ESPN NFL

Alex Smith's commitment to improving his throwing mechanics promises to turn analysts into amateur position coaches during the upcoming NFL season.

Every touchdown pass or interception will invite questions about whether Smith's shoulders were square or whether his front knee was bent sufficiently at delivery.

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com explains the changes Smith has made to his mechanics by incorporating more of his body into the throw. Maiocco: "The most noticeable difference is that Smith also has greater flex in his left knee. ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski, speaking in December, repeated what he has said since 2007: Smith's knee lock was a major issue."

Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle says Smith's work with pitching coach Tom House also addressed the psychological aspect of the game. Branch: "Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who recommended the pitching coach to Smith, credits his meeting with House after the 2003 season for transforming his previous nice-guy style of leadership."

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee says Dashon Goldson played well last season with minimal offseason preparation, something to keep in mind as Goldson remains unsigned this year. Barrows: "Furthermore, Goldson's absence gives the younger players more exposure. As of now, C.J. Spillman is filling in at free safety when the first-team defense takes the field. The 49ers signed Spillman to a three-year extension this offseason. Spillman may be the most physically gifted of all of the team's safeties -- he's certainly one of the more aggressive -- but he lacks experience. Newcomers Mark LeGree and Trenton Robinson, a sixth-round draft pick, also get a bit more action with Goldson's absence."

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com says the team's emphasis on speed in the draft should help the special teams, which were already pretty good. Farnsworth: "Red Bryant set franchise records by blocking two field goals in a game and four kicks during the season. Jon Ryan led the NFL and tied a club record with 34 punts downed inside the opponents’ 20-yard line, broke his club single-season records for average (46.6 yards) and net average (39.3) and also got off the longest punt (77 yards) in franchise history. Steven Hauschka tied club records by kicking five field goals in the upset victory over the Ravens and converting at least one three-pointer in 12 consecutive games. Doug Baldwin blocked a punt that Michael Robinson returned for a touchdown, while Farwell also had a blocked punt to set up a TD."

Also from Farnsworth: Why Jeremy Lane appealed to Seattle in the draft.

Eric D. Williams of the Tacoma News Tribune says Seahawks owner Paul Allen has denied rumors his sports empire could be for sale.

Brady Henderson of 710ESPN Seattle says no one is quite sure why Marshawn Lynch calls teammate Matt Flynn by the name "Antonio" -- that's just Lynch.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says Landon Cohen's addition to the Cardinals' roster gives the team 90 players. Somers: "The Cardinals had one spot open on the roster and obviously needed some depth at defensive end. Signing Cohen doesn't preclude them from reaching agreement with defensive end Vonnie Holliday or outside linebacker Clark Haggans. Whenever that happens, the club will make a corresponding roster move."

Tony Softli of 101ESPN St. Louis offers thoughts on the Rams' proposed stadium upgrades. Softli: "While there may seem to be a short-term downside, there is also a huge potential for economic growth that all Missourians can be very proud of once a top-flight facility is built. The bottom line is that this current stadium needs a major facelift, or else another one needs to be built, because this community can’t afford to lose another NFL team and millions of dollars in future revenue."

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch checks in with new Rams linebacker Mario Haggan, the oldest player on the team at 32. Haggan: "Fresh start for me. Fresh opportunity. This is a young team with an established quarterback. I've heard so many good things about Coach [Jeff] Fisher; you talk to guys across the league and they all wish they could play for him. And it's close to home. Maybe my family can come see me play more in St. Louis."

Also from Thomas: a report from Fisher's first full-squad practice as Rams coach. Fisher: "We added a bunch of things today. We've got a lot of 'base' in, we've got third down, and red zone. Friday, we'll probably do some 2-minute. So we're throwing a lot at 'em. But they've responded very well and they're practicing well together."

Welcome to the blog for the only NFL division with a second-round playoff representative every season since realignment in 2002.

We are under no illusions here. The NFC West has not always produced formidable teams top to bottom. Three other divisions have produced more divisional-round playoff appearances under the current format.

It's just that the NFC West has produced more than a few playoff success stories, and the 2011 San Francisco 49ers can write their own chapter by defeating the New Orleans Saints on Saturday. The matchup is going to dominate conversation on the blog this week even as the St. Louis Rams move to hire a head coach.

This season marks the fourth since realignment with every NFL division still playing in the divisional round. New England (seven), Indianapolis (6), Pittsburgh (5), Philadelphia (5) and Baltimore (5) lead the league in divisional-round appearances over the past 10 seasons, counting this one. Seattle is one of four teams with four. Every other NFC West team has made it twice, starting with the 49ers nearly a decade ago.

The football-related aspects of the Saints-49ers matchup interest me the most. I offered some early thoughts after the Saints' victory over Detroit secured New Orleans' trip to Candlestick Park. There will be more.

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com outlined quite a few keys to the game. A couple regarding the Saints' defense stood out: "The Saints must scheme up their pass rush because they're lacking in individuals who can get to the quarterback. Strong safety Roman Harper led the Saints with 7.5 sacks. As a team, the Saints recorded 33 sacks -- spread out among 15 -- that's right, 15 -- different players. ... The Saints defense does not have a lot of playmakers. This is not like the team in 2009 that won the Super Bowl. On that team, safety Darren Sharper had nine of the team's 26 interceptions. During this regular season, the Saints recorded only nine interceptions." Noted: The matchup between San Francisco's defense and New Orleans' offense should not obscure other matchups pivotal to the outcome.

Kevin Lynch of the San Francisco Chronicle says the 49ers will play the Saints differently than the Lions did. Lynch: "Lions middle linebacker Stephen Tulloch had a horrible game. He was constantly manipulated by Saints quarterback Drew Brees. Tulloch was also late covering the middle in the Lions two-deep defense. That won’t happen with 49ers linebackers Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman, who have more speed and hopefully, more awareness than Tulloch."

Grant Cohn of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat lists reasons the 49ers can beat the Saints. Cohn: "The Niners have a top-notch home red-zone defense (allowing TDs just 25 percent of the time), while the Saints scored touchdowns only seven times out of 22 chances on grass this season in the red zone. The Saints will move the ball, but the Niners defense should be able to hold them to field goals."

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee runs through the longest plays San Francisco allowed this season. Noted: Four of the five longest ones occurred during the first four weeks of the season.

Cam Inman of the San Jose Mercury News says the 49ers' offensive line has improved dramatically.

Also from Inman: 49ers center Jonathan Goodwin on facing his former team, the Saints.

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch updates the Rams' coaching search, noting that Jeff Fisher is expected to make a decision by Tuesday or Wednesday. Thomas: "The only possible hangup, according to two sources, is the potential of a possible move by the franchise to Los Angeles. The move from Houston to Tennessee was grueling for Fisher during his 17 seasons with that franchise. It's something Fisher doesn't want to go through again. Even with those concerns, it's not known if that's a deal breaker with St. Louis." Noted: On the other hand, Fisher went to USC and was said to have some interest in the San Diego job had it come open under the right circumstances. The possibility of a move years from now wouldn't seem to be a deal breaker, in my view.

ESPN's Adam Schefter says former Rams offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is already working for the Patriots as an offensive assistant, and his role will change to offensive coordinator next season.

Dave Boling of the Tacoma News Tribune says the Seahawks need to re-sign several key players before free agency. Boling: "Seahawks fans might trigger a seismic event from outrage if running back Marshawn Lynch takes his beastly style elsewhere. And Red Bryant has likewise become an exemplar of spirited toughness for the Seahawks on defense. These two are at the top of the list of 18 unrestricted free agents with whom the Seahawks may exclusively negotiate."

Eric D. Williams of the Tacoma News Tribune hands out grades for the 2011 Seahawks, including a "C" for special teams. Williams: "Leon Washington was solid, but not as explosive as last season. Punter Jon Ryan had another good season, and kicker Steven Hauschka made people forget about Olindo Mare. The usually solid coverage units gave up three return touchdowns and were one of the most penalized groups in the NFL this season."

Will Brinson of CBSSports.com quotes CBS analyst Charley Casserly as saying the the Arizona Cardinals could provide a landing spot for Peyton Manning if the Colts part with the quarterback. Casserly: "Jim Irsay in interviewing general manager candidates has told them he will make the decision whether Peyton Manning is back. He will not put that on the new general manager. Right now there have been absolutely no discussions according to the Manning camp between Manning and Irsay about extending that deadline. In fact, it would make no sense to me for Manning to agree to that. Why give up the opportunity to talk to other teams? One team to watch? The Arizona Cardinals. They can get out of the Kevin Kolb contract and also Ken Whisenhunt's been down this road before. A veteran quarterback coming in at the end of his career? Kurt Warner." Noted: The Cardinals could get out of the Kolb deal by declining to pay a $7 million bonus in March. If Manning were available, however, he would have more than one team interested in him. I'll have more on this in a bit.

A few changes for NFC West players stood out in final fan voting for the 2012 Pro Bowl.

The San Francisco 49ers' Justin Smith moved up one spot to No. 1 among players listed as defensive tackles. Two other 49ers, guard Mike Iupati and strong safety Donte Whitner, each fell one place. Iupati is fourth. Whitner is fifth. Teammates Ray McDonald and NaVorro Bowman, each ranked fifth at their positions last time, did not crack the top five in final fan balloting.

The Arizona Cardinals' Larry Fitzgerald moved up one spot to third among wide receivers.

Players and coaches vote this week. The NFL announces results Dec. 27.

The first chart shows total votes received for players ranking among the top five at their positions in final fan balloting, by division. The second chart shows NFC West players ranked among the top five and how their rankings changed since our last update one week ago.

Among players not listed, the Cardinals' Adrian Wilson and the Seattle Seahawks' Marshawn Lynch stand out as deserving of consideration. The impact Arizona's Patrick Peterson has made as a punt returner also stands out. There are others deserving consideration as well.

.

Thoughts on the Seattle Seahawks during their 38-14 victory over the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field in Week 15:

What it means: The Seahawks (7-7) kept themselves alive in the NFC playoff picture through a mix of big-play defense and special teams, backed by continued efficient play from quarterback Tarvaris Jackson. The team has matched its victory total from last season and can finish with a winning record by beating San Francisco (home) and Arizona (road) in the final two weeks.

What I liked: Strong safety Kam Chancellor forced an early turnover. Also in the first half, free safety Earl Thomas picked off a pass deep in Seahawks territory. Defensive tackle Red Bryant scored on an interception return set up by K.J. Wright's quarterback pressure. Cornerback Brandon Browner scored on an interception return. Marshawn Lynch scored a touchdown for the 10th consecutive game in which he has played. Lynch ran more effectively than the raw stats indicated. His average suffered from a 2-yard scoring run and some unfortunate early play calling in the red zone. Jon Ryan and the punt coverage team pinned the Bears deep in their own territory to give Seattle an early edge in field position. Jackson got hot early in the second half, finding Golden Tate and Ben Obomanu for long gains, setting up another Lynch TD, this one to tie the game. Jackson completed 19 of 31 passes for 227 yards, one touchdown and a 94.4 NFL passer rating.

What I didn't like: The Seahawks, by pitching the ball outside to Leon Washington instead of hammering straight ahead with Lynch, conceded the conventional running game on their first possession in the red zone. Seattle also left its backup left tackle, Paul McQuistan, alone against Bears defensive end Julius Peppers on a third-and-13 play from deep in Seattle territory. That unsurprisingly led to a sack, forced fumble and Bears touchdown to erase a 7-0 Seahawks lead. Center Max Unger, though enjoying a strong season overall, remained inconsistent with his shotgun snap placement. He was too high against St. Louis last week and too low this week, resulting in fumbled snaps both times.

What's next: The Seahawks are home against the 49ers in Week 16.

Eighteen San Francisco 49ers rank among the top five at their positions in fan balloting for the Pro Bowl.

What is this, 1994?

It's feeling that way with the 49ers and Pittsburgh Steelers taking 10-3 records into their Monday night game in Week 15.

These championship-laden franchises previously have not had double-digit victory totals at the same time since 2002. They did so previously during the 1990s and briefly during the 1980s, but rarely have both been at their very best simultaneously.

The fan balloting totals reflect each team's success this season.

Unbeaten Green Bay leads the NFL with 21 players ranking among the top five at their positions. The 49ers are second with 18, followed by New England (15), Baltimore (13) and Pittsburgh (12).

A quick run through which NFC West players rank among the top five at their positions:

Arizona Cardinals

First: none

Second: none

Third: none

Fourth: receiver Larry Fitzgerald

Fifth: none

San Francisco 49ers

First: inside linebacker Patrick Willis, punters Andy Lee

Second: center Jonathan Goodwin, cornerback Carlos Rogers, defensive tackle Justin Smith (he plays defensive end), free safety Dashon Goldson, fullback Bruce Miller, kicker David Akers, special teamer Blake Costanzo

Third: guard Mike Iupati, kick returner Ted Ginn Jr.

Fourth: running back Frank Gore, strong safeties Donte Whitner, tackle Joe Staley

Fifth: defensive tackle Ray McDonald, inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman, tackle Anthony Davis, tight end Vernon Davis

Seattle Seahawks

First: none

Second: none

Third: punter Jon Ryan, strong safety Kam Chancellor

Fourth: free safety Earl Thomas

Fifth: none

St. Louis Rams

First: none

Second: none

Third: none

Fourth: defensive end Chris Long

Fifth: none

The chart breaks down the counts for NFC teams. Fan voting continues online through the 49ers' game Monday night. Players and coaches vote Dec. 21-22. Results are announced Dec. 27.
.

SEATTLE -- Thoughts on the Seattle Seahawks' 23-17 defeat to the Washington Redskins at CenturyLink Field in Week 12:

What it means: The Seahawks missed a chance at their first three-game winning streak since the 2007 season. Continuing problems with penalties and surprising troubles on defense dropped their record to 3-7. Seattle remains mathematically alive in the NFC West race, but those chances will end with the Seahawks' next defeat or the San Francisco 49ers' next victory.

What I liked: Marshawn Lynch continued to produce as a runner and receiver. This was his seventh consecutive game with a touchdown, not counting when he was a last-minute scratch from the lineup and did not play against Cleveland in Week 7. Right guard Paul McQuistan, a starter since rookie John Moffitt landed on injured reserve, spring Lynch's 20-yard scoring reception with an impressive open-field block on Redskins safety LaRon Landry. The Seahawks downed Jon Ryan's punt at the 2 before halftime, preventing the Redskins from attempting a scoring drive. Leon Washington changed field position with strong kickoff returns, including a 51-yarder. Both starting cornerbacks, Brandon Browner and Richard Sherman, picked off passes.

What I didn't like: The Seahawks' defense could not get off the field, especially early in the game. The Redskins nearly doubled up the Seahawks in first-half time of possession (19:42 to 10:18). They too often appeared helpless while Redskins quarterback Rex Grossman completed 16 of 19 passes for 175 yards and a touchdown in the first half. Washington finished with 417 yards. The Seahawks allowed a rushing touchdown for the first time since a Week 4 game against Atlanta. Seattle continued to struggle with penalties. Seahawks quarterback Tarvaris Jackson was too often inaccurate. When he did place the ball correctly, his receivers did not catch it consistently enough. Mike Williams dropped passes and could have done more to position himself for a deep ball that fell incomplete in the end zone. The Seahawks reached double figures in penalties (counting declined ones). Their chances ended when Jackson held the ball and took a sack on fourth down in the final minutes.

Bryant's blocks: Seahawks defensive end Red Bryant blocked a field-goal try for the third time this season, this one when the game was tied in the second quarter. The block was key because the Redskins were dominating time of possession and had little to show for it. Bryant blocked an extra-point try after a Redskins touchdown put Washington ahead, 20-17, with 6:18 remaining.

Injury concerns: Sidney Rice entered this game with knee soreness. He appeared shaken up early in the game and later appeared wobbly after striking his helmet on the turf following an incomplete pass. Team medical personnel helped Rice off the field. Seahawks linebacker David Hawthorne also left the game in the third quarter. Hawthorne, who limped off the field, has had knee trouble. He did return to the game. Starting defensive tackle Alan Branch was named inactive with an ankle injury. Left tackle Russell Okung stayed in the game after McQuistan flew into his legs while committing what officials flagged as a chop block.

Questionable calls: Officials flagged Redskins cornerback Josh Wilson for a 44-yard interference penalty after Williams dropped the ball. This call appeared questionable in real time and on replay, in my view. Later, officials flagged Seahawks linebacker K.J. Wright for an illegal high hit on Grossman. Wright shoved Grossman with his hands in the upper chest. Wright's hand might have touched Grossman's facemask, but this hardly appeared to be an egregious foul. Finally, there was no call when Redskins safety LaRon Landry made contact with receiver Doug Baldwin on a deep third-down pass in the final five minutes. Seattle punted.

What's next: The Seahawks are home against Philadelphia on Thursday night.

Where NFC West players rank in fan voting for the Pro Bowl through Nov. 15, with online voting continuing through Dec. 19 (know that players and coaches vote Dec. 21-21, teams are announced Dec. 27 and listed positions sometimes differ from the ones players play):

.

The facts: The Seattle Seahawks fell to 2-5 with a 34-12 home defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals.

The upside: Even the worst defeats tend to feature a bright spot or two.

• The team gained short-term clarity at quarterback when Tarvaris Jackson came off the bench to throw for 323 yards. He's the starter.
• Seattle finished with two 100-yard receivers even though starter Mike Williams did not play. Sidney Rice caught seven passes for 102 yards. Ben Obomanu caught four passes for 107 yards. Rookie Doug Baldwin came relatively close to joining them, catching five passes for 73 yards. The team has upgraded dramatically at wide receiver.
• The Seahawks held an opponent below 4.0 yards per rushing attempt for a 10th consecutive game. That includes all seven games this season, both playoff games last season and the Week 17 game against St. Louis.
• Rookie cornerback Richard Sherman picked off a deep pass. He tipped another pass, leading to an interception for safety Kam Chancellor. Sherman was making his first start. He played well.
• Punter Jon Ryan caught Bengals return specialist Pacman Jones, preventing a touchdown.
• Leon Washington gained 14, 12 and 12 yards on his punt returns. He had kickoff returns of 34 and 43 yards. He gained 28 yards and six yards on his two rushes.
• The Seahawks had five offensive plays gain at least 28 yards. They allowed one such play.
• Heath Farwell made three tackles on kickoff returns. Those returns averaged 22.7 yards.

Looking ahead: The Seahawks visit the Dallas Cowboys in Week 9.

The facts: The Seattle Seahawks opened their 2011 season with a 33-17 defeat against the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park.

The upside: Even the worst defeats tend to feature a bright spot or two.

• The Seahawks scored 17 fourth-quarter points to make the game close heading into the final five minutes.
• Rookie receiver Doug Baldwin, an undrafted free agent from Stanford, caught four passes for 83 yards, including one for a 55-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. Baldwin also caught a second-quarter pass for a 12-yard gain on third-and-9.
• Receiver Golden Tate, looking to build on a strong finish to the preseason, caught an 8-yard scoring pass for Seattle's first points.
• Seattle's defense held the 49ers to 209 total yards. The team has now allowed only 398 total yards to its last two regular-season opponents, having held St. Louis to 189 yards in Week 17. The 209- and 189-yard totals are the Seahawks' lowest since holding Jacksonville to 199 yards during a 2009 game.
• The Seahawks allowed only one third-down conversion in 12 chances for the 49ers. San Francisco finished with only 12 first downs overall.
• Jon Ryan had a 77-yard punt and one other punt downed inside the 20-yard line.
• Offseason additions to the defensive line appeared to play well. Alan Branch had a strong game as part of the Seahawks' stout run defense. Anthony Hargrove, signed only Saturday, impressed with a tackle for loss. Branch, Hargrove, Brandon Mebane and Red Bryant gave the Seahawks a strong wall against the run, holding Frank Gore to 2.7 yards per carry.
• Some of the team's young defensive players also stood out, notably free safety Earl Thomas.
• Quarterback Tarvaris Jackson threw no interceptions of consequence. The one he threw right before halftime on a Hail Mary hurt his stats without hurting his team.

Looking ahead: The Seahawks visit the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2.

The NFL couldn't have hoped for a 2011 regular-season opener better than the one Green Bay and New Orleans provided Thursday night.

Like millions, I watched it from home in spectacular high definition. Once the game ended, there was no traffic to deal with, no drunken fans to deal with, no headaches at all. I went downstairs and had finished a workout before most of the Lambeau Field faithful had probably reached the highway. Not a bad deal at all.

As Monte Poole of Bay Area News Group points out, the living room is the new luxury box in the NFL. He says the San Francisco 49ers, though riding an extended streak without local television blackouts, cannot take fans for granted in this new era. Poole: "In recent years, I've gotten hundreds of emails from fans complaining about the hassle and discomfort of going to local NFL games. They've corresponded with both teams. The decreasing number of fans showing up for games in San Francisco and Oakland indicates many have responded by staying home. Though NFL season ticket numbers declined three straight years, league spokesman Brian McCarthy recently told USA Today that the 2011 sales appear to be better." Noted: Teams will have to work to keep their stadiums full. A new stadium will help the 49ers tremendously, I would think. Improving the product on the field and creating a better stadium experience will be a top priority because it has to be. It's been critical for the Arizona Cardinals in recent seasons.

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee sizes up Michael Crabtree's ability to play well on short notice. Noted: The way Crabtree contributed immediately upon reporting as a rookie during the 2009 season scored points with veteran players. I recall tackle Joe Staley walking over to Crabtree's locker to offer respects following Crabtree's debut performance at Houston. Crabtree had a feel for the game that went beyond his years. The 49ers could use more of the same this year.

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com provides visual evidence of punter Jon Ryan's first haircut since 2009. Ryan, whose father died from cancer in 2006, was raising awareness to help fight the disease. Ryan: "I was looking on the internet for ideas to raise awareness and raise money for cancer research and I just happened to stumble across 'Lock of Love'. The more I read about it, the more I just thought it was a great idea. I thought it might be something I could do and I’m kind of in a position where I have the ability to raise awareness a little bit. So hopefully if other people see this it will encourage them to do the same or maybe donate a few bucks." Ryan's formerly flowing locks will be used in hairpieces for children suffering from cancer.

Also from Farnsworth: Pete Carroll's support for Tarvaris Jackson remains strong. Carroll: "I’m not ever worried about the critics. Ever. Tarvaris knows the offense. He’s in great command of it. He’s helping others to make adjustments and fix things. That’s always where the players have a sense for it -- when the guy can help them. And he helps them. He’s talented. He can move. He’s tough. He’s got a great poise about him. He hung tough through the hard times when we weren’t doing a good job and weren’t protecting him. It never fazed him."

Dave Boling of the Tacoma News Tribune says the Seahawks' new right tackle, Breno Giacomini, has not made friends with the team's defensive linemen. Raheem Brock: "Yeah, he definitely irritates me. That’s a good thing."

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says the Cardinals' cornerbacks will be making their first NFL regular-season starts in Week 1. Noted: The schedule makers did the Cardinals a favor by sending Carolina to University of Phoenix Stadium for the opener. Watching the Packers and Saints on Thursday night had to be a little sobering for some other teams around the league. The Rams are the only team in the NFC West to visit Lambeau this season. They'll be there in Week 6.

Also from Somers: Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb rubs his hands on the grass before each offensive series, something he's done since seventh grade.

Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer checks in with former Cardinals quarterback Derek Anderson, now with Carolina. Anderson: "I think expectations were a lot higher than what reality was. Obviously, being the guy coming in to play after Kurt (Warner) and trying to do the things that he did and try to run kind of his offense, things that he kind of put in there, was difficult for me. ... I struggled all season understanding a lot of things. We were bad on offense. We were bad on defense. I think special teams was one of the things we were actually decent (at) throughout the whole season. That's the way it goes."

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says new Rams safety Quintin Mikell is very much looking forward to facing his former team in Week 1. Mikell: "Any time you get kinda let go, or people start saying you're old or whatever, you want to prove everybody wrong. And since I've come into the league, that's all I've been doing. Every time somebody counts against me, I prove 'em wrong. So this is no different for me." Noted: Safeties and quarterbacks tend to have a better feel for schemes than players at other positions. The Rams' knowledge of the Eagles' offense through coach Steve Spagnuolo and Mikell should help them against Philadelphia in this game.

Bill Coats of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch catches up with Rams receiver Danario Alexander, who keeps the training staff busy by making every effort to fight through chronic knee trouble. Trainer Reggie Scott: "He's a chronic sweller, so we do a lot of things to control swelling: your compressions, a lot of your cold therapies. We do a lot of things at home, around-the-clock things, a lot of different modalities that help with swelling, that decrease swelling. And also what happens, a lot of times when you get this swelling, you lose muscle tone. Swelling attacks muscles, so we do a lot of maintenance work. We do a lot of single-leg strengthening work, because we've got to maintain that muscle. The stronger I get the muscles around the joint, the less stress on the joint."

Head coach Pete Carroll isn't the only one who thinks Tarvaris Jackson should be the Seattle Seahawks' starting quarterback.

Quite a few Seattle players think so, too. How else to explain Jackson emerging as one of four player-elected team captains barely one month after taking his first snap on a practice field for Seattle?

"It’s obvious that that’s who they wanted to be their leader," Carroll told reporters Monday.

Clare Farnsworth of seahawks.com has that and more in his post-practice notebook. He also looks at the 10 players still with the team since Carroll's first day as head coach: Marcus Trufant, David Hawthorne, Jon Ryan, Brandon Mebane, Aaron Curry, Leroy Hill, Red Bryant, Max Unger, Justin Forsett and Ben Obomanu.

Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times says the Seahawks' roster is about one year younger on average than any Week 1 rosters for the team since at least 2005. Noted: Those earlier teams had Pro Bowl-caliber players in their primes. Quite a few of those players have retired.

Liz Mathews of 710ESPN Seattle notes that rookie right tackle James Carpenter is getting work at left guard while Robert Gallery recovers from a knee injury. Breno Giacomini is working at right tackle. Noted: Assistant head coach/offensive line Tom Cable wanted a veteran familiar with his scheme. He and Gallery were together with the Raiders for years. Last season, the team brought in Ben Hamilton and Chester Pitts because both had played for then-line coach Alex Gibbs. The expectation is that Gallery has more left than either Hamilton or Pitts, but injuries are a concern. Gallery missed four of the Oakland Raiders' first five games last season. He missed 10 games in 2009.

Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic says the Cardinals' aren't yet sure what role Chester Taylor will play for them this season. Tight end Todd Heap played with Taylor in Baltimore and sized up Taylor this way: "He's a good all-around back. He's not afraid to pass block. He's physical running the ball. He's got great hands out of the backfield; that's one thing that always impressed me about Chester, to catch the ball in space, to catch the ball in traffic." Noted: Heap and Taylor last played together in 2005. Taylor was mostly a backup to that point in his career. He enjoyed a breakout season with Minnesota in 2006.

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com says veteran linebacker Stewart Bradley was happy to change jersey numbers from 97 to 52, a number more befitting of a linebacker. Noted: Bradley remained in a backup role through training camp as he adjusted from Philadelphia's 4-3 defense to the Cardinals' 3-4 scheme. Arizona gave him a $5 million signing bonus on a five-year, $30 million deal. He needs to start and play well for the Cardinals, and that is the expectation.

Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says the Rams are mostly healthy as the regular-season opener approaches after stressing injury avoidance during training camp. Defensive end Chris Long: "We were still out four hours a day, whether it was walk-throughs or practice. We had some really good long practice sessions. We had even more time in meeting rooms. Hopefully, what it'll do is keep people healthy and put years on careers." Noted: New rules prevented teams from hitting as much during camps this summer. Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo had already gone easier on the team in 2010 than he did in 2009, his first season with the team. That is easier for a coach to do once he establishes his program.

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com predicts a third-place finish for the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC West, one spot ahead of Seattle.

Also from Maiocco: thoughts on the 49ers' recent roster moves, specifically why they released draft choice Ronald Johnson and didn't even sign him to their practice squad. Maiocco: "He was the only 49ers' draft pick who did not make it, and it was no surprise. Johnson failed to show any unique skills in 49ers camp. He struggled catching the ball as a wideout, and he mishandled two punts in an exhibition game. What was a bit of a surprise was that the 49ers didn't immediately bring Johnson back to the practice squad. The 49ers signed a rookie receiver to the practice squad on Sunday, but the player chosen was undrafted rookie Joe Hastings of Washburn. The Philadelphia Eagles signed Johnson to their practice squad on Monday."

Kevin Lynch of the San Francisco Chronicle says the 49ers' moves under Jim Harbaugh and Trent Baalke suggest a long-term approach, not a quick fix. Noted: The 49ers have gotten quite a bit younger this offseason while doing nothing from a personnel standpoint to upgrade their quarterback situation for the immediate term. That's a reflection of a longer-term approach.

Eric Branch of the Santa Rosa Press-Democrat checks in with 49ers linebacker Takeo Spikes for thoughts on how a lockout could affect veteran players. Spikes: "Guys in my area, 10-11-12-13 years, you can't afford to miss a year of football. You can't because it's bad enough they want to label you [as old] anyway, so I got just as much to lose, I think, just as much as a young player. At least, they miss a year, you can talk it up and say, 'Aw, he's young, we can knock the rust off him.' With us, it boils down, to, 'Oh, this guy, he's in his later years.'"

Also from Branch: 49ers defensive coordinator Vic Fangio offered thoughts during a recent conversation with KNBR radio.

Ron Kroichick of the San Francisco Chronicle says former 49ers linebacker Dan Bunz is worried about recent short-term memory issues after sustaining numerous concussions during his career. Bunz: "I'm nervous about it. I read, exercise and try to do everything I can (to stay healthy). It worries me, because I'm forgetting more things recently. I can remember what I did in high school and the NFL, but sometimes I can't remember what I did yesterday or today. I don't know if that's because I'm 55 or because of old football injuries, but it shouldn't be happening."

Matt Barrows of the Sacramento Bee offers a mock draft with LSU cornerback Patrick Peterson heading to the 49ers at No. 7, leaving Von Miller on the board. Barrows: "The Peterson v. Von Miller debate gets put to the test in this scenario. Niners conclude that Peterson is slightly closer to being Charles Woodson than Miller is to being Clay Matthews."

Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com passes along information on the 49ers' ticket refund policy should games be canceled. The policy reads, in part: "A full refund will be issued for any canceled preseason or regular-season home games. Refunds may be received in either the original form of payment or as a credit towards future games." Interest accrues at a higher rate for refunds applied toward future games.

Darren Urban of azcardinals.com looks at the last 10 players drafted fifth overall, including current Cardinals tackle Levi Brown. Urban: "Certainly this is the one all Cards’ fans know about, as well as the guy who went seventh. Brown has his share of critics, but he has stayed in the lineup and the Cardinals consistently have said they aren’t unhappy with his play."

Also from Urban: Cardinals president Michael Bidwill offers thoughts on the state of NFL labor relations. Bidwill: "We’ve been intent on keeping things as normal as possible. From a football standpoint, we continue our evaluations and preparations for the NFL Draft which is our primary focus right now. There are certain rules in place as a result of the current labor situation and the process is constantly evolving but we will be ready for whatever scenarios may emerge. No doubt there is some uncertainty surrounding this offseason, but I am absolutely certain of our team’s readiness and commitment to winning in 2011."

Ian Hamilton of the Regina Leader-Post says Seahawks punter Jon Ryan plans to train with Green Bay's Mason Crosby, among others, while locked out. Ryan: "Normally we would start training on Monday and, for me, that's usually when I start kicking again," said Ryan, noting the Seahawks traditionally report in the third week of March to begin offseason training. "So I'm on my way to my place in Phoenix and I'll start kicking and doing my regular workouts as always. I don't think (the lockout) is going to hurt me in any way physically. It's always nice to train with your teammates, especially in the off-season, but you've got to keep on training, so you just do it on your own." Beyond Crosby, Ryan plans to work out with UFL punters Tom Malone and Danny Baugher, plus Carolina Panthers snapper J.J. Jansen.

Note: That's all I'm seeing on this Tuesday morning.

A look at my all-NFC West picks for the 2010 season, concluding with the special teams:

• Jon Ryan was the choice at punter after finishing the season with 27 punts downed inside the 20 and only one touchback. That's a sensational ratio. Ryan didn't spend half his games punting indoors, adding to degree of difficulty. The Rams' Donnie Jones and the 49ers' Andy Lee are worthy choices most years.
• Cardinals kicker Jay Feely set an NFL record by scoring 22 consecutive points for Arizona against Denver, including six on a fake field goal. That set him apart. The Rams' Josh Brown made more field goals, but Feely connected on a higher percentage than Brown or Seattle's Olindo Mare. Mare had 20 touchbacks, Feely had 16 and Brown had five. Feely was the too often the Cardinals' greatest scoring threat.
• Several candidates deserved consideration for overall special-teams play. The 49ers' Manny Lawson and Reggie Smith were consistent performers even though Lawson started all season and Smith started some of the time. Smith had 26 special-teams tackles. The Rams' Chris Chamberlain would have earned a spot, most likely, had he not missed five games. Seattle's Matt McCoy deserves mention. He and Chamberlain each had 19 special-teams tackles.
• Arizona's LaRod Stephens-Howling threatened Leon Washington as a returner for part of the season, but Washington's production on kickoff returns and punt returns set him apart. Stephens-Howling was stronger on coverage teams when opponents focused on former teammate Sean Morey. Stephens-Howling also played more on offense this season.

The chart breaks down all-division choices from 2008 and 2009, plus this season.

CHICAGO -- The Seattle Seahawks are gathering on the field near their sideline for some pregame mosh-pit action before their stretching session.

I've done a quick sleeve count to see which players have given in to the cold.

Eight Seattle players -- Mike Williams, J.P. Losman, Jordan Babineaux, Clint Gresham, William Robinson, Stacy Andrews, Jon Ryan and Olindo Mare -- are wearing long sleeves for Seattle. A couple defensive backs are wearing forearm pads.

Eight Bears players are also wearing sleeves: Brad Maynard, Jay Cutler, Caleb Hanie, Todd Collins, Greg Olsen, Corey Graham, Devin Hester and Patrick Mannelly.

We're up to 22 degrees from 16 degrees a few hours ago.

RENTON, Wash. -- Matt Hasselbeck was at his best for the Seattle Seahawks against New Orleans in the wild-card round Saturday.

The quarterback might have been better during his weekly media session Thursday.

Loose and reflective, Hasselbeck congratulated quarterbacks coach Jedd Fisch on landing a job at "Miami of Ohio" -- it was the University of Miami -- and deadpanned that he hugged coach Pete Carroll for saying the team wanted Hasselbeck to return next season.

The laid-back image Carroll projected when he answered a reporter's phone during a news conference Wednesday mirrors the tone he sets internally. That marks a change from former coach Mike Holmgren, who was more of a taskmaster behind the scenes.

"I can remember before some playoff games, myself feeling the need to break the ice, lighten the mood a little bit," Hasselbeck said. "Now, if anything, I'm feeling the desire to really get everybody to focus in a little bit more and just tighten screws a little bit."

Hasselbeck pointed to potential distractions surrounding a road playoff game in a major city. The team will arrive Friday, a day earlier than usual. Players will have free time.

"It's not a shopping trip, it's a business trip," Hasselbeck said.

The Seahawks have a good mix of personalities on their coaching staff, Hasselbeck said. He described offensive coordinator Jeremy Bates as having the demeanor of an old-school line coach, whereas Fisch is more relaxed. Carroll is ... Carroll.

"His style works with the group of coaches we have," Hasselbeck said.

A few other highlights from Hasselbeck's media session:

• Hasselbeck doesn't like wearing long sleeves, even in cold weather. Holmgren once tried to change his mind by saying, "Hey, John Wayne, put some sleeves on." What about Sunday in chilly Chicago? Hasselbeck: "The sun hasn't been out here in a long time, so we'll see. I've got the Jon Ryan look going right now."
• Hasselbeck, as a veteran late-round pick, wouldn't give too much credit, at least in public, to rookie first-round tackle Russell Okung for fighting through ankle trouble. Hasselbeck: "Expectations are high for him. As far as the limping, I don't know. I think that is just how he walks. He's been doing that since he got here. Maybe it's a strut. He has done a good job. He held out, so that slowed down the process, but we were counting on him Day 1."
• On periodically crediting Bates and Fisch by name: "They give me a dollar every time I do that."
• On Carroll's comments about wanting him back: "I went and gave him a hug." Hasselbeck paused. Reporters laughed. "No. I mean, I'm very focused on this year. We have talked all year, even from last year, Pete and me and everyone here. We've been very open about everything. I would love to be back, absolutely, no doubt about that, but my focus isn't really there. My focus is on getting this team to win games, trying to play well. Just like in a football game, if you focus on doing things right, the score takes care of itself. That is my mindset with what happens beyond this year."