clock expired on a Phil Dawson field goal. It was a total gut-check win.

Top newcomer: Maybe we should call this the defensive newcomer. Because we already recognized Boldin, we are going with defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey. He was considered a bust after being the No. 5 overall pick by Kansas City in 2008. He was just OK with the Chiefs. But he came to San Francisco and flourished under Fangio and fit in with his defensive line mates.

Comeback player of the year: Crabtree tore his Achilles in May, but the 49ers' offense was instantly improved when he returned in December. He showed what a valuable member of the unit he is.

Most improved player: Brock. He went from being a special-teamer in August to finishing the season as the49ers’ No.1 cornerback. He took advantage of injuries and answered every challenge. It earned him a four-year, $16 million contract extension.

Specialist of the year: Dawson. In his first season with the 49ers, Dawson was clutch and made countless big kicks. He was 32-of-36 on field goal attempts and he made 27 straight attempts at one point. He was part of a much improved special-teams unit.