Stupid, Stupid 9ers

I'll admit, the start of every season I'm full of hope for the 49ers. After a disappointing season last year, it's hard to think they won't improve. Despite some significant progress, Game 1 shows that the 49ers are not yet ready to win because they're just plain stupid.

Examples of stupidity:

* 49ers turn the ball over 5 times. Interesting strategy. Didn't work.
* Cardinals come out firing in the second half, throwing it to Anquan Boldin pretty much every play. 49ers coaches overhead saying: "No way they throw it to him again, let's double team the fullback."
* Zak Keasey is inexplicably considered a better player than Moran Norris.
* Did I mention FIVE TURNOVERS?!

Here's some random positives on the game:

JTO - Despite the turnovers, he still looks much better than Alex Smith. The interception was dumb, late across the middle, but it's hard to blame him for the fumbles (all blindside hits). We can blame him however for an alarmingly poor pocket sense. RUN FOREST RUN!

Justin Smith - Everything as advertised. He's around the ball every play. Put good pressure on the QB and was strong against the run. Along with a much improved Ray McDonald they had some good D-line play.

Defense - Impressive. 3 official sacks but constant pressure. Desipte ridiculous field position thanks to the turnovers, they managed to hold the cards to 10 points at the half. In the end, they spent way too much time on the field (sounds familiar) and got worn down.