San Francisco 49ers: Keys to Success in the Playoffs

At 12-3, the 49ers have surpassed everyone's preseason expectations. San Francisco's run this year is even more incredible when you account for the lack of a full offseason, along with new head coach Jim Harbaugh trying to implement a new system.

With all the success that the team has had this year, there are still questions being raised about whether the 49ers can beat the Packers or the Saints, two teams that they will likely face in the playoffs. There is no set formula for beating these high-powered passing teams, but there are a few, certain areas where if San Francisco can execute, they should be in prime position to win out.

1. Make the most of red-zone opportunities.

A concerning trend for most of the season has been the offense having to settle for field goals in the red zone. Akers has been spot on, but three points a drive isn't going to cut it against the better teams in the playoffs. The defense has played extremely well and has been the focal point of the team. But in the likely chance that the 49ers get in a shootout, the offense has got to put points on the board and support the defense as much as possible.

2. Play mistake-free football.

This is something that the 49ers have generally been good at this season. But for a team that hasn't been to the playoffs in a while, they have to keep their composure in high-stress situations. This especially relates to the play of Alex Smith. Although the stats aren't spectacular, Smith has been very efficient and relatively turnover-free, managing games very well.

But against the best teams in the league, can Smith make the big throws and win games with his arm? Since the 49ers' offense is, among other things, a conservative ball-control offense, I see them doing well in this category and limiting opportunities for the opposing defense.

3. Get pressure on the opposing quarterback.

This is perhaps the most vital thing San Francisco must do to get far in the playoffs. The defense will feast on playoff opponents if they can make them truly one-dimensional as they have done the whole season. With possibly the best defensive front in the league, lead by star rookie Aldon Smith, the 49ers have the personnel necessary to deliver consistent pressure on Brees, Rodgers  and other prolific opposing quarterbacks.

Low-scoring games and no shootouts are what the 49ers want, similar to what the Giants have been doing at AT&T Park the last few years. The rushing defense is there, and if the defense can stop the various aerial attacks, a trip to the Super Bowl is all but guaranteed.

The task for San Francisco is double sided; the offense, in baseball terms, must provide enough run support for the defense, and the defense must keep the offense in the game as long as possible. The playoffs will be challenging for Alex Smith and company, but they've come a long way this year, and there is a good chance there will be another championship trophy coming to SF in 2012.