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Originally Posted by Serrated Shadow
Ok guys..It's the First Word:
1) What on Earth has happened to the San Francisco 49ers? Also, who finishes last in the NFC West and why?
2) Who are your contenders for Defensive player of the year, and who wins it?
3) We've been talking about overrated teams lately, now make your case for two underrated teams in the NFL.
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1. The 49ers went into free agency, signing big-names such as Nate Clements (BUF) and Michael Lewis (PHI). They drafted very well, taking LB Patrick Willis in the first. They've improved on defense and added a spark to their attack by trading for Darrell Jackson from the Seahawks. Why are they bad? Well, mostly it comes down to the play of QB Alex Smith and the offensive-line. Frank Gore isn't having the Pro Bowl season like he did in '06, and Smith is directing an anemic offense. Jackson has been hurt, and Lelie is virtually a non-factor. It is either Arnaz Battle or Vernon Davis. They beat the Cardinals in their opener (due to poor play by Leinart) and beat a 1-8 Rams team to open 2-0. From then forward, they have been on a 7-game losing streak, mostly to injuries for their defense. The Rams go last in the NFC West, mostly because of injuries and the poor execution of the offense and defense.
2. My candidates for Defensive MVP include: FS Bob Sanders (IND), MLB Karlos Dansby (ARI), CB Leigh Bodden (CLE), LB Patrick Willis (SF), SS LaRon Landry (WAS), and CB Terrence McGee (BUF). Dansby wins it.
3. In my opinion, the Cardinals and Bills are underrated. Yes, I picked the Cards because I am a homer, but they haven't been getting recognized. Ken Whisenhunt has turned this team around drastically from Denny Green's horrid team. James is a better rusher, and the offense is more potent. The TE is also getting involved, opening up the receivers. Most of all, the defense and offensive-line have improved the most. This past Sunday, Dansby got two INT's. He has been a beast all year. Darnell Dockett is pressuring the QB. I question the corners and safeties, but overall, it has improved as a unit. In 2006, the Cards ranked 29th in overall defense. This season, they are ranked 9th. The Bills, despite starting off badly, have re-surfaced, almost beating an undefeated Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night. Trent Edwards have proven to be an effective starter, and Losman has silenced his critics...so far. Their defense has done surprisingly well, despite losing Spikes, Fletcher, and Clements to other teams. Jauron has done a nice job with his playcalling, and I think the Bills will go 2nd in the AFC East.