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September 15, 2006

Question: In this past weeks game against Arizona I noticed that the defense played well against the run and struggled against the pass. The pass rush seemed adequate enough to slow down the Cardinals' passing attack, however, the exact opposite occurred. At times Warner appeared to be throwing against air. In your opinion do the Niners need an overhaul in the secondary or is this a flaw in the secondary scheme? What needs to be done to fix the problem?
- Rick Redding, Sacramento

Answer: Thanks for the question, Rick. The 49ers were able to crank up their pass rush late in the game, but it was virtually non-existent in the first half, especially the first quarter. Remember that short TD pass to Anquan Boldin? Warner had enough time to change the oil in his car, much less throw a pass. I think the overriding problem is the front seven. Manny Lawson is going to be a good pass rusher, but he's not there yet. The defensive line is composed almost entirely of defensive tackles, which is why it is good at stopping the run but not so hot at getting after the quarterback. The secondary needs work, but an improved front seven would make the group look much better. Also remember that they were playing the best wide receiver tandem in the NFL.
- Matt Barrows

Question: What do you think about Rogers? As a first-round draft pick would you say he's a bust or worth the 49ers to take a look at?
- Nick, Austin, Texas

Answer: I think the 49ers would say he's a bust. There's no interest in him and not much in Jerry Porter, either. Remember, this was a team that put Joe Jurevicius at the top of their receiver wish list this March. That is, they would prefer guys who work hard and who don't cause trouble. (So why did they pick up Antonio Bryant, you ask?) Bryant was able to convince Nolan he had matured. The other guys evidently haven't sold him on that.
- Matt Barrows

Posted by grobertson at 12:53 PM | Comments |