There's under 30 hours until kickoff (34+ thanks to the blackout) and we're getting a better idea of who we'll see tomorrow and who will be in street clothes. I thought I'd take a look at the injured players and the impact it will have tomorrow and going forward.
Michael Robinson - This is definitely not surprising at all. Robinson is not expected back until the regular season, maaaaaybe the last preseason game. He's looking at more of a special teams role with the addition of DeShaun Foster but will still get time in some offensive formations. His absence likely means more carries for 2007 preseason MVP Thomas Clayton. Of course preseason MVP has absolutely no value, other than an apparent ticket to the practice squad.
David Baas - Another non-surprise. Tony Wragge appears to taken control of the position ahead of Chilo Rachal. If Wragge looks good in the preseason, I'm curious what happens when Baas is healthy. We'll also see the likes of Jeb Terry and former Cal guard Brian De La Puente getting some reps in the second half.
Bryant Johnson and Ashley Lelie - Johnson tweaked his hamstring in the morning practice against the Raiders. It sounds like he was performing pretty well up to that point so let's hope it's a short term issue. As for Lelie, well we've discussed his issues at length. In addition, Isaac Bruce is a game-time decision. If he does play I would imagine it would only be for a series or two. The absence of these receivers means more reps for the likes of Josh Morgan, Jason Hill and Dominique Zeigler, which could help all of their chances at more playing time.
Mark Roman - Apparently Roman was scheduled to wear the defensive radio receiver, but with his injury, Michael Lewis will be the guy. Roman's absence means more time for Dashon Goldson. He's been a ballhawk in practice, so let's see if he can transfer that over to game situations.
Lewis Baker - Baker is a long shot to make the roster and this thigh bruise is certainly not helping his chances. He'd apparently been playing pretty well, so it's a shame to see this happen. This means more playing time for DJ Parker and probably extra time for Keith Lewis as the 49ers are a bit low at safety for this game.