SANTA CLARA –- Offensive coordinator Greg Roman recently commended the play of rookie center Marcus Martin for being perfect with his line calls since taking over for injured Daniel Kilgore in the starting lineup.
His one-game fill-in, Joe Looney, did not exactly get the same ringing endorsement on Thursday when Roman took part in his weekly session with the media.
“He had a tough game,” Roman said of Looney, who made his first career start at center in the 49ers’ 17-7 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. “There were some things there that fundamentally he could have done better. You know, first start as a center, in that environment, against that crew which is pretty good, that’s tough duty. But I think he could have played better.”
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Looney started because Martin was out of action with a knee injury sustained late in the 49ers’ loss to the Raiders. Looney had the lowest grade of any of the 49ers' offensive linemen, according to Pro Football Focus. Had was penalized for being ineligible downfield, and he surrendered two quarterback pressures. Roman did not get into specifics, but it seems obvious that Looney was nowhere near perfect when it came to his calls and adjustments.
Marcus Martin was back at full practice on Thursday. He appears to be in line to return to the starting lineup Saturday night against the San Diego Chargers.
“We’re still hoping to get Marcus back for this game,” Roman said. “He’s done some things in practice pretty well. And I think Marcus’ performance he has earned the right to be the starter there.”
