Can the 49ers Make a Serious Run at the Playoffs This Season?

The NFL season is approaching quickly and fans are starting to make their predictions on who they think will make the playoffs and who will win the Super Bowl.The dark horses will be a varied crowd this season—from the Miami Dolphins to the New York Giants

I believe the one team that will make a seriously deep run into the playoffs this season is the San Francisco 49ers.

Last season, the 49ers finished the season 8-8, but they were very impressive after switching to Alex Smith at quarterback.

Alex Smith proved that he won't cost the team games when under center. The offense changed schemes a bit by going with more of a spread offense with Smith. The 49ers look to continue the progress of Alex Smith, but they signed David Carr to backup him up so if Smith screws up, you may see Carr.

The 49ers have a solid offensive line with awesome first round draft choices this year. The line has the potential to put up a lot of points if they have a solid quarterback.

Michael Crabtree is coming into his own as a wide receiver while Vernon Davis is one of the top tight ends in the game today. The running game is solid with Frank Gore as the starter.

The offense can back up the hype but the defense is very good as well, following Mike Singletary's approach to defense.

The 49ers will win a weak NFC West division that has no clear-cut winner. A team that goes 8-8 can win the division crown.