The 49ers are a team on the rise. They have a top-notch defense that can get it done against the run and pass. And while their offense isn't the best, they are getting better offensively. The passing game should be better and Frank Gore still anchors a solid rushing attack. San Fran should be the cream of the drop in the NFC West but might not have the offense just yet to make a Super Bowl run. They are inching closer, though.

Alex Smith, QB. Tough to predict a breakout season for Smith but everything is lined up for him to have his best season to date. The 49ers really upgraded at receiver, signing two in free agency while drafting another. Smith finally has some top-notch weapons at his disposal. The 49ers showed a tendency to throw a little more down the stretch, which is a good sign for Smith as well. Don't expect huge numbers by any means in this run-first offense but Smith should set career highs and get a few more chances to throw in 2012.

Mario Manningham, WR. The 49ers upgraded at receiver, adding several new players to the mix. Manningham might be the biggest addition. He should man one of the starting spots for the team or at least serve as the No. 3 if Randy Moss reverts back to old form. Either way, Manningham will play a lot. But even with that said, his numbers won't be great in the 49ers run-first offense. The highest yardage total for a receiver last season in San Fran was 874. Manningham might have the occasional big game but probably would have posted better numbers if he stayed with the Giants - even if he was just the No. 3 receiver for New York.