Ocho (Seattle): Mike Williams or Deion Branch?

Mike Sando: Fans have grown weary of Branch and understandably so, but he's a probably safer bet than Mike Williams at this point. Williams is the more intriguing player because he has more physical talent. There's this feeling that he could really become something if he would just apply himself. But players who do not apply themselves for years and years cannot be trusted to do what it takes, even though Williams has, by all accounts, made a positive impression so far. If you're a Seattle fan, keep your fingers crossed on that one.

blazingcards (anchorage ak.): I am so perplexed about this media coronation of the 49ers. This current crop has NEVER won a significant game. Meanwhile Ken Whisenhut has a 4-2 record in the playoffs. Doesn't everyone seem to be shortchanging the Cardinals coach?

Mike Sando: I've made a point to temper the 49er-related coronations by giving the Cardinals their due. People anointing the 49ers are following logic. They know the 49ers already swept the Cardinals last season and they figure Kurt Warner's retirement will cost them a few additional victories. Doesn't mean Arizona will disappear, but I do think the 49ers have a good chance this season.

Dave (Columbus): How do you think the Cardinals O-line stacks up against the 49ers D-line? Looks to me as if Arizona is a little light in the middle to go at Aubrayo Franklin with the run game.

Mike Sando: That has been a tough matchup for Arizona in recent years. I did think Beanie Wells had some success running the ball at San Francisco last season. We'll see if that carries over. Justin Smith has been a big problem for the Cardinals. Arizona is moving Levi Brown to left tackle, with Alan Faneca taking over at left guard. The matchups and overall dynamics will change this season. I still think it's a tough matchup for Arizona -- or any team.

Jerry (Folsom, CA): Hey Mike, welcome back. The Rams have 4 safeties with starting experience and while one of them (Dahl) started because those ahead of him were hurt, that still leaves 3 with starting experience. Who sits? They traded for Payne so I'm wondering if he starts over James Butler. Thoughts?

Mike Sando: The book on Kevin Payne was that he was more comfortable at strong safety than free safety while with the Bears because he's better as a hitter than in coverage. He started five games for Chicago last season. That suggests he could be a factor at the strong safety spot. I think it's too early to say how it'll shake out. We need to see how well Oshiomogho Atogwe holds up physically, too.