Under coach Singletary, Niners are for real

Published September 24, 2009 4:00am ET



Everyone plays it this time of year, trying to identify which NFL teams are legit. Are they real or are they Memorex?

Real

49ers » This one might surprise you. But since he took over, Mike Singletary has instilled a physical mindset. San Francisco has won six of its last seven and is third in the NFL against the run.

Saints » Now that New Orleans don’t have to depend on running the ball with Reggie Bush, the Saints are taking flight. Drew Brees is the most accurate passer in the league. Was it really the Eagles he shredded Sunday?

Memorex

Giants » Go ahead and laugh, but the New York footballers are struggling with their staples — rushing the ball (No. 22) and stopping the run (No. 27).

Broncos » The win at Cincinnati was a fluke. Beating the Browns at Mile High was more about Brady Quinn than anything else.