San Francisco needs offensive stability

By Brad Wilbricht  |   Wednesday, January 28, 2009  |  Comments( 1 )

San Francisco 49ers
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With several key pieces already in place on defense, the San Francisco 49ers must continue to build on the offensive side of the football. San Francisco’s defense was respectable last season, ranking 13th in the NFL in yards allowed per game (326.0). However, the 49ers’ offense was unable to capitalize on its counterpart's mild success, finishing 23rd in the league after compiling just 311 yards per contest.

Outside of running back Frank Gore, San Francisco is severely lacking playmakers on offense. The quarterback situation is up in the air, although Shaun Hill was impressive down the stretch in 2008, and the team features a handful of ho-hum receivers. Tight end Vernon Davis might be the club's most dynamic weapon, but he’s been unable to make his mark in the professional ranks since being a first-round draft pick in 2006.

One of head coach Mike Singletary’s first decisions after shedding his "interim" tag was a smart one. He parted ways with washed-up offensive coordinator Mike Martz, who burst on the scene during his days with the St. Louis Rams but has been a resounding failure in multiple cities since leaving the Gateway to the West earlier this decade.

The 49ers must take advantage of Martz’s departure and bring in an intelligent football mind with an ability to successfully implement a balanced offensive attack. San Francisco has now gone through four offensive coordinators in four years, giving the unit little cohesiveness or stability.

The latest mention of Dan Reeves as a potential offensive coordinator in San Francisco should have led to skepticism from the 49er faithful. Reeves was an outstanding coach during his heyday, but he's been out of the league awhile and it wouldn't be surprising if the game has passed him by. In addition, 62-year-old Jimmy Raye II has emerged as a possible candidate, leaving the San Francisco fan base wondering if the team requires an AARP discount.

With numerous potential candidates now out of the picture, Hue Jackson from the Baltimore Ravens seems to be the best option left on the board. Notables Scott Linehan and Rob Chudzinksi have already accepted other jobs, leaving the 49ers still in need of an offensive mind and a clue on how to find one.
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About Brad Wilbricht

Brad Wilbricht covers numerous sporting events including the NFL, NFL Draft and college football. His analysis is simulcast through several media outlets across the country. Additionally, Brad is a regular guest on a variety of talk radio shows and can be frequently heard on the airwaves. To ...
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