Is the Trio of Gore, Davis and Crabtree the Best in the NFC West?

In a quarterback-driven league, it is critical to provide him with an arsenal of reliable weapons. Whether or not a team does so could determine their ultimate fate.

The San Francisco 49ers once had the most potent offense in the league. A primary reason was because they consistently supplied Joe Montana with playmakers, most notably Jerry Rice, Dwight Clark, and Roger Craig.

Recently, however, the team’s offense has struggled. A majority of the blame has been put upon their lackluster skill players. Fortunately, with the investments the organization has made, it appears as if they are on the verge of turning things around.

In my opinion, their young trio of Frank Gore, Vernon Davis, and Michael Crabtree rank atop the NFC West.

Of course, after years of disappointment you must be scratching your head wondering “could that possibly be true."

Well, believe it or not; it’s true.

Ever since he was selected in the third round of the 2005 NFL Draft, Gore has proven that he is amongst the top running backs in the league.

In his brief five-year career, he has demonstrated his capability to be a versatile, every-down back, producing both rushing and receiving the football.

Yes, Steven Jackson is the most talented RB in the division. However, considering that Gore has a higher YPC average, he is a close second.

In the past, Gore was truly the only positive aspect of their offense. However, after last season’s performance, it’s fair to add Davis to that list.

There’s no doubt that he’s truly a defensive coordinator’s worst nightmare as his perfect blend of size, strength, and athleticism clearly makes him a troubling mismatch.

Last year he displayed his unique ability to dominate the deep middle of the field and be a consistent red-zone target.

He emerged as an elite tight end as he posted career numbers with 78 receptions, 965 yards, and 13 touchdowns. As a result, he was well-deservingly rewarded by being voted to his first ever Pro Bowl.

Furthermore, do note that he is the first Pro Bowl TE the NFC West has had in years.

It’s apparent that he is more focused and disciplined than in previous years. If he continues to present himself with the same mindset, I truly believe the sky is his limit.

The third wheel of this formidable trio is Crabtree. Despite a rocky start due to a rookie contract holdout, he made a very fluid transition from being one of the greatest college receivers of all-time to becoming a dynamic playmaker in the pros.

Heading into his sophomore season, he is expected to have a breakout year as the best wideout the team has had since Terrell Owens.

Obviously, Larry Fitzgerald is going to overpower him as is he arguably the best in the league, let alone the division. Yet, Crabtree possesses tremendous potential and could develop into a top-flight receiver in the near future.

That said, the outlook of the 49ers’ offense is very bright. The thought of the three playing alongside each other is extremely enticing. I envision the trio accomplishing impressive feats together.

I’m very confident that the offense can elevate themselves to a very high level of play. Hopefully, they can continue to improve and possibly surpass the dominance the Niners imposed during their glory years in the 80s.