In Oakland, Marcus Thompson II writes "despite all the blundering" the 49ers have done in recent years, the club "finds itself in position to change its status relatively fast." But only if it "doesn't blow it." That "requires some big 'ifs' to work out." It remains to be seen whether CEO Jed York "really has been humbled and truly knows he needs to change," and firing coach Jim Tomsula after one season "isn't enough evidence." Hiring a "powerful voice with real football expertise would show progress." It also remains to be seen if GM Trent Baalke is "actually good at his job, or half as good as York thinks he is to decree him so much power" (OAKLAND TRIBUNE, 1/12).
FAITH NO MORE: In Ft. Lauderdale, Omar Kelly writes the "first step to addressing a problem is admitting one exists, and for far too long the Dolphins have been lying to themselves and their fan base about the soap opera style drama that has engulfed Miami." Kelly: "Hopefully someone in [Dolphins Owner Stephen] Ross' circle of trust will explain why Dolphins fans, and the team's players should believe that this near decade of dysfunction has come to an end?" The Dolphins "need to get their act together because this once proud fan base is losing faith" (South Florida SUN-SENTINEL, 1/12).
GOOD INTENTIONS: In Philadelphia, Les Bowen writes Eagles Owner Jeffrey Lurie "is a decent man with strong progressive values, who wants his organization to help the community, who doesn't interfere with coaching decisions." Bowen: "But does he know what a championship organization looks and feels like? Or how to build one? I have my doubts" (PHILADELPHIA DAILY NEWS, 1/12).
