San Francisco 49ers' Mid-Season Report Card

Quarterback: D

This grade should not come as a surprise since we all know the story. Despite being drafted number one overall in the 2005 draft, quarterback Alex Smith is still unable to compete on the next level. Well 49er fans, it looks like that next level is never going to come for the former number one pick. Smith has nine touchdowns and nine interceptions on the year with a 75 quarterback rating. Smith has also just gone down with an injury and the 49ers sit at 2-6 at the bottom of their division. Troy Smith is the new starter, maybe there is some hope for the position in the former Buckeye.

Running Back: B+

The running game has been a strong point for the 49ers in recent years, and it continues to be in 2010. Frank Gore is fifth in the NFL in rushing with 691 yards and is coming off his third straight 100-yard game. Gore is a top back in this league and has played extremely well the first half of the 2010 season.

Wide Receiver: C

The fact that the leading receivers on the 49ers are a running back and tight end speaks for itself. Second year man Michael Crabtree and No. 84 Josh Morgan have not stepped up this season, combining for just four touchdowns. There are still high hopes for Crabtree, but he will only be as good as his quarterback allows him to be. 

Tight End: B+

Tight end Vernon Davis as been a bright spot in the 49ers offense through the first half of the season. The talented tight end is fifth in receiving among tight ends with 434 yards and also has four touchdowns. Regardless of the quarterback, Vernon Davis has been one of two go-to-guys in San Francisco, the other being the aforementioned Gore. 

Defense: C+

The 49ers' defense has not been terrible this season, but it still has not done enough for the 49ers to be successful. San Francisco ranks ninth against the rush and 21st against the pass. The Niners are 12th in the league in sacks with only 17. If they want to have a successful second half, they must get after the quarterback more.