Mike Singletary may have lost the game, but he definitely won the post-game press conference. Leaving the field, Singletary took off his red cap and apologized to the fans. In a lengthy closed-door meeting in the locker room, he apologized to the players. And before reporters could turn on their tape recorders, Singletary burst into the post-game interview room and in a booming voice apologized to us. Singletary owned the room. His deep, tones filled every inch. He had everyone mesmerized ...
... Which makes you wonder how a team failed to perform for him. The 49ers played as poorly - at home, at least - as they have all season. After all, they were done in by a backup quarterback, Seneca Wallace, and a fullback, Leonard Weaver. The 49ers, especially the defense, was pancake flat. They recorded one sack for zero yards and forced no turnovers. Some guys played well, namely Justin Smith and Manny Lawson. But if the unit can't get up for Mike Singletary, it makes you wonder whom they'll play for.
... As for quarterback, it's my opinion that the 49ers are better suited for Shaun Hill than they are for J.T. O'Sullivan. O'Sullivan certainly will supply more big plays, and the 49ers can score quickly with him under center. But the mistakes O'Sullivan has been making have been fatal. Hill didn't have any turnovers (though he did fumble once). Moreover, he directed the 49ers on two of their longest drives of the season. One of the reasons why the defense has been so poor is that they've had little time to rest. Hill also seems to utilize the running backs and tight ends in the passing game more than O'Sullivan. And that's where the 49ers have their most talent.
It seems to me as if Singletary is a Hill supporter while Mike Martz is an O'Sullivan guy. There might be a disagreement between the two men on who the starter should be, but as we clearly saw today, Singletary is not afraid to have that argument.
... Vernon Davis ... Wow. Davis' has been cruising for something like this for a while, whether it was his penchant for practice-field fights or his penchant for excessive end-zone celebrations. The most he received from Nolan was a stern talking to. Singletary has already signaled that too much attitude won't be tolerated on his team.
... Injuries. Davis' banishment was stunning because Delanie Walker already was out with an elbow injury. He, Arnaz Battle (foot), Barry Sims (ankle) and Allen Rossum (hammy) are tentatively listed as questionable for the Nov. 10 Monday nighter in Arizona.
-- Matt Barrows
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