The NFL is really simple. If you dont have a top tier QB, you simply can not have long term sustained success. Yes, you can win an isolated championship with the likes of Trent Dilfer and Brad Johnson behind center, but if you want to be in the title mix year in and year out, you need a Franchise (i.e. a multiple Pro-Bowl caliber) QB at the helm.

Look at the history of those teams that have had long term (i.e. 7-10 year windows) of sustained success. I am sure they all had perennial Pro Bowl type QB's at the helm. Now you dont necessarily need Elway or Montana or Peyton Manning, but you need a Franchise guy (i.e. at least someone at the level of Donovan McNabb or Danny White) Someone who you can count on to lead your team for a decade.

Which brings us full circle back to the 49er's. Is Alex Smith that guy? Will he ever be that guy? If yes, the 49er's can without question compete for a title. They have everything else in place: a swarming aggressive defense, a solid runner in Frank Gore, young play makers in Crabtree and Vernon Davis. It will come down to QB.

would expect the 49ers to be right in the nidst of things pretty soon.

Pardon my intrusion fellows

I DON'T GIVE A SQUAT WHAT IT TAKES!!!!!!!


Yay NINERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Go Niners Go Niners Go Niners It's your birthday!!!

ooopppssss; got carried away guys. I'll sit down now


NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GO NINERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I still think a got some residual delirium tremens. They ain't the Nineters of old, and their games are seldom broadcast in my area. But, I'm awaiting their return with bated breath. Perhaps next year will be the year.

P.S. The most thoughtful gifts my son ever gave me was a Niner hat, and jersey.

I always like the Niners, especially the way the way they used to beat up Dallas

The good old days