Fooch's Note: Don't forget to check out Drew K's Cotton Bowl thread for a game with some serious talent on display.

Earlier this afternoon Jim Harbaugh was officially introduced as the San Francisco 49ers next head coach. I was fortunate enough to wrangle a spot at the press conference and take in his first words as 49ers head coach. We'll hopefully have a transcript later today, but I wanted to at least explore one of the most basic aspects of this man. It's something that one could hear and feel throughout the press conference.

Jim Harbaugh is an exceedingly confident individual. There is absolutely no doubt about that. And it's not a cocky or brash confidence. Even as it seemed like he was changing his mind several times this week, after today I'd take it that he really was just assessing all his options. I know some of you have pointed this out in the comments over the past week and I have to agree with all of you. As with many (although definitely not all) quarterbacks, he's a smart guy. He assessed what was in front of him and made his decision. I think the fact that he signed with the 49ers for $5 million a year indicates that, if the stories of the higher bids are true.

He discussed how this was a challenge and he made it clear that he loves a good challenge. He was asked several that easily could have led to bulletin board material. While he did not provide any such material, it was clear he is focused on the task at hand. He had a chance to talk smack about the NFC West and Pete Carroll in particular but he sidestepped the question quite well. I was looking for a picture that reflects this and I think the above picture captures his intensity. If you missed his intro press conference, check it out HERE.

Now talk can only take a team so far as we discovered quite well over the last six seasons. Harbaugh will need to prove himself out there on the field. I've instilled my confidence in previous coaches and had it blow up in my face, so I'm certainly cautious about my optimism. At the same time, it's hard to not be excited by Jim Harbaugh. There is no doubt he is the right choice for the job at this point in time. Whether he flames out or not, I don't see how this isn't a good choice right now.