Watch CBS News

Daily Madden: The Growing Confidence Of Alex Smith

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) - The 49ers clinched their first division title in nine years with their 26-0 victory over the Rams Sunday.

The team was led by quarterback Alex Smith, who struggled through his first six years with the team.

"You can just see his confidence grow - his body language, the way he plays," John Madden told the KCBS morning crew, also praising the rest of the team and the coaching staff. "They became a complete team. It's not just Alex Smith (who) won it or lost it. I mean, Alex Smith was part of it, Frank Gore breaks Joe Perry's record, their offensive line is good, their defense is very good... They're just not one dimensional in any way."

Meanwhile, the Raiders are tied with the Broncos for the lead in their division, but they didn't look like a top team in their lopsided loss to the Dolphins Sunday.

"They were awfully flat," Madden said. "Just watching that game, the Raiders just never did get it going."

The Raiders defense gave up 34 points.

"Too many shots at them, I think. Three and out, and they tend to get a little tired and they tend to get worn down, and they tend to get frustrated in those situations." (7:20)

Listen to the John Madden segment live weekday mornings at 8:15 on KCBS All News 740 AM/106.9 FM.

(Copyright 2011 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.