San Francisco 49ers Week 7 - Bye Week

By Kalen Patrick

After a great come back win over Detroit, and a very successful first 6 weeks to the season, the 49ers had themselves an extra week to relax and then game plan for the Cleveland Browns who will be visiting Candlestick Park this Sunday (1PM PT/4PM ET - CBS). The 49ers are at a very impressive 5-1, however, there is still a lot to work on. I think the main issue that needs to be addressed is the passing game. While the passing game is by no means awful (8 TD's and only 2 INT's), getting in to more of a rhythm and being able to execute more consistently will be key moving forward.

ALEX SMITH #11 TO MICHAEL CRABTREE #15

Alex Smith has been very efficient this season, and while he did pile up the yards in a very impressive come back victory against the Eagles, it would be nice to see him move the ball for effectively. The 49ers struggle on 3rd downs, a lot of this has to do with QB-WR chemistry, timing of the short passes, or making sure the route will take the receiver beyond the 1st down marker. What I did like was the ability of Alex Smith and Michael Crabtree to regain that confidence in each other as they hooked up for 9 receptions in Week 6 at Detroit. Improving upon this and the return of Braylon Edwards will be big for the passing game.

BRAYLON EDWARDS #17 IS EXPECTED TO RETURN THIS SUNDAY

When a team is 5-1 it can be hard to point to too many flaws. The defense and special teams have been incredible, Rookie Aldon Smith has been a beast the last 3 games (5.5 sacks). Ted Ginn and the special teams look like a threat every time he is ready to return a punt/kickoff. Also on offense the run game has really come together with Frank Gore going over the 100 yard mark 3 straight games and Kendall Hunter has provided a nice change of pace.

I do expect the 49ers the open up the pass more as they are able to delve more in to the playbook. With an effective passing attack, it will open up the running game that much more, and could make the 49ers a serious threat come playoff time.

Also to note, all 3 other NFC West teams lost in Week 7, the NFC West has been a total and complete disaster besides for the 49ers, and it could be very early that the 49ers clinch the division assuming they can keep up the level of play they have showed so far.

I like the 49ers chances against the 3-3 Cleveland Browns, especially with it being a home game. Even though teams coming off bye weeks have struggled this year, I still expect a W from this game. Should be a good one.

NFC West Standings
San Francisco 49ers - 5-1
Seattle Seahawks -     2-4
Arizona Cardinals -     1-5
St. Louis Rams -         0-6