Alex Smith Is Once Again The Starting QB For The 49ers

That’s the question SBN’s Niners Nation asks. Beyond the obvious rapport Smith displayed with tight end Vernon Davis ast week, Niners Nation hopes that by breathing life into the team’s passing game, Smith can force teams to back their safeties off the line of scrimmage, and revive the Niners’ moribund running attack as well. From Niners Nation:

Aside from two great runs against Seattle, Frank Gore and the 49ers rushing attack has left a lot to be desired after a very impressive preseason. If this team is going to be successful and potentially make the playoffs, they have to establish the run game at a greater level than where it currently resides. Will elevating Alex Smith into the starting lineup bring enough to make that happen?

The answer to the question obviously depends on Smith’s performance in the passing game. However, his skills would seem to be sufficiently better than Shaun Hill to keep defenses honest. Alex Smith does not have to be a superstar in this offense for the team to move the ball efficiently. Sure he needs to be able to make big plays, but as I said at some point with Shaun Hill, the passing game does not have to be Colts-esque. The difference between Shaun Hill and Alex Smith is that Smith can make more of the deep throws necessary to keep the defense honest.

Alex Smith has waited for two years to get his shot again as the 49ers’ quarterback. That time is now, and he’s ready:

Smith also said he realizes he was handed the starting job as a rookie based on potential. So this time he is coming about the starting job in a different way. Smith has earned it.

Does that help his confidence? Smith said he’s more confident, in general, at this stage of his career. He said he did look more confident on film in yesterday’s game, but it’s the same way he’s been playing – or practicing – for a while. “I haven’t had a chance to display it for a couple years.”

Smith will have a tough task in his first start back as he and his team will travel to Indianapolis to battle the undefeated Colts on Sunday.