The 49ers press corp today successfully got Jim Harbaugh to divulge information. Yes! This is no easy feat, as anyone who has watched or listened to or read a transcript of a Harbaugh presser can attest. Harbaugh releases less information than the Politburo.
Among the critical items we were able to extricate:
* Ted Ginn is now the 49ers' emergency quarterback. The 49ers typically dress two quarterbacks - Colin Kaepernick and Alex Smith. If both got hurt in a game, it would be up to the emergency QB to run the offense. That used to be Kyle Williams, who was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday. It's now Ginn, who played the position in high school and, as a coach's son, probably is a good choice.
* The emergency kicker is either Andy Lee or Isaac Sopoaga. (Yes, I said Sopoaga). David Akers (pelvis) will play in Sunday's game. But if his injury is problematic, the 49ers would have to turn to a substitute. Lee also is the team's holder. I assume Kaepernick or Smith could handle that job, too. But, boy, it sure would be interesting to see a 335-pounder boot a game winner or even an extra point. Sopoaga played rugby in his native Samoa and has experience as a kicker.
* Today was the first time the 49ers have practiced on their turf field all season. The rain forced them off their usual grass fields, but Harbaugh said it was a positive since they'll be on turf in the Edward Jones Dome on Sunday.
Harbaugh, however, clammed up when asked about his backup punt and kick returners. The depth chart lists them both as rookie LaMichael James. "Ah, I think we've gone about as far into the depth chart and the plan as we're going to go there," he said. "You get a gold star though on your forehead for getting that information from me."
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Three 49ers who usually are active on game days will not be in uniform Sunday. They are: Kendall Hunter and Kyle Williams, who are on injured reserve, and Demarcus Dobbs, who did not make the trip to St. Louis. In addition, Darcel McBath is listed as questionable with a concussion.
Newly elevated linebacker Michael Wilhoite will take one of those spots and James probably will be in uniform for the first time as well.
- Matt Barrows
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