Question: Now that Turner is gone (Goodbye, Good Luck, Good Riddance, etc., etc, ), of the Niner assistants -- Sullivan, Hoener, Harris, et al. -- which in your "up-close" opinion would be the best fit to step up as offensive coordinator, improve the short passing game and throw opposing defenses a curve or two during a game?
-- Sammy Moore Jr., Sacramento
Answer: My guess is that Sullivan will get the job. When Nolan was building his staff in the winter of 2005, it was clear that Nolan was particularly proud of two of his hires: Mike Singletary and Jerry Sullivan. You can tell from watching practices that Sullivan is a stickler for even the most minute detail and that he is a very good teacher. Now whether that translates into a play caller, I have no idea. That's what Nolan must ask himself this week.
The other top candidate, in my opinion, is quarterbacks coach Jim Hostler. No one on the team has worked more closely with Alex Smith, who, after all, is the key to any offensive success.
I'm taking off for the scouting combine Wednesday morning and I hope to keep track of the OC search there. And, of course, I'll also have lots of thoughts about rookie prospects. So keep the draft questions coming all week.
-- Matt Barrows
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