Though the rest of the NFL is emphasizing passing, the 49ers have pushed their way to the top with an old-school approach that relies on a power running game. San Francisco, which leads the league in rushing yards per game (195.8) and yards per attempt (6.1), pummels opponents with an assortment of hard-hitting inside runs from a myriad of run-heavy formations that wear down the interior of the defense. Frank Gore spearheads the attack with a relentless running style that combines physicality and toughness with speed, quickness and vision. He explodes through holes at the point of attack and has the patience and awareness to pick up positive yardage when lanes are clogged. Gore's persistence typically produces huge gains in the second half, after opponents have grown weary of banging into the 49ers' big, imposing offensive line.