Cam Newton Scouting Report

Cam Newton, Auburn, 6'6 250 lbs

SKILLS

Size/Arm Strength: 10 - Excellent size (6'6 250 lbs) along with a cannon of an arm. Cam Newton can make every single throw on the football field.

Accuracy: 7.75 – Better accuracy than he gets credit for, Newton completed 66.1% of his passes. Only one QB in FBS had a better passer rating (Kellen Moore- 182.6), as  Newton posted a 182.0 passer rating. Beyond the statistics is what hinders Newton however; the offensive scheme was very rudimentary and basic at its' core in passing reads. What I mean by this is that he rarely was counted upon to look past his primary receiver, because defenses were stacking and loading the box in order to contain his running ability. His rapid release, ability to escape pressure, and extremely powerful arm strength, masked the relatively simple passing game that did not force Cam Newton to go through a thick passing progression. 

While he fits the football in tight windows, he sometimes gets into trouble with his ball placement across the middle; will get excited and footwork is poor, leading to overthrows. His accuracy is inconsistent due to his footwork and technique. His potential will flash on throws deep and outside the numbers (pro-level throws), and his upside is very evident even to the common fan.

Former Oilers QB, Warren Moon

Warren Moon, who has also been a major part of the development of Cam Newton during the Pre-Draft season, stated Cam's specific problem regarding his lower half, 

    "He wasn't transferring well," Moon said afterward. "He was throwing leaning backward. Even though he has a very strong arm, I don't care how strong of an arm you have, if you're not in the right throwing motion, you're not going to get good accuracy on the football, the ball is going to go high on you. As soon as he gets that weight transferred, he throws the ball as accurately as anyone you've been around."

With that being said, understanding Cam's raw ability, his potential, and Hall of Fame QB help, I have to give him a somewhat high rating on accuracy.

Throwing Mechanics/Footwork: 6.25 – The only reason I give this high of a grade, is that Newton's throwing mechanics need no work. He has no wind-up in his delivery, his release is consistent, and the ball absolutely fires out of his hand. His release point isn't at an awkward angle, it's fluid and over the top, and the ball comes out quickly. 

The biggest problem I have with Cam Newton is his footwork. This is the main area for improvement. Cam has always gotten by on athletic and God-given talent his entire football career. Even in the toughest conference of College football (the SEC), Newton was able to get away with bad footwork. 

First off he worked out of a spread offense, and as Cam himself said, "A lot of times I probably can count on one hand the times I took a snap from under center in one game." But he understands where he needs to be, "But now it depends what scheme you go into, but at the same time you have to be able to get a snap from under center and be fluent at it. That's one of the first things we tried to tackle."

Secondly, rather than reaching the end of his pass drops, planting his back foot, shifting his weight forward, and delivering an accurate ball, Cam Newton reached the end of his pass drop, hopped around, and threw the ball downfield by torquing his hips and waist. He didn't do a particularly good job of always setting his feet and shifting his weight forward, this is something, as mentioned by Warren Moon that he needs to gain consistency in doing. His base on film is inconsistent in that his feet are too close together. On a quick note however, his base looked very solid (much wider) in his media workout.

And in saying this, I will be the first to recommend watching Newton's media-workout, and the tremendous strides he has made thus far. Once again, upside is there, and its obvious that potential is there, consistency in footwork/technique and accuracy are the biggest questions. 

Mobility/Athleticism: 10 - The one player in the draft whose athleticism will literally jump off the screen. At 6'6 250 lbs, Cam Newton looks like a defensive end, moves like a running back, and throws as well as anyone in the country. One of only 2 quarterbacks ever to throw for 30 touchdowns and run for 20 touchdowns, Cam Newton bullied through opponents on his way to more than 1400 yards rushing. I would not be surprised if Cam runs in the 4.4-4.5 range in the 40 yard dash. 

The reason for Newton's success running the ball, is his natural field vision as a runner, and his ability to anticipate his defenders momentum. He smoothly weaves his way in and out of traffic, constantly seeming in full control of his surroundings. Beyond this field vision, he also has the burst and explosiveness to just burn his opponents once he finds his path. All in all a dynamic athlete who has natural running ability.

ANALYSIS

Best fit: Newton needs to be in an offense with a strong running game, and needs a coaching staff that tailors the offense to suit Newton's mobility and athleticism. 

Could C.J. Spiller catch passes from Cam Newton in 2011?

The first place I think Newton could go, is Buffalo, where Chan Gailey is known for being a unique offensive coordinator who craves game changing, dynamic playmakers in his offense. Cam Newton, C.J. Spiller, and Stevie Johnson could combine for a nice, young, and talented trio of offensive playmakers with which the Bills could build around for the future. 

The next best fits would be the Cardinals, the Titans, or the 49ers. All three teams have young weapons at RB and WR, and all three teams are in need of a franchise quarterbacks. 

With the recent coaching changes in Tennessee and San Francisco, I'm not sure if either team will be willing to hand the reigns to a raw and developing rookie like Cam Newton. 

And in Arizona, I'm hearing trade rumors swirling about Kevin Kolb, Marc Bulger, and even Kyle Orton, so maybe Ken Whisenhunt (Head coach of AZ) wants to bring in a QB with experience and allow John Skelton to develop. 

The Cards, Titans, and 49ers all are fluent situations regarding personnel and coaching staff changes, therefore I feel the Bills have the best foundation in which to add Cam Newton through the draft.

X-Factor: What are teams going to find out about his character, integrity, and past? Will Newton's past mistakes (Florida cheating, father's solicitation for a "Pay-to-Play" plan, and stolen laptop) force teams to pass on him in the 2011 Draft? Can he convince NFL teams, through interviews that he is a changed human being and has learned his lesson? Or will he portray a "Me" attitude that pushes teams away. How teams view his character will go a long way in where Cam Newton will be drafted. 

Another big factor, in my opinion, is Newton's ability to overcome adversity, and how teams view that as well. Facing the most scrutiny ever faced by a college football player in 2010, Newton forged one of the most memorable single season performances ever in FBS history. Newton dominated his opponents inside the toughest conference in the nation, willed his team to comeback victories all season long, notched a perfect season, won a Heisman trophy, and won a National title despite the controversies surrounding him throughout. His ability to shut out surrounding media and maintain focus on the football field, should tell NFL teams that Newton's fortitude is unshakeable and he wins no matter what happens off the field.

Where he will be picked: Top 5. I am hard pressed to say that Newton will not be drafted after the Top 5 picks in the 2011 Draft. His raw talent, ability to overcome adversity, and willingness to put in the necessary work to improve his technique should convince teams of his upside, strong will and work ethic. There's a difference between work ethic and character issues, and the media is beginning to mix the two. I agree that he has legitimate character issues but to question his work ethic is something I refuse to do. Newton's improvement as a passer from the poor Clemson game, to the blowout SEC championship, should exemplify his in season work and commitment to excellence. 

Where he should be picked: Top 5. His actual draft stock should correlate respectively to his on field play. Would benefit from a draft day slide to a more talented team, but I could see him be a game changer as early as his rookie season.

NFL Comparison: Daunte Culpepper, former Minnesota Viking, Oakland Raider, and Detroit Lion. Currently starting QB for UFL Sacramento Mountain Lions

Cam Newton 2010-2011 highlight video

MNF: 49ers Perspective

Players to Watch

QB Troy Smith - The former Heisman winner will be making his third straight start of the year. Smith will be using the rest of the season to audition for next year as many believe the 49ers are done with former first overall pick QB Alex Smith and are in line to draft/trade/pick up a new starter. I am a huge fan of Smith, he has good accuracy, an underrated arm and most importantly, he is a winner. This is a huge game for him and the 49ers who still have a chance at the division.

TE Vernon Davis - Davis has been awfully quiet the last couple of games. Look for Smith to target the big tight end early in the game and get him going. The 6'3" 250 lb burner is a nightmare to match up against, so the worst case is Davis takes on double teams and opens things up for other receivers.

LB Patrick Willis - Willis is the best linebacker in the NFL, unfortunately he is on one of the worst teams so he is still somewhat underrated. It will be fun to watch Willis make plays from sideline-to-sideline tonight. Willis has already racked up 91 tackles, 4 sacks and a forced fumble.

Key Matchup: Frank Gore vs. Cardinals Defense- Frank Gore has really been the 49ers' entire offense this year. He leads the team with 801 rushing yards and receptions with 46. Gore has been the workhorse of the offense and I would not expect anything to change tonight. If the Cardinals defense can stop Gore they can really slow down the 49ers offense.

Why the 49ers Will Win- The 49ers are more talented. The 49ers match up well against the Cardinals team which ranks in the bottom of the NFL in most offensive and defensive categories. If they can run the ball with RB Frank Gore and keep the turnovers down I think they will be able to easily win this game. The 49ers have lost a lot of close games to some good teams, but I do not see them losing to the Cardinals if they play their game.

Prediction: 49ers 31 Cardinals 13

Troy Smith is legit

Why did it take so long for someone to give Troy Smith a chance to start? 17/28, 356 yards, and a touchdown in an overtime victory. He may not have all the physical tools, but he knows how to win and he is just a gamer. You've got to be excited if you are 49ers fan, even though they are 3-6, the NFC West is still wide open.  If they can go on a little run they could still end up getting into the playoffs.

This is pretty unbelievable:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/auto/09000d5d81c1aac7/Jaguars-Hail-Mary-is-answered

I know you are taught to knock the ball down, but in hindsight, with no one around you, it may have made more sense to just catch the ball. I feel really bad for the Texans defense and their fans, that is a heartbreaking way to lose a game.

Video of the Day

QB Troy Smith is set to start against the Broncos in London this Sunday. I really like this move. I was a big fan of Smith coming out of college, and he was slotted to start in Baltimore a couple of years ago, but got he injured and Flacco took over and he never got a chance after that. Smith is finally getting a chance to shine, and I think he will do a great job utilizing all the talent on the 49ers roster, and finish off the year as the 49ers starter.

NFC West Quarter Review

This is starting to become a perennial occurrence, but it seems this year is worse than usual.

Arizona (2-2)

The Cardinals, who could easily be the front-runner for this division, has what possibly may be the worst QB situation in the NFL. Cutting Matt Leinart might have been a smart move if they had anyone of significant talent at QB on the roster. Instead they have Derek Anderson, who even the Cleveland Browns didn’t want, and the undrafted rookie QB Max Hall who, despite the confidence of coach Ken Whisenhunt, is still years away from even possibly being considered to be a decent option to start at QB for any NFL team.

Standout Players: Adrian Wilson, Paris Lenon, Greg Toler

Seattle (2-2)

The Seahawks under Pete Carroll’s first year have been an enigma. In two games at home they have won very decisively, but on the road they were blown out by the Rams and the Broncos. No NFL team can hope to make the playoffs with a complete inability to play on the road, so Pete Carroll will have to figure out a solution to their road woes if they hope for any shot at the playoffs.

Standout Players: Chris Clemons, Earl Thomas

St. Louis (2-2)

The Rams have been a pleasant surprise as many analysts had the team pegged as the cellar-dweller of this division. Sam Bradford has shown the ability and poise that earned him the first-overall pick the season, and continues to improve with every game. Unfortunately for the Rams the rest of the roster does not have as much promise as Sam Bradford, and even in a division this bad they are not likely to stay competitive as the season progresses.

Standout Players: Sam Bradford, Mark Clayton

San Francisco (0-4)

The 49ers are in desperation mode only 4 games into the season. In any other division, a 0-4 record would have the team already looking towards the draft, but there is a glimmer of hope for the 49ers. The defense, while inconsistent, is loaded with talent and has kept the 49ers in two close games against the Falcons and Saints. If new offensive coordinator Mike Johnson can turn around the offense and Singletary can get consistent play from his defense, San Francisco has the talent to get back into the division race.

Standout Players: Patrick Willis, Frank Gore, Nate Clements

Prediction: The Seahawks are able to win the division because of the ineptitude of the rest of the teams, but whichever team represents the NFC West in the playoffs will be making a swift 1^st round exit.

MNF: Week 2 Saints vs. 49ers

49ers' Keys to the Game:

RB Frank Gore – Gore is one of the best backs in the NFL, and the 49ers are going to need him to play much better than his 38 yards on 17 carries in week 1 against the Seahawks. It is clear that Alex Smith is not an elite QB in this league, so having him attempt 45 passes like last week is generally not a great idea. The offense, and really the whole season, may lie on RB Frank Gore’s shoulders.

Emulate the Vikings' Defense – The Vikings may have lost to the Saints, but they held them to just 14 points. In the first 13 games last year the lowest point total any team held the Saints to was 24 points, done by the Jets who had the number one defense. After letting up a quick touchdown, the Vikings were able to hold the Saints to a 3.2 yards per carry average and created long third down situations, where they were able to get the Saints off the field (Saints were 3-11 on third downs). Look for the 49ers to copy the Vikings game plan on defense.

Players to watch:

LB Patrick Willis – One of the best defensive players in the NFL, if not the best. I predicted him to win the Defensive Player of the Year award; we will see if he can have a big game against a great offense.

TE Vernon Davis – Davis is a playmaker at the tight end position, and nightmare for defenses to match up against. He is 6’3” 250 lbs and can run in the 4.4’s in the 40. He had a good first game with 8 receptions and 73 yards. It will be interesting to see how the Saints try to take away the 49ers biggest receiving threat.

WR Michael Crabtree – Crabtree held out for the first five games of his rookie season, but still had a nice season, with 48 receptions and 625 yards. I want to see what he can do with a full year.

Saints Keys to the Game:

Attack down the Field – Last week the 49ers made an average Seahawks offense look very good in their 31-6 loss. The Saints have a lot more weapons than the Seahawks and have QB Drew Brees under center.  They should have no problem moving the ball on the 49ers' defense.

Get up early and make the 49ers one dimensional – If the Saints can get up early on the 49ers, it could be a long day for the 49ers. Taking the ball out of the hands of RB Frank Gore and making QB Alex Smith try his luck against the Saints' talented defensive backs  plays right into the strengths of the Saints. The Saints did a good job last week of making Adrian Peterson, one of the best running backs in the game, irrelevant. I expect them to do much of the same this week.

Players to watch:

DE Will Smith – Smith is one of the top defensive ends in the game, but had a pretty quiet game against the Vikings. It should be an interesting match-up between the 49ers young offensive tackles and Smith, who can be very disruptive.

RB Pierre Thomas – A really hard runner and a fun back to watch, Thomas is a lot better tailback then Reggie Bush but does not receive nearly the same attention.

WR Robert Meachem – Meachem is a big play threat for the Saints. Last year he had only 45 receptions but averaged 16 yards per catch, and had 9 touchdowns.

The Pick: Saints -5.5, this game may be closer than people think, but I think the defending super bowl champs should have no problem beating the 49ers by at least a touchdown.

49ers and Vikings Preseason Game Recap

In this 15-10 game, won by the 49ers, both teams played with a lot of intensity and physical play.

For the 49ers, without top offensive stars Frank Gore, Vernon Davis, and Michael Crabtree, the first team offense played smooth and efficiently. In Alex Smith's first drive, the Niners marched down the field on a 12 play, 70 yard drive, that ended with a 4 yard touchdown for rookie RB Anthony Dixon.

In this drive, Smith was 3-3 passing in third down conversions, completing a pass to four different receivers and going 5-6 on the drive. Rookie 1st rounders, Anthony Davis and Mike Iupati showed positive sign in the pass protection, as they did not miss a single blitz pickup in the first drive; and the team's best lineman Joe Staley held his own against Vikings end Jared Allen.

The offensive line yesterday looked very solid in the pass protections, yet could not create running lanes for Anthony Dixon. Dixon who ran hard for three quarters essentially, posted a whopping 20 carries for only 51 yards. Dixon's 4 yard touchdown run however showed the kind of athlete he really is, as he dove across the left pile-on for an impressive score.

In the first half for the Niners following the score, the Vikings defense played solid not allowing another score; so at 7-3 at the half, Alex Smith is done for the day. Smith looked cool and collected in the pocket, and made all the throws he needed to make.

For the Vikings, Adrian Peterson came out on the first play with an explosive 13 yard swing pass.

• Peterson carried the ball in his right hand with a firm handle and was determined to not putting the ball on the ground. 
• This is a sign all Viking fans should be pleased with. Peterson played more than I expected all the way until the second half.
• He looked good out of the backfield in the passing game, running crisp routes and making clean catches.
• Peterson finished with 3 receptions for 25 yards, one reception coming off a broken play. The 49ers defense played stout run defense against Peterson, holding him to 17 yards on 6 carries.

I will not rant or rave on the 4 play day by Brett Favre which ended in a sack. It is foolish to read anymore into Favre's play, other than the fact that the ankle held up well on a hard hit from Patrick Willis.

This reminds me of the scrutiny of Favre's play against the Chiefs last pre-season....Please readers, don't waste your time, you know Brett Favre is fine. It was 4 plays and hopefully next game we see a few series.

After Favre's first series, backup Tarvaris Jackson came into the game. Looking more and more like an NFL caliber quarterback, Jackson showed improved awareness and reads. He generated two pretty solid drives and one 3-and-out. A quality performance for Jackson, nothing spectacular but just about what you would expect for your backup QB.

• Moving on, Sage Rosenfels looked awful. After three consecutive 3-and-outs, and producing zero first downs to the tune of 2-7 passing and 11 yards, the Vikings pulled their third string QB.

• At the end of the game, all I can say is the entire Vikings offense has looked pretty decent; not spectacularly good or bad.

Enter Joe Webb..

The QB/WR/athlete/project player, comes in and shows incredible agility and pocket presence, avoiding an intense pass rush and gaining a few yards. Webb didn't look great passing the ball, but rather like a earlier scaledown of Tarvaris Jackson.

Webb showcased his 4.50 speed on his 48 yard scamper into the endzone; with a cover 2 look Webb saw that the defense had not accounted for him. Seeing this, he split the safeties, running down the middle of the field for an impressive touchdown.

These late game heroics were not enough but Joe Webb certainly showed some athletic prowess in his limited time. A sack for a safety on Webb ended the game and reminded me that this kid still has some work to do in order to fulfill that potential.

Things to take away from the game:

• The 49ers are very deep at the linebacker position
• Outside Linebackers Manny Lawson and Travis Laboy created hard edges, and contained a very explosive Vikings team
• Patrick Willis played lights out, forcing a sack on Favre early, and chasing down a Adrian Peterson RB out route
• If you don't include the 48 yard TD run by Joe Webb, the 49ers held the Vikings to a measly 3.3 YPC. A clip otherwise very poor for the backfield tandem of Adrian Peterson, Toby Gerhart, and Albert Young.

• The 49ers' young prospects have shown promise
• Nate Davis showed everyone the arm strength he has, and the ability to generate drives.
• Ted Ginn Jr. still dropped two tough catches, but proved why he can be an asset to the team in 2010 when he slipped behind the Vikings secondary en route to a 60 yard gain.
• Rookie Taylor Mays dropped the thunder on one particular play, and delivered a nasty blow.
• Alex Smith finally has some continuity with OC Jimmy Raye, and understands the offense well enough now that he can consistently make the correct reads.

• The Vikings shouldn't be worried about the post-Favre era coming up in 2011, as Tarvaris Jackson looks ready to become a NFL starter

• The Vikings pass defense looks suspect, and the front seven must get to the QB in order to counteract that inability.

• Peterson looked like himself, and held onto the ball.

• Finally Joe Webb is an athlete; whether he plays QB or WR or whatever, he will be on the playing field in the next few years.

• E.J. Henderson has fully recovered from his injury last season, and brought full intensity to this game. He flew downhill and closed running lanes; making 3 solo tackles and 4 assisted.

Both teams played with intensity, yet both need to clean up; as is the case with most pre-season games. Hopefully we can see Frank Gore, Vernon Davis, and Michael Crabtree this preseason for the Niners, as well as Percy Harvin and Sydney Rice for the Vikes.

San Francisco 49ers 2010 Preview and Prediction

Last Years Record 8-8

Wins: Arizona (x2), Seattle, St. Louis (x2), Chicago, Jacksonville, Detroit

Losses: Minnesota, Atlanta, Houston, Indianapolis, Seattle, Green Bay, Tennessee, and Philadelphia

Biggest Playmaker Patrick Willis

LB, Mississippi, Drafted #11, 4th Year

Arguably the best linebacker in the NFL, Patrick Willis has posted 141 tackles or more in each of his first three seasons, including a 174 tackle rookie debut. Willis is no doubt the fastest linebacker in the league, running an estimated 4.4 40 time, and literally plays “sideline-to-sideline”. And while he has the physique needed to be a strong linebacker in the NFL, Willis is a student of the game who understands how to make proper reads, close running lanes, and recognize play-action fakes. Patrick Willis does all these subtle, unnoticed things so smoothly and naturally, almost making it look easy. He plays with his heart and soul, and it is obvious that winning is his highest priority. Patrick Willis is the commander and leader of this 49ers defense, and although stats cannot convey this, Willis has dramatically improved over the past two seasons in his pass coverage skills and play recognition skills. Look for second year coach Mike Singletary to mold Patrick Willis into an even better linebacker in 2010; by season’s end we could be talking about the undisputed top MLB in the NFL.

Impact Player Frank Gore/Vernon Davis

RB, Miami, Drafted #65, 6th Year

TE, Maryland, Drafted #6, 5th Year

In the 2009 season, the dual threat of Gore on the ground and Davis in the air combined for a massive 26 touchdowns; in perspective that is the equivalent to 74.2% of ALL offensive touchdowns score by the 49ers last season. Vernon Davis tied for the league lead in touchdowns with 13. In 8 of 12 games played by Frank Gore, Gore posted 100 or more yards of total offense. The two wreaked havoc all last season and look to improve in 2010, as the 49ers added numerous weapons at receiver, and key components to the offensive line in Mike Iupati and Anthony Davis. Look for increased production out of both players on fewer touches, as Michael Crabtree will garner a lot of attention in 2010.

Biggest Offseason Addition Anthony Davis/Mike Iupati

OT, Rutgers, Drafted #11, Rookie

OG, Idaho, Drafted #17, Rookie

The draft of 2010 could be the best 49ers draft in the last decade. The duo of Davis an Iupati will solidify an already good offensive line. Both have been declared as outright week 1 starters, and both have impressed during training camp. Davis is a big-bodied tackle with long arms, good feet, and Iupati is a road grading guard who can control the LOS. With these two premier linemen, the 49ers look to take their offensive production to a new height. Look for improvements in pass pro and especially in the running game.

Biggest Offseason Loss Isaac Bruce

WR, Memphis State, Drafted #33, 16 Years, Retired

After a stellar 16-year career in which he won a Super Bowl, multiple All-Pro Awards and accolades, Isaac Bruce retired this past offseason. A veteran presence and a solid locker room character, Bruce brought experience to a 49er receiving corps sorely lacking in that department. Although the production tailed off considerably, as did his physical abilities, Bruce could have been a solid mentor for up and coming sophomore Michael Crabtree. Mike Martz in Chicago has hired Bruce to work with his young receiving corps this 2010 season however, putting away all ideas of Bruce’s return to San Fran. as a coach. To replace Bruce, the team signed speedster Ted Ginn Jr. in hopes that he can develop into more than just a return man.

Biggest Draft Steal Taylor Mays

FS, USC, Drafted #49, Rookie

Taylor Mays was a fabulous value pick in the second round of the 2010 NFL draft. Mays, who is a 1^st Round talent slid out of the first round, and remarkably fell to the 49ers who were in need for some young talent at the safety position. Although Mays isn’t the best at play recognition from the safety position I believe that, with time and experience, his physical attributes will enable him to play at a high level in the NFL. Mays has the size, the closing speed, and the mean streak of an Ed Reed. Look for some early struggles, however towards the end of the season he will be up to speed in the NFL and making plays right and left.

Biggest Draft Mistake None

In April’s 2010 NFL Draft the 49ers were apparent winners, gathering premier talents on both sides of the ball. Both offensive lineman afore mentioned, but also Anthony Dixon from Mississippi State. Dixon, a big back, is very athletic and has great footwork and is essentially a more talented Glen Coffee. Dixon looks to take over sometime in 2010 as the team’s backup RB. On defense they added Mays and linebacker Navorro Bowman from the “Linebacker U” Penn State.

Offseason Grade A-

In the 2010 offseason the 49ers addressed numerous concerns on both sides of the ball; adding enough talent, through the draft and free agency, to make a solid post season run in 2010. What could hurt the 49ers is that all hope lies on the arm of former #1 overall pick Alex Smith, who has so far underwhelmed. The 49ers front office has done an excellent job in the past 5 years in revamping a fallen franchise.

X-Factor Alex Smith

QB, Utah, Drafted #1, 6th Year

Alex Smith has not lived up to his potential after being drafted 1st overall and has obviously struggled in his first few seasons in the NFL. In 32 games played in 3 seasons, he had a mediocre 54% completion percentage, 146 yards per game, 19 total passing TDs, and 31 interceptions. After these wretched numbers, Alex Smith was benched the entire 2008 campaign. At the helm of their offense, the 49ers were lead by J.T O’ Sullivan and later by Shaun Hill while Alex Smith watched from the bench. Shaun Hill then started the season as the quarterback, but after mightily struggling, Alex Smith got another chance to show why he is a former #1 overall pick. Smith seized the opportunity and finally showed some upside. In the 11 games played, he threw for 2,350 yards 18 TDs, 11 INTs, and competed 60% of his passes. Smith has all the weapons he needs to be a successful quarterback with Vernon Davis, Michael Crabtree, and Frank Gore. This past offseason all four of these guys have gotten to work together in an entire offseason for the first time and the chemistry will grow more as the season progresses. In the 2010 NFL draft, the 49ers helped solidify their offensive line, which will help protect Alex Smith. All of the pieces are in place for the 49ers to have a successful season, but the man who decides how good they will really be is Alex Smith.

Name You Should Know Josh Morgan

WR, Virginia Tech, Drafted #174, 3rd Year

Josh Morgan quietly put together a 52 catch season in what appeared to be a vastly improved sophomore season in 2009. Morgan is a selfless character who plays with a "team-first” mentality, running hard, clear routes and understanding that the offense will not be centered around him. Although he displays these qualities, that does not mean he is not an exceptional athlete. Morgan is a big, physical possession receiver who is a solid secondary option on the outside. Morgan is slated to start in 2010 and will look to improve his game as a third year veteran.

Rising Star Michael Crabtree

WR, Texas Tech, Drafted #10, 2nd Year

If any other receiver than Michael Crabtree went through the following events, I doubt they could possibly post 48 receptions for 625 yards, and 2 TDs in 11 games played; a broken foot that kept him out of the combine and workouts for nearly five months, a contract holdout that lasted through training camp and into the season. All that withstanding, Crabtree still put up impressive numbers in his rookie year, in what seemed to be an “ad lib” showcasing of Crabtree’s pure talent. With an entire offseason of workouts, and time to understand the playbook, I feel Crabtree will break the sophomore spell that has plagued young receivers in the past decade. Look for #15 to establish himself among the league’s elite.

Offensive Outlook A

With a revamped O-line, and added weapons on the outside, the 49ers offense looks the best it has looked in over a decade. Top five rusher Frank Gore is back and healthy, Vernon Davis established himself last season as a top five TE, and young quarterback Alex Smith seems to have found his groove. If Mike Iupati and Anthony Davis can be solid throughout the season, and receivers Michael Crabtree and Josh Morgan produce, the 49ers could stake a claim as the league’s most prolific offense; albeit Alex Smith needs to show some consistency out of the gates. Look for an increase in production across the board for this young west coast team.

Defensive Outlook B+

On defense the 49ers look just as strong if not stronger than they were in 2009. With one of the top NTs in Aubrayo Franklin and top MLB Patrick Willis, the 49ers have vastly improved their run defense; along with pass rushing linebacker Manny Lawson and DE Justin Smith, the 49ers can also bring the heat on the opposing QB. Drafting Taylor Mays increases the level of competition in the secondary, as well as solidifying the unit as possible the best tackling secondary in the NFL, with premier cornerback Nate Clement, and free safety Dashon Goldson, the teams second leading tackler in 2009. Look for another good year for the Niners.

Special Teams Outlook A-

With two of the best kickers and punters and punters in the league, Joe Nedney and Andy Lee, the only missing ingredient is an electrifying return man. This summer the Niners addressed just that by signing former Miami Dolphin and Ohio State Buckeye Ted Ginn Jr. Nedney in '09 was 17-21 on field goals up until missing two games with a injured hamstring, and Andy Lee emerged in '09 with a second ranking gross average per punt (47.6 y/punt.). In '09 versus the Jets, Ginn won the game for the Dolphins with two 100 yard plus kickoff returns for TDs. Ginn’s addition makes this special team unit an exciting one to watch in 2010.

Projected 2010 Record 11-5

Playing an easy schedule against a weak NFC West division always helps an 11 win season, but the Niners will play teams from other weak divisions around the NFL, including Tampa Bay, Kansas City, Denver (a team that has the injury bug this offseason), and Oakland. These scheduling factors along with the firepower I talked about in this article, lead me to believe that the 49ers will run away with this divisional race and Mike Singletary will be in the playoffs for the first time as a head coach.