National Football League

Plummer compares team to '92 Chargers

Published Oct. 9, 2010 3:12 p.m. ET

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Former Chargers and 49ers linebacker Gary Plummer sees parallels between this year's 49ers and his 1992 Chargers - the only team that made the playoffs after starting 0-4.

Both clubs were led by a fiery coach. Chargers coach Bobby Ross was known for his intensity, and Plummer remembers Ross storming into the locker room after one of their early losses and upending a table filled with cups of Gatorade.

"He came in and just started screaming," Plummer said. Ross' message was to get on board or get out. He told the team that he wasn't changing and that players either had to adapt to him or leave.

Niners coach Mike Singletary vents his anger on the sidelines, in the locker room, in team meetings, and sometimes with the media. Plummer said players have to retain some professional pride despite what coaches do.

"It doesn't matter if you're on board with the coach or not," said Plummer, who now does color commentary on the 49ers' radio broadcasts. "As a player, you can't get complacent."

Plummer was bothered by the abrupt departure last week of starting safety Michael Lewis. Lewis left the team after the 49ers sent him mixed signals on his starting status.

"You don't leave the team," Plummer said. "He let his teammates down. You still have teammates counting on you. You can have your principles, but take care of those in the offseason."

Coffee arrested: Former 49ers running back Glen Coffee was arrested in Florida on Friday morning for carrying a concealed weapon in his uninsured 2008 Cadillac. Policed discovered the cocked, loaded handgun after Coffee was caught for speeding. Coffee retired from the 49ers in August, citing his pursuit of a religious calling.

Briefly: The 49ers might be helped not only by the absence of Eagles quarterback Michael Vick ribs, but also the absence of the Eagles' best cornerback, Asante Samuel concussion. ... Singletary said guard Chilo Rachal will start if he has recovered from his knee injury. Rachal is listed as probable.

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