NFC West 2010 Season Preview

It can’t be argued that the 2010 San Francisco 49ers mean business. With their first unbeaten preseason in 18 years, they are looking to recollect the winning records of the early 90s, and end their streak of 16 years without a Superbowl appearance. Tight End Vernon Davis has all the necessary tools to rack up the points again, and if QB Alex Smith continues to successfully link up with RB Frank Gore, this will be the team to beat for the crown of the NFC West. They are expected to kick off their season with an away win against Seattle on September 12.

The Seahawks, meanwhile, suffered three straight losses to close out the preseason, though Coach Pete Carroll is happy with the resilience shown by his players. They are a team that doesn’t quit, but they’ll suffer if they find themselves in the ‘catch-up’ position too often this season. But don’t let their preseason record fool you, the learning curve in the locker room was steep over the past four games and some kinks will have been ironed out come opening day. Along with the Arizona Cardinals, the Seahawks are rebuilding and will have a tough time trying to compete for first place.

Arizona finished their three preseason with three low-scoring victories. If QB Matt Leinart can seamlessly replace retired Kurt Warner, and the defense remains solid, they could surprise this season.  Also, the team will need to quickly get used to the absence of six-year starter Reggie Wells, after he was sent to Philadelphia. Their ability to overcome change will determine their standings this season. Though they won the division the past two years, they are considered underdogs heading into this season.

The St. Louis Rams finished their preseason with three wins, albeit close ones. Though rookie QB Sam Bradford was fantastic against the Ravens in the final preseason game, it is unclear if he will edge out A.J. Feeley as the starter against the Cardinals to begin the regular season.  Regardless, the Rams could surprise and give the 49ers and Cardinals a run for the division title.