For San Francisco 49ers to Be Sucessful, Defense Needs to Rise to Occasion

After reading about the 49ers' first preseason game, an 18-6 loss to the Raiders that made it look like another pathetic season was on the horizon, the Niners have looked much better offensively, scoring 34 points against the Packers and 37 points against the Bears. Now, it is the preseason, but watching JT O'Sullivan move the 49ers offense downfield at will against the Bears should give Niners fans some hope that the season isn't going to be a waste.

Let's discuss some positives from the only actual game I've watched this preseason, the Bears game. Thomas Clayton looked impressive not only with his speed, but his vision and strength. His touchdown run was impressive, as well, and he should be making the roster. With Deshaun Foster a huge injury risk as the No. 2 running back, and the fact Michael Robinson hasn't played yet because of injury, Clayton gives the 49ers added depth in the backfield in case anyone gets hurt. Frank Gore also looked impressive running against the Bears and is again looking like the running back that defenses fear.

Now-backup quarterback Alex Smith had his ups and downs in the game. He missed some throws that he should have made. His touchdown pass was right on the money, though. I think it's a good thing for Smith to not be named the starter and instead work on learning Mike Martz's offense. Even if Mike Nolan is fired, either during the season or after, the safest bet is that Martz becomes the coach of the 49ers. I do not see Mike Holmgren returning as an NFL coach for a few years, if at all. I can see Holmgren more as a GM or consultant for the 49ers if he does come back.

Now, for the season, and for the 49ers to show impovement and possibly become an 8-8 team (which would more than likely give Nolan another year with the Niners) the defense just has to get better. There was absolutely no pressure on Kyle Orton during the Niners-Bears game. This included some missed assignments in the secondary that allowed a big play, and a pass-interference call. If the 49ers could find that pass rush, they could become a dangerous team, especially if O'Sullivan, who has experience with Martz's offense, gets it together. Also, with the offense getting it together, it would definitely help the defense to be fresh with long scoring drives instead of being out on the field a lot.

The dark horse for the 49ers is Manny Lawson; if he can remain healthy, the 49ers defense improves tremendously. After he was injured early in the season, the defense was not the same. The addition of Takeo Spikes is a great move for the Niners, as well.