Jim Harbaugh: 4 Reasons 49ers' Coach Is 2011 NFL Coach of the Year

When Jim Harbaugh was hired as head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, fans were cautiously optimistic about his chances to turn around a struggling franchise.

No one could have envisioned that he would be able to do it so quickly, turning the 49ers into Super Bowl contenders in just one year.

Here is why Jim Harbaugh should be the runaway choice for 2011 NFL Coach of the Year.

Harbaugh Overcame the Lockout

Having success as a first-year NFL head coach is difficult. Having success as a first-year NFL head coach when the offseason is interrupted by a lockout should be impossible. But not for Jim Harbaugh.

With the lockout lasting until August, Harbaugh had barely any time to set up new schemes or make personnel changes.

Remarkably, he made the most of his truncated time, leading to a 7-1 record in the first half of 2011. The seven wins are already more than the Niners had all of last season under Mike Singletary.

He Molded Alex Smith into a Very Good QB

While QB Alex Smith had quietly improved at the end of last season, Jim Harbaugh has rapidly accelerated Smith's growth.

Using his own experience as a 15-year NFL QB, Harbaugh has taught Smith the ropes. Equally as important, he has provided Smith stability for the first time in his chaotic career.

The result is Smith having 10 touchdown passes to only two interceptions. His efficiency has been vital in the Niners success.

The Niners Will Have a First-Round Bye

Jim Harbaugh has led the 49ers from third in the dreadful NFC west to second in the NFC. With five of their final games against the NFC West, the 49ers figure to continue their winning ways. A record of 13-3 is very plausible.

The 49ers are likely to hold off the New York Giants and New Orleans Saints to claim the NFC's second, first-round bye. Overtaking the currently undefeated Green Bay Packers for the first spot is not out of the question.

Any coach that can turn a losing team into one of the top two teams in the division deserves the Coach of the Year hardware.

He's Re-Energized the 49ers' Franchise

When you look at the 49ers' sideline, you see the enthusiasm and passion of the players. Contrast this to the dreary days of the Mike Singletary era.

Jim Harbaugh has single-handedly re-installed the team with 49er pride. His youthful exuberance has clearly rubbed off on his players.

His passion may occasionally be misconstrued, but there is no doubt that it has been a positive influence in the 49ers' locker room. Whenever a 49er is interviewed, they show how much respect and admiration they have for Harbaugh.

Harbuagh's efforts to revitalize the team should be rewarded by being named 2011 NFL Coach of the Year.