Things are starting to break down in San Francisco as the team's struggles were topped off with an upsetting loss to the Oakland Raiders in Week 14. There have been reports of coaching drama, fights between players and criticizing comments from the front office. The 49ers' playoff chances are slowly slipping out of reach and now two of the team's biggest stars are speaking out against the recent offensive plans.
Both Vernon Davis and Frank Gore are unhappy with their roles in the 49ers' offense with three games left in the regular season. Change is certainly to come after the loss to the Oakland Raiders and David and Gore hope that results in more playing time for them on the field.
Davis spent a lot of time in the offseason looking to get a new contract. He held out for a portion of spring and fall workouts before showing up to training camp. His stats on the year certainly do not help his case to get more money. Davis' 44 yards on four catches in the season opener remain his best game of 2014. Heading into Week 15, he has just 25 catches for 236 yards and two touchdowns. Drops have been an issue which have decreased his opportunities to make plays, but the tight end is hopeful he is allowed to get more involved in the final weeks.
"I look at myself as a playmaker," Davis said, via the San Francisco Chronicle. "Not just someone who's blocking. I enjoy it. I would love to be involved a little bit more. I would love that. That would be amazing. But like I said, it's out of my control. All I can do is come here, show up and take care of my responsibilities."
Gore is echoing the words of his teammate, noting that it is simply hard to get into a rhythm with the type of offense San Francisco is running. After putting up three straight 1,000-yard seasons, Gore is suddenly splitting carries with rookie Carlos Hyde who is being touted as the future of the position. The 49ers had said they wanted to lower Gore's carries, but the running back is not happy with the 14.8 per game he is averaging.
"It's hard to get in a rhythm," Gore said. "As players, you have to be in a rhythm on the field to be successful. And it's been tough all year to get in a rhythm."
As a whole, the entire offense for the 49ers has struggled this season. Colin Kaepernick is not getting the throws off. Michael Crabtree has been inconsistent. As rumors surround Jim Harbaugh, uncertainty remains for the future of the team.
