49ers Focus
By Robert Haugh

The 49ers fell flat on Thanksgiving Day, falling to the Baltimore Ravens in a battle of two of the NFL’s best Defensive juggernauts.

The 49ers looked disastrous at times in the 16-6 loss, but hope remains. The 49ers traveled across country on a short week, with limited practice and film study. But that should not deter the 49ers.

For starters, the O-Line needs to get going, as the Ravens amassed nine sacks on QB Alex Smith. Smith had a decent day, ending up 15-for-24 with 140 yards and an INT plus made a few scrambles on the run, but rarely had time to complete passes, yet alone throw the ball away.

The 49ers’ yellow flag gremlins cursed them once again, with seven penalties for 97 yards; one penalty blowing what would have been a 75-yard TD play from Smith to Ted Ginn Jr., while a pass interference call on Tarrell Brown set up one of the Raven’s three Field Goals.

The 49ers struggled on third down, going an anemic 2-for-12 on third down. The 49ers also did not reach the red zone once, a testament to Baltimore’s Blitz Defense that constantly was pressuring Smith.

The 49ers’ Defense held strong, not allowing a rushing TD once again, despite the Ravens’ having a first-and-goal from the 4 in the second quarter.

There is plenty of good news ... the 49ers still have firm control in the NFC West and still show promise to make it to the Super Bowl. With some tweaks and adjustments, the 49ers are still capable of reaching the Super Bowl ... It’s up to the talented cast of players to go out and perform in the waning weeks of the season. Next up, an opportunity to clinch the NFC West on Sunday.