One of the biggest lessons of all the minicamps and OTAs, which ended today, is that 49ers head coach Mike Singletary has a legitimate quarterback competition. Smith is throwing the ball well and his confidence is as ironclad as it's been since college. "Well, I think the playing field is level now," he said of the QB competition. "I think before the offseason began, I wasn't really sure where Alex was. You know, he's been through a lot in four years. I think in order for he and Shaun to compete on level ground, he had to get healthy, he had to get his mind focused, I think he had to let go of some of the bitterness that happened to him, some of the bad things, and get the bad taste out of his mouth and be ready to go. I think that has happened." Singletary did reiterate that if the season were to begin tomorrow, Hill would be the starter but Smith now has a legitimate shot of knocking him out of his perch. Source: Sacramento Bee
Amazing what a little competition can do. One look no further that one year ago when the QB position was open season for the Cardinals. Leinert was thought to be the number one, Warner outplayed him pre-season and the rest is history. Smith ain't no Warner, but it looks like Singletary's on track to put the best QB on the field opening day.
Even if I've never been a Smith fan, if he's the best we have, go with him. I just want to see the Niners win some games (before December, if possible) whoever is behind the Center.
Jimmy Raye's system is more like Norv Turner's in which Smith has looked the best so far as a pro. I actually think Hill will win the job but Smith will get his shot at some point.
