SF Examiner: 49ers franchise at a crossroads

By Art Spander
Special to The Examiner

Jed York is talking again. This time he makes sense, although that may not be enough to make immediate progress.

No wild-hare predictions, like that absurd statement back in October when the 49ers were 0-5 they would win the division, a fanciful thought which made Jed seem out of touch.

Read the full story here.

Copyright 2010 SF Newspaper Company

RealClearSports: Finer Points of Coaching Elude Singletary

By Art Spander
For RealClearSports.com

SAN FRANCISCO -- He wanted winners. He said as much. A billboard along the freeway near the Candlestick off-ramp with his image reiterated the proclamation. Mike Singletary was a man of little pretense.

Also, unfortunately, of little coaching experience.

Read the full story here.

© RealClearSports 2010

SF Examiner: A lot on the line for Niners personnel

By Art Spander
Special to The Examiner

It’s been decided. Alex Smith will not be playing for the 49ers next season unless he’s playing for the 49ers next season. Mike Singletary is going to be replaced as coach unless he’s retained as coach. Anything else you need?

“This is a game for madmen,” said the great Vince Lombardi. “In football, we’re all mad.” Are we ever.

Read the full story here.

Copyright 2010 SF Newspaper Company

RealClearSports: Last Hurrah for 49ers' Alex Smith?

By Art Spander
For RealClearSports.com

Peyton Manning again looked like a quarterback who should have been the first pick in an NFL draft. Which he was, reassuring to those who believe teams know what they are doing.

Or, no less significantly, the quarterback they select knows what he is doing.

Read the full story here.

© RealClearSports 2010

SF Examiner: Singletary keeps 49ers fans guessing

By Art Spander
Special to The Examiner

The coach still is the coach, and why not? It wouldn’t do any good to get rid of Mike Singletary at this point. He has a sense of purpose, and at times a sense of humor. You go after him, and he’s right back at you, admirable even if his record is not.

Read the full story here.

Copyright 2010 SF Newspaper Company