49ers players, fans seem happy with Tomsula pick

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (KGO) -- The 49es introduced the man they've picked to replace head coach Jim Barbaugh and the Oakland Raiders will make their head coaching announcement on Friday.

ABC7 Sports anchor said, "I have to say, this was one of the most uncomfortable news conferences I've ever seen. Jim Tomsula looked very much like a longtime assistant coach who rarely speaks to the media."

He gave long rambling answers and he clearly didn't look like he was ready to take control. If you're a 49ers fan, you have to hope this job is not too big for him and hope he's more comfortable on the sidelines than he was answering questions Thursday.

It's a fair assessment. He looked like a guy who was afraid to say something wrong in front of his bosses. Regardless, make no mistake about it changes are coming as the Tomsula era begins.

Tomsula said at the press conference, "...to me it's big picture stuff, but in real small ways. You know, pack your own bag for the game, don't forget your shoes."

"Treat men like men, but hold them accountable. Could a change in locker room mentality translate to more wins on the field? Owner Jed York hopes so.

York said, "These little things matter. It's a bunch of collections of little things that make the difference. And I think that's the level of accountability and responsibility that Jim takes for this and understanding that those little details all add up."

In football, there's a term for coaches like Tomsula... he's a lifer. He lives and breathes the game and he does it with a smile on his face. It's no wonder then that he's received overwhelming support from his players.

49ers fullback Bruce Miller said he admired Tomsula's "passion for people. And talk about the relationships that he has. I think that's what makes him different and I would always find myself during the game, sneaking over to the defensive line huddle, just to hear him talk and hear what he had to say. So definitely, as a head coach will be a lot of fun."

Tomsula won't guarantee a Super Bowl next season, but he did say anything short of that means the team didn't achieve its goal.

Fan reaction to the Tomsula news conference was pretty much like Beil's. Callers just blasted this on sports radio. Fans outside the stadium were a bit more optimistic.

Fan Marco Rojas said, "He's a good coach. He seems there for his players, great teacher, so I'm excited to see what he's going to do with the players this year. It seems like some of the players are supporting him."

49ers fan Marcos said he was "sad for the team, the organization. Harbaugh is a winner to me, and I'm sure to a lot of other people, but the new decision they went with. I'm happy with."

49ers fan Mei Fode said, "He gets along with the all the players so well and they all love him and I think it's the right choice."