The Facts: Dixon might look like a fullback, but he has never played like one. The 49ers' RB spoke last week of his desire to be a do-everything back for the 49ers in his second NFL season. "I'm focused on being an all-around running back," Dixon said. "I want to be able to run inside, outside, catch screens, run routes, pass protect -- downfield blocking." Dixon did not mention "lead-blocking." Recently, it's been suggested Dixon might transition to FB.
Diehards Line:The possibility of such a move comes in the wake of Dixon's recent comments to "The Reflector," the student newspaper of Mississippi State University. "Right now I'm around 250," Dixon told the paper. "Me and coach talked about it. I'm gonna do some fullback stuff this year, too. I'm trying to bulk up a little more so I can handle both. I really want to be versatile, you know. That's what I'm definitely trying to do. ..." As CSN's Matt Maiocco suggested, it's not difficult to envision a scenario in which the 49ers try to get Frank Gore and Dixon on the field at the same time in a split-back formation. With Gore, Dixon and explosive rookie Kendall Hunter, the 49ers run game will have more options than just about any time in the past. So Jim Harbaugh, offensive coordinator Greg Roman and RBs coach Tom Rathman could get creative. But Dixon as a full-time FB seems like a reach.