I really hope it works out for him. he's only 25, healthy, mobile, and has a good arm. He deserved another shot.

It would be great if we didn't have to use a 1st or 2nd round pick on a QB.

Now to address our potential biggest problem: Carolina might bench Delhomme... goodbye Taylor Mays?

I was never on the Smith bandwagon but I am definitely on the 49ers bandwagon so I hope smith does well and doesn't revert.

Unlike other "fans" on this blog that refused to even hope that Hill did well and even went as far as to pre condemn him every week. I will root and support smith the entire time he starts.

Now that he is a starter I hope he can prove me wrong. One game doesn't prove anything but it sure looked good.

My expectations of him are not that high so lets see if he can surpass them.

GO NINERS!!!!!!

if the niners run a spread offense or similar to it, we are in for a treat.

We want to subscribe to your podcasts via iTunes! PLEASE!!

Why goodbye Taylor Mays? What makes you think the backup (I don't even know who it is) is any better than Delhomme?

Besides, there's always Eric Berry. You can't go wrong either guy.

sfhusky: Delhomme is an interception machine!

As for Berry, he'll probably be gone in the first 3-4 picks. I don't think the Carolina pick will be that good.

Mays could well be around when we pick... although from what I understand his combine numbers are going to be, I can't imagine Al Davis not taking him. he loves the genetic freaks who can fly... even if they can't play a lick of football

Eric Berry...not Mays.

I'm pleased that Smith is getting a chance. This kid has had a rough time. It wasn't his fault that he was drafted too high and immediately thrown to the wolves with no supporting cast. All that followed is well known. And this year he lost his best friend to suicide.I hope that he does well. And let's not forget that the guy who has stood by his side through some very bad times is now gratiously stepping up to support him in taking his job. Two very classy people.

I don't know what one half of losing football will prove, but let's hope he continues to perform, and in fact get better. This system is new, so he still has to get into a comfort zone, and that doesn't usually happen for awhile with any QB.

The one good sign is his nonchalant reaction to his play and the feedback he's getting. He appears to be taking his good showing in stride, no doubt the maturation one gets from having some success evaporate for such a long time.

So perhaps a more experienced and traveled Smith will perform. Let's hope. Neither he nor Hill are bad guys, I think for the most part everyone just wants to win. I only dread all the Davis stuff that will come out after awhile. You all know it's coming - "Davis is our future! Play Davis!"

Well, that's what blogging was designed for I guess.

Exactly, A J Freely and Matt Moore are the backup QB's of Panthers... I think it is looking better.

Uh, actually it was one half of winning football: 21-3 Niners over Texans.

I cldnt agree more.

i been reading these comments and its too funny. seems like 90% of 49er fans have "supported smith the whole time" lets be honest thats not close to true. if i had a dollar for everytime someone said they have seen enough of him i could buy the team! there were very few Smith supporters, and then just Oneniner who is obssessed with him.

Here is the difference tho. personally i have ALWAYS said i just want the 9ers to win. i thought hill gave us the best chance in the beginning(plus i just liked his gutsyness). still do. i dont think Smith wlda came right out of the gate strong. now that smith is in i still want the 49ERS to win so ill root for Smith. im not gonna sit here like a tard and say Smith sucks he is terrible he is the reason we lose, never the reason we win. come on man. i hope he plays at a pro bowl level cuz i love the 9ERS!

Lastly, i do think Hill got screwed just a little. i think one thing everyone who reads this blog agrees on is this offense needed to open up. with smith that happen. n again one can argue they were behind, thats not the point. they CLDA ran those plays the first 6 weeks. TEs in the slot, more 3 wide, more down the field plays. and i dont wanna hear Hill cldnt do it. TRY! they never tried. so at least maybe with smith in there now the COACHES will believe and continue to open the offense!

looks like we could use our draft pick on a offensive linemen. Pretty amazing we are tied for second with the Colts with draft picks that are playing for us.
What's up with Brandon Jones and Jason Hill?

What are the chances that we pick up OJ Atogwe this off-season and if we do pick him up do we still draft Mays if he's available?

If Berry is available, why would you take Mays? He is clearly not nearly as good as Berry. If you compare their bodies of work, you will see that for yourselves.

My thoughts as well. I will expect the worst untill he proves me wrong. Maybe sitting and learning will help, but I dont see it helping his accuracy. Maybe he worked on that to. Ill believe it when I see it. Go niners!

UHH 24-21 loss. Thats what matters. And an interception to boot.

Spread offense? It's a longshot but it would be entertaining! Unlike the past, I think we have the receivers for it. Crabtree, Morgan, Jones and Hill with Davis at TE. Sounds like a lot of good targets to me.

Im fairly surprised there hasnt been more talk of our return game.

First off it cld be argued it "lost us the game" now i dont typically subscribe to that thinking, that a play in the second quarter loses u a game. however it cost us 7 and we lost by 3.

point is long term, battle is OBVIOUSLY not the answer and michael robinson is returning kicks!... to borrow a line from prime time right now... COME ON MAN!!

we need a return specialist. someone electric. i know field position is important to everyone but i dont think anyone wld argue that its more important to our style of play than say a colts team, pats, saints, ect. we need to add some electrcity to our return game, i wld actually say that is a major prob right now cuz of our style of play.

mattc: If they pick up Atogwe, then no. but then again, I have no idea if the 9ers are interested in drafting a safety anyway.

Memphis9er: I would probably take Berry too, but the point will be moot, because unless Carolina loses the rest of their games, Berry will be long gone before our first pick. If he comes out, he's going in top 4.

Where the hell was the help from you guys when I was getting hammered by the Smith lovers on yesterdays blog? I guess on here you better not dare say anything bad about Smith. Or his ten fans will let you have it. Your not a true fan if you bash Smith, but they are real fans for bashing crappy Hill. Prove me wrong Alex.

Good for Smith for being able to step up and perform well in the Houston game. He still needs to demonstrate somehow that he can do that consistently. Much of that is not his fault. Having stated that, Hill still has the track record of consistent - if mediocre - production over the long haul. Like it or not, game management (read that as minimum turnovers) is the key to properly executing Raye's offense.

What's easily forgotten is that this team has a few rungs of the ladder to go offensively, but many few rungs defensively. If we can move a few more chains on offense, our defense has proven capable of making life difficult for many, if not most, of the offenses we have left on the schedule.

Most definately. The Rossum move is still a head scratcher to me. And Spurlock is not being tried/considered, who if I can remember correctly returned kicks for the Bucs? He also has the first kickoff return for a TD in franchise (Bucs) history.

Exactly! Shaun Hill has a winning record as a starter and is .500 this year. Smith's record is well short of .500. That said, Smith looked very good in the second half and Hill has been fading so it was a well-timed move(unlike keeping Spurlock and waiving Rossum).

Smith avoided one of the things that killed the team before; turnovers. If he can see the field and not lock onto one receiver as he has done in the past, while limiting his turnovers, then we just might have something.

Ronnie Lott - You watch the Niners on Sunday's and you conclude that our highest draft pick should be used on a Safety?

All this Smith vs Hill talk drives me nuts! Just a little fact that everybody here knows, and few seem to remember:

Football is the ULTIMATE TEAM SPORT.

That means, among other things, that it takes all 11 guys on the field, acting in concert, to make things happen.
And here's the news flash: Joe Montana (aka, "GOD") could not complete a pass if he had to run for his life every play.
Even Steve Young, who was many times faster and more elusive than "GOD" could not complete a pass if he had to run for his life every play.
And I remember Jeff Garcia being pummeled to death with complaints about his "happy feet". Hell guys, it was his happy feet that kept his happy ass alive!

Conclusion: Until and unless this O line finds a way to make their blocks, ain't nothin' good gonna happen for this team.
It won't be proof that Alex is a bust.
It won't be proof that Shaun should have been left in.
It won't mean that we need to get Davis in there ASAP.
It doesn't matter how good Gore is, how great Vernon is becoming, or how much of a monster Michael develops into. Without a line, we're in deep doo-doo. Cannot tell you how surprised and disappointed I've been with the coaches and front office for ignoring this basic reality throughout the whole off-season, the draft, and right up to the trade deadline recently passed.

And no, it wouldn't hurt to start being a little less predictable with the plays called. And it wouldn't hurt for the D to put some pressure on the bad guys' passers. But when you're talking about offense, we need all 11!

There was a time in the NFL when no one put a young QB in the line-up for three years. They would learn the game, handle the clipboard, and wear the visor.

Playing QB is the toughest position in the NFL. I wish him well as he certainly had to put up with a lot of crap.

"Uh, actually it was one half of winning football: 21-3 Niners over Texans."

"UHH 24-21 loss. Thats what matters. And an interception to boot."

Yea, two ways to look at it. The only reason I pointed that out is that with 37 seconds left they might have gotten close enough to get a field goal to tie it. But they didn't.

You add that to the MN game, and the difference between a good team and a bad team is winning/losing the close ones. You can't spend too much time saying 'almost'. You run out of games quickly.

Mike: we have 3 picks in the first 2 rounds. Yes, I believe we need a playmaker with tons of speed in the secondary. I like Michael Lewis in the Box, but he's not a flying rover like SS that will make plays in the def backfield- and he's a liability in coverage.

Now I don't know where exactly we are going to pick, but I know there will be a good OL available with our 2nd first round pick and possibly our 2nd round pick.

Game changing safetys don't come along too often. Anyway, I have a feeling we trade down in the draft with at least 1 first round pick. I don't think the team want's to pay 2 first rounders.

A.Smith almost had a storybook finish yesterday but came up short. But unlike some bloggers I will not place all the blame on him for yesterdays loss. I agree with Coach that Smith gives us the best opportunity to win right now.
I must say that i'm stoked about M.Crabtree' ability to snatch the ball out of the air. Whether its Hill, Smith, or N.Davis throwing the ball, Crabtree will be a mainstay for many years to come. He's already made Al Davis look like a fool after just one game (which does not surprise me one bit). Next year (and perhaps this year) I believe Crabtree, V.D., and Morgan will light it up, which will demand another change in the offensive scheme.

I did not want to comment on Alex Smith until I saw a re-play of the game. I just replayed the game and the transformation in Alex is simply amazing. I think the league may want to start an investigation to see if the Niners had a ringer in Smith's uniform. Just kidding...

The deer in the headlight stuff is gone. He looks like a polished, mature, and confident QB for the first time in his career. He never looked this good even in the Norv Turner season.

I think we should give some kudos to 49er QB coach Mike Jackson. Jackson does not get any ink in the Bay Area media (nobody has ever mentioned him in this forum), but I think he has to get some credit for the total
transformation in Alex's mechanics. Did any one notice that the big looping delivery Alex had when he came out of college is now gone. Instead Alex now has a compact efficient throwing motion. No wonder he was able to throw those passes to Davis with such precision.

I am ecstatic. If Alex continues to play like this, I will have to re-think my belief that Nate Davis is the QB of the future.

1.Why is our 2nd highest paid receiver inactive?
2.Why is Spurlock on the team?
3.Why is Nate Clements still calling himself "Lock Down"? (Is he going to prison?)
4.Why are people talking about next years draft when we still have 10 games THIS SEASON?
5.How did Jimmy Raye get the Job?
6.Why can't Sing manage the clock/play calling?(See S. Hill for game management)
7.Why are the young secondary players always hurt when we need them? (Brown,R.Smith)
8.Why is Bruce still starting?(You can show respect, but we're trying to win)
9.Why can't Nedney ever reach the end zone on kickoffs without the help of the wind?
10.Why is the warm beer so expensive at the games?

And before this blog gets out of hand. This is why Im not sold on Smith yet. This 2006 season you Smith fans are so in love with. Sacked 35 times. QB rating 74.8. 58.1 comp percentage. Yards per attempt 6.5. 16 td 16 int. Antonio Bryant, Battle, Johnson, and Lloyd. his recievers. And Gore with 1695 yards rushing. So Alex smith the Guy on this site. You said Smith took us to 7-9. NOOOOO Frank Gore took us to 7-9. He has never had a better percentage than 58.1 Antonio Bryant was better than any reciever we have at this point of the season. He wasnt sacked 55 times. Yards per att was 6.5 and he has a comp % of 58.1? 2007 He was 94-193 comp% a solid 48.7. Trent fn Dilfer that year.113-219 for a 51.6% Trent fn Dilfer was more accurate. If thats what you call good? Then hell I have been watching the wrong guy. This is the Alex Smith I know. Its not all about the team was bad , 4 o-CORDS, HE WAS INJURED. These numbers speak volumes about his accuracy. And that you cant possibly have an excuse for. This is why Im not buying Alex Smiths tickets. Come on #11 prove us wrong. I am waiting. Last chance you better do it big. Or you are going to make 10 of your fans very sad. Time to put up or shut up. Go Niners

im still scratchin my head about the sheets move too man. how nice wld it have been to have a home run threat at half back AND a guy who cld light up the kick returns. (the phins have screwed us teiwce... i blame keeping spurlock on the wild cat... and they took sheets)

your point about spurlock is on the money as well. what the hell is he on the team for??? if he isnt going to return kicks and Jones (our 2nd highest paid WR) and Hill (our 3rd rd pick a few years ago) arnt even active, why do we even have spurlock. ironicly that clda have been sheets roster spot and he clda at least been useful for a handful of snaps a game.

we need a straight playmaker at return man. not just a guy "who will do"

but for the record you are also right bout sprulock's TD. first ever in Bucks history. i wld give him a shot over Mike robinson, who i like but lets be honest he has about .5% chance of taking one back and maybe 5% chance of getting past the 50. and "fair catch" Battle cant catch the ball.

OCNinerFan, you are right on! This is not just about QB, although a super star QB could make the other players look better. As a fan, like many other people on this blog i have been rooting for whom ever is going to start despite their abilities. Offensive line needs to own up and start to play as one. However, a great example of football being a team sport was the giants game last night. The best OL in the league just got crushed by AZ!!! The superbowl QB threw 3 INTs becuase he did not have time to read the defense and make good judgement!

I also, believe we are getting out coached on offense and defense in the past few games. I have been a Mike Singlatory fan and truly wish him the best, however the coaching staff needs to do a better job scheming to the strength of their players. Go Niners

The 2010 draft class looks like it is going to be absolutely spectacular from top to bottom. it seems like this should be a heck of a year for the 49ers to have two #1's, especially if the Panthers continue to be awful.

The overall talent at offensive line seems a little thin compared to recent years, but defensive back and defensive line (and possibly quarterback) look to be outstanding. Taylor Mays and Gerald McCoy are my dream picks for the first round, though Eric Berry is going to be one heck of a heck of a ball player.

Shane, I was shocked that media did not question coach about special team. Our special team right now is total liability and it potentially cost us two games (Texans and Vikings)!!! Battle is not the answer for returning punts, at least he is going to be gun shy after two poor performing games. It is time for one of the young recievers to get a chance.

Lets hope carolina loses out. Except next week. If we go down two games to the Cards this season is a wrap.

Yes, we are running out of time now with AZ taking a lead in the division. there is ten games left however we can not afford to fall behind AZ!!!

Ninermd, WOW.........
Antonio Bryant was better reciever than anyone on this roster. Next????????

"and then just Oneniner who is obssessed with him."

I understand there is a perception of oneniner......but he his not obssessed with A.Smit, he his definately obssesed with football

his argument is not based on feelings.....compared to others

...for example those that wanted Hill the QB will say

He his a winner -....... that is not a fact. What is a winner? your winner or his or mine?....we all have standards, so that is not a proven fact....Show me superbowl rings and i will show a winner we can all agree on

He plays safe and conservative - ......playing that kind of game makes nobody better. What you are saying is we are going to limit ourself to play within a system, instead of using the system to improve our skills..

His Win and loss Record - I think before you quote a win and loss record, you need more than 10 games......A win and loss record in the 2nd half of a losing season does not guarantee you as a Winner.....that is a Backup

All oneniner is saying is we made an investment in A.Smith, lets stick with it - and see it through.

Sports fans are so impatient....niner fans r spoiled....

Sum fans think this is madden - You can just create a player and expect him to do some special effects stuff....

We drafted the guy at 22 or was it 23.......and told him to save a historic NFL franchise with a 2-14 record....WTF

Not to mention we had no talent.......

Supporting Alex is all based on facts, because of the investment and foundation of the rebuilding process.......

....thinking we needed S.Hill is all based on feelings, we need a win now.....he his a bust......He cant throw.....He looks scared.......this are all comments based on feelings....

So my friend I think people like Houston, Top-cat, Razoreater, Brekkon, ninermd are the ones with the obssessed feelings........as you can see they eating that crow.....

Dude, Hill's winning record was a product of playing a bunch of crappy teams. His QB rating was a product of throwing 2-yard passes and never, ever taking a chance.

Hoping that a guy who is on his 8th team in 8 years is going to do well... That eight coaching staffs were wrong and he was, as one clown put it, 'the best QB I've seen since Joe Montana'...

No, it's stupid to "hope" that someone who is clearly inept and over-his-head will become the QB we need. It's like "hoping" a one-legged man will win the 100M dash in the Olympics.

The sooner he failed, the better. We needed to either invest in Smith and hope he would develop the intangibles needed to play in the NFL or go to Davis. Not hope a one-legged nincompoop could win!

And the longer he drug it out by being carried by the defense and special teams because he didn't make the killer, benching mistake and we were winning against a bunch of patsies, the longer it was going to take to get a real QB in there.

There are some times, in life, where you don't "hope." Because it's dysfunctional and sets the team back.

Think of it this way: Should we have not gotten rid of Barlow and kept starting him over Gore in "hope" he'd revert back to his 2004 pre-contract-extension play? Because that is roughly the same. Although with Barlow, he just gave up after he got the money. With Hill, he should have never gotten the start, he simply doesn't possess the tools to play in the NFL.

why is oneniner referring to himself in the third person?

Gee, ninermb, I know it hurts being totally wrong, but try not to hyperventilate here. I got news for you: nobody cares whether you're impressed with Smith or not. Nor for your pathetic attempt to console yourself that only ten people disagree with you. Pretty much everyone has eyes to see, you apparently only have a bitter taste in your mouth. Must be the crow. Don't pig it all down, there's plenty who need to share with you.

OCNiner... and others who stated that we did nothing to improve or try to improve the O line is not entirely true. They did acquire Marvel Smith, who they thought was going to be a starter and solidify the RT spot. As we all know, Marvel pulled a J. Jennings and got injured, then decided to retire on us. By then, it was really too late in terms of acquiring another decent RT through FA. For what it's worth, they did sign Pashos. I just hope Sing permanently benches Rachal and leave Snyder in there at RG.
With that being said, we definitely need to use our Panthers pick on a RT and use a 3rd or 4th rounder on a RG or maybe acquire one from FA, and fire our O line coach. We need our O line to play with some fire and attitude. I'm sick of seeing our QB's on their backs with a 300 pound lineman on top of them.

By the way, Rachal should be sent packing immediately for allowing a 90 year old lineman to blow him up for a sack.

A.E.S. to Skeebers; Amen!
ninermd, i think you made your point, and we know how you feel about A.Smith. I'll error on the side of patients for now and hope you're wrong in your Smith assessment.

You suck at statistical analysis. For example, half of Smith's ints were because of hail Mary passes in games we were losing.

We also had a set of very bad receivers. Bryant ran horrible routes and routinely didn't make the catch. In 2006, he came down with just 44% of the balls thrown his way. It was so bad that in the second half of the season, the coaching staff and Smith had pretty much given up on him.

Battle, OTOH, came down with 70% of his passes. So it wasn't like Smith couldn't throw to a WR. It's just of the WR corps of: Battle (70%), Bryant (44%), Gilmore (26%) and Jacobs (33%) only one of them could catch the effing ball.

Now, in 2007, Smith did quite well in his first three games. Against the Cards, he completed 48.4% of his passes. Pretty crappy until you realize that there were SEVEN DROPS in those 31 attempts. Normalize this to NFL standards of 1-to-2 drops (I'll use 2) and he'd have been at 64.5%.

The next game, he suffered no drops. He completed 64.7% of his passes.

The third game, against the Steelers, we had six drops. Normalize this data to a competent NFL WR corps (only 2 drops, not 6) and his completion percentage moves from 48.6% to 60%.

That's actual analysis through the process of normalization for abnormal variables or conditions that impact the statistics in unrealistic ways.

In short, had his WRs held onto the balls in their hands at the same rate as pretty much every other WR corps in the NFL, Smith would have had a completion percentage around 63% in those games. He would have had two more TDs too. He probably wouldn't have thrown the one hail-Mary INT in the Steeler game, either as we wouldn't have become desperate in the second half.

But you can't handle this. You can't handle the very prosaic fact of normalization. You can't handle the fact that Smith was undone, not by Smith, but by Darrell "I drop passes" Jackson and Battle who massively regressed (bad enough to (essentially) destroy his career as a WR) as a WR and dropped 6 balls in those three games.

See, FACTS, play no bearing in your hatred. And, I'm sure, nothing I said got through your head. My experience on the 49er message board has indicated to me that haters like you will never, ever admit they don't know what they're talking about and were wrong on Smith and his development.

If Smith shakes off the rust and continues on his curver, he should finish the season in the mid-to-high 80s as a QB with a 61%ish completion percentage and a 2-1 TD/INT ratio. Because that's where he was going in his growth. At least before his two years of injury.

I, for one, hope he continues on this path. If he fails, I don't care in the respect that my life will be over or the 49ers will never, ever recover. The season may be shot and we may lose a bit more. Hey, I dealt with that for all of the 1960's and 1970's.

And I remember the bad years. AS much as I loved the Montana, Young and Garcia years I don't forget those bad ones, lest I become like you -- SPOILED and WHINEY.

So, I think Smith could be another Garcia... A bit better downfield, but not as good short area. So be it.

But Shaun Hill? Don't make my laugh. The guy is an NFL bottom-feeder. There was a LOGICAL REASON he was CUT/NOT-RESIGNED by EIGHT TEAMS. No matter how much you were in love with him, or JTO before him...

The answer to
#1 &2 - Jerry Sullivan's dislike for younger receivers
#3- positive thinking
#4 - the Niners have two 1st rounders as of now, there are obvious needs and it should be a deep draft for D-linemen and it's the much hyped NFL Draft.
#5 - default
#6- He's new at it and Raye naps during the game
#7-because they must train with the faster wide receivers who always seem to get hurt in TC
#8- because the young wide receivers are always in Sullivan's dog house.
#9- because his left leg is probably shorter than his right
#10 it costs money to keep the beer warm

We will need to play near perfect in every facet of the game to beat the Colts. They gave up land against the Dolphins. Gore needs and should be the grunt to take property. This would be highly conducive to slowing Freeney and company. Spread offense not so much, play action much and munch.

Why do you bring up 2006 - it is 3 years later. Look at any good QB their first 2-3 years and in most cases it isn't pretty. Even Steve Young was terrible until he learned the Walsh offense. Look at Peyton Mannings stats the first 1-3 years. Show me another young QB that has had 5 OC's, 2 shoulder injuries, rushed back and played hurt, wasn't supported by his HC, and was very, very young at 20 years old when drafted. I don't care who Singletary starts at QB if we can have sustained drives, score points, and have a good chance to win on offense. Everything you mentioned was 2-3 years ago. Good thing coaches have short memories or Singletary and the coaches on offense would never let Smith back on the field based on the stats you listed. Let's see what Smith has the rest of the year. Everyone knows what the stats were 2005-2007 - Smith hasn't played in 2 years - give him a break!

All I can say is WOW. You know the feeling you get when outa the blue you see someone get knocked out and you say....well you know what you say.

Thank you for using stats to shut that dude up! Much props given as much are deserved.

Oh, by the way, I love the fact that oneniner referred to himself in the 3rd person. He deserves to after stickin' it out with A. Smith. One Love 9ers!!!

Would anybody else like to see our niners throw the ball on first down and stop being so predictable its not hard to play defense when you play run on first and second down and pass on third with Alex we can now strike down field and open up the run with the pass lets have some fun and win some games 100% behind you Alex

mosezd, oneniner and all other Hill bashers/smith supporters....

If you expect props on being right about you negativity of Hill or for love of Smith then acknowledge now that if Alex flounders over the next several 3 - 4 games that you owe those critical of Smith an apology as well.

Because if your argument is that Hill has no right to be a NFL QB for his inadequacies then the same will hold true if Alex reverts and does not improve his past inadequacies. I bet you wont do it though because you will make up some reason to justify your choice.

With that said I hope I am wrong because I am a NINER fan first and just want to win!!

Go Niners! Every single one!!!

Anyone see Taylor Mays decapitate the WR from OSU on Sat. night? That looked deadly!!!

The guy looks like Optimus Prime roming in the SC backfield. Wouldn't mind having him and P. Willis on the same team for the next 7-10 yrs.

Any thoughts?

Now that the 49ers have decided on a QB that can throw the football (gosh!) we'll finally see an improvement in the run game. This 49er running game, if you can call it that, never was. But until the 49ers have a good offensive line they won't go far no matter who they play at QB. In the mean time let's hope Mr. Fisical and his hand picked OC can forget all that gung-ho tough guy rhetoric and devise an offensive game plan that takes advantage of the talent/players they have, not the monsters of the midway they were fantasizing about. And unless Alex keeps playing like he did Sunday we still need a legit NFL QB. Of course, by the time McCloughan figures out who his QB of the future is, how to get a good O-line, and a big-time pass-rusher, Frank Gore will be too old and banged up to be the star he should be already. And since the 49ers are the only "running team" with only one running back, who's injury prone, that's another glaring hole that hasn't been filled by Scotty.
But I'll close with an optimistic thought. Jed will listen to Uncle Eddie and finally hire some experienced football people who can come in and bring a real GM, a coach who uses his head as well as his heart, and an OC that's good enough to pick where he wants to work and picks the 49ers.

The challenge for Greg Munusky to get hits on Manning against the best pass blocking OL in football I for one will be very interested in watching become successful on sunday. Step up to the challenge.

there are several really good O Guards coming out in FA next year!!! NE and NYG have both starting Guards becoming FA's

try for two of them, then draft an OT then we have the extra 1st round and a 2nd round to get the other needs. Pass rusher and maybe QB.

Also hopefully we can Sign sing's Son in law or Son in law to be at safety.

Is anyone REALLY all that excited about any of the QBs on the 49er's roster? Unless Alex morphs into Peyton Manning, does anyone think that the front office won't be actively searching for an upgrade in the off-season?

I'm happy for Alex. It would be a very good thing for the 49ers if our #1 pick from 2005 removed his "bust" label. I just think that the fanatic Alex Smith supporters should temper their enthusiasm. One half of football does not erase years of underachieving, but I would be genuinely excited to see him excel.

Here is a thought/question. How many passes did Smith complete yesterday that were crossing routes? I don't remember any. I remember his completions being the seam routes and comeback/hitch routes. If memory is correct he has always been good at the routes noted above, but was always throwing behind or high on slant or cross routes. Lets hope he has improved his crossing route timing.

Smith moved the ball yesterday against a soft defense that did not plan for him. Looked good but no indication of long-term success. Just like Hill in some of those past late season games,

The Colts will be blitzing him like crazy seeing if the line can hold up and if Smith can take a hit. This is where Raye will have to come up with creative plays to give him a chance to shine. I am a little concerned about this. Past evidence indicates Raye is as creative as a pet rock.

Oneniner, I gave you your props for staunchly supporting this kid. All of you new found Smith supporters give it a rest. Even a broken clock is correct twice a day. In the next few weeks it will become obvious if this guy has learned anything. For all of our benefit lets hope this kid has developed a PhD in NFL QB skills.

I am so tired of all the losing we have endured, I just want to see some consistent results and a couple of wins against a good team not a team named the Rams, Hawks or Cards. When it comes to division games it’s always a crapshoot and most of these teams suck despite the Cards run last year.

Mike JOHNson is the QB coach. Get his name right -- we owe him thanks. Yes, I had the same thought about the QB coach during yesterday's game, listening to Gary Plummer's call on the radio. "The one knock on Alex Smith was always his decision-making, and now I see him coming off his primary receiver and running through his progression (or words to that effect) so fast! I see him throwing to a spot, before his receiver gets there!" ("throwing" his receiver open)

Schizoid or fully realized in the highest yogic attainment...you be the judge!

We did not draft A. Smith at 22-23. He was 20 years old, the youngest QB in the league and possibly the youngest player overall! A great student, he was ready to graduate in his junior year, so he came out early. A child among men, like Magic Johnson coming into the NBA.

I have definitely been an Alex Smith basher... But, I always said if he could ever prove me wrong and finally live up to his potential, I would love it. He did do well yesterday, although he was going against a defense that figured they had it wrapped... Now that defenses will be game-planning him, I'll be interested to see if he can play at the same level. I certainly hope so, because we're playing one of (if not) the best next week.

yea u r rite.....i should know better......

Randy in Santa Rosa - another poster who lacks credibility .......when talking football

This whole argument over Smith and Hill is pretty funny here because most of it's more about people's personal egos than who's going to give the Niners the best chance to win. Very little objectivity.

For the Hill fans, it should be pretty obvious that with no running game and the O-line problems he didn't stand much of a chance with his passing limitations and lack of confidence of his OC(the playcalling). Hill's "O" leads the league in 3 and outs as well as punts even if it wasn't all his fault.

For the Smith fans, one half of very good QBing doesn't mean he's ARRIVED. I admit I was impressed especially because Smith hadn't played in a real game for 2 years. He needs to do it on a regular basis now. Having an accurate stronger armed QB would sure help both the receiving corps and the running game. My guess is we'll atleast see alot more firstdowns .

The big question is will JRs conservative playcalling hamstring Smith as bad as it did Hill or will they( he and Singletary) open things up and be more aggressive on offense. It sounded like Singletary is starting to see the light in his press conference today. I'm sure the "D" would appreciate it as much as we would. Guess we'll find out pretty quick.

LOL, lacks credibility? I might have been wrong about Alex... That said, I'll make sure to remind you of that comment if he bombs though.

For the sake of the team I hope he does well. But he's got a lot to prove still. Sure, there needed to be a change. But Hill still did a lot more for this team than Alex ever has. Hopefully Alex will finally get it done.

StevenG's mention of the 21-3 "game" was in reference to Smith's HALF that he played in; he is correct in that reference. Alex was not responsible for the first half of the game (when he was not playing).

2nd point: Alex WAS trying to get the team closer to the endzone when he threw his last pass (that was intercepted). What do you think he was trying to do? (I forgot who made that remark.)

Mike in Sac: "I just want to see some consistent results and a couple of wins against a good team--not a team named the Rams, Hawks or Cards."

Don't tell me you don't think the Cards are NOT a good team; they have the BEST WR-TRIO in the NFL as well as a darn good QB. And they made it to the Super Bowl last year...

Regarding AS's age, he was not yet 21 when we drafted him; so he was VERY young--and still IS.

Niner Mom

Can we stop digging up graves or resurrecting ghosts of the past? Let's just discuss things rationally and with proof, please.

sorry man i live in new york and i have a job, i got on as much as possible! haha

dude you gotta admit this, i really didnt say anything negative about ya. i said you are obsessed with Alex Smith, i believe that you are and frankly im fine with it. Im exremely passionate about football specifically 9er football. i wld say at one point i was obssessed with hating Mark roman.

my beef is just i didnt root against the guy or attack him. i know you dont feel hill is the best qb, thats an understatement, but you come aross as player first team second which is why u typically get a hard time from ppl.

i will admit tho your boy did well and like i said i hope the guy goes to the probowl cuz that means we are in the playoffs! im a 49er fan first. and if we traded for J russell i wld root for him!! i rooted for Roman when he played and i hated him.
in this sense all i said is that your boy played well u shld be happy (just keep in mind everyone gets it man, be happy but a bit humble) and i hope he keeps it up...

PS going on Vaca this weekend boys, ill be in Indy and FIRED UP!! paid 200+ per ticket and driving half way cross the country all for the 4th deck... thats 9er love!!

They better get some better O Line play. The Colts D is fast break and will destroy the O Line if they keep up their mediocre play.

As far as stopping the Indy Colts?
yea. No problem .except for:
They don't have a shut down corner
Or a mad man off the end rushing the QB..

So to sum it up:
they don't rush the QB well
and they don't have great DB's..
and they are playing Peyton Manning..
at Lucas ..
Kind of a rough way for Smith to make his "re-start"..

Martz said the following on NFL Network:

"I think it is the right move. Alex Smith looked like the former No. 1 overall pick that they hoped he would be in this game. He was nothing short of outstanding."

"He gives them the best opportunity because he takes the ball down the field. Those receivers have not had a lot of opportunities, and with Smith, I think they will have those opportunities."

Say what you want about Martz, he does know quarterbacks.

Right on Shane O.

The point is team first but some that dislike a player will root against them just for their own reasons. This makes me sick because if you are rooting against a player of ours on the field then you don't care about the team.

Have a good trip Shane!!!!

Totally. Brady, Manning and JT O'Sullivan are elite QB's (j/k).
You don't beat Indy 12-7, you hope to outscore them 53-47. The power running/possession thing won't either. Peyton needs 4 minutes to score 30 points

Listening to Rod Brooks on KNBR this afternoon it was clear that A Smith added a spark that was missing, enhanced Crabtree's contribution and showed greater mobility than Hill.

What was also evident was that Houston played soft after their 21-0 lead, had a hole in their secondary that failed to account for T Davis, and didn't have enough offensive variety to adequately lock the game up in the end. NONE OF THESE WILL BE FACTORS ON SUNDAY.

As noted what makes Indy great is that they don't release their foot from the pedal. I subscribe to the "Any given Sunday" rule but utilizing all of our newfound "weapons".

Umm....yeah.

We lead the league in 3-&-outs and punts per game. That's worse than the Raiders and winless Bucs, Rams & Titans.
And that's not because Alex Smith and Crabtree weren't involved. It's because our O line blows chinks this side of Oakland.

Let's not bash this guy and praise that guy...Hill excelled with the SAME EXACT team that Smith failed with last season. Hill added a spark last year just as Smith did yesterday. Screw the excuses. It is what it is. Smith is the QB now so that's the guy I'm rooting for.

I bashed on him before and with GOOD REASON. BUT:
If he doesn't have the ball stripped from him this Sunday because of holding on to the ball WAY too long, if he doesn't glue his eyes to his first read and throws it right into a safety's arms, if he gets an angry look on his face and starts yelling at some guys or refs and getting pumped up, then was maturing under Norv Turner.

People are quick to recognize Turner's influence but does anyone remember we had a healthy line more often than not comprised of names like Larry Allen, Jonas Jennings, Justin Smiley and Eric Heitmann? Funny what a good line will do for a QB's maturity.

If we start a losing trend then EVERYBODY will hear their names on the chopping block (especially with all the heavy-hitter names out there):
Sing because of his coordinator and clock management deficiencies,
Raye because of a total lack of creativity and especially McCloughan due to his complete and utter dearth of offensive line picks, save Staley.

Before the season did anybody have Denver undefeated at week 7? A HOF coach is fired, the franchise QB is traded and Mike Nolan is your DC. R U kidding me?
But now Brandon Marshall is a happy camper, Nolan's a defensive "guru" and McDaniels is the new boy wonder.

Winning cures everything.

After basking in the Walsh-Siefert-Mooch years I've weathered the Erickson and Nolan years. But I can't EFFING stand to see worst-to-first turnarounds (MIA in '08, NO in '09, etc) while we've been "a year away" for the last 6 years.

Faith71,

You lack credibility with your rant when you are comparing Hill with Smith's production last year. Smith has not played a completely healthy game since Game 3 of 2007 and he was on injured reserve throughout last season.

How can you, or anyone else for that matter, bash a guy who has not played a meaningful game in two years? What are you bashing exactly?

Hill had the same chance as Smith the previous week with a big deficit in the second half AT HOME and did not produce. That is a fair and accurate comparison.

"How many passes did Smith complete yesterday that were crossing routes? I don't remember any"

Just watched - threw a perfect crossing pass to Morgan.

Smokindoggies isn't sure if this is important, but then Smokindoggies thinks Smokindoggies is too tired to keep blogging.

After watching tonight's MNF game I wish we had drafted Desean Jackson instead of Chilo Rashal last year and we could have had a stud offensive lineman like Oher this year.

Does "Let's not bash this guy and praise this guy" mean anything?

How bout recalling the success we had when we had a solid o-line regardless of who was QB or OC? Anything?

I'm not interested in a Smith vs. Hill debate or Smith had the same chance as Hill last year, etc, etc, ETC! Who gives a shite! They both failed after long and unless the o-line fiasco is addressed (which won't happen this year) EVERYONE will lack credibillity from the GM to the HC to the OC.

Pretty good analysis on Smith...

Bryant on the other hand...

"It was so bad that in the second half of the season, the coaching staff and Smith had pretty much given up on him."

Bryant sucked the whole year other than the first two games, and was then suspended the last 2 by the NFL for a DUI on 101

1.Why is our 2nd highest paid receiver inactive?
2.Why is Spurlock on the team?
3.Why is Nate Clements still calling himself "Lock Down"? (Is he going to prison?)
4.Why are people talking about next years draft when we still have 10 games THIS SEASON?
5.How did Jimmy Raye get the Job?
6.Why can't Sing manage the clock/play calling?(See S. Hill for game management)
7.Why are the young secondary players always hurt when we need them? (Brown,R.Smith)
8.Why is Bruce still starting?(You can show respect, but we're trying to win)
9.Why can't Nedney ever reach the end zone on kickoffs without the help of the wind?
10.Why is the warm beer so expensive at the games?

My Answers:
1.) Bad sign. Move on, he will probably never be much.
2.) Unless he is returning kicks I don't know.
3.) Not going to prison. Hopefully going to safety next season.
4.) The top 10 pick of the Panthers is going to net a great player in this stacked draft class.
5.) None of the OC's that know what the hell they are doing would agree to run the ball 60% of the time with a piss poor OLine.
6.) When talking about a QB's game management they are referring to doing the little things to keep the clock moving or stopped depending on the situation, making smart plays, and not turning the ball over. Not the clock management as much, and Sing should be responsible for some of that.
7.) There either injury prone or bad luck... either way I think that you can never have enough good DB's.
8.) Bruce should be taken out and give the young guys a chance to play, namely Hill. (THE WRONG HILL PLAYED!)
9.) He is old. We don't play in Denver.
10.) They think its more exotic because thats how they serve it in europe.

Sunday's game in Indy could be a real shootout...I'm hoping Singletary activates Brandon Jones, giving Alex another playmaker. Also a good chance Gore will be more of a receiver, given the pass rush Indy has, plus some draws to slow it down.

If we come out of the 1st round with one of the top FS and a stud OT, I'll be happy. No QB!

I'll cut Singletary/Raye a little slack IF they show they're willing to open up the playbook so Alex can get the ball downfield on a regular basis. If not, then I'll be on the Shanahan bandwagon...just imagine what it could be like. You know he'd fix our OL and get a better stable of RB's. You know he'd be a great coach for Alex, Nate Davis and Hill. He'd have to be willing to work with a top GM...I don't think Jed York or most any owner will give him the autonomy he had in Denver. One of Bill Walsh's most successful disciples, coming home...has a nice ring to it, eh.

I did a little looking ahead at the Carolina schedule for the rest of the season since most seem interested in that pick. Here are my predictions for them for the rest of the season:

@ ARI - L
@ NOR - L
ATL - L
MIA - L
@ NYJ - L
TB - W
@ NE - L
MIN - L
@ NYG - L
NO - L

That would give them a 3-13 record if I am right on this. I know this is assuming alot and anything could happen, so even if they win 3 more than I predict we are still looking at a top 10 draft pick no matter what. Their schedule is super tough the rest of the year.

I would love to see them land either Mays or Berry if available, or a top T... there doesn't seem to be any G's high on the expert's rankings

LOL.

Love #3 which reminds me of ATL's Chris Houston (He referred to himself as"lockdown" in the '07 Combine.
He was going to fall right in our lap at #41 in the 2nd rd.

McCloughan later said in a KNBR interview that he was the player that we were coveting but when ATL's picking him, it preempted the trade with Indy. They traded their '08 1st rounder and their '07 4th rounder.

We picked Dashon Goldson in '07 and Balmer in '08.

Indy picked Tony Ugoh.

I really wanted Houston. Stuff happens.

I've been watching their schedule closely and was pi$$ed that the Redskins couldn't hang on to the lead and beat them in week 5.

That's a legit claim you make (even with the +3 differential). Yeah, let's hope we can make out on next year's pick the way NE made out with Jerod Mayo when we traded our '08 pick.

I still can't believe how they wound up with the defensive ROY!

Frank- A real shoot out? thats funny do you do stand up? Because a shoot out requires it to be close.. and I don't see this game being close ... Atlanta hangs near half a hundred on them .. and that was with a 2nd year QB and NOT the best in the game..
This one could be ugly... real ugly real fast..because the COLTS aren't going to slow down when it is 21-0 they will make it 35-0 just because of the 49ers 2nd half comeback..

Does anyone remember the first game Alez smith startedback in 2005. they pulled Rattay out & brought in Smith to face....the Colts!

9erlakeshow... Bryant was better than any reciever we have AT THIS POINT OF THE SEASON. I think Crabs and Davis will be better than Bryant. Time will tell. Just trying to make the point that smith did have a speedy deep threat that year. And Bryant did ok that year. Go niners and lakers!

Ahhhh get your feelings hurt? Go back to some of the other blogs and you'll catch my drift. And why are you posting opinions on here? Does anybody give a crap what you have to say? Calm down buddy. Don't take it so personal. And if you can't handle other opinions then why the he'll are you on here? Eeezy tiger.

Really hailmarys huh. Keep stretching. Average yard per pass 6.5 that means he didn't throw deep often fool. And can you realy put his percentage on drop passes. No. You have facts on those drops? No! Do you remember if the passes were hi or low or up?I do! You can't put in drops in a statistical arguement. We don't know who's fault it is or what's catchable. Uless you have all of those throws on footage. And you just might because you sound like a smith stalker. You tried, but you can't argue he couldn't make a short throw accuratly period. And I don't hate the guy just his game. You had no problem bashing other parts of the team did you?

ninermd,, Bryant was not that productive while in SF..40 catches 3 td's... Not all of it was his fault. rotating OC's, BAD head man etc..
The LAKERS??? NOW there is a BRYANT that can score WOOOOOO
well as long as it isn't the Cavaliers or any other Eastern conf team...

And who the he'll said I liked hill? That's the problem with you smith lovers. Your trying to make it a hill vs smith arguement. They both suck. Time to move on. Whoever can win and be a solid qb I'm rooting for. It's about the team. Not one player. So switch your Alex smith pantys in for some niner boxers. Get a clue on what winning football is about. It's not smith or hill!

Amen, i am with you. Tired of losing for the past 6 years and waiting for a major trun around. Come on guys please shock the world and beat INDY next week.

Sorry. It is Mike Johnson, of course. I must have been thinking of a former Giants pitcher.

However, my error underscores the point I was trying to make. Johnson does not get enough ink from the Bay Area media. He may turn out to be Singletary's best coaching hire, and maybe a future OC once Raye hangs it up.

It's amazing to me how divisive this Smith v Hill thing is amongst fans. At the end of the day, we're arguing over which guy sucks the least. I really hope Smith proves me wrong but I simply haven't seen anything that would lead me to believe he can be above average. I expect the 9ers will open it up a bit this week either by design or out of necessity as the Colts will put up points. I'm going to see if Smith still has that windup delivery or if they've shortened his throwing motion. I also want to see if he's improved his footwork and accuracy. He also needed to improve his pocket presence so that will be another thing to watch. Even if he doesn't have great numbers but those things are improved I will consider it an encouraging sign.

Ninermd, now that your football knowledge and insecurity has been exposed, you come back with the snarling dog routine and try to deny your previous posts that you thought would have mob support, but didn't. Credibility is not your strong suit. Neither is intelligence. You may now snarl away at anyone who implies there is a strong resemblance between noodles and your cranial network.

Now that defenses will be game-planning him, I'll be interested to see if he can play at the same level.

And I will be praying that he can.

Sing hinted that they would open it up more now. If he really thinks he has a chance against Indy without doing so, he's high. We can't run...yet. Give us some more wide open passing to some of our new found talent (Crabtree, Davis, ) and we might start to see the run game get better.

I was stoked to see Smith play so well in the 2nd half. But I am also a realist, and I have to see him start and finish a game at that level before I anoint him anything. Although, I think he should be the starter now regardless of how he plays Sunday. I agree that you can't just flip flop repeatedly on QB. Go Smith. May the force be with you.

Indy Game keys:

1. Stop Dallas Clark. Whatever game plan Manusky had to contain Owen Daniels clearly did not work. Normally when a team has a big play tight end, opponents try and shadow him with their best linebacker. Last Sunday, the Niners used Willis to blitz a lot more than usual leaving the Safetys to cover Daniels. Did not work. Hopefully Manusky will come up with a better scheme this week.

2. Double cover Reggie Wayne. If this means Garcon or Collie torch you so be it. Don't let Wayne be the guy who beats you.

3. Pressure Payton Manning. Let Harrelson, Macdonald, and Lawson watch films of Indy Vs. Pittsburgh games from recent years. Pittsburgh somehow always seems to be able to put pressure on Indy QB, and Manning has had some of his worst games against the Steelers.

4. Sustain long drives on offense. Payton gets frustrated if he has to stand about on the sidelines, particularly if Indy falls behind. If Smith can keep converting first downs and thus shorten the game, the Niners have a chance.

5. Pray.

Comment: (Niners QB coach Mike) Johnson does not get enough ink from the Bay Area media. He may turn out to be Singletary's best coaching hire, and maybe a future OC once Raye hangs it up.

My response: There's a reason for that. Johnson is not allow to speak to the print reporters about any of the team's current players. I've interviewed him once and there was a PR person in the room who cut off his answer when he started to tell me about Alex Smith and Shaun Hill. By the way, he said when he first got here Alex's mechanics were not very good. But here are two pieces I wrote about Johnson from that one interview:

http://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/20090808/sports/908089962?Title=Quarterbacking-101

http://blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers/2009/08/johnson-leads-qbs-through-daily-drills.html

--Matt M.

..You are FRAUD......with no credibility

"I'm going to see if Smith still has that windup delivery or if they've shortened his throwing motion. I also want to see if he's improved his footwork and accuracy. "

DUDE - YOU WERE AT THE GAME IN HOUSTON!!!!

He was 6 for 6 at one point in the game, are you telling us you didn't notice his footwork during the game you watched, you didn't see him escape pressure and improvise.......

Plz ...shhhh...spare us the ridiculous comments or out dated opinion...

You have no credibility talking about niner football

shh...and read comments from those that are informed...

this guy is pathetic....damn eat sum more crow....

MM - Any word on Brandon Jones....

Is he in practice.....plz give us something on him....

The Colts will throw 9 men at Smith like teams always did. They never respected him. Even in 2006 we had the box stacked and Gore only got yards, because he ran behind Larry Allen that year all the time.

This time around Smith has better receivers, but still a very shaky O-line especially at the guard-position. Freeney and Mathis will be looking forward to this meeting.
If Smith really matured and hopefully isn´t too rusty he needs to find hot-receivers and they need to be on the same page.

The problem in this game won´t be Smith anyway....it´s the defense that worries me much more!

thanks man! a good sunday withh only result if we get a W, and for some reason i actually believe its possible!

I have always thought Staley was being used out of position which was necessitated by the lack of offensive personnel. His greatest asset is his speed. He would be a great guard, perhaps even an All-Pro. Of course he would be a good RT if we could draft dominating LT. It isn't all Rachal's fault in the middle as a better RT would help him.

For that matter David Baas won the Dave Rimington Trophy, awarded to college football's top center when he played at Michigan. That might be his best position also.

Alex Smith has proved nothing. As I have said before, Alex Smith only plays well when a game no longer matters. When he came into the Houston game, it was "over". Alex did well, as he always does when it "over". As soon as he caught up and the game was within reach again, guess what? He threw the pick.

For the love of my team that I have loved my entire life, I hope the Alex Smith story turns into a fairy tail. Regardless of our QB situation, this year was a year to be very excited due to the defense alone.

I will repeat my analysis of Alex Smith so everyone can watch and see what happens.

Alex Smith is too cerebral. He spends too much time thinking about what he should do instead of just doing it. It takes instinct to just do it. I don't see that with Alex. When he plays it's like there's a stutter. It's his thought process over-thinking the play. He's a very smart guy, maybe too smart.

What ends up happening with Alex is he thinks too much, doesn't do well, and we fall behind. Then, once a game seems out of reach, Alex starts to do well. When we're losing bad, Alex looks like an elite QB. It's because at that point, there's no pressure. His mind abandons expectation and he just plays. It's the "f*** it" mentality. When you have nothing to lose, you have nothing to fear. QB's who can play like that all the time have that thing we call "moxy". Alex Smith has good physical tools, but they mean nothing until he can just say "f*** it" and step onto the field without fear. Fear of what is expected of him.

Personally, we screwed Alex Smith up. He was thrust into the line up when he should have had time to develop behind a veteran. I'm not sure that Alex will be able to get over what happened to him, but I hope for our team that he does.

One half of football, in a game that was already "over", which allowed Alex to come in and just air it up doesn't tell us where Alex Smith is right now. But we're about to find out.

Just say "f*** it" Alex, and play the game.

GO NINERS!!

"As I have said before, Alex Smith only plays well when a game no longer matters."

Hogwash. At the end of the 2006 season and the first game of the 2007 season, Smith led 4th quarter come back victories against Seattle, Denver, and Arizona. 3 times in 4 games. Two games later he went on IR for two years.

now come on Houston ~ u sure that "steak and glass of wine" you were eating yesterday instead of oneniners dish of crow wasn't really a Big Mac and a Budweiser from a can? Please.

Matt,

How much of Smith's success was attributed to the Texans playing a soft defense? Were they in prevent for most of the 2nd half? Also, do you think this is the franchizes way of saying if Smith doesn't work out,(lets see what he can do) we need to go in a completely different direction at the QB posiiton?

So if Alex Smith retires today all the Smith backers would say he was great because of one half of a football game. Is that how it works? All of those Smith backers who have yelled from the rooftops that it's not fair to judge him too soon based on 2 years of football are ready to now say he's finally arrived after 1/2 of a game when the defense was clearly in prevent mode. I turn you're argument on you. Dont judge him too soon. He had a very very good game making the intermediate throws to VD. He also completely missed a wide open back in the flats. He also couldn't drive the team down the field for a winning score in the 2 minute offense. He also threw an Int to seal the deal for Houston. Go ahead and bash the guys saying to tone it down with the Smith love. If you think about it, you're creating unreasonable expectations for the kid. You think somehow Smith is going to take the 29th ranked offense in the NFL and turn it around overnight. It will not happen that way. Let's just look for improvement in his play and take it from there. Sunday was a good start for him and nothing more.

BEKKON you're a fraud!!! you have sure changes your tone!!! Your words mean nothing to me

Wow. The Alex bashing continues. Honestly, there are that many fans out there who think the fisherman would still be the better option?

I'll admit that I've thrown Alex under the school bus a few times on this blog, but blame it on my draft crush with Mark Sanchez.

I honestly hope the kid makes a game of it in Indy. If he sees Dwight Freeney getting loose around the corner, don't walk – run. Go niners.

NINERMD..... YOU SUCK and you're clueless

Weren't you rooting agianst and bashing Alex Smith?? pssh

Just to get off the QB subject for moment, did anyone see the Phili / Wash game last night? DeShawn Jackson looked great again. Thank God we passed on him and got Ketwam Bust Balmer in that draft. Jackson would be great in combo with Crabtree and would have our punt returner problem solved. Oh well!

Just to get off the QB subject for moment, did anyone see the Phili / Wash game last night? DeShawn Jackson looked great again. Thank God we passed on him and got Kentwam Bust Balmer in that draft. Jackson would be great in combo with Crabtree and would have our punt returner problem solved. Oh well!

Alex Smith is now the starting QB for YOUR SF 49ERS!!

Deal with it, get on board and support your team. I truely hope he shuts all of you people up, and we can start focusing on the bigger issues this team faces.

He's 25 not 35, people. Also, he wears a SF logo on his helmet - he wants to succeed and he wants to win. SACK-UP

Just to get off the QB subject for moment, did anyone see the Phili / Wash game last night? DeShawn Jackson looked great again. Thank God we passed on him and got Kentwam Bust Balmer in that draft. Jackson would be great in combo with Crabtree and would have our punt returner problem solved. Oh well!

I totally agree; however, do you think we would've taken Crabs if we had Jackson already? Would be hard not to have if he had fallen in our lap, but I still think they would've and should've went O-line even if he had fallen in our lap and already had jackson.

Can't have two guys like that with no line and no QB, but I was thinking the same thing last night... Balmer??? We passed Jackson not once, but twice...

Balmer and Rachal..... YUCK

A couple of points.

On the first play from scrimmage, certainly the first series, LT Staley pinched inside leaving the right defensive tackle untouched. It appeared Hill arm faked and got the DT to jump. Seems Hill could have taken a slide step to his right at that time and gained another second or two instead of standing there and getting crunched/sacked.

During camp there was a reported incident in which Smith threw an interception and was relegated to the "hill." What's interesting is that, reportedly, the entire offensive line joined him. Seems like this was a sign of respect.

When Smith entered the game in the second half of the last game, the game was not over, proven by the fact that the team was one completion away from attempting a tying field goal, or possibly, a leading TD. If, indeed, Houston was playing prevent defense it didn't work out real well as three TDs were scored and they were in position to score again.

Finally, when Smith was drafted his college coach said he had a long learning curve but when he mastered the offense he would be very good. Hopefully Smith has reached the end or near the end of his learning curve and will now be very productive. After all, the past years haven't afforded him the opportunity to observe and learn from the side line.

Finally, while everyone is entitled to their opinion, how about letting the coaches coach. They're the ones who should have the best idea of who should be playing and in what position. Further, it may be a tad premature to decide what player should be drafted and who will be available in next year's draft.

WHERE IS TOP_CAT?????????????????

he his eating his crow....

...ok in all honesty...it really feels good feeding you sum more the crow...

but in all fairness...seems like you have brain lock...

Nobody is claiming A.Smith should be starting because of wins or losses, or because of what he did in the past ...or because he played well last week...

A.Smith should be starting because we invested in him....and even though we had unrealistc expectation for him, he has proven one thing HE CAN GROW

That is it....it does not matter if he sucks next game (Great QB's play badly once in a while)...the point is he his the best QB on the roster because there is a huge POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH....

your assumption that "So if Alex Smith retires today all the Smith backers would say he was great because of one half of a football game."

proves the point you will make up anything like your dad the drugster to prove a dumb point.....

nobody cares if A.Smith is the greatest, what the fans care about is giving the kid a chance to grow with TALENT......

.....Houston you show us more how much you lack credibility not just in football but also in common sense....

Hopefully Smith is not eating turf from cooks Freeney/Mathis.

Razoreater - another dark soul with no credibility...

....you really don't think anyone is taking you seriously now with ur hopeless thoughts.....

Do i need to say it - can you just ban yourself from the site because of your false claims and unformed brain.....

Didn't we bet A.Smith would be starting in game 7....lol...

another dark soul with no credibility on the blog...

you hope or you wish....we know yu loser....yu don't have to fake it....

This still makes me laugh out loud and think of poor Alex's rookie year:

NFL Combine Numbers:

Alex Smith – Right Hand: 9 3/8 Inches
Michael Crabtree – Right Hand: 9 1/4 Inches

Yes boys - Smith has larger hands than Crabtree.

oneniner: I thank you and all for the prayers and thoughts!
Now back to 49er ball! I give you kudos for having the insight of believing Smith has progressed in his QB skills. At least that's the way it looked for 1/2 Sunday.
I have backed Hill's selection as the #1 QB! I may have been wrong but only time will tell as it did about Hill. Hill went from starter to a punching bag for the oppositions defense because of the complete lack of an OL. And worse yet, complete ineptitude on the part of the whole offensive coaching staff, including MS!
My hope is that Smith gets some kind of protection. But I admit he was getting rid of the ball a lot quicker than Hill ever did. And by the looks of things this may save his life! Hill looks like a 50 year old guy after just 6 weeks.
My biggest concern is the play calling of this offensive (I mean that both ways) coaching staff! I hope they will allow the good that Smith can bring to the QB position to be used and not abused. Going by what we've seen in the first 6 games there is little if any logic or willingness to change in the minds of this coaching staff! EVERYBODY including the teams we face KNOW the OL sucks big time! And they must sit watching films licking their chops seeing the refusal of the 49ers coaches to understand they have a problem there, and love their unwillingness to change despite of the problem.
At the 49er press conference Monday MS looked like a guy who just doesn't get why his type of football won't work on the offensive side of the ball. It was like pulling teeth, by his answers about Chilo and the rest of the OL, to admit that his philosophy of moving the ball isn't working! He just doesn't get it!!
My hope now is that Smith can force a change to this outdated, failed attempt at moving the ball. Hill certainly couldn't and to some extent allowed it to continue because of his short comings, and allowed MS to stick to his philosophy by using Hill!
I HOPE Smith will enlighten this coaching staff! That he can show them on the field what this offense can do despite its obvious weaknesses on the OL! That he will show them that they can add big time to the playbook because of his skills!
And most of all! That Alex won't look 50 years old after 6 weeks of starting!!

SORRY IF THIS IS A REPEAT! BUT THERE IS A PROBLEM!
oneniner: I thank you and all for the prayers and thoughts!
Now back to 49er ball! I give you kudos for having the insight of believing Smith has progressed in his QB skills. At least that's the way it looked for 1/2 Sunday.
I have backed Hill's selection as the #1 QB! I may have been wrong but only time will tell as it did about Hill. Hill went from starter to a punching bag for the oppositions defense because of the complete lack of an OL. And worse yet, complete ineptitude on the part of the whole offensive coaching staff, including MS!
My hope is that Smith gets some kind of protection. But I admit he was getting rid of the ball a lot quicker than Hill ever did. And by the looks of things this may save his life! Hill looks like a 50 year old guy after just 6 weeks.
My biggest concern is the play calling of this offensive (I mean that both ways) coaching staff! I hope they will allow the good that Smith can bring to the QB position to be used and not abused. Going by what we've seen in the first 6 games there is little if any logic or willingness to change in the minds of this coaching staff! EVERYBODY including the teams we face KNOW the OL sucks big time! And they must sit watching films licking their chops seeing the refusal of the 49ers coaches to understand they have a problem there, and love their unwillingness to change despite of the problem.
At the 49er press conference Monday MS looked like a guy who just doesn't get why his type of football won't work on the offensive side of the ball. It was like pulling teeth, by his answers about Chilo and the rest of the OL, to admit that his philosophy of moving the ball isn't working! He just doesn't get it!!
My hope now is that Smith can force a change to this outdated, failed attempt at moving the ball. Hill certainly couldn't and to some extent allowed it to continue because of his short comings, and allowed MS to stick to his philosophy by using Hill!
I HOPE Smith will enlighten this coaching staff! That he can show them on the field what this offense can do despite its obvious weaknesses on the OL! That he will show them that they can add big time to the playbook because of his skills!
And most of all! That Alex won't look 50 years old after 6 weeks of starting!!

You're a complete moron!! Go join Raider nation all you're trying to do is pi$$ us off and I just laugh because you're ssssooooo pathetic

LMAO LOL LOL LOL

Thank you!

Clueless huh? Well at least I know Alex smith sucks! You lose. When smith gets the boot. Take a hike with him. Your not a niner fan, just a smith fan. Adios sucka!

"you didn't see him escape pressure and improvise......."

I saw it, I remember Smith eluding a sack and then running for a first down

"Alex Smith is too cerebral. He spends too much time thinking about what he should do instead of just doing it."

WHAT???????????

Alex Smith is too smart... great argument, we should go out and find the dumbest QB and start him right away.
I don't know if you know this, but Steve Young is one of the smartest guys to play QB in the NFL and if I remember correctly that worked out pretty well

Adios SUCKA?? I'm not going anywhere NinerMD..

Are you ghetto now too? You're s Smith hater not a niner fan. I support who ever is wearing that jersey and while he is still a part of this team you bet your @$$ I'm going to pull for him.

Get a life dude!

Adios SUCKA?? I'm not going anywhere NinerMD..

Are you ghetto now too? You're s Smith hater not a niner fan. I support who ever is wearing that jersey and while he is still a part of this team you bet your @$$ I'm going to pull for him.

Get a life dude!

I don't think he was talking about Alex's IQ, just the fact that he thinks too much. I agree. He used to spend too much time thinking about what he was doing and taking too many sacks and throwing too many INTs. Hopefully, with practice, it's more instinctual now. That's the point of practice. Get the thinking done there so when it's game time, it's all pre-programmed. Ever heard of muscle memory? This is where I think the revolving door at OC has hurt Alex the most.

For those doing all the talking about "eating crow", please stop wasting my time on this blog. I read this to get a feel for other 49er fans opinions about our team. I'm tired of all the "nyah nyah nyah, I told you so" stuff. Intelligent discussion of the topic at hand. Nuff said

Alex Smith, you support our team and not just one player? Why's your screen name Alex Smith then? There goes any question of objectivity on your part.

Marco

Interesting observations regarding our incumbent offensive linemen. . .one wonders why the 49ers draft an individual playing one position in college (and excelling), and put that same player at another position, in the NFL:

Adam Snyder, Pac 10 Lineman of the Year, Oregon, LEFT Tackle, Round 3 2005.
Eric Heitmann, 3 time All-Pac 10, Stanford, GUARD, Round 7 2002.
David Baas, Rimington Award winner, Michigan, CENTER, Round 2 2005.

Waddaya think: that position-change thing working out?