After failing to make it into the win column in the first four weeks, the 49ers were hoping a return to their home field of Candlestick Park would solve their problems. Since losing to the New Orleans Saints in Week 2, the 49ers haven't played at home. And for a team that thrives a lot more at home like they do, the handful of games away from their home turf to start the season could easily sum up their 0-4 record. But when being praised as a Playoff team heading into the season, you've got to win regardless of where you're playing.
Similar to week 4 in Atlanta, the 49er offense put together a successful opening drive which was set up by Ted Ginn who returned the opening kick-off to mid-field. After hording the ball for 7-minutes, QB Alex Smith connected with WR Michael Crabtree for a touchdown giving San Francisco an early lead. It wouldn't be long though, before Philadelphia responded with a touchdown of their own. With a 17-10 lead heading into the half, Philly forced several turnovers that would come back to bite the 49ers when it was all said and done. After an interception and three fumbles, the boo-birds of Candlestick Park began letting the 49er offense hear it. Alex Smith got the brunt of it, as chants of 'We want Carr' roared throughout the stadium. Referring to back-up QB David Carr of coarse, the 49er faithful were almost given their wish.
Before going to a commercial break, coach Singletary and Smith were seen arguing with one another while Carr began to loosen up. Smith returned to the game in what I was guessing was a last chance given by Singletary. Just when you thought the game was over, Smith came firing back by throwing touchdown passes in consecutive drives, bringing San Francisco within three. It seems like all Smith needed was a little fire under his ass. And with a coach like Singletary who has a lack of tolerance, who better to have in that type of scenario? Despite his late resurgence, Smith decided to play ball a little late, similar to the loss to New Orleans in Week 2, as the game turned into a race against the clock. With possession of the ball just under a minute left and a chance to win it, Smith was hit upon releasing the ball, resulting in an interception to seal the game for the Eagles who won 27-24.
What I'd like to know is what Singletary said to Smith to get him so fired up. If you were to ask me, I'd say the two need to have that exact conversation before every game from here on out. With zero wins to show for heading into week 6, it would usually be a smart time to hit the panic button. But in the weak NFC Western division which is still far from being decided, the 49ers Playoff hopes are still alive. If the 49ers were to somehow win their very winnable division, they would make the history books as the first team in NFL history to make the Playoffs after an 0-5 start. While we're on the subject of firsts, the 49ers 0-5 start to the season is their worst start since losing seven in a row in 1979. Ironically '79 was Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh's first year with the team. And only two seasons later, the 49ers would go on to win their first of three Super Bowl's under Walsh's regime.
Noteworthy - While 49er running-back Frank Gore struggled on the ground with 2-fumbles and only 52-rushing yards, wide-receiver Michael Crabree and tight-end Vernon Davis both helped Alex Smith throw for over 300 yards, by each compiling over 100-yards receiving.
Week 6 Preview - Not only are the 49ers playing at home again, but their playing against their bay area rivals -- the Oakland Raiders. After finally decided to utilize the young talent of Michael Crabtree on offense, it'll be interesting to see if he continues to turn it up against the team that passed on him in last year's NFL Draft.
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