kc oakland

mistakes at the end of the Niners vs. AZ and Miami killed them -- would these happen w/ Norv Turner as the OC?

Mike Sando

  (12:01 PM)

I don't know the answer to that. However, late-game confusion has cropped up at least twice in the second half of this season. That's too many times.

Paul (Albany, OR)

Very difficult time of year as a Rams fan. We now turn our attention to the draft board hoping we will not mess up a top 3 pick. But this team will, they prove to on a regular basis. Mike, what is going on with ownership, with a GM, with coaching? The direction of this team is so bad that you want to laugh instead of cry. Have the Rams joined the Bungles and the House Cats as perennial laughing-stocks? Was that 4 year run earlier this decade all we will get for another 15 years? Please help pull me from the ledge. Thanks.

Mike Sando

  (12:03 PM)

The 2008 draft class could offer some hope. Chris Long has played pretty well. He looks like a keeper. Donnie Avery has had his moments. The future can't get much worse, can it? Billy Devaney has outlined the philosophy he would use if retained. Bernie Miklasz broke it down in the Post-Dispatch today. This offseason will tell you if the Rams have joined those other teams. There is still hope.

Steiny (NYC)

Would you officially call Vernon Davis a NFL bust?

Mike Sando

  (12:04 PM)

He is shaking that label, I think. That doesn't make him a good value for the sixth overall spot, but he can still be a good player. I think he has made strides. He's important to what the 49ers do in terms of blocking. He has made several big plays as a receiver. He has finally scored a couple TD passes.

Steiny (NYC)

How will tackle Kyle Williams do against this tough Jets D line?

Mike Sando

  (12:06 PM)

Yikes. I've seen Kyle Williams in practice and never thought I'd see him starting at left tackle. The question I have is whether Holmgren will severely scale back the offense. He has done that in the past when faced with these types of situations. He might be more apt to take chances this season given that he's just about finished and there's not much to lose.

Jmerms (NYC)

Hey Mike, Who is the biggest bust on this year's draft? Would you say Vernon Gholston?

Mike Sando

  (12:07 PM)

I picked him for defensive rookie of the year, by the way. Figured he was a high pick joining a team with a defensive staff, and they would find a way to use him. Shows you how unpredictable this stuff can be. I wouldn't call most anyone a bust after 14 games, but Gholston might be the most disappointing rookie so far, based on where he was drafted.

Steiny (NYC)

Are Isaac Bruce's days as a top WR over?

Mike Sando

  (12:08 PM)

He's not a dominant receiver but he's still a very effective one, more effective than I would have figured before the season.

Jmerms (NYC)

Whats going on with the Cardinals? What happened vs the Vikings, was it just a bad game?

Mike Sando

  (12:08 PM)

They've taken their eye off the ball, in my view. They won the NFC West and seem unsure what to do next.

Dario (Rochester, MN)

I know Shaun Hill has been good in the last few games, and I believe he can win, but I don't believe that he could bring the 49ers to the next level. What do you think the niners should do in the off-season as far as QB situation? Any chance of Alex Smith getting another stab at it?

Mike Sando

  (12:10 PM)

They should keep Hill, look at a young quarterback in the draft and see if they can bring in a veteran. They should not rush a rookie onto the field prematurely. I would bring back Alex Smith, let him go to camp and see if he's worth keeping as the second or third guy.

Dan - San Jose

I would wager that the 49ers / Rams game Sunday is crucial for Singletary's future with the team. I almost feel that the Niners have to win convincingly so that it's clear that he has brought the team from the lowest rung in the league to, well, the second lowest rung. You know..."win the games you are supposed to win"...? If the Rams win, see ya.

Mike Sando

  (12:11 PM)

Singletary can't afford to give the 49ers any reason to go in another direction, I would think. Losing to the Rams would indeed hurt his chances.

Greg (Cleveland)

Hey Mike, love the blog. Who amongst the losing teams in the West will rebound best next season?

Mike Sando

  (12:13 PM)

Seattle has the best chance because the record is so poor this season. The team could go from, say, 3-13 to 8-8 for a fat five-game improvement.

Don (Hamilton, Canada)

So with the 49ers apparently loving the spoiler role again we're doing well. How are the young WRs progressing overall - Morgan, Hill etc. ? Do any of them show potential to be a #1?

Mike Sando

  (12:15 PM)

Josh Morgan would have the best chance at developing into that type of WR, but more likely he'll be part of the rotation. None of the current young WRs jumps out as a clear No. 1-type receiver. Overall, I think Morgan has exceeded expectations for a rookie chosen so late. Hill has made progress.

Dan (Philadelphia)

I'm an Eagles fan, and may need to be a Rams fan. We need the Falcons to lose a game and the Rams play Atlanta WEEK 17. Have the Rams packed it in this year?

Mike Sando

  (12:17 PM)

I'd be shocked if the Rams defeated the Falcons. I think the Rams have packed it in to a degree. They aren't playing with the passion they showed for that two-game stretch.

Will J (Portland, OR)

Mike, do you think the Cardinals give Leinart some playing time the next few games? They haven't played well, so I would think they wouldn't do so.

Mike Sando

  (12:19 PM)

Not at the expense of getting Warner and the offense in sync. I could see Leinart playing in situations similar to the one Arizona faced against the Vikings. Otherwise, I expect Ken Whisenhunt to play his guys and try to build some sort of momentum for the playoffs.

Adam (NYC)

Hey Sando! Love your blog. Alright, if the niners don't hire Samurai Mike as head coach at the end of the year, who else do you see fit in taking over? Also, do you see Martz staying beyond this season?

Mike Sando

  (12:22 PM)

I'd be a little surprised if Martz returned. Scot McCloughan was on record a year ago saying the Martz offense didn't really fit the 49ers' personnel. Mike Nolan hired Martz. Nolan is of course gone. Does Martz want to come back? Do the 49ers want him back? As for who coaches the team in 2009, I think we need to see how Singletary finishes. If it's not Singletary, I'm thinking an offensive coach gets the job. Not sure which one at this point, but we would be talking about coordinators for successful offenses, most likely.

Will J (Portland, OR)

What things do the Cardinals need to shore up prior to the playoffs? Protection, run defense, etc?

Mike Sando

  (12:24 PM)

They need to feel good about their approach on offense. It's too late to shore up the running game. This is the offense the Cardinals are taking into the playoffs. Kurt Warner keeps lamenting the one-dimensional nature of the offense. He lamented getting beat on both lines of scrimmage in the Vikings game -- an unusual comment coming from a quarterback. Building Warner's confidence in the approach would seem like a top priority.

Joe (Philly)

Mike, how do you suspect the Cardinals address their running situation. They threw alot of money at Edge, used a 2nd rounder on Arrington, 1st rounder on Brown, 2nd on Lutui, yet they still struggle to run the ball. Is it the back, the system, the line?

Mike Sando

  (12:25 PM)

A couple things stand out. One, I do think the line needs improving. Two, the team needs to commit to the running game. Having Warner and those receivers has convinced the Cardinals to throw, throw, throw. I think teams can't become good running teams without running the ball more.

Manny Augusto (Mtn. Home, Idaho)

I'm a Dolphins fan and I was just wondering if you thought that the dolphins have what it takes to win the AFC East.

Mike Sando

  (12:26 PM)

Yes, they have what it takes -- the schedule. I know their final two games are on the road, but they should be able to beat the Chiefs. And then they get a chance to play the Jets with all the pressure on Favre and those guys.

Adam (Bayard, NM)

Hey there Sandolicious!! I see a pattern with San Francisco every year... They start off strong, go on a losing streak, then towards the end of the season they find a way to finish strong. What will it take for them to finally figure out how to play well all year long?! I'm growing tired of this false hope for the next year. Please help me out.

Mike Sando

  (12:27 PM)

Consistent quarterback play and a feasible, steady offensive philosophy would help them do that.

Joe (Philly)

Is there any indication on how the Cards will address Boldin in the offseason? On one hand they have Edge's contract coming off the books, on the other you have the emergence of Breaston and more pressing needs.

Mike Sando

  (12:29 PM)

I sense a hopeful Eagles fan wondering if the Cardinals might trade Boldin. Right? It's a mistake if the Cardinals trade their strongest leader. Boldin is under contract and I think that helps the Cardinals weather this thing as long as the organization does not panic.

Burwell (Addison, PA)

I know I'm in a very small minority, but I still think that Alex Smith can be a successful NFL QB. He was considered one of the most intelligent draft prospects ever, but was drafted to a team with a disastrous situation on the field and in the front office. Shouldn't a team with a desperate need at QB (Lions, Chiefs, maybe NYJ if Favre retires) give him a chance to start rather than wasting a high pick on the position?

Mike Sando

  (12:30 PM)

Giving him a chance would be fine, but committing to him as the starter would be an unnecessary risk. Bring him in, give him a chance, make no promises and see if he develops. That would be a low-risk move.

Will J (Portland, OR)

Mike, is it me or since Boldin's return does it seem like he's been a little skiddish catching the ball over the middle? He's dropped a lot of balls lately, more so than he did before.

Mike Sando

  (12:31 PM)

He's made some tough catches, too. I thought Brian Dawkins had the Cardinals' attention in that Philly game. He suffered a shoulder injury on the fumble against Minnesota. He has run the ball inside pretty aggressively a few times since the injury. I haven't noticed him playing scared.

Mike (Seattle)

Are you surprised Lawrence Jackson hasn't made more of his opportunity? Atkins has been much better.

Mike Sando

  (12:33 PM)

Surprised, not really. Jackson is a rookie. He wasn't a high pick (relative to the first round). He has played quite a bit this season and probably hit the rookie wall somewhat.

Ken (Scottsdale, AZ)

From what you've seen, how has Antrel Rolle's transition to safety gone?

Mike Sando

  (12:34 PM)

Better than I would have expected. He seems comfortable there.

PiersMorgan4949, Bay Area California

Draft day: 49ers needs are WR (#1 capable), Dline, Oline (depth/LT), and QB? I feel QB can skip over to 10, or do you take QB too? Thks.

Mike Sando

  (12:34 PM)

Offensive line. Tackle specifically. You're welcome.

Otis (Bremen, Germany)

Hi Mike! Let's talk draft: I hate talking about WHO teams might draft because it is so early, so what are the primary needs for each team in the NFC West? Also, what are your thoughts as to what Holmgren will do next year? Coaching? Front office?

Mike Sando

  (12:37 PM)

I predict Holmgren will sit out the 2009 season. Primary draft needs: 49ers ... OT, NT, S, WR, OLB Seahawks ... OL, DL, WR, QB, S Rams ... OL, DT, ILB, S, CB, WR Cardinals ... OL, TE, LB, CB, DL

Tim (md)

Mike, haven't seen much of the 49ers on the east coast, how is Joe Staley progressing. is he their answer at LT?

Mike Sando

  (12:38 PM)

He's doing fine. They've reined in the offense some and that has taken pressure off him to a degree. Moving David Baas into the line up at LG has helped Staley. I think the 49ers have no complaints with how Staley has progressed.

Will J (Portland, OR)

Mike, how's the weather in Seattle? Think it could have any affect on the game this weekend? I know the Jets are a cold weather team, and Favre has played in Lambeau.

Mike Sando

  (12:39 PM)

I live south of Tacoma and can tell you there's snow outside. We could have bad weather Sunday, including ice or snow, and that would definitely affect the passing games for both teams. Seattle is used to miserable weather, but snow on the ground would hurt the Seahawks' speed on defense, I think.

Ruben (Highland, CA)

I have a fantasy football question. Would you start Warner outside in the cold against the NE defense or Shaun Hill in the Dome against the Rams?

Mike Sando

  (12:41 PM)

Wow, that is a tough call based on all the variables. I'd probably go with Hill against the Rams' defense, with Isaac Bruce possibly figuring into a game plan put together by Mike Martz. Yes, Warner could always have a huge day, particularly against that banged-up Pats defense, but we are dealing with more of the known in St. Louis.

Matt (Raleigh)

Marc Bulger hasn't been able to produce for the past two years; do you think the Rams will draft a high round quarterback this off-season?

Mike Sando

  (12:42 PM)

I see too many needs elsewhere. The team has lots invested in Bulger. I'd worry about building the rest of the team. Might as well do that and take a chance on Bulger bouncing back. We'll know more once the Rams hire a coach and possibly front-office people.

Will J (Portland, OR)

Mike, what are your thoughts about teams (Miami, Oak, SF) etc. taking linemen within the first 10 picks of the draft? They won't be the face of the franchise, and have any really been worth it?

Mike Sando

  (12:45 PM)

I'm OK with it. Even if you miss, you're going to most likely get a long-term starter (Levi Brown, Robert Gallery, etc.). If you miss on a QB or WR that early, the guy can be out of the league in three or four years. Here are top 10 OL taken since 1993: Jake Long, Joe Thomas, Levi Brown, D.Ferguson, Gallery, Jordan Gross, Mike Williams, Bryant McKinnie, Levi Jones, Leonard Davis, Chris Samuels, Kyle Turley, Orlando Pace, Walter Jones, Chris Naeole, Jonathan Ogden, Willie Anderson, Tony Boselli, Willie Roaf, Lincoln Kennedy.

Adam (Columbus, OH)

Hasselback has always been a Holmgren guy. Do you see the switch to Mora affect his play or his welcome in Seattle?

Mike Sando

  (12:46 PM)

I think the injury situation will dictate that more than the coaching change. Jim Mora likes Hasselbeck -- a healthy Hasselbeck. The team might have taken Chad Henne last draft if he'd been around when Seattle picked in the second.

Pete - Richmond

What are the odds the Rams will relocate in the near future?

Mike Sando

  (12:47 PM)

Their stadium lease seems to limit their options for the next several years.

Jeff (St. Lou)

Please tell me Alex Barrron's contract expires in March.

Mike Sando

  (12:49 PM)

His deal runs through the 2009 season. The question around the league is whether a contract can end on an penalty. Attempt at humor there. Barron has lots o' penalties.

Mr. Steeler, Jacksonville, Florida

What is your impression of Steelers Nation?

Mike Sando

  (12:49 PM)

Impressive fan base. I've loved covering games in Pittsburgh. It's a special city from a football standpoint.

Otis (Germany)

Mike, when should the Hawks draft a QB? Do you think Seneca could start for us once Matt's done?

Mike Sando

  (12:50 PM)

Seneca Wallace would probably be better in 2009 than anyone else the Seahawks would acquire. He knows the system and it shows. I wouldn't necessarily commit to him as the next guy, but he should be part of the equation -- a solid option.

Will (Stockton, CA)

Do you see the Yorks becoming more involved in the team operations like Eddie D was back in the glory days?

Mike Sando

  (12:51 PM)

I see Jed York being more involved. He's already quite involved.

Don (Hamilton, Canada)

how is Delany Walker doing lately?

Mike Sando

  (12:52 PM)

He's been fighting through some injuries and I think it shows in his blocking sometimes.

Liam (Houston)

I think Singletary deserves a shot next year. But I would also like to see Holmgren come in as a Bill Parcells type role. Do you see a possible conflict between Singletary and Holmgren? They have different philosophies. Would Holmgren want his own guy?

Mike Sando

  (12:53 PM)

Holmgren would want his own guy, yes. But I'd be a little surprised if Holmgren became involved right away. He'll most likely sit out the 2009 season and weigh his options.

Pete - Richmond

Hass will likely be healthy, Seneca you say is good, and they already have Frye-guy at #3...why pursue a QB in the draft anyway unless it's the 6th or 7th round?

Mike Sando

  (12:54 PM)

Their draft position could give them a shot at a franchise QB. They would have to consider that type of opportunity. I wouldn't bank on Hasselbeck's health, either. They said before the season that the back wouldn't bother him.

derek nawport maine

hay mike do you think theboston celtics are going to win the champoinshp yes i think they can go all the way becuase you got K.G. and the team by mike

Mike Sando

  (12:56 PM)

They really seem to miss Greg Kite.

John Charlotte nc

Mike I'm a big carolina panthers fan.Will the panthers beat the Giants on sunday night?

Mike Sando

  (12:56 PM)

They have the momentum but I expect the Giants to dig in and make a stand.

Steiny (NYC)

Will Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie be a Pro Bowler three years from now?

Mike Sando

  (12:58 PM)

He has that type of potential. The Cardinals need to see how much he learns from this season. He has the physical skills to be a Pro Bowl-type player. He is making plays on the ball (INTs are huge in getting CBs noticed). I give DRC a better than 50 percent shot at the Pro Bowl within the next three years.

Dario (Rochester, MN)

What are your thoughts on Patrick Willis? Do you think that 4-3 defense would suit him and the 49ers better, considering they don't have a big D-line to hold their own as a 3-4. With Willis, Spikes at LB, maybe Harralson too, and Smith and Lawson at DE. Then they could get by with the DT they have now. Thoughts? Thanks

Mike Sando

  (1:00 PM)

Top, top player. I think Willis can do just fine in a 3-4 as long as the offense possesses the ball for enough of the game. We are seeing that happen recently. We are seeing Aubrayo Franklin making an impact. We are seeing the 3-4 work pretty well since QB change.

Mike Sando

  (1:00 PM)

Time's up. Thanks for dropping by. Hope to see you on the NFC West blog.