MC Hammer's Fall from Grace Serves as Cautionary Tale for Surging 49ers

After an incredibly disappointing 2010 campaign in which they crumbled under the pressure of high expectations, the San Francisco 49ers are the toast of the NFL in 2011 with a record of 5-1. In order to keep the good times rolling, the Niners have enlisted none other than... MC Hammer?

That's right, rap icon MC Hammer addressed the team on Tuesday in order teach them about "the trials and tribulations that can easily come with being a public figure in sports and entertainment," according to Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com.

Hammer was one of the biggest stars in entertainment in the late 1980s and early 1990s, so he certainly knows all about the scrutiny that can take place in the public eye. While he has been atop the mountain in his profession like the Niners are currently, he has also been at rock bottom as well.

After years of frivolous spending and a shrinking fanbase, Hammer had to file for bankruptcy in 1996. It is certainly a cautionary tale of how fast a star can fall, and it is one that the 49ers should take to heart in order to fully appreciate their current position.

Hammer may have become too overconfident, careless and complacent with his standing in the entertainment world, and it led to a complete fall from grace. Those are three such sins that the Niners will need to steer clear of committing if they are going to make some noise this season.

While some may say that head coach Jim Harbaugh should be telling Hammer U Can't Touch This with regards to filling his team's head with negative thoughts, Hammer is an example of redemption as well. He is now a Christian minister and has been a positive influence on the lives of many.

The 49ers are out for redemption in their own right. The Niners failed to live up to the hype last season, and because of that, few gave them a chance in 2011. A redemption story, however, can often come from the most unexpected places.

It had to be a thrill for many 49ers' players to meet Hammer and I'm sure they took his words to heart. Even if Hammer's motivational speaking didn't do much for them, though, I believe the Niners are Too Legit to Quit thanks to a strong defense and easy schedule buoyed by the weak NFC West.

Say what you will about Hammer, but there is no doubt that the guy had some sick moves. I'm not sure what Hammer's financial situation is at this point, but maybe the 49ers can toss him a bone and make him the official touchdown dance coordinator. Hammer Time!