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Bring on the Raiders

If 49ers coach Mike Nolan could give a shout-out to Raiders defensive coordinator Rob Ryan, the message would be "Go easy, will ya?"

The key to the Raiders' season may well be an improved defense, which ranked 30th last season. Ryan, much like his father, Buddy, loves to blitz and that's what his team needs to practice.

Player Notes:
Carter gets alignment adjusted
Oakland Tribune: In the 49ers' switch from a 4-3 defensive alignment to one employing three linemen and four linebackers, no one is making a bigger transition than Andre Carter. Previously, Carter played defensive end, where his main job was rushing the passer. Now, he is a pass rusher part of the time, but at others is asked to drop into pass coverage. He also stands up now, rather than dropping into a 3-point stance.

Winborn, Carter are battling to start at linebacker
Sacramento Bee: The starter currently is Jamie Winborn, one of the team's fastest players but also the smallest linebacker on the team. Andre Carter also has seen a lot of time at the position, and coach Mike Nolan said the converted defensive end is making a push for the starting job.

Time to test investment
Mercury News: Mike Nolan makes his debut as a head coach Saturday, giving 49ers fans a first glimpse of how he handles the X's and O's. Nolan has already proved adept at handling the whys.

More Niner News...


A new Niners nickname for AA
SF Illustrated: Around the 49ers’ locker room, San Francisco defenders affectionately refer to Anthony Adams as 'Spice,' 'Double-A,' 'Triple-A,' 'Double-Wide,' 'Wide-back' and 'Atomic Dog,' each sobriquet referring either to the third-year veteran’s high energy or his compact girth.

Offensive line top training camp rebuilding project
Press Democrat: After studying the disastrous 2-14 team, the new 49er regime determined one area in particular needed immediate attention. The offensive line was the worst part of the league's worst team.

Injury News...
49ers.com: Tight end Eric Johnson remained out of practice again on Thursday after having an MRI on his foot on Wednesday. Nolan said Johnson suffered a slight tear and could be out a few weeks.

Tackle Jonas Jennings continued to work on a limited basis, but will not see action on Saturday against the Raiders. Jennings originally injured his finger last Wednesday and then underwent surgery a few days later.

New injuries include TE Eric Johnson (foot) and Rookie WR Marcus Maxwell (heel). Johnson was absent for practice to have an MRI. Maxwell was at practice on crutches.

The 49ers injured players that remain out are: G David Baas (hamstring), FB Steve Bush (shoulder), CB Randee Drew (foot), Frank Gore (shoulder), WR Derrick Hamilton (knee), WR Marcus Maxwell (heel), C Jeremy Newberry (knee), S Arnold Parker (shoulder), G Justin smiley (calf), and CB Shawntae Spencer (hamstring).