Alex Smith started the first game of the regular season and finished the last. I doubt anyone would have predicted what came in between. Symmetry without substance.

And I wonder who would have thought that neither of the Niner's two playoff opponents last year would even make the postseason? Or the 7 - 1 Bears from just a few months ago?

I know we have needs for next year, but there's still so many variables at play that it's hard to really look that far ahead yet. I think how the team actually performs in the playoffs might set the tone for next year. A disappointing performance may leave a bad feeling. Especially a first game loss with the Seattle spanking still fresh in mind. How a team finishes late in the year so often seems to lock in the mindset for the offseason. Optimism or pessimism based on what seems like the latest form shown.

Injuries, age and free agents. Football injuries so often are career threatening or debilitating. And age can catch up with a player suddenly from one year to the next. Lose a key player or more and team chemistry and performance suffer. All that can be dealt with, but it makes the evaluation process in the offseason so important.

Larry Grant.

I just wanted to mention him, be ause I don't think I heard his name at all this year. And he was pretty valuable and good last year. Or Clark Haggans. You hardly knew he was on the roster. It shows how durable the starting linebackers were. And how important. Very lucky that they all were playing at such a high level. The real strength of the team.

Can't feel sorry for Dallas. Ever. The most valuable franchise, loyal fan base, etc. And it's fun to see them flirt with mediocrity year after year but not quite rising above it. Still, I think they might have been a better opponent to face Seattle. With RGIII not fully healthy, Washington will have trouble against the Seahawk defense. I doubt they'll run as well as they have been and I'm not sure if they can deal with Lynch and Wilson. Shanahan against Carroll will be interesting. But the top two rookie qb's will be in the spotlight.

All in all, an interesting regular season. A game and a half below last year, but with a harder schedule, more pressure, more distractions, more roster complications. And they matched last year's status as division winners and second seed. But as things stand, we won't be able to give a final grade till the playoffs conclude.

Last Edited By: Arnold49 12/31/12 12:54 AM. Edited 1 times.