San Francisco 49ers Preview
The 49ers are and interesting team. It’s a shame they were saddled with the Alex Smith contract. He’s case and point why the rookie pay scale needs to be adjusted. He didn’t pick up Mike Martz’s Offense and was replaced by J.T. O’Sullivan as the starter. I’m sorry but you cant’ feel too confident in J.T. as your Week 1 starting QB. Frank Gore should bounce back from a somewhat disappointing season. He had 1500 total yards, but he only scored 6 TDs. If those are down numbers, that’s the kind of guy I want on my team. Of course if Martz ignores him, like he’s been known to do in the past, Gore’s production could suffer. The Niners brought in DeShaun Foster to spell Gore and provide a speedy change-of-pace. Foster is great in a limited role and should be a nice addition. The Niners also added two new starting WRs in Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson. They should be an upgrade over Darrell Jackson and Ashley Lelie. Arnaz Battle was their leading receiver last year, and should be heavily involved as well. At Tight End Vernon Davis is a monster that could finally have his breakout year. He, perhaps more than anybody, has the ability to change the complexion of this Offense.
Defensively I have just two words. Patrick Willis. He is SO GOOD. He had 174 Tackles and 4 Sacks last year. Talk about a one-man wrecking crew. Takeo Spikes came aboard to help out. Nate Clements signed to a big free agent contract before last season and he held up his side of the bargain with 92 Tackles and 4 INTs. Fellow CB Walt Harris picked off four passes as well. Strong Safety Michael Lewis came over from Philly and recorded 104 Tackles. Justin Smith came over from Cincy to provide pressure on the QB.
The 49ers could win the NFC West or finish in last. That’s how wide open the Division is. If their Offense clicks and everyone stays healthy they could be the surprise team they were supposed to be last year. That said, I’m predicting 7 Wins from them. I just can’t be inspired by their QBs.
Fantasy-wise Frank Gore is a top end RB. He may not score a ton of TDs, but he piles up the yardage. Both Isaac Bruce and Bryant Johnson are worthy of being on your fantasy team bench at wideout. Vernon Davis is worth a shot as a starter. If you are in a league with IDPs, Patrick Willis is a must.
