[San Francisco 49ers News]

When do we stop calling a dark horse a dark horse? The San Francisco 49ers are the choice de rigueur for those seeking to start a debate on football in the dead news wasteland of summer. Heck, this writer signed up with Frank Gore's 2007 campaign back in early April, getting myself a decent seat on the bandwagon.

Sure, we figure, the 49ers are going to turn the corner this season, just like the New Orleans Saints did last year. San Francisco had what most reckon to be the best offseason in the NFC; Gore is justifiably put in the top five on fantasy draft boards; and Alex Smith ... well, Rex Grossman played in the Super Bowl in February, didn't he?

San Francisco 49ers "Who gains most from 49ers' success?" - Realfootball365.com

[Lefty Noob]

When do we stop calling a dark horse a dark horse? I'd say when the experts peg the odds of them winning a Super Bowl as equal to the Saints, Broncos and Bengals. That's a pretty good judge. San Fran is no longer a dark horse at all. People are expecting them to succeed, to be a playoff team. How does that change things this season? Can they handle the pressure?

[EmpireWF]

I think this will be the first season the Niners and coach Nolan have any real expectations to live up to. Whether they can perform is another story. Nolan seems like a good coach though, but it's a what have you done for me lately kind of business.