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San Francisco 49ers Have Great Expectations

By Brandon Keller

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The San Francisco 49ers started their three-day minicamp on Tuesday, and the team has high expectations entering the 2015 season.  Interestingly, they are holding the camp inside Levi’s Stadium.  That could be a small but important step in making their new turf feel like home.  A “home-field advantage” was basically nonexistent last year especially during that bad loss on Thanksgiving Day.

However, the 49ers and Colin Kaepernick have a number of things to raise hopes despite the offseason woes from retirements.  More specifically, Kaepernick showed his excitement for the two new additions at wide receiver of Torrey Smith and Jerome Simpson.

According to 49ers News, Kaepernick commented on the new receivers saying:

"“They’ve been huge so far.  They bring a lot of speed to the field and a deep vertical threat. That’s something I’m looking forward to this coming season is having the opportunity to take shots (downfield).”"

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The new speed threats aren’t nearly the most exciting take from minicamp so far.  Based on the previous report, Kaepernick has improved his throwing efficiency and accuracy.  Maybe the time he spent with Kurt Warner this 0ffseason payed off.  A fast, hard throwing Kaepernick is already a threat to any team.  There is a reason he once broke the record for most rushing yards in a playoff game by a quarterback.  Now, opposing defenses will have his improved throwing mechanics to worry about.

Kaepernick further stated:

"“It’s a constant competition to see how much better I can get with a throwing motion; being more accurate, being more comfortable with the playbook. It’s everything. It’s how can I become the best player that I need to be.”"

His drive to make himself a more complete player is probably the most uplifting thing for the Niners as preparations for the season continue. It shows maturity, and his attitude to place responsibility for the team’s success on himself could pave the way for a turn-around season.

It really is surprising to see all of this positive energy despite the onslaught of bad news for the San Francisco 49ers.  However, they are using this minicamp to show the whole NFL that the Niners are among the best teams.  They squandered against many tough opponents in the 2014 season, but recent enthusiasm could be exactly what San Francisco needs to turn things around.

Also during a press conference, one reporter asked Kaepernick to clarify what he meant regarding a comment about cleaning things up on offense.  According to Niners Nation, Kaepernick said:

"“Whether it’s how we’re running routes. The combinations we’re running. The precision of running. Things like that where we put players in a better position to be able to make plays, to be able to use their athletic ability.”"

There were numerous times last year where the Niners failed to produce big plays.  Yes, many of those times were inaccurate deep passes by Kaepernick, but the problem also was poor play callings and lack of efficiency.  Based on Kaepernick’s thoughts on cleaning things up, the 49ers offensive should be one of high speed, energy, and big plays.  The 49ers certainly have the talent with players like Smith, and it seems like they will cash in the smart grabs at more speed.

On a less serious note, 49ers News reported that Torrey Smith wore “Iron Man” tights at practice.  Smith said, “I knew it would be a good fit with the red and gold.”  He might be on to something with the new look, and it could be a sign that he is meshing with the 49ers.  Small, fun things like that can go a long way to making a team cohesive and energized.

Aside from the fun, the San Francisco 49ers mean business.  The 49ers tweeted:

Anquan Boldin is hungry to be a Super Bowl contender in 2015, and the rest of the San Francisco 49ers seem ready to follow his stride.

Next: Are the San Francisco 49ers' Offseason Retirements Coincidental?

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