Professor

Willis moves into starting lineup in place of Moore

The 49ers could not keep rookie linebacker Patrick Willis out of the starting lineup any longer.

Willis was elevated to the starting lineup prior to practice Monday morning. He will take over at the starting weak inside linebacker spot ("Mike"), while Derek Smith moves to strong inside linebacker ("Ted"). Brandon Moore will be removed from the starting lineup, coach Mike Nolan revealed this morning.

Willis had been working with the second-team base defense behind Smith. But his play has been so impressive that the 49ers figured they had to get him into the starting lineup. Moore, who led the team with 114 tackles and 6.5 sacks, was demoted.

The move was less about Moore's performance, Nolan said, and more "due to the what the rookie has done." Willis was the No. 11 overall pick in the draft. As a senior at Ole Miss, Willis was named the Butkus Award winner as the best linebacker in the country

Moore said he was disappointed in the move, which came as a surprise when he was informed this morning. Moore admitted he did not play as well as he had hoped in the first two games of the exhibition season. He missed two tackles in the opener, and one more against the Raiders.

"On this level, you're always fighting for survival," Moore said.

The 49ers will not change their nickel pass defense. Willis will remain on the field when the 49ers go with five defensive backs. Moore will be used as pass-rusher at defensive end on nickel downs, which should keep him fresh throughout the game, Nolan said.

Jeff Ulbrich will also switch positions from the "Ted" linebacker to the "Mike," where he'll be No. 2 on the depth chart behind Willis.

Willis said he was excited about the promotion, but said he has a lot of work to do. He said he would not be calling any family or friends because his move into the starting lineup means nothing if he doesn't take advantage of the opportunity. He said those close to him would have to hear about it via news reports.

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Serrated Shadow

Wow, didn't see this happening so fast. This kid could be great for San Fran..

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BeastJacobs

He's a really solid ILB, I like him and he'll definitely excel in the San Fran D.

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bigboy

He didnt have much competition and the 32nd ranked D didnt draft him that high to sit. He has been very good for them so far in the pre-season and there's not reason to think he woont be a fixture there for a while

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BeastJacobs

Well that's true but Rookies don't usually step in first year at LB unless they're really needed and I thought Moore was solid but I like Willis he's quick and hits hard.

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RoyWilliams

Thats expected.

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