San Francisco 49ers: Expect the Unexpected (It's the Law)

(Photo by Jed Jacobsohn/Getty Images)

Not surprisingly, these moves were both upgrades at there respective positions. Snyder stayed at right tackle until suffering an injury late in the season. David Baas was not only an upgrade over Snyder at left guard, but is now slated to start the season there.

It is precisely this type of poor preparation/decision making that cannot happen again, before or during the 2009 season.

In 2009 the “right” quarterback needs to start. In 2009 the “right” players need to be playing in the right positions on the offensive line. The 49ers can't afford any more failed experiments.

The "Right" Tackle?

Fortunately, the 2009 season seems to be pointed in a more solid direction. Thanks to coach Singletary, Shaun Hill has been tested in more than a handful of games, and we now know he can win.

Due to a little luck and a little more Singletary, Chilo Rachal and David Baas have in-game experience, and look to be the types of tough, physical players that Singletary wants for next season. Its a good thing they were given the opportunity to shine last year.

The signing of Marvel Smith was not simply a good move, it was a move of desperation. Thankfully, it was finally proven beyond a reasonable doubt, that Jennings could not be relied upon to stay healthy for more than a handful of games.

The question is, can Marvel Smith be relied upon to stay healthy? He comes with a recent history of back problems, including back surgery.

Can this team afford another Jennings type of absence at right tackle? Perhaps this time it can. This time, Adam Snyder will focus on playing right tackle in training camp. This time, undrafted free agent Alex Boone has a very good chance to make the team and give the 49ers more complete depth.

Don't get me wrong, the offensive line situation is certainly not “super solid”. In fact, the 49ers were probably anticipating Michael Oher would be their “man” at No. 10 overall in the 2009 NFL draft.

Still, the offensive line is in a much, much less precarious situation than it was last year. A winning record, will depend largely upon just how solid the right tackle position truly is.

Smith Still Has a Hill To Climb

The quarterback position is obviously going to go a long way in determining the final record of 2009.

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