Jim Harbaugh deserves the highest praise for benching Alex Smith and starting Colin Kaepernick.
It would have been easy for Harbaugh to hand the starting quarterback job back to Alex Smith after he returned from his concussion. Very few experts would have criticized Harbaugh for that conservative, timid move. After all, Smith is the fourth-highest rated quarterback in the NFL, and he’s a veteran and he’s a winner.
Harbaugh didn’t make the safe decision. He made a bold decision, an unprecedented decision, and the right decision.
Kaepernick gives the 49ers a better chance to win a Super Bowl this season than Alex Smith. Kaepernick makes the offense more explosive and more difficult to defend.
Harbaugh knows this, and that’s why he made the switch.
It’s a tough switch to justify, because there is no historical precedent on which to back it up. No Super Bowl winner has ever chosen to bench a veteran quarterback with a 100+ QB rating for a novice QB this late in the season.
Harbaugh doesn’t care to justify himself. He wants to be a pioneer. That is why the 49ers hired him in the first place – to be creative and audacious, to develop an elite quarterback and to win the Super Bowl.
If Harbaugh thought Alex Smith could win the Super Bowl this season, he would still be the starter. Harbaugh’s putting himself on the line by starting Kaepernick, going against the experts’ opinions and doing what he thinks gives the 49ers the best chance to win the Super Bowl in a few months.
Besides, if Kaepernick falters, Harbaugh can always go back to Smith. It’s as simple as that.
Praise Harbaugh for putting himself on the line. Praise Harbaugh for making the right decision.
49ers RSS feed
Loading ...
How many QB’s in the history of the NFL have been benched after achieving the following stats:
Smith ranks first in the NFL in completion percentage (70.0), third in the NFL in passer rating (104.1), third in average gain per attempt (7.98 yards), and fifth in touchdown and interception percentages. He is eighth in the league in third-down passing with a 94.5 rating.
I’ll save you the time: NONE.
Good luck Harbaugh, ask Nolan how well it worked out when he tried to bench Smith after his injury…
You are not watching the games. How many points has Smith left on the table after every game? Ill give YOU a hint: Lots. Look how CK put his receivers in position for YAC. Smith’s passes are almost always slow to the WR and mis placed. CK hits them in stride and allows his playmakers to do that -make a play on the ball.
You are not watching the games. How many points has Smith left on the table after every game? Ill give YOU a hint: Lots. Look how CK put his receivers in position for YAC. Smith’s passes are almost always slow to the WR and mis placed. CK hits them in stride and allows his playmakers to do that -make a play on the ball.
Also – did you forget to mention that he’s 31st and 29th in very important stats?
Pass attempts and yardage are the least important stats in football. Why? Because they are correlated with losing.
Exhibit ‘A’, Carson Palmer.
Coffee,
Smiths stats are skewed. They always have been. It’s the efficiency of the offense and the effectiveness of the scheme.
1. 70% completion percentage. That’s skewed because Smith rarely throws a pass over 10 yards down the field. In addition to that, the passes often don’t amount to anything other than a completion, not a 1st down. As evidenced by his 3rd down efficiency.
2. Yard per completion is heavily influenced by YAC from his receivers. Crabtree especially. The buffalo game didn’t hurt.
Let me sum it up for you. Look at Smiths stats against legitimate playoff contending teams that we will see in the playoffs. Forget about the doormats of the league. If he can’t beat the Giants, we can’t win a Super Bowl. I think we know what he has done against the giants.
If you look at the games, you’ll notice that Smoth does not push the issue with the football downfield. He does not threaten the defense enough. Other teams don’t respect his game. We need everything to work to win with him. We have no margin for error with Smith. If he turns it over twice, and the other team scores, we lose. It’s because we have very little quick strike capability with him.
If his numbers were at the bottom instead of the top you’d all be using them against him instead of trying to make them sound unrelated to the teams success.
You can also add the fact that Smith completion percentage doesn’t drop when he is under pressure. Other qb tend to throw out of bounds to avoid sacks. Smith don’t. How many sacks did he allowed by holding the ball too much? I can’t remember the stat, but when a qb is sacked the drive will likely be aborted.
At least, allowing Kaep to perform on the road is fine. It doesn’t mean he won the right to start for the end of the season. Jim allow Smith to fully recover from his concusion (without taking any risk of injury at NO) and to be at 100% for the playoffs, and you can check the ability of Kaep to handle pressure in an hostile dome. It’s a win-win.
Ok, so go with Smith to Jacksonville. Don’t let the door knob hit
How about traded after winning 4 SBs?
Smith is a good QB for a remarkably talented team. However, he is not a franchise QB and should not be trusted to be able to hunt for SB’s year-after-year. That is why Harbaugh drafted CK, to win for the next ten years, so whether he replaces Smith now, or next year is really not the point. Smith is done. It is that simple. You see, at some point we will not have a dominating defense and unfortunately without one, Smith would prove a liability (he would be Fitzgerald of Buffalo). He is not good enough, so get over it, stop supporting individual players over the team and realize that Harbaugh knows more than you and I, exponentially.
Really, it is absurd to think any of us are better equipped to evaluate our team than the best coach in the NFL. Some sportscasters, maybe, but even they don’t know the team well enough to make a definitive call against Harbaugh. Again, absurd. Look, it wasn’t Smith who took us to the NFC Championship Game last year, it was Harbaugh, Harbaugh, Harbaugh and only know-nothings would think any differently. We would have been 7-8, and potentially worse without him.
Ooooh but Alex has 9 lives… Don’t count him out!
And, apparently nothing has been anointed yet! Don’t count your chickens cuz of bad reporting. As a precaution I did add kap to a couple of my fantasy teams. Stubborn yes, stupid no!
There are not chickens to count here. Harbaugh has made it clear that Smith is not the future of the organization. Whether that change happens today or next year to me, is irrelevant. It is going to happen. I like Smith, he is just not a great QB. He is a great game manager and that is not the recipe for long-term success in NFL.
Well then add the expectation of Super Bowl or bust to this new young phenoms agenda. Everyone talks about the better QB, that’s fine but let’s not forget this teams goal under Smith was that it had to win it all or this season would be a failure.
This goal does not change with either QB as the starter. So whatever decision is made, lets keep the SB equation ahead of everything else that goes into the decision of who should start.
Everyone is all happy about Kap, well now you guys need to have the same expectation, SB or bust!
Prime, good point. Careful what you wish for and get is what I am entertaining here. Whatever decision Harbaugh makes will be the best for the team. He seems to always make good decisions.
The only problem I have is if you dont go with a healthy Alex, he is done. No way you can expect him to come back and give his all after you go with Kap. I have seen it so many times that when you are passed over for the next guy, that guy loses his sense of going thru a wall for you.
The second problem is the lockeroom. What do veteran players think of getting passed over because of possible injury or playing one good game? Where is the loyalty? I know the NFL is a business but JH has all these guys bought in. No team plays harder than the 49ers. Does this decision affect how the players look at Harbaugh?
Lastly, the expectation in SF this year has always been win a superbowl. Does this change now with Kap? I dont think so. This team is ready to win it all.
Prime
Hell NO the expectation doesn’t change! Niners fans root for Lombardis. Seahawks fans root for winning the division.
The SUPERBOWL OR BUST attitude is from us fans toward the team, irrespective of who the QB is. It was an impossible attitude to truly maintain with Alex because he was incapable of beating the Giants, who will probably once again stand in our way. CK provides a spark, a far higher ceiling, and the electricity the offense has been so obviously lacking under Alex. He is MUCH more likely to win the Superbowl (and, admittedly, perhaps to fall short of the NFCCG). But if he gets there, he won’t cr*p his pants.
I hear ya ….. what in the world is Coach doing benching the best “Game Manager” currently in the NFL? What is he thinking? Doesn’t he know better that the only way to go is to put “Captain Checkdown” back in as the starter? Stop the insanity ……………….. Go Niners!!
I’ve been an Alex Smith defender over the years, mainly because he’s been dealt one bad hand after another in his time in SF. I think this is the right move for Harbaugh. We’ll see if it works. In the meantime, think of the Niners as having the best damned backup quarterback in the league.
Coffee
Think Plug-and-Play: the numbers Alex has put up could have been accomplished by any other average QB. Just consider Alex before JH and Alex after JH. Harbaugh turned a mediocre QB into what had you gushing over his stats. If JH can transform a mediocre QB to average, what will he do with a stud QB like CK?
Grant your next poll should be which team will Smith be playing for next year. If he has any self respect he’ll tell the 49ers to go F themselves and go find a team that will actually appreciate what he can bring to the field.
My guess: Alex Smith is a Kansas City Chief in 2013. They and the Raiders seem to love picking up our cast offs and they need a smart efficient QB more then anything.
The Chiefs will probably draft a quarterback.
Probably and although I am defending Smith, drafting a QB would be the right thing to do for them which is why I think they’ll sign Smith.
GC: not sure those 2 things are mutually exclusive. Chefs could sign Alex Smith and draft a QB. Consensus is that this is a weak QB draft and it’s questionable whether any of these young guys could step in and start right away.
Alexcuse #425 – It takes Alex two years to learn a new offense.
If other teams believe this why would they pick up Alex to be a starter?
Because they’re smarter then the retreads that come up with “alexcuses.”
I think he debunked that pereception last year when he picked up this offense pretty quickly.
So this excuse was never actually viable? It sure was used a lot in these parts.
Hey Coffee
Aside from your asinine perspectives, which I can tolerate, could you please do something about your misuse of the word “then” –
“… they’re smarter then the retreads…”
“… efficient QB more then anything…”
It’s just painful to read your posts, my dude. Do you not know any better? It’s the most basic of all distinctions in writing…
So misplacing an A with an E is painful for you? Not sure how you make it through the day without killing yourselves if such trivial thing can overload your senses. That’s some life you got.
Feel free to give a specific example of how my views are asinine and not simply just different from yours. Such a statement assumes that you think you are 100% right which is either ignorant or arrogant, take your pick.
oops sorry about that, i said yourselves instead of yourself. were you able to not pass out from the pain of such a typing error? again sorry for any discomfort that caused you.
“It’s the most basic of all distinctions in writing…”
Neanderthall’s English 101
Chapter 1 lesson 1:
Before you learn anything you must learn to memory the difference between then and than for gold help you if you ever use them incorrectly while making a hasty reply on a sports blog.
Anything else you got for me?
Coffee
Your continuing support of Alex Smith is what makes your perspective asinine.
You use “then” instead of “than” all the time. It is indicative of your general stupidity, not a random mistake.
I am arrogant. I know a boatload more about football and the Niners than you do. I am also smarter than you, and can coach you up on proper use of the English language as well. And … wait for this … I am more balanced and level-headed than you, thicker skin, you know, bigger sack.
That about sums it up.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Neanderthal Offense,
Don’t be timid, let us know what you really think.
You need a hug. Try not to get any on your shoe in your one man pissing contest. You sound really silly trying to tell me how much smarter and better then me you think you are. Glad you think I care that much.
Oh so everyone that disagrees that Alex should be benched has an asinine view. I’ll let that statement speak for itself.
N.O.
Thanks for your humble opinion. LOL
But this is far from an absolute and varying opinions are acceptable here. Do you really believe that other teams will play the exact same way the Bear’s defense did on Monday night?
Hofer,
So are you saying that the Bears defense played bad. How come we could not have played that damned good? They didn’t play poorly,they took a beat down.
You be sure to go with him.
,,i,, ( >< ) ,,i,,
Happy Thanksgiving
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
Alex will last two games in KC before he’s waived. You Smith lovers will have to buy new garments next year.
Whilst I agree what CK is an explosive player, I think this is a real gamble by Harbaugh. CK has only started one single game – that’s not a lot of evidence. Smith has played well, in the main, over the last 2 seasons. That’s a much bigger body of evidence. It would have made more sense to me if Smith starts, and then CK enters the game if the offense if struggling. It also makes more sense from a man management point of view to retain Smith. Harbaugh is effectively saying, it doesn’t matter what you’ve done for the team over a long period of time – loyalty counts for little. I imagine this makes a lot of the other starters a little nervous to be honest. Of course, you could argue this is a good thing! It keeps players on their toes. It’s impossible not to feel a little sorry for Alex though. One good game from your debuty, and the coach’s l0yalty has vanished. The irony, of course, is that we’re playing the Saints …. when Alex had perhaps his best ever game for the 49ers. Will CK be able to eclipse that great night?!
If CK had started more games, and performed well in them, then my view would be different. Opinion will be split over this one. I rate CK, but he’s still pretty much an unknown quantity.
Two names that everyone is disregarding in this matter: Kevin Kolb & Matt Flynn.
How good did they look after a couple games? How good do they look now? Once defenses have some tape and spend their week preparing for Colin I think the mood will change pretty drastically around here.
Coffee,
You sound angry. Let it go dude.
Coffee doesn’t sound angry at all. He’s just giving the other side of the argument. What has he stated that is untrue?
Colin still is a rookie and he will make mistakes however CK also has a huge upside!
Coffee, your point about the Matt Flynn and Kolb does not make sense for one main reason:
Both those players were traded to a whole different team and system! Did you every think about how they would have performed if they stayed in Phily or Green bay! Just think about Matt Cassel and how he played in New England and how he is playing in KC! the system, coaching and the surrounding staff will impact QB play!!! I am not sure if Ck is going to be future of 49ers yet but hey since he is in the same system maybe he can develop to become the face of the franchise!
Here’s a question:
Who are the four QBs in the NFL that Harbaugh scouted and tried to recruit in his time as coach of Stanford and San Francisco?
That’s not the point, Smith is not good enough. He once again proved that against a better Giants team. We need to find out if CK can make the jump. If so, Smith’s gone, if not, we draft another QB and Smith will eventually be gone anyways.
Really, I do feel bad for you AS fans, so my advice is that you go root for Smith somewhere else next season (if he is jettisoned). However, you cannot call yourself a 49er fan if you are unable to separate the player from the team. It’s like when Tebow was released, you are not a Broncos fan if you jump ship, you are a Tebow fan. Nothing wrong with that, just a reality. Me, I’ve been a 49er fan since the woeful 70′s and will be until the day I die. Go Niners!
You speak as if you know, in advance, how Kaep will play. I know this – he will be better than Alex ever has been, just like he was against Chicago.
Alex’ ceiling is well established and that ceiling = mediocrity and inconsistency.
Hofer,
What he is not saying is that KAPERNICK has arm strength like we’ve never had on this team. That arm strength with 63 percent accuracy is all I want. I don’t need 20-21 for 185 yards. I’ve had enough of that.
Chicago
What about Derek Anderson? He was a pro bowler for a WHOLE season (the year B.Edwards caught 17td) Then Next year and every year after that he SUCKED and that was with the browns, same system, same coaches same weapons. Im not saying CK will suck as Anderson did but u never know.
The other thing to consider is that thease are human beings, with feelings and attitudes. I know they are pros and all but they still have personalities and some in the lockeroom might start pickin sides which is corosive to team chemistry
Either get on the Kaep wagon or get off. Let Alex go. He’ll be with another team
Don’t worry son, the bandwagon fans will be along shortly.
I agree. I think JH should play both! Kap had only ONE great game. He was so-so against the Rams, overthrew on several occasions against the Bears wide open players, in his previous Cameo appearances he overthrew too. He’s INT material.
Those overthrows were thrown exactly how they were supposed to be – either your guy gets it or no one does.
Oh and, if he’s INT material, please explain how the defense with the best TO ratio in the league managed zero INTs during Monday’s game.
Oh and, he came off the bench against the Rams after taking the #2′s reps during the week, brought the team back from behind and put the team in a position to win (Akers blew it).
Try harder.
How many picks does Kap have in 54 career passes loudmouth? Guess??? ZERO!!! Your assertion has no merit!
54 attempts, no INT’s and he is primed for a superbowl run? Wow #2!
23,
The giants DB dropped one that kaep threw right in his hands. Not to mention that AS had a streak of 200+ passes without a pick and then threw 3 vs the giants so the 54 attempts without a pick for CK dont mean all that much.
Automatic.
He missed long on those throws. When AS misses long on his deep throws do u and others give him credit for puting it “where either his guy catches them or no one at all”? NO instead people say he’s inacurate.
Cant have it both ways. CK misses are planned AS misses=poor acuracy
Bos49er,
I’m sorry, but drops by defensive backs don’t count. If they did, Alex would’ve had 12 picks last year. You’re going to see a lot of dropped interceptions on Kaepernicks passes becaue of the velocity on the passes.
Alex threw all those passes without a pick because he throws the ball 3-8 yards up the field and the receiver has to be wide open. For more information on Kap, go back and watch Mondays game again. It speaks for itself.
Look, AS and CK are two different kind of QB. And that is the beauty of the situation. Moss doesn’t play all downs, nor does Crab, Vernon or Gore. I think JH is stewing up a plan where he can use the best of both of them in one game, not just ONE QB!
Smithers just can’t let go, meaningless stats, don’t mean crap on AS flaws, at least JH can get past them and see what a real QB can do.
Dee Phiant,
You’re being defiant. Alex Smith is done. He will not play for the Niners as a starter again. Kap will not give Alex Smith his job back. It’s over for Alex. 8 years of bad quarterbacking is enough for me. I can’t believe it took this long.
The Smithers who are the haters take their man crush so seriously, they think we have the power and we made the decision to start CK. It was the coach of the year that made that decision.
“where either his guy catches them or no one at all”?
You’re joking, right? The haters trot out the tried-and-true propaganda line: ‘Alexcuses’.
He’s actually right, this is what QBs do (unless the ball is grossly over-thrown) but don’t confuse the old adage about what is good for the goose… etc., the irrational ones won’t understand.
They’re already giving CK free get out of jail cards with stuff like this: “You’re going to see a lot of dropped interceptions on Kaepernicks passes becaue of the velocity on the passes.”
This doesn’t have much to do with the two QBs anymore, this is just Class-A mental illness.
Don’t expect anything resembling a fair critique from these extremists, they’re nuts. They remind me of religious nutballs banging down the door to tell you how they have the keys to heaven (for just three easy payment of $19.95) and everyone else is wrong and going to Hell.
“The Smithers who are the haters…” Please. Let’s not re-write history here. The haters who bash on Smith every waking hour on here are aptly named. It is what it is. You’ve all earned that title with your nasty little smartass remarks, let’s not confuse the issue. Own it. Many of us try to have conversations about other players but are dragged back to Smith because you all are obsessed with the man. Let it go.
CK will likely start on Sunday (it makes perfect logical sense beyond all the hyperactive BS on here) but you all who are entrenched in this weirdness will be out in full force making every excuse possible for every dropped ball, every sack, just like you accuse the other nuts of doing – don’t try to hide it. It’s already starting.
Funny how 23Jordan never saw the game against NO last year with AS…………
Or was he one of the ‘I told you so people’??
Didn’t you post a blog saying the story about CK starting may be false? Are you certain CK is starting the Saints game?
Amen to all you just said……I love Smith and am a big fan of his, and he’s done a great job this year. But when asked if I feel he can win us a superbowl…..I can’t provide solid evidence. Then others bring up last years game against the Saints…..the miracle. Then I recall that game probably started with the usual pattern, all the 3 and outs, etc….and then the Smith/Davids miracles made up for it. And as for all the Smith “comebacks” that are referred to, they typically needed the comeback due to all the early 3 and outs.
Maybe we are drinking the coolaid…….but I’ll say GO KAP and hope Smith finds a better fitting team for him next year (I like the other poster’s idea to re-join Turner in SD….oh wait that may not work cause
Turner will get fired)
True 49er fan. Just get behind Kaep and your team
like the post except for the part about needing combacks because of early failures. Why else would a team ever need to comeback?
my point was that the failures were mostly due to the 3 and outs that “might” have been the fault of the quarterback
What up charger fan is Norv going to be chargers coach next year!
4by 4
The other team doesnt get points for forcing a 3 and out. So id venture to guess that out D was more responsible for allowing points forcind AS to come back. (See the eagles game last year)
Chargerfan… The reason the team needed to come back was because the defense and st gift rapped FIVE turnovers and Smith could only get 13 points off if those turnovers. Yes the defense played bad in the second half, but they were facing the best offense in the league it’s hard enough stopping a team that good, and by giving the offense FOUR gifts that alone should have been enough for a blowout early. Yes Smith played with guts and grit, but he shouldn’t have had to.
Until proven otherwise, in Harbaugh I trust. Niner fan first, last and always.
Agree, BOLD move. Not only did Kaep show more smarts (audibles) and athletic ability in 1 game than Smith did in 8 years, but note how he lifted the whole offense with it. VD, possibly Alex’s staunchest supporter, was glowing about Kaep after the game – as were other teammates.
When the 49ers acquired Moss and Manningham, I really wondered how all the offensive weapons were going to be utilized with Mr. 174/yds passing per game at QB. The answer came soon – they weren’t utilized much, with VD practically shut out the past few games before Monday.
Kaep found a way to get the ball to VD, and found Crabs open in the endzone for a TD after his primaries were covered. Alex just doesn’t make those kinds of plays, period….and that’s why Kaep deserve to starts and is the best choice to win a SB.
It’ll be great watching the offense wins some games for us for a change, instead of relying 100% on the defense having to play lights out every game to win.
bingo.
Grant, do you think this news means Smith will be gone next season? And if so, do you think the 49ers will draft a QB in 2013 then and keep the Harbaugh QB factory busy?
Though most teams like to keep a vet like Smith, the way this has played out, I think it’s best to cut ties and give Smith a shot on catching on with another team next season.
Smith has to leave. With the history here, lack of fan support and ultimately losing the locker room support, he needs a new start.
The Jets and Chiefs run a run first ball control type offense that Smith might excel at. Ultimately I think he’s a backup. Maybe sitting behind Manning might not be bad.
Which Manning, he is better than David Carr
bay, then do you think the 49ers will draft a QB next season like I mentioned? With Smith gone, this would seem likely unless Harbaugh went with another vet. But since Harbaugh has shown a willingness to keep young QB’s as backups like these past two seasons with Kaeprnick and Tolzein, I think he keeps bringing them in to keep the competition level high.
AS will walk away with more as well. He increased his value with his best career numbers to date. With him, you know what you have. Look at all of these QBs that were drafted and just don’t progress due to FO, HCs, OL, poor supporting talent, etc.
I wouldn’t mind seeing him go to N.E. RMallet isn’t great and TB is getting up in years when dings will keep him out of games. Not a bad situation and much better than going to a team with the difficult situation I described above – he’s been there done that here in SF until the owners finally woke up with hiring of JH.
He’ll have options and he’s learned along the way so he will make a good choice I believe.
Seriously Hofer???? Following TB would be disastrous.
Smith is not going to replace Mallet in NE…
Bay, not with the best HC in the league in your corner. It will be tough for any QB following a legend, but SYoung lived through it, and AS has the thick skin for it.
Coaching is the trump card and BB is the best.
Okay, I’m going to go ahead and stump for Tyler Wilson out of Arkansas, a QB that played in a WCO type offense under Petrino when he was there. Another big-armed QB with decent speed, 4.7-40, who makes all the throws. He’s having a down season from last year, but that is because there is little talent around him. He’s dropped a bit on some future draft boards from late 1st round to early 2nd round. With Kaepernick’s low salary, 49ers could afford him. Let him compete with Tolzein for the #2 spot and keep letting iron sharpen iron.
We’re not drafting a 1st or 2nd round QB. That’s not happening. They’ll draft defense due to the age of Justin Smith, the contract situation with Goldson and the up and down play of the DBs. Maybe even try for some depth at rushing LB or DE to backup Aldon Smith. Can’t have too many beasts. I’m leaning DE in the first.
If we go offense at some point, we’ll probably try to figure out why our track record with drafting receivers is not so good and maybe try something there. Manningham was a solid pickup for us but Moss is most likely a one-season thing. It would be nice to grow some receivers from scratch, Baalke hasn’t proven he can do this yet.
We don’t have too many needs and we have tons of picks (12 or 13) so we have some play here. Find an eventual replacement for Justin Smith to groom, figure out the safety and corner positions and then the rest is gravy.
“lack of fan support and ultimately losing the locker room support…”
Magical thinking at its best.
Good to have you back on here regularly Adam. Great post.
I’ll answer this one for you Grant. Hell no they ain’t drafting a QB!
If Smith goes, that opens up a spot for another QB.
Who do you suggest, then, if the 49ers don’t draft a QB?
if the story is true, i completely agree per my previous post: Smith has improved under Harbaugh, but the window to win with a certain set of players in the NFL is extremely tight, and if you want to get the most out of your players, scheme, and coaching, you need a qb who can elevate your offensive weapons to their highest potential. this could not have been an easy call, but its the right call for a coach who burns to win a SB.
If Smith leaves (which I don’t see him staying if CK plays the rest of this year), he’d probably go to an NFCWest team. They’ve seen him and can properly evaluate his place on their teams.
As a guy who wanted Payton Manning, as a guy who gets infuriated at AS for not taking some risks, it’s asinine to say we can’t go to the SB with Smith this year. If he plays his best, and the D and ST plays to its potential, the Niners can win. No one complained when SF beat GB in the opener. And they were healthy. Next year is CK’s year for sure!
Everyone is jumping to conclusions that CK is the starter now. CK is getting starter reps because Smith might not be cleared. That’s probably the first and most important reason. It gets HB another to evaluate CK in a hostile environment. On T-Day I’m thankful the Niners are moving in the right direction. Every elite team is flawed. If the Niners D goes after Manning like they did last year and hit him 40 times, he is not having a good day. If the Niners run a balanced running attack with Smith at QB, they win. In the first quarter of the Giants game, they were moving the ball easily with nice downfield passes. It’s when they fall behind where he is gonna struggle. Yeah has had some crappy games but recently he was doing really well.
This just goes to show when it comes to QBs in Niner Country, we’re all nuts!
That said, Go Niners. Beat those Saints like they are sinners. (If the run game is on, we beat the Saints. Brees will score, but the running game will shorten the game)
Absolutely, to say that the 49ers can’t win the Superbowl with Smith is just dumb.
Does Kaepernick give them a better chance to win the Superbowl? Perhaps, but the 49ers could win it with either QB starting.
They’ve proved they’re an elite team with Smith at the helm. With Kaep at the helm…..we’ll see!
CK has had the perfect QB NFL life thus far. Inheriting a team loaded with talent, learning the offense during the lockout from an experienced QB open to take him under his wing, an HC that is offensive minded, and sitting for 1.5 years to learn the offense. His future is bright!!
I see you’re still back peddling LOL!!!!!!!!
Deion Sanders has nothing on Hofer : )
I had to give up on my Thanksgiving day football games a couple of years ago, but I never got beat deep. I always kept everything in front of me. I had a few picks as well. Not bad, not bad. LOL
Good one Hofer, that was funny. Happy Thanksgiving!
Back at you Jack. Happy Thanksgiving!
Only problem I have with this move is that Kaepernick is a first year starter and if he has growing pains at an inopportune time than our season might end sooner than we wanted it to.
AS has had 8 years of growing pains.
Does anything useful ever come out of your mouth? Or just drool 24/7?
Looks like you have drool in the brain with that deep provocative thought, AS is not a elite QB and he has a ton of flaws, perhaps watching a few past Niner games this season, you can come up with something better, AS has played poorly or below average in 4 games this year.
Neal, again with the negative snippets. Why do you waste your time and ours here?
Man, at least 23jordan has flashes of lucidity but you just natter on the same few talking points as if that’s all you’re capable of.
Hof, I am not wasting my time on here at all, thanks for your concern, as far your time, that is your problem.
Shoulder pain is not growing pain, Fitzbob.
and thats why we sucked those years, once he got over the pains we were 20-5. Sure would hate to have to sit through another 8 yrs of sucking just so some on here could get over their AS fetish
Harbaugh doesn’t live in fear. You do
Grant I agree with a lot of what you said, but I don’t think Harbaugh is doing this because he doesn’t believe he can win a SB with Smith. I think the decision has been made because Kap exceeded expectations and Harbaugh wants to roll with the current formula and see how far it can go.
Dilfer and Young had an interesting discussion last week about playing within the X’s and O’s. They said Letwich could play within the gameplan but Rothlisberger could make things happen when the gameplan breaks down.
I sort of wonder if that’s the reasoning here. Alex is ridiculously efficient within the gameplan but he doesn’t offer much when the plan breaks down. If the play doesn’t go as planned it’s pretty much a sack or throwaway. Safe and efficient. Colin’s improvisational ability may be the X factor here.
msc,
I agree. Kap’s improvisational skills are already superior to Smith’s. That’s not a strong part of his game and maybe that is the tipping point in the decision. Maybe seeing him do the little things in running the offense was all they needed to believe he was ready and would offer more than Smith can.
Grant, are you making news here?
“It would have been easy for Harbaugh to hand the starting quarterback job back to Alex Smith after he returned from his concussion.”
Has Alex Smith been cleared to play, or are you just over excited in the hope that he has been benched for the rest of the year?
WTF? Kaepernick the starting QB Period! Harbaugh has already stated his decision has NOTHING to do with Alex’s health
According to one guy on twitter who has an “inside source”. The rest of these stories are reports about the tweet.
It may or may not be true. Who knows if Smith has even been cleared yet?
It could be they were running out of time and felt the tests were taking too long and needed to get someone some reps before Sunday. Makes sense, someone has to suit up and learn the game plan.
A lot of this seems overblown and fabricated to me. Just a bunch of people chattering half-truths and misunderstandings.
Here is a reasonable summary of what has probably gone on.
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/11/22/kaepernick-knows-only-that-hell-get-first-team-reps/
@Adam normally I would agree. But Trotter is usually really good at this sort of thing. He’s not a Bayless or Florio type. Trotter is a solid journalist.
Oh yeah, I’m not doubting Trotter’s creds as a reporter. I’ve always heard good things about him and he is well-respected in the journalistic community. But… having said that, a reporter usually won’t stick his neck out unless he has two confirmed sources – the old Watergate rule – before he goes to print with something like this.
The rest of this stuff though is speculating on his tweet. Manufactured nonsense. There’s no other confirmation of this from any other reporter. If one of the Matt’s or Eric pops up with a confirmation then that’s that. They’re probably taking the day off and couldn’t care less. :P
Coach Harbaugh and Staff have seen something in CK7 and that’s why they are making this move. They believe he is ready. That’s good enough for me. Beautiful part about this is that the CK7 Project has just been implimented. The ascension to the peak of his potential is like K2 (Godwin Austen).
One game doesn’t make a difference . Hopefully Kap can beat the Saints . Bears D is over rated . Saints D sux . But its in New Orleans . Go 9ers . And maybe this will push Alex like Steve pushed Joe to be Joe .
The Bears D isn’t overrated. Kaep is just GOOD. He kicked their @$$, plain and simple. Get on board the Kaep train, or get off. We’re goin to da bowl!!!
So is the Rams D beter than the Bears cuz he certainly didnt kick their @$$$es
Oh, he didn’t? He brought the team back and the defense couldn’t hold the lead, then he brought the team back again and Akers couldn’t hit the 41 yard chip shot. With Alex playing, it’s always been the defense and Akers making plays to seal the win, but with Kaep in that Rams game both those units failed to make plays and sealed the loss (tie).
Bos49er,
Do you know anything about football? Do you know how important it is for a starting quarterback to get starters reps during the week? It vital! Starters reps are associated with the gameplan. Kap didn’t get starters rep for the Ram game. He came off of the bench cold son. You saw what happened when he got starters reps.
Kap still did enough for us to win the game. Akers missed a 40 yard field goal to win the game. Did you even watch the Ram game?
Check out the Kapscuses. Bahahahaha. Shoe, meet other foot. Can we call you a Kapper – among your several other nicknames?
“Kap still did enough for us to win the game. Akers missed a 40 yard field goal to win the game. Did you even watch the Ram game?”
This reminds me of:
“Smith still did enough to win that championship game. Kyle Williams blew two kick off returns. We’d have won that game. Did you even watch the Giants game?”
Hahahaha. Oh man. This is funny stuff. One man’s nutbag is another man’s genius.
Good times ahead.
“Kaepernick gives the 49ers a better chance to win a Super Bowl this season than Alex Smith. Kaepernick makes the offense more explosive and more difficult to defend.”
Grant, if they don’t get to the SB, then what?
As great as PManning is with all of the wins and passing numbers, he only has one SB. It’s not easy to do period.
Wow!! You mad a complete 180. LOL!!!!
Quotes, Jai, Quotes….
Sweet and fuzzy Lord, we get the intellectuals here. :P
At the beginning of the season: “Stats are for losers!”
Now: “Look at Alex’ stats! How can you bench him?”
It was always passing yards are for losers, don’t misrepresent the argument. Passing yards are correlated with losing, yards per attempt are highly correlated with winning.
But he lost his starting job so…….
One….. Niner….. is….. that….. you…..?
AS will leave after the season.
Even if CK was only starting against the Saints to allow AS more time to heal the damage has already been done.
If and when AS gets back on the field, he will have to be near perfect because the boo birds will start raining down.
The shadow of CK will be to big to ignore. No QB should have to endure the extreme short leash that AS will be on.
If Harbaugh has made his choice to go with CK, he is man enough to live with it. And I will continue to trust his decisions.
There you go. Good choice
AES
Thats only is CK tears it up against the saints. If he pees down his leg, everyone on here will see that they might of jumped the gun a bit on annointing him great. People have been chomping at the bit to get AS out of here so much so that they argued JJ was gona take his job because he had a good quarter in a pre season game. The word I heard constantly from Bay and MD was CONSISTENCY. In their case it was used to say that they need to see AS play good every week to believe in them. Well the inverse is true. If Kaep is CONSISTENTLY good=end of story, but thats the thing we dont know. So let him play vs the saints and see how goes.
You know the last time CK peed down his leg in a game that mattered?
NEVER
http://www.mercurynews.com/49ers/ci_22049750/colin-kaepernick-legend-49ers-quarterback-grows
No doubt about it, it is a bold move, and for the Niners and fans alike I sure hope it works out well. Super Bowl is a must now or this may look like the most boneheaded move ever. CK you have inherited a very talented team, its yours to drive I wish you well as if you do well then the Niners do well and the ultimate goal is to win just win.
Oh by the way Happy Turkey Day to all.
Under, I’ve enjoyed all of your reads – a true 9er fan!!
Happy Thanksgiving to you!
Don’t neccessary agree that this move is a bust if not a Super Bowl win, it is not like CK is replacing a elite QB and if AS was the starter it not like it was in the bag of him wining a Lombardi trophy.
It’s a bust if it fails.
Ratto is right. Harbs is all in, if it works he’s a genius if it flops it’s a colossal mess.
Just don’t see it that way Adam.
we still have a monster defense and good special teams. The worst Ck7 can do is match AS’s performance and we’d be in the same place. Now if he goes off, then we’re better off.
RRatto called it straight!
It’s one of the rare times that I actually agree with that fat turd.
Figures, Coffee, Ratto’s the smartest journalist around.
Go sleep it off, you are really making yourself sound like an a hole today and are clearly drunk. Come back when you’ve sobered up.
Everything I write is better then what you write.
Actually we need to back up. I’m not thoroughly convinced all of this IS what it is. Ratto is extrapolating an idea here that CK goes the rest of the way.
This may be nothing more than it’s taking too long to evaluate Smith in a short week (made shorter by a Holiday) and somebody has to put on the pads and actually play the damned game.
But Ratto’s “theory” I buy. IF this is the clean break and they’re running here on out with CK and it flops? There will be hell to pay. If it succeeds, Harbs is a genius (weird disingenuous version). But it is a huge risk to take with a winning record, winning QB, etc.
We’ll have to see.
That Play60 commercial with Cam was hilarious.
It is feasable that 10 year old could replace Cam Newton if you think about it.
Crazy Prediction: Alex Smith will be a 49er in 2013.
Only if Kaep play’s poorly
Who else would you want as a veteran backup?
You don’t think that any team will offer him a chance to start next year?
Don’t think AS would want to be holding a clipboard and waiting for CK to suck, or get hurt, plus why would the Niners give him a roster bonus for next season, and AS is a a veteran in years but not play, he still has not mastered pocket presence and went to QB school for that, give me a break. Also Tolzein might be better than Smith too.
Even if they pay Smith, they will be well below the average of other teams at that position.
Isn’t he already gone? Today’s blog is his obit, apparently.
Alex is never gone Brotha. He’s like a cockroach. We could have a nuclear war and Smith would still be a QB on the 49ers.
Ha!
Jack, so you’re saying the 49ers keep Smith as an insurance policy against Kaepernick struggling next season? If all this is true that Harbaugh has made the decision to make Kaepernick the starter, then this is truly a bold move toward the future. Sometimes, you just have to keep moving forward and not look back. That is why I keep suggesting another QB in the draft especially with a coach that can develop QB’s.
Space,
For starters, everyone is making a huge assumption here. Second, I think they will want a veteran presence at that spot and since they own his rights it makes sense.
I don’t see him going elsewhere and starting.
Jack, that is why I said, “if true . . .” I hear what you are saying as far as a veteran presence, but by next season Kaepernick will be in his third season with one more year on his contract before becoming an FA. Why not draft a QB to develop as Kaepernick for the two-fold reasons of him struggling or going elsewhere if a team offers him a huge contract? Fall back on Smith (if still around) or Tolzein? Or have another QB learning the system that Harbaugh has had time to develop?
He’s gone. He will be the perfect soldier for the rest of the season and do whatever he thinks will advance the team’s interest the most. But in the offseason he will use every tool in his arsenal, including retirement, to get his release and get the leverage to find the best fit for him. The nice Alex will be gone once the season ends, no matter how it ends.
i believe Alex is gone next year only if the Niners want him gone, otherwise he’s here as his contract runs thru next year and the Niners have a 1mm buyout clause – i dont think Alex has a walkaway clause , and if so his departure couldnt be a unilateral decision. early days tho, theres still a lot of water to go under the nfl bridge.
Me thinks since Smith is from San Diego that Charger fan is related.
Look Smith takes a ling time to learn an offense and feel comfortable in it. He lost his job because he was in a second year, better offensive line better weapons yet the production never got to the next level. His inability to attack with his wr’s downfield and lack of redone scoring did him in. The whole NFL knows it.
If he can put his pride aside, SF is the best place for him.
Plus DS is here. He won’t find
Creepier support anywhere else. Come march he will be released though. They need an exciting young dynamic leader to open the stadium with.
Jack, or how about they keep Smith next season and still draft a QB that will replace Tolzein as the #3?
Though there are still some Tolzein fans, I think after seeing a season of Kaepernick’s play, there wouldn’t be many wanting to see a QB with less of an arm than Smith in a position to become the next game-manager.
How’s that work for you? :)
Space,
They have a ton of picks, and that could be a direction they take. Adding depth to a position for competition is definitely their M.O.
It makes a lot of sense, Jack. I like it.
As a backup making 2.5 mil a year.
That is kind of what I am thinking.
Good post Grant.
My only criticism is your assertion that Harbaugh doesn’t think they can win a Superbowl with Smith. Of course they can. They’ve beaten pretty much every good team in the league in the last 2 seasons.
Obviously, if Harbaugh does make the switch (is it even confirmed yet?), he feels Kaep gives them a better chance of winning. But to say he thinks that they can’t win with Smith is a bit much.
I made the point in an earlier thread that I never saw a team in a conference championship game with worse wideouts than last year’s 49ers. They had Swain, Williams and a slumping Crabtree, while the Giants had Nicks, Cruz and Manningham. Any yet some of the “experts” here concluded the critical difference was at QB. That thinking is delusional. With better tools Smith would have had the 49ers in the Super Bowl last year.
Charger,
You of all people should know how valuable the QB position is. You’ve seen Brees. For Smith, it not about the throws he makes. It’s about the ones he does not make. He’s missing some tool. Kaepernick has these tools. Did you watch the game on Monday. Did you see all the throws that Smith won’t make or even attempt?
“Did you see all the throws that Smith won’t make or even attempt?”
Which ones were those? Sideline to Kyle Williams or the post?
The scrambling td to Crabs. The tight window throw to VD. Its over. New era…..
Adam,
Exactly, the 57 yarder to Kyle.
I don’t know what teams you all are watching but the post to Davis was a staple of this offense until last year.
The toss to KW has been replicated by Delanie Walker, JOsh Morgan and Tedd Ginn several times.
The endzone scramble was a nice play.
I like CK, I’ve said it from day one, but let’s not go overboard here with these wild generalizations and exaggerations. That’s been the problem with this argument from the start. The word’s “he never” blah blah blah. You just look foolish. Smith has made plenty of good plays. CK can throw a duck too, low ball to Manningham or a wild overthrow. Let’s not get too carried away.
Smith has thrown the exact same pass to Williams on at least 3 occasions this season. He’s thrown every pass in the book to Davis. If you want to point out that Kap did a better job improvising out of the pocket, that’s legit, but this idea that he attempted passes Smith wouldn’t is completely bogus.
Is this a more rational report?
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/11/22/kaepernick-knows-only-that-hell-get-first-team-reps/
Kap is not ready to start. He will throw 3 intercept and the niners will be down by 21 points in the first quarter.
Smith will come in and will lead the niners to a win by throwing four touchdowns.
Kap will be destroyed as a quarterback.
That is the danger you run into by starting a quarterback to early in the NFL.
Fact is if Alex got drafted by grennbay he would be an elite quarterback because he would have the time to learn his craft,
If rogers was drafted by the niners he would be a bust because of the crazy coaches the team had.
TROLL…Get outta here
Alex was never and is never going to be elite! He does not have the raw tools. You can’t teach arm strength. You can’t teach speed. He does not have IT!!
the biggest thing that apparently cant be taught is the ability to scan the field for secondary/tertiary receivers and to improvise if a play breaks down. frankly, i am amazed that alex has been as successful as he has been without these crucial talents.
Raw tools? What might those be? I played the game, maybe I missed something.
Adam,
Sure you did. If you played the game. You would know. Take off the rose colored glasses and watch the Monday nighter again.
fesnyc, really helps and makes you look even better when your offensive line plays all world.
“Sure you did. If you played the game. You would know. ”
K. Try again, smart guy. That’s not an answer. I do know and that’s your problem.
Hater just leave and take your garbage with you.
Some one please compare Andrew luck to Kap. They play a similar game. Both are mobile with strong arms, feel the pressure around them and have poise.
If the Niner’s defense starts playing like they can, creating turnovers and getting the ball back to Ck7, it’ll take a lot of pressure off him.
I think CK7 will shut the crowd in New Orleans up. They haven’t seen anything like this guy. He is better than Cam newton.
Better than Cam Newton, yes. Comparable to Andrew Luck, wow you better watch out the haters on this blog might start ripping him if he turns ou to be not as good as Luck. Haters gotta hate.
Comparable to Andrew Luck? Absolutely!!!
Both coached by the same guys, CK being more athletic. I love Luck and JH’s coaching made him NFL ready right away. Ck got to sit and learn for two offseason’s , preseason, mini camps and weekly practices. He’s stated that he practices as if he’d be the starter every week. That mentality in itself is very good. One last thing to think about. JH usually knows his QB’s very well and puts them in good positions to be successful. He’s even made Alex look good so imagine what he could do with Kap. I’m not as worried or anxiuos as I was last week. I’m more excited than anything.
Ck7 will require more respect and will open up running lanes for our runners. He will keep safety’s out of the box and away from the line of scrimmage. He puts the ball on the money. Even VD said,” I turn around and the ball is already there, boom”. so that give them time to make a move or in his case find a seem and go!! The sky is the limit for this kid.
WOW that happened about half a year earlier than i thought it would. Kap was my 2nd rd pick in my mock draft. i loved him at Nev. and he made me alot of money his Jr. and Sr. year. If this is the end of AS with the 9ers i want to take this opportunity to thank Alex.
He played hard through 2 of the worst head coaches in 9er history. Early in his career he played with some of the least talented 9er teams in history. He played hurt and never complained. He never threw his offensive linemen or skill players under the bus. He has to my amazement become one of the top 10 to 12 QB’s in football [ thats right for those of you who hate his play he's not nearly as bad as you think and he's never been as good as those who love his play have purported] I believe if he chooses his next team wisely he will continue to be a very solid QB.
What i want to thank him most for is his class and leadership that helped take us from the pits to the NFC championship game last yr and one of the greatest wins in 9er history VS. NO
I’m not positive the QB battle is over this year but if it is Go niners and GO Alex
Old Coach
Very nice post.
I like that too, Oldcoach
Great post oldcoach.
Good post. I’d bet some money even if Smith never starts again in the NFL, we haven’t seen the last of him. What I mean is coaching. Smith has been in pretty much every offense the NFL offers, is incredibly cerebral and is already an extension of the coach when hes on the field. Heck, some of the best coaches were either middle of the pack average players or never even played football at a pro level. While Smith never had perfect form, the most beautiful passes, he still knows how the position should be played and executed. Wish it didn’t have to go down this way for Alex, but even his staunchest supporters including myself can’t overlook Kaeps future potential. The sooner Kaep get his rookie struggles out of the way, the better the team will ultimately be. Still think it is a risky move midseason because he will struggle like any virgin qb and could cost us playoff seeding, but in Harbaugh I trust. Go niners
Peyton Manning
Andrew Luck
Robert Griffin III
Colin Kaepernick
Don’t mean to ruin your happy happy party but as long as Alex is on the team he is one concussion,or other injury over a week long, or a couple of multiple turn over games away from the starting position,We all know how resiliant he is after all the times some of you have counted him gone.
Same as benching Timmy, good an just call.
Yeah. Alex won the MVP 2 years in a row.
This is a smart move by Harbaugh, but it isn’t really that bold. With Kaep as the starter, he’ll be able to run his full offense rather than play to Alex Smith’s strengths and limitations. With Kaep, the team offense is still going to rely on the run, but like Harbaughs Stanford teams, they’ll have the deep passing game to capitalize on defenses stacking the box. And most importantly, they’ll have more options on third downs with read option plays and designed QB runs. Smith can run those plays, but not as well as Kaep on a consistent basis.
Expect for the Niners to come out run heavy against New Orleans. They’ll take the crowd out quickly, grind down the D, neutralize their blitz and keep Brees off the field. When the Saints defense get overly aggressive against the run, look for the play action daggers. Also expect a few read options and designed QB runs on 3rd down. It’ll play to Kaeps strength and minimize the risky 3rd down throws.
Starting Kaep on the road in a noisy dome is going to payoff if the Niners have to play the Falcons on the road in the playoffs. Harbaugh knows what he’s doing. 9 more games to #6!
http://ninerchatter.blogspot.com/2012/11/has-torch-been-passed-pump-breaks.html
What the hell is this crap JH? So now you, too, are equivocating? I shudder.
N.O.,
This is playing out just like I thought it would. If Kaepernick plays well on Sunday the job is his, if he struggles mightily they will go back to Smith.
If I were to bet, my money is on Kaepernick playing well.
Jack felt sorry for the drowning Smithers and tossed them a life-ring.
Or maybe this whole situation is really up in the air right now.
Jack , I agree with pretty much everything you said,we need to let it play out before getting all excited and holding a mass for Alex.
I just hope that Kaep doesn’t continue to carry the ball like a loaf of bread it could come back to bite him.
Yeah, He had 7 turnovers against those thieves, the bears!! C’mon man, stop hating.
Rational and smart.
Bold. Unprecedented. Agressive. Innovative. Don’t wait for success to come to you; go get it. Even if this move doesn’t pan out -though I believe and have high hopes it will- I love the audacity Coach Harbaugh is demonstrating, here. #QBWhisperer
know the rules Scwartz!!!hahaha
Yeah, no sh**. That’s what we were all saying here!
WOW!!!!
The NFL has GOT to do something about its officiating and rules. Detroit is getting completely hosed by this officiating crew!!!
Actually it was a great move by the refs. They were anticipating being able to review the play to get it right. An inadvertent whistle would have killed the play if he wasn’t down. It was better to let it play out and then check the tape on an automatic review.
The rules are there to protect both teams. To borrow a phrase from Schwartz to Harbaugh, “Learn the game”. This time it’s applicable to Jim Schwartz.
The rules don’t allow for a review of the play whcih would have normally been an automatic review because a team can not benefit from a review after being flagged for unsportsman like conduct.on a nonreviewable play. Had Schwartz not thrown the challenge flag, the refs would have reviewed the play and got it right. I give more credit to the refs for being courageous enough to take that stance and knowing the rules.
It wasn’t a touchdown. The rules and officials should protect reality, not the form of the rule. Bad rule, bad officiating. Detroit jobbed.
That was a terrible call, but glad it happened to Schwartz.
Happy Thanksgiving Niner brothas! Gobble, gobble…..turkey!
Don’t be a jive turkey today. :-)
Everyone take a breath.
This is Jim Harbaugh we are talking, for crying out loud.
I mean.. it’s not like the man has never lied. :)
*Maybe* Kaep is the permanent starter. Maybe.
For me, I’ll fully believe it after the season, when I see what JH has done. Because I know the guy is perfectly capable of saying one thing today and having a whole different narrative next week.
“We are at war with Eastasia. We have *always* been at war with Eastasia.”
Whatever happens, it will be a fascinating ride. Go 49ers…
That’s right! He’s a fine Christian. :P
Schwartz could use a really firm handshake right about now.
lol, and a pat on the back!!
Ah OK, here’s what NFL Net reported about two hours ago:
“Alex Smith, the 49ers’ regular starting quarterback, still hasn’t been medically cleared from the concussion he sustained during a Week 10 tie with the St. Louis Rams.” Smith hasn’t been cleared, he won’t play.
This makes more sense. They’re out of time on a short week (shorter with the Holiday) and had to get someone suited up.
As much as I like the decision to start Kapernick I think this post is a joke. It basically says “I praise the coach cause he agrees with me”.
Anyway I hope this is permanent decision and that Harbaugh sticks with Kap through thick and thin. I think switching back and forth is bad for the team.
I look forward to the Kap era based on the bears game and based on Alex’s timid play. But I still can’t but feel a bit nostalgic.
How about Suh? I lack any respect at all for the dude. Perhaps he should be a kick boxer or ultimate fighter or soccer player; then I wouldn’t have to watch him. I’d guess he stands a chance of a career ending meltdown, I just hope he doesn’t end somebody else’s career with his vicious cheap shots.
Dirty player but he’d look good on our line with our nasty defense!! imagine..
Simply put, Alex plays not to lose and KP7 plays to win! I rather go through the growing pains of having a young signal caller who’ll survey the field and viscerally act on his innate instincts of high risk/reward and throw an erratic interception here &there..it’s amazing to witness the buoyant effervescence in his footwork and poise in the pocket,,,the game comes natural to him and his awareness is uncanny..finally a tru field general on the candlestick gridiron since the days of Montana/young..something to be excited about! What the Alex supporters fail to realize is that the nostalgic,thorough blood niners fans have been longing for a dynamic aerial attack reminiscent of our glory yrs. Our fondness for tight spirals is akin to the manner brazilians appreciate their soccer..smith should be happy w/ his severance pkg and take a vacation..no one gets as many 2nd chances as he’s gotten. #niner faithful
I could not agree more, what is the sense of having Moss, Manningham, VD and Crabs if you don’y use them, these receivers were built to be around CK.
I am just saying CK is better then AS, it is not saying much, but CK can be a elite QB, AS will never be, have.no clue why you bring up Joe Montana
Thinking we’re going to see another Joe Montana in our lifetimes is delusional.
So you’re willing to go through the growing pains even if it might cost the season? How many good years does Gore have or Justin Smith? This group can’t wait much longer.
I’m not saying CK can’t take it to the house but I’m a bit skeptical that based on one good game and a half of a clunker that there’s a whole lot of evidence out there one way or another. I don’t know. Seems a bit risky – and maybe unnecessary risk at that if this is an “all-in” proposition.
If we were 2-7-1? By all means, make as many changes and do as many science experiments as you want.
Adam,
How many bad to below average games has AS played this year, I would go with 4, AS is not a sure thing, he is very inconsistent.
He’s been a bit up and down. The sweet and fuzzy Lord hasn’t made a perfect QB yet. The guy we always prop up in here (and for good reason) didn’t have perfect games or perfect seasons either.
Takes a team to win. Skelton in AZ looks like he might be pretty good if he actually had anyone to throw to. Rivers in SD, same deal.
The other team has something to say about this as well. Believe me, once a defense has CK figured out, it won’t be a walk in the park either. Anything can and will happen.
And again, the idea that we will ever see another Joe Montana in our lifetimes is wishful thinking. Not saying it can’t happen but elite QBs don’t grow on trees. If they did, everyone would have one. And unicorns would poop cupcakes.
If inconsistency is the arguement against Alex Smith, then include Colin K in that as well as we have no idea what he will bring for the next 6 weeks and beyond. All we know is he had one average game against the Rams and one good game against the Bears.
Sam B,
We’re about to find out. Put your seat belt on. I’ve got 1 thing to say. Go back and look at the replay of that throw to Kyle Williams for 57 yards. Tell me how many times you’ve seen Alex Smith make a throw similar to that one. Here’s the answer, ZERO!! It was a bullet on the money with Kyle in stride!
One 57 yard completion now translates to strap your seat belt on, we have greatness? WOW! When will it end?
Alex Smith has had three pass plays longer than 57 yards.
In 8 years.
CK has one career start, and a Super Bowl expectation, you guys really are hateful.
Prime,
Look at the throw. Look at the trajectory. The ball speed. The facrbthstnit hut the receiver in stride. The fact that its the shortest receiver in the field. Wake up idiot. It’s over. BS has left the building. He’s outside waiting for you. Now beat it!
No one is going anywhere. You are sold on one game? Ha! Your lies are as long as Kaps nose.
Kap now has to win a Super Bowl. That’s the expectation, no doubt about it right?
Let’s see how this plays out genius.
“The facrbthstnit hut…”
You having a stroke?
If HB makes LiMichael James active — now we have all sorts of crazy!
Jim Kelly went to the superbowl 4 yrs in a row and came up empty…no one deserves anything! You gotta take it non serviam -James joyce..timid Alex smith is not the man to lead you to the promise land..shoot..kp7 plays backyard ball equipped w/the clairvoyant intuition of what’s occurring around him ala Tom Brady, Rodgers, eli…he see’s the field and digests all the information without becoming mechanical and doesn’t telegraph his punches like Alex does..that ethereal quality is paramount above all others…this assessment is based off his college highlights..you can’t inculcate these qualities in someone via coaching..it’s the intangible “it” factor and he’s got that gene seared in him…I’m jumping on this gazelles back all the way to Jacksonville!
Spell check is built in to Firefox. I don’t have a clue what you’re saying.
This would have been a good case for Grant’ “Topic #2.”
When will we see JaMJames and BJac on the field?
I especially find it hard to believe that BJac will never get on the field this season. As we approach the home-stretch of the season it makes good sense to let BJac get into the mix. JaMJames could prove to be a valuable asset as well, but I believe that Harbaugh will work him in on a special package when he feels that JaM is ready.
Who is JaM? Scout team kid?
Thanks for the check Adam.
It should be LaMichael James!
Endorphins are setting in, my bad.
I’m always getting after my grand-kids to ‘know’ their 49ers players. I hope they don’t read my previous faux pas (lol).
Ah! I should have seen that. Hofer does these initials all the time (and guys from other teams too!) and it takes me a few minutes to figure them all out :P
Actually Gruden called James some other name Monday night and we’ve never seen the kid play so it’s an easy one to drop, he’s kinda getting forgotten about.
I think a lot of this has to due with Dixon’s value on special teams and who else they would have to deactivate to get Jacobs or LMJ on the field, especially since neither one would play ST if activated. If and when it happens, it won’t be against passing teams where the 49ers like to keep a lot of DB’s active. Maybe against the Dolphins? Or Rams since BJ was active in that last game but didn’t play. I don’t think we’ll see LMJ or Jenkins on the field unless there is an injury (Ginn, Williams) or the 49ers have locked-up the division and a bye with home-field advantage.
Thanks Space. Makes sense.
James was completely lost in the preseason.
Alex smith is a true class act..consummate professional and ideal team mate that puts the team first…best case scenario would be for him to learn from this experience and add elements of aggression to his game and not always b
E risk averse…if only Alex had a little bit of kp7 in him and kp7 could take a page out of his self restraint check down to the rb handbook..gosh we’d have the perfect qb
Alex can’t do that. He does not have the arm strength combined with a hint of accuracy. He can’t learn that. Kap has a gift that he accentuated in the weight room. Alex’s version of weight training is picking up his kid when he’s crying!
The lies and hate comin out of your mouth are as long as Kaepernick’s nose!
Happy thanksgiving everyone. I’m headed out to watch the afternoon games with the greatest 49er fan of all time my 85 yo dad. Grant do’nt you think its just a bit disingeuous to praise harbaugh so loudly when he did exactly what you said he should. It sounds a little like you’re praising yourself. It reads a little self serving. Oh by the way my pops falls on the Kap side of the debate. Go 9ers
You got a wise old man!!!
After a rough start, Grant is slowly becoming the best, boldest sports journalist covering the Niners. I dogged him on a couple draft items, but he’s been pretty clean all season on some of his calls. This one especially.
-1
I think this is a good point about Grant Daniners.
I believe another factor is that in the past game, Kap executed the offense exactly the way that Roman and Jim had planned it, even better with his playcalling at the line……. but with Smith, he usually abandons the primary exciting play and goes to a check down that usually results in completion (thus his high ratings) but ends up stalling the drives. Kap may now allow the true offensive genious of Jim Roman to come through…..big time!!
once again probably drinking the coolaid but still loving to imagine it all….
i meant Jim and Greg Roman ,.,,,
Hahaha. http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/8662948/source-alex-smith-medically-cleared-colin-kaepernick-track-start-san-francisco-49ers
Good grief, talk about contradiction.
Of course Skip Bayless agreeing that the supposed naming of CK as the starter was a good move has the kiss of death written all over it.
AdaM, what I’m basically stating is that ck7 is the real deal. The Alex smith experiment needs to be wound down. Ck7 possesses football instincts, the variety that come in handy in the game of football. Alex smith, on the other hand is a brainy book worm who excels in the theoretical aspect of X & O’s. I’m going to bet on the player who can carry out the practical portion. Stay tuned till Sunday to witness kaep put on a clinic. I apologize for the murky opaqueness in my drivel, hope this was more succinctly lucid in presentation?
Actually, my apologies. I came off a bit nasty there. I’m guessing you’re on a phone. I know mine is horrible to work with on this site.
My only rebuttal comes from personal experience and watching these games very closely – for too many years to admit to.
There are many pros to CK’s game so my argument isn’t with that. I’ve been a supporter of the draft move since the beginning when many others here were furious.
My argument will always be, as Old Coach put it earlier: Smith was never as terrible as the haters would like you to believe. A few, who know nothing about football, come in here and bad-mouth Smith and then there are five or six vacant sycophants who regurgitate what they say as if it’s actually fact. Now that’s not say Smith doesn’t have imperfections and there are a few respectable, honest folks in here that post those things – no problem there.
What we saw the other night was a good game by CK, can’t take that away from him. His numbers were very Smith like. That’s due to the balanced scheme and that our receivers don’t get much YAC (for those who only look at passing yards but will never admit that this IS what it IS).
Now, what this boils down to is: we have a 7-2-1 season right now. Gambling this season seems unwise to me. I don’t have a problem, as I stated a few days ago, with testing CK out, the Saints game is a good test but going all in at this point? I’m not there yet. Seems rash and irresponsible.
This may be a moot point now as ESPN is just now quoting Harbs as saying he may use multiple QBs throughout the rest of the season or in any particular game.
I think the guy just likes to play head games to be honest with you.
Adam, I agree with the notion of Harbaugh playing head games and have already read where Harbaugh said that about multible QB’s even prior to the report on ESPN.
I just don’t think doing that would benefit the team because he is then playing head games with his two QB’s and I’ve never seen platooning them work in the NFL. If Kaepernick does play well against the Saints, Harbaugh needs to ride that horse to the finish line and not look back. Anything else and he will look indecisive to the rest of the team and that is not a good thing for their confidence in him as a coach.
Adam, one last thing since I didn’t see your earlier response to mine about drafting a QB in the first two rounds.
Did you think that the 49ers would draft a WR and an RB in the first two rounds this season? It’s not like a QB in the early rounds are going to be that crushing with a rookie salary cap especially if Smith was released. I wanted d-line early this last draft, but the 49ers seem to trust Tomsula’s ability to coach-up later round picks and UDFA’s. It doesn’t seem they have the concern we fans have.
I saw a WR (but not the one I had in my mock) but not LaMike.
I think they picked those guys up as luxury players.
I don’t see a QB for a couple reasons, although Tyler Wilson is an interesting prospect.
1) We don’t need a QB if either scenario pans out. Alex, CK, Tolz are all capable. If Alex leaves, CK and Tolz can easily hold down the fort and then maybe there’s a late draft kid or a UDFA or just a free agent vet for camp.
2) The 2013 draft is suspect on QB talent. Barkley starts off well but has fallen off. Geno Smith? Eh… dunno. Beyond that yeah OK Wilson is interesting but… not much else worth anything. This will be one of the weaker draft classes for QBs.
3) Baalke and Harbs seem to draft out of the Pac10 and Big10 and don’t seem too interested in the SEC (unless I missed somebody which is possible, I have a turkey high right now.) The theory is Big10 has a tough mindset and Harbs knows the Pac10.
4) We have contract and age issues on defense. We also may have a bit of a talent gap with a DB or two. So I see the Niners going this route.
5) I can see taking another flyer for a receiver. We don’t seem to pick them well or we’re not getting any impact from the guys we’ve tried so far, Johnson and Jenkins.
This actually could be a luxury draft in a lot of ways, just take the best player on the board in the first, etc., but I suspect it’s primarily defense this year. If they don’t pay Goldson, or they decide Culliver isn’t living up to expectations or they need depth at DE to eventually replace J. Smith or back up Aldon Smith as a sackmaster. I think Sopoaga is coming up for contract renewals too.
Dunno, it’s hard to predict Baalke, there will be players here next year we’ve never heard of. :P
Adam, thanks for the response. I didn’t see it until today because it was time to eat more food, lol – like I really needed more. Guess the bottomline is “Who knows?” when it comes to Baalke and Harbaugh draft decision-making.
It’s only that Alex is humble, loyal, and a real team player and leader that JH can get away with this if indeed, he does. I think that this will be let slide through the end of the season, and then Alex, the gentleman, will demand a trade. then, all of the spewers of vitriol will be complaining about CK, and Alex will reemerge with another team and really have a reason to lay the wood to his former team. In my opinion, this is just about the worst decision the 49ers have made since YA Tittle was allowed to leave and lead the Giants to the NFL title. Do some of you even remember the QB’s we’ve gone through since Steve Young had ? This is a mistake….!
Yes I do remember, Jeff Garcia was a very good Q.v.
Jeff was good…but he didn’t take us as far as Alex has, and Jeff still had some of Steve’s good linemen
Umm – Jeff took the 49ers to the NFCCG. That’s exactly as far as Alex has gone. That team also won because of a strong passing game, unlike 2011.
Jeff also didn’t suck for 6 years before being good.
Why do Smithers feel the need to denigrate the 49ers good QBs?
msc,
I may be having a brain cramp but I don’t recall Garcia leading the 9ers to the NFCCG.
That’s because Garcia never did. He had 2 playoff seasons here, a wildcard loss in GB, and divisional loss in TB.
Jeff Garcia was a better QB then Alex will ever be.
Jeff was good…and the only reason he didn’t take the team as far as Smith is he didn’t have this defense.
Never cared for Garcia. Mechanics were wonky, jumping up in the air to throw a ball? Not so good. Put Garcia on a lesser talented team, he does nothing. He was fortunate (like Young before him) he inherited some of what was left of the Dynasty.
I didn’t care for Garcia either. However, to imply Young was fortunate to inherite some things is a little inaccurate. Young had some weapons, but Young also made things happen behind a swiss cheese line that couldn’t stop a second grade red rover game.
He brought just as much if not more to SF as any weapon he inherited. Look what happened when he left. . In a give and take ratio, it was 60/40 with Young giving the 60.
Yes, that’s true. I’ve made that point myself for years here now. The O-line started going on its monumental slide around the time Young was operating back there.
Fair point.
*since SY had to retire?
NFL.com just reported that Roman has said AS has not been cleared medically and that their has not been a decision on who will start.
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000099039/article/colin-kaepernick-given-san-francisco-49ers-firstteam-reps
Boy, we sure are getting a lot of conflicting reports today. Guess it’s time to just wait and see before commenting on it anymore today. Happy Thanksgiving 49ers and 49er fans! Guess it is time to gobble-gobble the real thing!
I have followed Alex Smith’s career from Day One, and I’ve been a huge supporter through all the ups and downs of The Dark Ages of Nolan and Singletary. I felt really happy for Smith after his fantastic win over the Saints in the playoffs, a game I went to.
But this year, every time I’ve watched the play of RG-III, Andrew Luck, or even Brandon Weeden of the Cleveland Browns this season, I’ve asked myself, “Gee, why don’t we ever call plays like that? Shouldn’t Alex Smith be making plays like that?”
I got my my answer in the Chicago game.
Whether Nolan / Singletary destroyed Alex’s confidence, or Alex Smith has met the Peter Principle, at this point, the 49ers really need to go with CK. It is a no-brainer.
Yes, Alex Smith has the highest completion % in the NFL. But the 49ers are also #31 in pass attempts. As Steve Young correctly pointed out after the MNF game at Arizona, when Alex completed 18/19 passes, Alex could go 19/19 or even 25/25 completions, but that is not the point.
It is like a surfer who puts up awesome stats by surfing very close to the shores where the water is very shallow and the waves are only 2 feet high. OK, that’s great, but how would those stats change if the surfer had to go into deeper waters where the waves were 20 feet high? And perhaps there were a few sharks in the water too? That’s where the elite surfers are.
So that’s the problem with statistics. The 49ers’ passing plays have been limited to a couple of pages until now, with Alex Smith. Now, with CK, the entire playbook just opened up. I wish Alex Smith well, and perhaps he can stay with the 49ers. But the 49ers have to go with Kaepernick.
With six more games left in the regular season, the timing is as good as it gets, in order to get CK some real game experience and get ready for the playoffs.
I wish there was a more dignified way for Alex Smith to transition out. He is a gentleman and for all the indignities he has suffered here, and for the contributions he has made with the 49ers, he deserved nothing less. But unfortunately, this is a cut throat business. If CK is the guy, then he needs to get all the practice and playing time that he can get, so there is simply no time for finesse.
At the end of the day, Harbaugh gets paid to win, not for being politically correct. He is making the right decision here. Go Niners!
You make too much sense
Good insight Roy P.
AS did have to endure the ‘dark age’ of Nolan/Singletary.
But he also opted to remain with the team when he had an opportunity to leave.
I appreciate all that AS has done in his career. He has been active in proving his #1 selection worth from day one. And has established himself as a effecient and intelligent game manager.
AS will land on his feet very smoothly if his playing days are over in San Francisco.
But CK is our future even if it begins immediately. The best way I can describe CK’ demeanor before Monday night’s game comes by way of a boxing fight I saw over 30 years ago (probably way before your time, lol).
I seen a young lion of a fighter named Roberto Duran in the locker room about to fight the reigning champion Buchanan.
Duran looked like a hungry lion ready to pounce on his prey. Buchanan’ championship title did not faze him one bit.
Duran not only won the fight, but he toyed with Buchanan before knocking him out.
That’s the look I saw in CK7′ eyes on Monday night. He was not fazed by the Bears top rated ‘takeaway machine’ defense. He went out and pounced on the Bears in dominating fashion.
CK was attacking the big bully with pass after pass and keep in mind that he left at least 2 TD’ on the field.
Hopefully it’s the start of a great career.
“But this year, every time I’ve watched the play of RG-III…”
I’m not impressed with RGIII. Tonight was no exception. He had maybe one accurate pass on the long toss and one really nice back shoulder pass, the rest were wildly inaccurate. The Redskins have amazingly acrobatic receivers.
Luck is looking pretty decent so far though.
“But the 49ers are also #31 in pass attempts.”
Which is basically the same whether it’s Smith or CK. You’re hoping for more of an unbalanced offense, then? If we didn’t have a running game, we could look like Dallas tonight – 14 yards running and desperation shots down the field for picks. I’m not for that.
“…but how would those stats change if the surfer had to go into deeper waters where the waves were 20 feet high?”
Depends. Is the surfer winning? The size of the wave doesn’t matter if the results are winning. It’s a team sport not an individual competition.
“…the timing is as good as it gets…” I disagree with you and agree with Ray Ratto. It’s a gamble that doesn’t really need to be taken. Granted, Harbs will look like a genius if this works but if it turns out like the genius trick plays we try to run? Train wreck.
“He is making the right decision here.”
NFL Net and ESPN are reporting exact opposite stories right now so we really don’t know what the decision is.
During 2008-2009, I used to run a fan blog for the San Jose Mercury that the newspaper eventually decided to discontinue. There were some outstanding participants in that blog, and we used to have some serious and thought-provoking dialogues about the 49ers.
I still see some of the Niner fans who used to participate in that blog (Grumpy Guy, Mood Indigo, …). They will tell you that I was a staunch and vocal supporter of Alex Smith at a time when it was extremely unpopular to say good things about AS. I was also very critical of the way Mike Nolan and later, Mike Singletary handled Alex Smith.
I would have preferred the 49ers had drafted Aaron Rodgers, but in hindsight, considering what a disaster Mike Nolan was, I guess that would not have mattered.
Regardless, once AS was drafted, it was obvious that he had a lot of potential. I was delighted when Norv Turner became the OC in Alex’s second year, and I was sure the 49ers would be one of the elite teams the following year.
Unfortunately, Turner left, Nolan was clueless, and everything fell apart. The hardest thing in 2008-2009 was publicly defending Alex Smith, when the sentiment was so negative about him.
Alex is one classy individual, and I really hope he stays with the 49ers for a long time. But whether it is because Nolan and Singletary destroyed his psyche, or because he has reached his limit, I have to conclude today that CK can elevate the team to a level that AS simply cannot.
Keep in mind that Frank Gore is peaking out. Dashon Goldson had to be hit with the franchise tag for 2012. It is not clear whether Randy Moss or many others will be back next year or not. The time to win is now.
I saw Ray Rotto’s column, and I disagree with him. This is not as big a gamble as it might appear to be. The Press or the fans don’t get to see the 49ers private practices. We don’t see what Harbaugh and Roman see. Their 1-year offer to Alex Smith, paying him below 20 other starting QBs in the NFL, and their pursuit of Peyton Manning all say that Harbaugh/Roman/Baalke think Alex is a solid B+ QB, but not an A+ QB.
I think the handwriting on the wall had been there for almost a year now. I don’t think it was ever “if”, but only “when” a change would be made. I think Harbaugh / Roman have arrived at that point.
These guys are being paid to win, not to be sentimental.
“I have to conclude today that CK can elevate the team to a level that AS simply cannot.”
I agree with a lot of what you wrote but I disagree with the quote above.
A clunker of a Rams game and one good game against the Bears is a bit thin to make any concrete conclusions (in my opinion). I’m not against CK in any sense whatsoever, I’ve been a vocal supporter on record here since the day they drafted him. I have some concerns on mechanics and how some of the unorthodox technique will affect accuracy, etc., but that’s a minor detail if everything still works.
What concerns me is that the average (and mostly ignorant) vocal minority gets all giddy over flawed reporting and one single game. The old ‘hang-the-man’ mob mentality that goes on here day after day. I’m all for testing CK on the road, as I’ve stated before, it makes a lot of sense (on several different levels) but let’s not throw the baby out with the bathwater here. Let’s make sure CK is the guy before we crown him the bloody savior. One game won’t cut it and we’re not likely to see another Joe Montana in our lifetimes – that ship has sailed.
Let’s make sure this is done right because we know what it looks like when it’s done wrong. So far, CK’s progression in this offense (based on the one game vs. a few sporadic relief roles) looks good. Less inclination to bootleg, more pocket presence, clean drops and reads and mostly accurate throws. It’s all good so far but let’s see how the Saints game goes (if he starts) and then we’ll go from there. The Saints will throw a ton of blitzes at him (or so we think) and that will be a good trial by fire for him in a noisy, hostile dome.
The idea (that is generated by the same handful of knuckleheads here and a few other fan blogs) that Smith is horrible, blah blah blah, is just grossly inaccurate and delusional. It’s more of a personal crusade against the man. Like he stole someone’s girlfriend or peed in their Wheaties. Just sheer hatred and ignorance.
Nice post Adam. Except for IT’S WRONG. The coaching staff has spoken and disagrees with you. The only way they make a move like this past mid season is because they do believe that “the other guy” can get them to another level.
Guys like VD making statements like, “Colin’s the man”, or statements like, ” it feels like the shackles have been taken off the offense”. You going to argue with them too?
Basically this decision was NOT make from watching six quarters of football with someone other than Smith running it. It was a well thought out decision made from watching practices and gathering feedback from leaders on this team. Oh and from watching film of two years worth of check downs.
What are you talking about? Roman said yesterday there was no decision. So are YOU going to argue with him? Or you don’t trust the coaching staff to tell the truth? Take your pick.
“Guys like VD making statements like, “Colin’s the man”, or statements like, ” it feels like the shackles have been taken off the offense”. You going to argue with them too?”
Vernon Davis is a class act who says nice things about everyone. He also said in the same interview that Alex is also “the man.” Give me a break. He said lot’s of nice flowery stuff about Alex yesterday. Nice stuff about McNabb, etc. He’s a company man who’s also a class act.
There’s nothing wrong in that post – the theme is: let’s not get overly giddy about a guy we haven’t seen much of yet. Remember Carmazzi? Remember Jordy all in love with Josh Johnson? Let’s not go crazy here. We’ve had tons and tons of QBs through here since I can remember (Brodie) and most don’t pan out. I hope CK beats the odds, I like him but I’m not ready to crown him the next Montana or Young. He’s already better than Garcia so there’s one down. ;)
C’mon man! :P
Adam,
you are trying to leave the door open. That ship has sailed. This has happened to AS one too many times here now.
How many times is he going to be benched in favor of another QB? Sing benched him twice for another option, now Harbaugh is sitting a healthy Smith in favor of CK. Paint it another way if you want, but in the end it is what it is.
Staying here is not good for Smith’s confidence. Gotta go. Next year I’d like to see CK starting, bring in Tim Hasselback to battle it out with Tolzien as the backups. Smith is done here. If the fans were fickle towards Smith before, imagine now. For those that truly care for Smith, you’d want him to leave. It’s only fair for him to get a new start somewhere else.
One of my favorite coaching mentors once told me that at every level at some point someone tells you that you are not good enough to play anymore. As a 49er Smith was just given that message.
I’m trying to leave a door in any way at all. It’s not my call.
All I care about is winning the games and bringing in another trophy. It’s fun to watch.
All I’m saying is let’s not be too rash. I’ve seen this 50 times before and so have you. Shaun Hill is the savior, Brandon Doman is the savior, Cody Picket, Steve Spurrier, Scott Bull, Jim Plunkett, yada yada.
I think the coaches are doing this right, for the most part, let CK come on slowly like Aaron Rodgers did. Let him take in as much as he can, then let’s let him go. CK has the potential to be better than RGIII and better than Cam Newton and better than a lot of the others but let’s not force it when there’s no need to force it. We win with Smith, we win with CK, it’s all good.
It’s not like the dark days with Monte Clark and Joe Thomas. We’re already on top, we’re not losing, we just need to do this whole thing the right way, we’ve seen what happens when this is done the wrong way.
*not trying to leave a door…*
“So that’s the problem with statistics…..At the end of the day, Harbaugh gets paid to win, not for being politically correct.”
Some valid points made but how many other HCs have win-loss stats of 20-6-1 with a starting QB who’s who’s supposed to be”average at best”??? LOL Too many good stats that go along with those wins to ignore. Kap played a great game Mon. night but so did every other Niner and he didn’t have to think about starting all week. The perfect storm for him, that being said, if he can play close to that well when the rest of the team isn’t playing their ‘A’ game I’ll be a very happy Niner fan.
The key point is, Kaepernick made passes that Alex Smith has not been able to deliver. CK did a far better job of reading the defenses and coverages, and going through his progression.
Every time CK passed deep, I “knew” it would be either an overthrow (best case), sack (par for the course), or an INT (worst case). I was bracing myself for one of the above scenarios. But every time he completed a pass or scored a TD, it was like “Huh? What happened here?!”
The last time I saw such authoritative passing was when Steve Young was the QB. Even Happy Feet Jeff Garcia was never that good.
So I would say, yes, the 49ers are 20-6-1 with AS as the QB, but what if they could have been 24-3 with CK as the QB? The 49ers are winning with exactly the same players, because of superior coaching. I think they’ve reached a point where the QB position needs to deliver more.
Roy,
You make some very good points but I don’t think CK changes anything about the offensive gameplan in regards to run/pass ratio and I saw nothing different in the playcalling on Monday night that I haven’t seen them run with Smith. A lot of the reaction, or in this case overreaction, is due to Kap having some charisma and taking apart a pretty good defense. Going forward, this will still be a team that is 50/50 in run pass distribution. The gamble is in the possibility Kap turns the ball over more often and in turn costs the team.
I like Kap a lot, but it’s a real gamble to change your starter this late in the season. I’m hoping Harbaugh is on the money with this decision the way he has been with most of his other ones.
Jason Garrett should be fired
He will be.
Jerry Jones needs to fire himself. That man is the reason evil exists in the world.
So Vernon Davis said “”It felt like somebody took the handcuffs off,” Davis said. “It sends out a message we’re for real and we’ll step up in big games.” after the Bears game.
Remember back in 2010 when a Troy Smith had a bunch of passes in the overtime win over the Rams and Frank Gore said “A play breaks down, you run around and make plays. That’s what he does. We were just playing football in the park. I decided I’m going to take it up and try to get a first down. It’s just like when we were little kids.”
Folks wrote off Alex then. But he won’t ever go away….
IMO all ck has to do is match Alex smith’ play. I hope he exceeds his play or there is no reason to make a change. I truly thought Alex smith would grow into something like I saw Monday night in Ck. I don’t think it’s very difficult to match the game managing type of qb play.
I still think Smith will start, due to harbaughs and his relationship and he was injured not replaced by bad play. I just think he won’t start this week. It’s a Harbaugh let’s see if you’re for real game for ck. bottom line and Harbaugh has to play the concussion excuse perfectly so he doesn’t affect AS’s confidence. If CK does in fact start Sunday its going to be his make or break game for the rest of the season. Next year I am definitely saying ck will start.
Well Md,
now that we have a new direction behind center, Niner fans will have to be patient with him. Not fair to rip on a guy if he has one or two bad starts. CK ( K-gun ) gets time to grow, time to learn time gain valuable experience.
Lets support #7 with all we got.
“IMO all ck has to do is match Alex smith’ play.”
That’s a valid point if we need to save on cap space next year.
I disagree on starting Smith. I think they go CK, it doesn’t seem wise to me to clear a guy on Friday without some live fire in practice over a guy who is perfectly healthy and can give you similar numbers on pass attempts.
I don’t think loyalty matters much to Harbauigh. I think it’s a one-way street. And we know it’s a ‘what have you done for me lately’ league. Can’t do much with a concussion and Smith has either been very good or mediocre so far this season. If CK gives Harbaugh a better chance at a W, he’ll go that route. Concussions are a weird thing. Hard to get over right away. Brains sloshing around up there – not good.
*on the same number of pass attempts*