Moral Victories Are Still Losses
by: Bryan Hersh
Despite the 49ers 3-4 record, the team is one play away in three other games from winning. Yes, this team could be 6-1, had the Vikings not scored a last second touchdown, had the Houston not connected on a field goal late in the game, and had Crabtree not tipped a ball into the air for an interception this week, or had the team held coverage on a halfback option pass ... the 49ers record this season could have been far better. These are, as they say, 'moral victories'. Like it or not though, they are still losses. Losses that add up to a 3-4 record which is lucky enough to still be in the playoff race.
Quite frankly, I have had enough of moral victories. I am sick of the team playing as hard as they can and still losing, and sadly, it's often not an execution loss. Although the opening paragraph may signify otherwise, the team's "one play away" is indicative of a greater issue - that being the ability of the coaching staff to put this team in position to win. Earlier this season, I wrote that the 49ers have been rather well prepared to play their games. I still believe that. They have shown pretty good discipline, understanding, physical endurance and ability in almost every game. However, I believe this is notably different from the coaches putting the team in a position to win on game day.
This past week, the 49ers lost to Indianapolis. Heading into the game, I really thought it was winnable. I believed our defense could give Peyton Manning fits, and it did. The Colts required trickery to win this week. Another moral victory. Truth is, the defense has not been much of a problem this season. Many of the issues from the past few years have improved leaps and bounds. The offense however remains in disarray.
Quarterback Alex Smith did a good job on Sunday. Although he threw a crucial interception, that pass actually falls on Crabtree's shoulders to make. Alex was otherwise very accurate, made good throws, and good decisions. Even the offensive line played well this week. Not surprisingly, the problem remains the offensive coaching, and in particular, coordinator Jimmy Raye. Raye's play calling lacks imagination, and just when you think he is beginning to understand how to utilize his weapons ... he dials it back and goes ultra conservative. The result? An apparent ineptitude.
Heading into this week I believed that this game would be decided by the coaching staff. I have seen enough from the players on the team to believe that they more or less execute well enough to win each week. I stand behind that comment. This game was lost with poor offensive play calling for most of the game, and unfortunately, by the defensive coaching staff not helping the players realize that down and distance wise, they were ripe for a trick play - that ultimately was the difference maker in this game.
I am not worried about the defensive coaching staff learning from their mistakes. I do wonder if and when the light bulb will go off on the offensive side of the ball.
Bryan Hersh is the Founder and President of 49ers Paradise, www.49ersparadise.com He is a good friend and supporter of Hooked on the Niners. Please contact Bryan with any questions or comments at bryan_hotn@49ersparadise.com