on Jan 9, 2012 11:42 AM PST reply actions 1 recs
Was like 25-23 or something like that I think...
That horrible snap out of the endzone by David Baas (who is no longer our center) was the difference.
But your offense is better and our defense is better than that game… there are a lot of different pieces… and of course we run a 3-4 but scheme wise there has been a major overhaul. It’s more effective than before.
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Good combo
of summary and analysis.
Rec!
"Football combines the two worst things about America: It is violence punctuated by committee meetings" -George Will
by lottwasgangsta on Jan 9, 2012 5:41 PM PST up reply actions
Beware of Candlestick
Intimidation and the “chance to rise to glory” are the greatest factors to me. The media has the Saints penciled in for winning because of a heralded offense that can’t be stopped – its up to the defense and Candlestick to intimidate and maim every member of NO’s offense right up to Brees. An ever-collapsing pocket left to Brees trying to make something happen leaves juicy opportunities for the Niner ballhawks.
For AleX to rise to this occasion, hopefully his first postseason appearance isn’t to be marred by forcing in ridiculous passes for picks in the face of heavy blitzing. He keeps as cool and calm as a cucumber, and he takes advantage of hot receivers as much as possible. This ain’t the time for heroics – solid clock-eating drives will more than suffice, and this offense has done quite well against the blitz as of late.
This season was no fluke. As many jitters as I may have about postseason and the outrageously close games that the 49ers pulled out before (‘98, ’02), I’m convinced that Harbaugh didn’t bring the Red and Gold this far just to fold like a lawn chair for the Saints – too much has been done by this squad to be blown off so casually. There’s no guarantee that the Niners will win (NO’s pretty darn good), but there’s no way SF will be curb-stomped.
Make it so.
by Ranger10 on Jan 9, 2012 1:30 PM PST reply actions 4 recs
Nice ...!!
I'm your " Huckelberry "...it's just my game ..( .AleX ) was asked , what do you think about all the game manager talk ... AleX i guess i just managed myself a VIctory ... Extend the Man ...!!
Wow....
We are due for a win, aren’t we?
http://www.fourt9rkim.com/neworleans.html
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by Drew Kerr on Jan 9, 2012 10:20 PM PST reply actions 1 recs
that's pretty neat
and yes we are definitely due for a win.
Maslow's theory of higher needs does not apply to Patrick Willis. He only has two needs: tackling people and finding people to tackle.
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