SB Nation User Blog: Ninjames

Golden Nuggets: So the winning formula is...?

Ninjames — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 07:49:59 -0000

Morning everyone. I'm doing these links early tonight as I have a lot of important things to do tomorrow and I need to make sure I'm up at the appropriate time. I should have enough links for you but if you find any that I miss, make sure you post them up in the comments. Actually, I'm kind of in a hurry too and have a lot to do before bed so I'll quit talking pretty quick here. Looking forward to the Eagles game, etc etc, wondering when Indy will ever lose, flip-flopping on my opinion on how Sunday's game will go and all that good stuff. I'll just jump right into your links. Enjoy.

S Dashon Goldson has been everywhere for the 49ers making plays and being in coverage. (PressDemocrat.com)

The 49ers have been looking for a winning formula.. Have they found it? (49ers.com)

After the win on Sunday, the Eagles have definitely taken notice of the 49ers. (Yahoo.com)

Smith did a good job of getting the Cardinals to jump offsides Sunday... but it'll be a lot more difficult to prefect the hard count on the road. (PressDemocrat.com)

Alex Smith has Jimmy Raye's full backing, who says the offense is more geared towards the passing game now. (SacBee.com)

So... is Alex Smith the guy? (SFGate.com)

I suppose it all depends on the last three games. (Scout.com)

Golden Nuggets: Keep 'em guessing

Ninjames — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 08:54:29 -0000

Hey guys, how's it going. James here, all that good stuff. I actually almost forgot to do these tonight "whoops." I also just said "almost forgot" which is a statement I hate so now not only do you have a negligent link writer tonight, you also have an angry one. It's all looking ahead for the rest of the week, no more celebrating the victory over the Cardinals, we have one of our most dangerous opponents this season in the Philadelphia Eagles, the most dangerous of which are DeSean Jackson and of course, Donovan McNabb. I'm not too sure the 49ers have an answer for Jackson, none of our corners are really "speed" guys. I wouldn't expect Shawntae Spencer to do very good against DeSean, even after his pretty good performance against Larry Fitzgerald on Sunday. I just think Jackson will run circles around him and we need to gameplan HUGE for Jackson. If we don't stop him, we don't win, it's pretty simple. Still, I'm feeling... strangely confident. I'm unsure why exactly but I think the 49ers can win this game. Let's hope I'm right. Enjoy, folks.

QB Alex Smith did a pretty good job keeping the Cardinals defense guessing as far as the snap count goes. (SacBee.com)

This week is full of games that could have playoff implications. Let's keep some hope for the 49ers. (NFL.com)

Be sure to check out the NFL Game Center for notes, a preview, and of course, play-by-play during the game. (NFL.com)

Like I said, DeSean Jackson is the big play guy the 49ers need to watch out for. (MercuryNews.com)

So what is the next step for QB Alex Smith? He had better keep improving, I'd hate for him to disappoint us... again. (ESPN.com)

Apparently Eagles QB Donovan McNabb is a fan of our rookie QB, Nate Davis. (MercuryNews.com)

The focus is now on the Philadelphia Eagles. I think we can win it. (49ers.com)

Our 49ers playoff hopes aren't dead yet.. just on life support. (NBCBayArea.com)

The Niners rested their bodies and took some mental reps in preparation for the Eagles. (PressDemocrat.com)

On Monday, Dashson Goldson played the safety position how it should be played. I hope to see more great things from him. (SacBee.com)

The offense could be tilting back toward the run game. (Yahoo.com)

The 49ers will have a fan appreciation day on the 27th during the Lions game. Glad I have season tickets, this seems sweet. (49ers.com)

Here's yesterday's edition of Singletary's Notebook. (49ers.com)

Golden Nuggets: Turn him loose!

Ninjames — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 08:39:52 -0000

Morning everyone. How are you feeling right now? Does that win still feel good? Sure does. I think we get one more day to enjoy it before we have to start looking forward. I don't want to be thinking about winning out and everything like that, all I want to concentrate on is what this team has to offer, how they'll perform Sunday against the Eagles, etc. Man, one thing I'm excited for is Ahmad Brooks.. definitely looked good, didn't he? I didn't get a chance to see if he dropped back in coverage once, but then again, he wasn't supposed to. I wonder how good he'd be as an every-down linebacker... He seems to be performing very well in his limited role. I say give him a chance. Course I said that about Briggs too, but I guess there's really not many chances available to him considering the trio is working pretty well at the moment. Credit to the line too, they got pressure on a three man rush several times. I'm not really sure why I'm ranting on about this so instead I'll just get to your links. Enjoy, folks.

Like I said, the 49ers have turned LB Ahmad Brooks loose, and he's been doing a very good job. (SacBee.com)

Several 49ers players had career days against Arizona, Maiocco touches up on this in his every player review. (PressDemocrat.com)

The 49ers are still alive and breathing in the playoff hunt... but just barely. (PressDemocrat.com)

Still feels good to hold the Cardinals off from clinching, if only for a little while. (Yahoo.com)

Seems Dashon Goldson is getting some recognition, as he should be. (Yahoo.com)

Oh wow, so it was because of... Twitter that Crabtree ended his holdout. Wouldn't ya know. (NBCBayArea.com)

Here's yesterday's edition of Singletary's Notebook. (49ers.com)

The defense that showed up against the Cardinals was definitely a playoff defense. May just be too little too late, though... (MercuryNews.com)

Some good signs for the 49ers. (SFGate.com)

Frank Gore won NFC Offensive Player of the week for his performance against the Cardinals. (MercuryNews.com)

Coach Singletary says Ahmad Brooks is "a rare talent" but not yet a starter. (SacBee.com)

The straightest passage to the playoffs is through the division. Which kind of sucks. (SacBee.com)

Coach Sing is pleased with the balance on offense from the Cards game. (49ers.com)

Steve Young had some opinions on 49ers QB Alex Smith. (SFGate.com)

Golden Nuggets: Stay classy

Ninjames — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 09:24:16 -0000

Good morning, everyone. How 'bout them Niners, am I right? Ok, to the poster who's told me three times now that if I lose my voice cheering for the 49ers they'd win, this marks the third time it has worked. I'm going to ask you NOT to tell me to do that for the Lions game, I almost feel like this thing is special and we should save it for when we need it, the 49ers don't need that luck for that game. Moving on, I would really like to talk about the game but man I'm not sure how long I'm allowed to rant on here. What I will say is... when I pulled up to tailgate there was a van, a huge van full of... Steelers fans? Yeah, I was kind of confused, then I realized why they were there. There was 10-15 of them and they all sat in the seats RIGHT in front of where the Cardinals come out from the locker room... Every time the Cardinals came past they rose up and waved terrible towels in their faces. So hilarious, they got on the video boards and everything. Stay classy, defending super bowl champs, stay classy. Anyway, I've ranted enough, here's your links.

I don't like the use of "sloppy Cards" in this title because I don't want anything taken away from the 49ers, they FORCED fumbles, the Cardinals didn't just drop us balls. (SacBee.com)

So yeeeah, the 49ers swept the Cardinals. Awesome. (NFL.com)

Jed York had a lot of good things to say about Singletary and Raye. (SacBee.com)

York also said that Singletary and McClougan have job security through 2010, which I guess is good. (SacBee.com)

So technically the 49ers aren't eliminated from playoff contention. Keep the faith. (49ers.com)

The game was pretty balanced between run vs pass. (SacBee.com)

The offense did seem pretty different this time around. (Yahoo.com)

Here's a 49ers report card from Maiocco. (PressDemocrat.com)

It certainly did seem like the 49ers were taking out their frustrations on the Cards yesterday. Sweet. (PressDemocrat.com)

The Cardinals got.... "Singletaried?" (PressDemocrat.com)

It feels good to at least hold off the Cardinal playoff celebration. (MercuryNews.com)

49ers-Cardinals: Final Injury Report

Ninjames — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 08:55:40 -0000

Hey everyone, ~~Fooch~~ James here. We've got the final injury report before the game today and I figured I wasn't TOO busy and I could put this up in Fooch's absence. Right about the time you read this I should be in San Francisco setting up a grill so I won't be making the game threads with you today but don't miss me too much.

New to the injury report (I think) is CB Marcus Hudson, who is questionable along with LT Joe Staley. Staley has said since his injury that he was hoping to return by tonight's game but it's looking more and more doubtful that he'll be able to make it tonight. The Cardinals, however are a rather healthy team this season, which isn't good news but we'll have to deal.

After the jump I've got the transcript of Mike Singletary's post-practice press conference.

49ers
Out
CB Nate Clements (shoulder)

Doubtful
WR Isaac Bruce (ankle)

Questionable
CB Marcus Hudson (back)
LB Takeo Spikes (hamstring)
T Joe Staley (knee)

Probable
WR Brandon Jones (thumb)
S Michael Lewis (quadriceps)

Cardinals
Out
LB Will Davis (knee)

Questionable
LB Bert Berry (illness)
DE Kenny Iwebema (thumb)
TE Stephen Spach (knee)

Probable
DT Alan Branch (ankle)
T Mike Gandy (pelvis)
P Ben Graham (left groin)
RB Tim Hightower (thumb)
RB Dan Kreider (thigh)
K Neil Rackers (right groin)
DT Bryan Robinson (illness)
RB Jason Wright (illness)

Head Coach Mike Singletary
Post – Practice – December 12, 2009
San Francisco 49ers

Opening statement:

"Just a bit of information on the injuries: [CB] [Marcus] Hudson – questionable, [LB] Takeo Spikes – questionable, [LT] [Joe] Staley – questionable, [WR] Isaac [Bruce] is out, and [CB] [Nate] Clements is out."

On the possibility that LT Joe Staley will be worked in slowly during the game:

"You just never know with the progress he can show from one day to the next and he’s done a great job this week, but we’re just going to play it and see how it goes."

On whether Staley could be activated as a back-up for Monday night’s game:

"Possibly."

On his impression of Staley’s work out today during team drills:

"I’ll just say that all week he’s done a good job. He’s been pretty sore the next day, but has responded very well. Hopefully later in the week, as of today or tomorrow, we’ll just have to see how he feels, but he’s coming along pretty well."

On agreeing with offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye’s opinion that Staley would disrupt the offensive line’s continuity:

"The continuity has been going very well. I think the flow has been going very well. I think Jimmy is certainly on to something. The bottom line is that when he is totally healthy he will be our left tackle."

On whether or not he is disappointed in the performance of the defense this year:

"When you look at our defense, I can’t say that I’m disappointed with our defense. I think that there are certain times in a game where you’ve had some break downs here and there. I think the back end of our defense, [CB] Shawntae [Spencer], has really responded well. I think that [S] Dashon [Goldson] has continued to mature. We’ve had to switch guys in and out, whether it’s Nate, whether it’s [CB Terrell] Brown, it’s been a little tough at times on the back end, but we’ve tried to work our way through it. But I can’t say that I’m disappointed in our defense because I think our defense at times played well. I think inconsistency would be the word to use."

On whether the defense has been on the field more than he’d like them to be:

"I think early on that was the case in particular. Not getting third downs, not being able to move the chains or not converting third downs I would say. Defensively, I would say that one of the inconsistencies has been the ability to get off of the field on third down. First and second down have been great, third down, particularly on third down and longer, have been a little tougher. But I think that whenever you look at the stats for our defense and where we’re ranked, it’s not one of those things where it’s lights out where you’ve played well consistently. I just think our front seven has played as well as anybody in the league. I think you have to break it down – the run part of our defense has really done a great job, as good as any I think. Certainly they’ve had something to do with that on the back end. I just think overall it’s not all just the back end, it’s linebackers making sure that they’re getting their drops deeper to help the guys out. Everything effects the passing game and I just think it’s one of those things that we just haven’t been consistent in."

On having an extra day to rest T Joe Staley:

"I think that it’s always nice to have an extra day, but in terms of Joe Staley, it’s the same thing there. Any of our guys that are banged up and you have that extra day, particularly early in the week to rest a little bit more, that’s very helpful. I think for him that just buys him more time."

On whether waiting to play a Monday night game is a disruption or advantage to the teams’ chemistry:

"That’s always a good question to ask after the game. For me, it doesn’t really change. You get up on Sunday morning, you go through that week and you’re not playing that day. Of course you look at other games. Some guys get restless, everybody responds differently, but I think for us it will be a good thing having that little extra time. I really think it will be a good thing for us."

On whether he wants the team to play this game with a sense of desperation on their minds:

"No. I want them to go out and understand that it’s all about winning the game, it’s all about executing. I think that when you’re prepared, you don’t have to sit back and be in desperation mode. I think that when you’re prepared, you don’t have to sit back and be nervous, just go out and do your job. The most important thing for us to do right now and the thing we tried to do last week and every other week, which is to just execute, play flawless football, and don’t shoot ourselves in the foot. That all comes down to just doing your job and it’s as simple as that – go out and do your job. If we do that, then we’ll be fine."

On whether WR Brandon Jones will see more time in the receiver rotation:

"Yes. Brandon Jones and I talked earlier on this week and I talk to the coaching staff about different players and Brandon is one of those players that they’re just trying to see more of him and get a better opportunity to find out exactly what he can and cannot do. He’s had a couple of opportunities and he’s taken advantage of them so far."

On how much feedback he gets from WR coach Jerry Sullivan have:

"I get constant feedback from Jerry, but really it comes down to Jimmy Raye and looking at the overall game plan, the scheme, the match ups and what he feels gives us the best opportunity to win."

On being confident in the team on playing on Monday night:

"I don’t really think it’s so much Monday night. I think it’s just a matter of where we are. I just want our guys to understand that at this time of year, and really any time for us, it’s really important to play mistake free football. As long as we do that, we’re going to be where we need to be. But when we don’t and when we’re not executing the way we know we can and we miss opportunities, we can’t do that. Our margin for error is very narrow. It’s very small. Everything we do, we have to be on. That’s what I really want our guys to understand. So last week, or if you’d ask me a week before then, whenever it is, it’s just a matter of knowing that, ‘Guys, let’s put a clean game together and play together and we’ll be fine.’ I’m just excited about the opportunity, that’s all."

On his conversation with Brandon Jones:

"Every receiver that we have, at some point in time I’ve talked to about playing time and the frustration of wanting it more. So, Brandon is no exception. I think it is just one of those things where, ‘Coach, I can do it if I get the opportunity.’ But, it has to come and he has to earn that. These other receivers have been working their tails off as well, so it’s just a matter of getting in the right package and getting the right opportunity."

On whether it’s fair to believe Frank Gore will get more than nine carries this game:

"I would think so. I would think that would be a fair statement. I think the thing our offense is striving to do is get that balance and find that balance. Frank knows that. There are other ways that we’re using Frank as well. If you just say he’s going to get a chance to touch the ball nine times, we’re going to throw to him as well. There are other ways to get him into the game. But yes, to run the football, that is something we have to strive to find that balance. That’s a fair assumption."

On whether Arizona is a benchmark for the 49ers right now:

"No."

Golden Nuggets: Lets do this...

Ninjames — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:41:57 -0000

Morning, morning. Well... it's game day. I mean, I'm sure you all know that but man do I have a feeling in the pit of my stomach. The 49ers really need to pull out a win here so everyone else knows they're better than they've played. Then again we could shoot for another high draft pick... I mean, it'd be worth consi--no. No it would not, it's NEVER good to lose, ever. Especially when I'm in the stadium. If I catch any of you saying that it'd be better to shoot for a high draft pick I'll have to regulate. That's all. Another "then again" is the fact that the 49ers aren't technically eliminated from the playoff race, which is kind of mind-blowing at this point, but it would certainly take a whole lot for them to get in at this point. Would be nice though, I wasn't aware that LB Takeo Spikes hasn't been in the post-season once in his career... sure would be nice to get him in, since I'm of the opinion that he's the best TED linebacker in the NFL save for maybe Lawrence Timmons. Either way, the 49ers need to win this game for many reasons. Oh, and if you guys get a chance, I've got a cause I'm really trying to support right now, I'll post the link at the end of the nuggets, at least look if you get a chance. Thanks. Lets do this.

It's time for QB Alex Smith to prove himself. I certainly agree, I want to know what we have going into next season. (SacBee.com)

So how important is this game? Take a look at the big picture. (SFGate.com)

Here's some notes and a preview for the game tonight from Maiocco, always good. (PressDemocrat.com)

You ready for some Monday Night Football?! Here's some questions that will be answered tonight. (ESPN.com)

Questioning the future of the 49ers; Maiocco answers some questions from his readers. God I hate the layout of his blog these days, seriously. (PressDemocrat.com)

CB Shawntae Spencer will have the task of covering Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald... I'm holding my breath. (Yahoo.com)

A look back at the best moments of 49ers on Monday Night Football. (MercuryNews.com)

WR Michael Crabtree is actually putting up decent numbers despite the fact he came in so late. (SFGate.com)

Oh hey am I agreeing with this guy for once? Not sure, I didn't read his article and probably never will again, but the title claims that the Raiders and 49ers will never share a stadium. (SFGate.com)

Here's the full transcript of what Terrell Owens said about returning to the 49ers. (SacBee.com)

LB Patrick Willis has a message to the Cardinals "Forget about running." (MercuryNews.com)

Joe Staley could be a backup at LT if he's able to play, so as not to disrupt the continuity on the line. (NFL.com)

Alright, that's it for 49ers links, now to my favor. Between now and when this happens I'll post this occasionally and hope I can get some of you to at least look at it--a good friend of mine is running the Boston Marathon in support of cancer research and I believe all of donations go straight to said research. So I'm posting this link just to get it read by more people and any donations you can make will help immensely. Thanks much, the link is right here.

Our leader has fallen!

Ninjames — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:29:39 -0000

Evening, folks. Just putting up a general article for you all because I'm awesome. In reality though, Fooch asked me to let you all know he won't be around posting anything tonight. His computer is fried and he likely won't have it for a few days. No worries, he always has a plan to get his usual stuff up, a couple dependable people (coughmecough) and all that.

To ramble, today was a pretty good day for football. We've currently got the Sunday night game on in which the Eagles are completely dominating the Giants which for reasons I can't explain makes me happy. It's good to see the Seahawks get the dividends of a constant beatdown today as well from the Texans. Man, that game was ugly. But it was beautiful for us. Sound familiar? Anyway, the Rams lost which was good and the Panthers fell to the Patriots, making that draft choice all the better. I'm really excited by what this team can get with these two picks in this draft.

The Cardinals come to Candlestick tomorrow and I will be at the game. Lets hope to finish this season strong and begin it with a huge win on Monday Night Football so everyone knows the 49ers are for real. Anyway, that's about all folks, look for me to post up an injury report for you tomorrow. Go Niners!

Golden Nuggets: Loves him some... 49ers?

Ninjames — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 09:07:50 -0000

Good morning folks, welcome to the Golden Nuggets. In this edition I tell you how SB Nation is evil and doesn't want you to have your links. That's right, they want you linkless. Ok, not really but I put together a pretty comprehensive edition of the Nuggets yesterday and scheduled it to post at its usual time of 3:00 AM but... to no avail. For some reason it didn't post and you guys were without me for one day.. now I know, it must have been pretty hard for you, but I'm here now, no worries. Seriously though, should have a good day of football today, I'll be watching the Minny/Cincy game hoping... Ok, nevermind. I'm really not even going to tell you guys what I was going to reference in my joke there because it's so nerdy and embarrassing. Moving on to the Niners I should have enough links for you seeing as how the Nuggets didn't go up yesterday. Can't wait to get up early and end up at the 'Stick about six hours before kickoff on Monday--should be awesome. Without further ado, however, here is your links.

Terrell Owens says he wouldn't be opposed to finishing his career with... the San Francisco 49ers. Wow, I have no idea what to think of that. Clearly Battle, Jones and Bruce aren't going to factor much into things next season.. I mean, Jones could but Bruce is out for sure and Battle is useless so...? (SacBee.com)

Patrick Willis has been quoted as saying something the whole world already knows: "The Cardinals will NOT run the ball on us." (MercuryNews.com)

QB Alex Smith is doing a pretty good job of playing through the drops. Vernon Davis needs to not revert back to well... the bust Vernon Davis. (PressDemocrat.com)

WR Michael Crabtree isn't sure what drops any of us are talking about... huh. I will admit that the majority of his drops are on some pretty high passes. (SacBee.com)

LT Joe Staley may still be out.. which sucks.. yeah, not much to say there. (SFGate.com)

A look at some of the changes between the first matchup with the Cards and the upcoming. (ESPN.com)

Teams Talk: McKillop on the Cardinals. (49ers.com)

They've got their five keys to success for winning the game against our 49ers.. what are ours for them? (RevengeOfTheBirds.com)

Here's yesterday's edition of Singletary's Notebook. (49ers.com)

Something about the developing stadium situation that I really don't like to read about. (MercuryNews.com)

Here's a 49ers Team Report, a look at the state of things right now. (Yahoo.com)

The 49ers are looking to improve on 3rd down. I mean, I'd like to think they're looking to improve everywhere, but I'll keep quiet. (MercuryNews.com)

Vernon Davis now holds a 49ers franchise record, and it's not in drops! Aww yeeeah! (Yahoo.com)

No no no no no no no no no. No. No. That is all. (NBCBayArea.com) ((Pretty cool way to get you to click a link, huh?))

A look at some of the 49ers first round draft picks... Those two in this next draft are looking pretty good. (SFGate.com)

So what are we supposed to honestly think about our trio of pass rushing OLBs... I'm not impressed. (49ers.com)

My Excuse: An Interview With Jerry Rice

Ninjames — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 02:10:39 -0000

So about a week ago I was contacted by some folks representing Jerry Rice for setting up an interview for the various sites I write for. Needless to say I was ecstatic. As some of you may know I write for two other sites but I'm getting this up here first in a more personal matter with you folks here at Niners Nation. (Personal meaning that I actually know and talk to some of you.) I'll be posting the full interview here but my full experience (ie my more professional post) will likely be included in the Nuggets tomorrow when I get the other article up on the other site I write for.

Basically, Rice is working with Gillette and the NFL to support their Locker Room Giveaway program. Fans can log into NFL.com/LockerRoom and get peeks into designated locker rooms after the game to get a behind the scenes look and get a chance to win some pretty cool stuff. Rice describes it well in the interview and I'll leave it at that.

Needless to say as a huge fan of Jerry for years I was very, very nervous but I feel I did a pretty good job of interviewing him. He called me on my Skype number and I had about twelve minutes with him. I found him to be really laid back and also very, very humble. He didn't overthink or prepare his responses and spoke his mind, and had a lot of admirable things to say about the Hall of Fame and the records he holds.

Still, I think the promotion he's working with is pretty cool and I'm very fortunate to be able to represent the three sites I write for in some capacity and that I was able to interview him. After the jump, I'll post the interview in text form for all of you here. I have the audio but I'm going to cut that up a little more before I do anything with it, considering this interview was intended for write-up purposes.

Enjoy, folks!

Jerry Rice: Hello

Me: Hey there Mr. Rice this is James

Jerry: How you doin'?

Me: Doing alright, how about yourself?

Jerry: I'm doin' alright, what's going on?

Me: Not much, really excited to have you for this interview. I figured I'd kick things off letting you talk a little bit about the promotion with Gillette.

Jerry: Yeah I have partnered with Gillette to support their new Gillette Fusion MVP Locker Room Giveaway. For the remainder of the NFL season fans can log on to NFL.com/LockerRoom to get behind the scenes access to selected NFL locker rooms around the league. So you can see what happens after a ball game, the emotions and all that. You can register to win a trip for two to the 2010 Super Bowl you can also get NFL apparel, the new Gillette Fusion MVP razor and you know this is another way the NFL and Gillete are bringing fans closer to the game and this is my team and you know, I'm glad to be a part of it.

Me: Sounds like some really cool stuff , I figured I'd get some questions about your own experiences in the locker room.

Jerry: It's like, yeah man you know after a game you gonna get so many emotions. You're gonna have the highs and the lows, and like I said, it's gonna be selected locker rooms and you're gonna get a chance to almost be a part of it and I think it's great what Gillete and the NFL are doing.

Me: What with the 49ers recent tough loss in Seattle I was wondering if you could share any of your own experiences following a big, tough loss.

Jerry: Yeah, I was really looking at that game, it was a really tough game for them.

Me: Yeah, it was.

Jerry: They had opportunities to win that game and uh, you know I was saying to myself this is a perfect scenario you know. This team is 5-6, if they win this football game they can be .500, 6-6, and looking forward to this big Monday Night Game with the Arizona Cardinals. So you know after everything was starting to really, uh, matchup just the right way but they ended up losing that game. But, you know, I see a lot of promise in this team. I think with, uh, Alex Smith, he played well during the football game, in a crucial situation he was able to move the ball down the field and had a chance to win the game

Me: There are some who were saying that Smith's turnaround may be the reason Singletary keeps his job this offseason.

Jerry: Ah, no, I don't think Singletary is going anywhere.

Me: Oh me neither, I certainly hope not.

Jerry: Yeah because, I feel, from what he's trying to do with this ball team, they have shown flashes. You know, but they got to be able to finish, that's the most important thing. They have been in ballgames, lost some close ballgames, but you have to be able to finish. And I think this team is only a couple players away, defensive guys, I feel they got the linebackers, and the guys on the defensive line, maybe get some more guys in the secondary that's gonna help help them. And on offense you look at the running backs you've got Coffee, you've got Gore, tight end Vernon Davis and Michael Crabtree, and these guys who are gonna get the job done outside. And you probably have the quarterback that you want in Alex Smith because he has shown significant improvement.

Me: What do you think would have been the best thing for coach Singletary to say to the team after that game just to keep the spirits in the locker room from being... completely desolate?

Jerry: Well he's just gotta keep driving home that "Hey we've got to be able to finish." That's the most important thing and uh, you know a couple dropped balls here, and that's gonna end up costing you. A couple penalties, and that's gonna end up costing you. So uh, just keep saying that to the guys and stay positive and hopefully they can come back Monday Night and win against the Cardinals.

Me: That would definitely be big. I'm gonna change topic a little bit here, I was wondering if you had any interest in a broadcasting career outside of the Sports Sunday show that you do?

Jerry: (laughs) Uh, I really enjoy what I do what I do with channel 11 NBC, it's a lot of fun because it gives me a chance to go in there, have fun, let my hair down, well I don't have hair now, but I have a great time doin' it. And I was with Sirius radio for awhile but I'm a little bit, I'm totally opposite, you know Steve Young is doing a great job and all that...

Me: Oh yeah.

Jerry: ...But I'm one of those guys, I'm more of a cameo guy. I can go in, I like a little bit of flavor, a little bit of everything and I'm spreading myself all over the place.

Me: This is the first year you're eligible for the Hall of Fame, what are your thoughts on that?

Jerry: I'm very very excited about that, Man. If I get in, if I get selected in January then I think everything is gonna become a reality, then I get a chance to start and preparing and getting all the rooms together in Canton. It's funny because it's like the same scenario when you play away games, you got family coming to the game, you know, you're trying to get the rooms all situated like the Super Bowl, it's going to be the same thing in Canton where I get a chance to say thank you to all the fans who inspired me to go out there and play my best football.

Me: When you were a player, was getting into the Hall of Fame always a goal for you or was it not really something you thought about on say, a daily basis while playing?

Jerry: It was not something I thought about, I'm gonna be honest with you. I wasn't thinking about all the records. The main thing for me was I wanted to have myself in position where I could go out and compete at my best. And uh, I was very fortunate to have a very good supporting cast around me. Because without those guys I wouldn't have had as much success on the football field. So it's not I think about the records and the Hall of Fame, it was just that I played a game that I really loved playing and I just left everything on the football field.

Me: How do you feel about Roger Craig and his chances? Last year was the first time he made it as a semi-finalist.

Jerry: You know I think Roger and his trademark high knee action and the way he took punishment and all of that, the way he ran the ball it was unbelievable. I think he deserves to be in the Hall of Fame and hopefully he gets that opportunity.

Me: Well the talk around is that you're pretty much as close to a shoe-in as you can get.

Jerry: I never, I just like.. When I was up for the draft. People all around me were saying "You gonna get drafted, you gonna get drafted." I never gave into that, so I'm not gonna say I'm a shoe-in, if I could get in, it's gonna be great to be able, you know like I said to say thank you to everybody who helped me to get in that position and uh, the most important is being able to acknowledge all the Hall of Famers, the guys who made football what it is today and be part of a very elite club.

Me: Couple more questions here, are there any receivers in the game today you think that could touch those records of yours?

Jerry: There's ALWAYS a chance of someone you know, stepping their game up and taking it to the next level. Uh, you look at Larry Fitzgerald, and I know Marvin Harrison, you know he's not playing anymore but I thought he was gonna be in the hunt. Terrel Owens, he's starting to have some big games. Randy Moss, Reggie Wayne and you know, we got a little young buck right here, Michael Crabtree uh which, if he gets that supporting cast around him there's no telling what he can accomplish.

Me: No offense to you but for the sake of the current 49ers I'm really hoping he takes a shot at those records.

Jerry: You know what man, records are meant to be broken but there's a sacrifice you have to make. Unless you're willing to make that sacrifice and still, you still have to have that supporting cast. You know I had a lot of great players around me, and it's a team sport. It's not an individual sport. I wish him luck but you know, he's gonna have to, sacrifice and work his butt off.

Me: Have you got a chance to watch him a lot this season? You know he had such a stellar college career and definitely 49ers fans were spoiled by you, so he has some pretty big shoes to fill with the tenth selection, what are your thoughts on him?

Jerry: I think he's doing what's asked of him right now. You know he's making plays, but you have to realize the guy missed over, I think 70 days before he stepped back onto the football field. This year is just probably trying to get acclimated and get everything under his belt. And hopefully next year he can come back and play better. But you know, big guy who can make catches. Can catch the ball over the middle. The part of the game that I wanna see is, we know that he has a big body, he can jump up and make the catch in the end zone. I wanna see him be able to catch the short pass and be elusive and go for six. So, that's probably part of the game where it's gonna come and a part of the game that he's gonna have to work on.

Me: Well that's what everybody's hoping. That's all the questions I have for you is there anything else you wanted to say about the promotion for the fans?

Jerry: Yeah just go to NFL.com/LockerRoom and it's all the information you'll need.

Me: Alright, thank you. It's been a real pleasure.

Jerry: Take care.

...Wow is all I have to say, it felt to me more like an extended conversation than anything. I was very nervous in the beginning of the interview but after the initial "hey" it was more or less just me talking football with Jerry Rice--which was just a great experience for me. Now, I did the interview with intent to do a writeup as I just have but I figured I can upload one or two clips here of Rice talking. I haven't went through and edited these and went through noise reduction and all of that, so the quality is less than what I'd release as official interview material.

"They have shown flashes..." in which Rice talks about how this team may just be a couple players away from being something really special, I figured you guys would like to hear this one straight from him since it's what us fans need to do--look ahead to what we can do this offseason to take this team from losing games by 3-4 points to winning those games in clutch situations.

So there you have it, folks. That's my excuse for missing an edition or two of the Golden Nuggets, an interview with the greatest wide receiver to play the game.

Golden Nuggets: Ready to lose my voice

Ninjames — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 06:16:53 -0000

Morning, everyone. I'm back, for the second day in a row which means I'm obviously on a roll. No but seriously, I shouldn't be missing any more of these. As for what I've been gone for, make sure you're on here today at 7 AM PT for my post. That being said, I'm not sure what I've got for you today in the way of links. I imagine there aren't too many but hopefully some previews will be rolling in. As always I'll be at the game Monday Night, and I'm really hoping the 49ers pull a win out for me because it's absolutely the worst two hour drive back, with likely an hour added onto that considering it's Monday Night Football and therefore traffic will be killer. I'd like it if someone told me once again that if I lose my voice the 49ers will win because they're 2-0 when people tell me that and I'd like to take a chance and risk that record again. Still, we've still got a couple days of links until then so why don't I just get to what I've got for you on the day, mmkay?

LT Joe Staley returned to practice yesterday and hopes to play on Monday. (PressDemocrat.com)

The 49ers have been in this position before... on the outside looking in to the playoff picture. (Scout.com)

The Cardinals believe the 49ers will go back to featuring Frank Gore in their offense on Monday. (MercuryNews.com)

Two 49ers players are listed on this list of top ten comeback players in the NFL. (FoxSports.com)

Arizona says they're ready for Frank Gore and more. (PressDemocrat.com)

Sando takes another look at the 49ers' offensive philosophy. (ESPN.com)

Samuel Lam had an interview with Jerry Rice, pretty cool stuff. (Examiner.com)

Joe Staley wants his job back sooner rather than later. (PressDemocrat.com)

Coach Singletary is sticking by Jimmy Raye as offensive coordinator. (NFL.com)

The guys over at our resident Cardinals blog are studying up on our Niners... you doing the same for them? (RevengeOfTheBirds.com)

Here's yesterday's edition of Singletary's Notebook. (49ers.com)

A look at the players who commit the most penalties in the NFC West. (ESPN.com)

QB Alex Smith is improving, but is still flawed. I'm finding it very hard to get behind Smith as the 49ers QB for 2010, but I'm supporting him more and more each day. (MercuryNews.com)