"After another Alex Smith-to-Michael Crabtree pass Sunday turned into a Seahawks interception, veteran running back Brian Westbrook pulled the animated Crabtree aside on the sideline and did his best to pacify the young wide receiver.

That ended up being the most action Westbrook saw all afternoon.

Westbrook is one of the best running backs in the league at catching the ball and turning upfield in a flash. But as the 49ers fell further and further behind in Seattle and desperately needed yards and points, Westbrook remained idle.

Asked Friday whether he would make his 49ers debut Monday against New Orleans, Westbrook said: "I have no clue. You have to ask Jimmy that."

Jimmy is Jimmy Raye, the 49ers' embattled offensive coordinator who this week has been scrutinized concerning the speed and clarity with which he calls his plays. Smith called three timeouts and was flagged for delay of game in the first half in Seattle, and afterward he said the play calls haven't been reaching him in time."