Although Justin Forsett wasn't going to start the game at running back for the Seahawks, the 49ers expected to see plenty of the former Cal star considering A.) starter Julius Jones was coming back from a serious chest injury that at one point had him coughing up blood B.) Forsett has rushed for more than 120 yards in two of the last three weeks.
Now that scenario is in doubt. Forsett strained his quadriceps today while running with the ball in practice and didn't finish the session. He landed on the injury report as questionable. Jones, meanwhile, practiced throughout the week and is probable. Defensive end Lawrence Jackson also is questionable but practiced Friday, an indication he will play Sunday.
For the 49ers, defensive end Kentwan Balmer is doubtful with a shoulder injury. That likely means Ray McDonald and Demetric Evans will have increased work loads and that rookie Ricky Jean-Francois may be active for the game. Tackle Joe Staley, also doubtful, did a few squats today in the weight room, according to Mike Singletary. Staley is eying next Monday's game against Arizona for his return. Takeo Spikes (hamstring) is questionable and will be a game-time decision.
49ers injury report
OUT: CB Nate Clements (shoulder).
DOUBTFUL: DT Kentwan Balmer (shoulder), T Joe Staley (knee).
QUESTIONABLE: WR Isaac Bruce (ankle), LB Takeo Spikes (hamstring), CB Marcus Hudson (back).
PROBABLE: S Michael Lewis (quadriceps), WR Arnaz Battle (ankle), WR Brandon Jones (thumb), DT Ray McDonald (shoulder), T Adam Snyder (shoulder), LB Ahmad Brooks (thumb), RB Michael Robinson (shoulder).
Seahawks
DOUBTFUL: DT Cory Redding (concussion), LB D.D. Lewis (knee)
QUESTIONABLE: DE Lawrence Jackson (groin), RB Justin Forsett (quadriceps).
PROBABLE: C Chris Spencer (thumb), RB Julius Jones (chest).
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Sad truth: The wireless hookups in away stadiums are waaaay more reliable than the one at Candlestick, which is about as faithful as Tiger Woods at a Playboy Mansion sleepover. (Too soon?) Which is why I'm gearing up for another live chat/forum during Sunday's game at Qwest Field. I'll have the binocs out during pre-game to see how Forsett and Jones are moving. I'll have the inactive list. I'll have plenty of snarky comments. You can click here to join in.
-- Matt Barrows
