Good morning everyone. We're a day away from what most people consider the most "important" preseason game, so I'm pretty excited. I wish I was going, after being at the Vikings game and getting some of that delicious tailgating.. But beyond that, we had some news yesterday. It seems Aubrayo Franklin is making his return soon, though I don't expect him to play on Saturday against the Raiders. I kind of forgot he existed, to be honest, considering how well Ricky Jean Francois was playing, but you know how it goes. You go with the Franklin regardless because, technically, he was the best NT in the league last year. That, my friends, is a fact. Anyway, I'm sure I have some more links beyond that concerning practice and things of that nature. Enjoy them, you lazy lot.
Aubrayo Franklin is expected to sign his tender on Saturday, but how soon can he play? Obviously, he shouldn't be playing against the Raiders, but I fully expect him to suit up on Thursday against the Chargers. (PressDemocrat.com)
Michael Crabtree, Frank Gore and Brian Westbrook will likely get some playing time on Saturday, but Vernon Davis is not expected to do so. (PressDemocrat.com)
I put together a short preview for Saturday's game, with a look at some of the things the 49ers are hoping to accomplish. (SB Nation Bay Area)
Maiocco has his final camp report, considering the team broke training camp heading into Saturday's game. (CSNBayArea.com)
It's no longer about potential for this 49ers defense. It's time for the unit to get it into gear. I'll have more on this later. (Yahoo.com)
Defensive coordinator Greg Manusky is happy with the 49ers defensive picks in the draft. That is to say, Taylor Mays and NaVorro Bowman. (MercuryNews.com)
The game is tape delayed in the bay area. Which totally sucks. But here's the schedule regardless. (CSNBayArea.com)
Anthony Dixon eyes more home runs. I think they have the wrong sport. (49ers.com)
Manny Lawson is making all-around gains and is looking prepped for a great season. I certainly hope so. (CSNBayArea.com)
Phillip Adams has been returning punts. I'm honestly not sure how I feel about this. (SFGate.com)
Yesterday On Niners Nation
Golden Nuggets: Snarky (Ninjames)
49ers Training Camp: Jimmy Raye on rookie improvements and offensive contributions (Fooch)
49ers 2010 NFL Season: Alex Smith and his "command" of the offense (Fooch)
49ers-Raiders Matchup to Watch: San Francisco's defensive line vs. Oakland's offensive line (Ninjames)
Report: Aubrayo Franklin so sign 49ers franchise tender contract offer (Fooch)
Today On Niners Nation(All times pacific and subject to change)
7:00 a.m. Offensive/Defensive Line Player Reviews: Minnesota @ San Francisco (smileyman)
10:00 a.m. Caption This! (howtheyscored)
1:00 p.m. 49ers 2010 NFL Season: No more potential, only production? (Ninjames)
Something Else... Because I can use the Nuggets for personal gain, my Twitter is right here. I link it because, well, the regular season is fast approaching and I love nothing more than yet another venue to talk 49ers with you guys... so get on and talk to me. I tweet an awful lot, though.