NFL Playoff Predictions: Why the San Francisco 49ers Will Surely Make Some Noise

The San Francisco 49ers are in the playoffs for the first time in a while, and they are poised to make some serious noise.

First-year coach Jim Harbaugh has made a serious impact on short notice, and his team is ready to win some playoff games.

They are one of the best coached teams in the NFL.

Harbaugh prepares well and the 49ers are ready for every game. They seem to be one step ahead of the other team and they're always in the right place at the right time.

Even though he has only been there for a  months, he has changed the mindset in San Francisco. The team is playing tough, smash-mouth football that makes them one of the best teams in the league.

Harbaugh and the coaching staff has the defense on top of things, which is why they're one of the best units in the league. No one can run the ball against them, and passing is only marginally successful.

As long as the defense plays well, they won't give up more than a few scores each game. By keeping them in the game, the defense makes every game winnable.

Finally, the offense is just good enough to win. Frank Gore is one of the best running backs in the league and constantly keeps the chains moving.

He rushed for over 1,200 yards this year and averaged nearly 4.5 yards per carry. His consistency allowed him to facilitate the 49ers' budding identity.

Additionally, Alex Smith gets the job done. He has only turned the ball over seven times this year (five picks, two fumbles) and set personal bests in nearly every passing category. With him at the helm, the 49ers have a game manager good enough to win games.

The 49ers don't do it pretty. However, they're coached well, they play good defense and they manage the game well.

As long as the 49ers are doing each of these things, they will make some serious noise in the playoffs.