“Cannot win with him” is how the infamous rant of one Mike Singletary went in regard to a one-time NFL brat named Vernon Davis. But that tirade uttered four seasons ago no longer rings true. Because on Jan. 20, the 49ers — playing in their second NFC Championship Game in as many years — won with Davis. And won spectacularly. Read More

Alex Smith ran off the field at Candlestick Park two weeks ago to a standing ovation and cheers from the sellout crowd, not much different from the reception last January when he took the 49ers oh so close to a Super Bowl. Now relegated to a backup role with the NFC champions, Smith’s trip to the Big Easy this week leading up to Sunday’s Super Bowl against Baltimore is hardly how he envisioned it. This used to be his team. Now, he plays Joe Flacco in practice. Read More

SANTA CLARA — Andy Lee’s nerves came on a full day before the 49ers’ playoff opener a year ago, not just leading up to his first punt as is typically the case each game. Tight end Vernon Davis was surprised at his butterflies stepping onto the NFL’s big stage for the first time, too. Read More

Kam Chancellor is a menacing presence in the Seattle Seahawks secondary. At 6-foot-3, 232 pounds, he’s the prototypical strong safety for the 21st century. He’s big enough to knock down a tight end lurking in the middle and quick enough to catch up with a receiver who’s racing down the sideline for six points. Read More