Fresh off the 49ers' 32-7 romp of the Bears in Candlestick, reaffirming their spot among the NFL's elite, the media hysteria begins. Kaepernick or Smith? But before we go there, let's get to some of the key points from Monday Night.


It's easy to write the highlights of a 32-7 game, but now let's look from the other side of the table. Firstly, the defensive line's performance has to be tempered with the fact that Chicago's offensive line is atrocious. Secondly, neither starting QB was playing. That's not to say the Niners wouldn't have won in a Smith vs. Cutler contest (because I'm certain after watching this that they would have), it's just something to consider. Thirdly, while it's easy to jump on the "Kaepernick is the new Steve Young, start him now" bandwagon, it's also important to remember that:

1. The Bears had very limited film on Kaepernick and could have really been goosed by Smith being rule out.

2. The defense and offensive line played astoundingly well. There's no question Smith would have won this game as well. 32-7? Maybe not, but this was a team win and one that would have happened regardless of who was behind center.

3. Alex Smith, although not nearly as electric, has proven consistency. Kaepernick put on the game of his life, no doubt, and the future looks incredibly bright, but Smith led this team to its initial resurgence last year and was seconds away from a Super Bowl. This year, he ranks only behind Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers in QB rating. He also continues to be smart and careful with the football. Most importantly, he has won the respect of many a teammate. These players now go to war for him and have confidence in him as a general. Once you start shifting QB's, this creates a rift--especially when the change occurs during injury. I'm not saying this doesn't make the seat hot for Smith, but for the sake of this team right now, making hasty decisions after one game of evidence could prove to be damning.

Harbaugh likely made the post-game comments he did out his own shrewd nature. Why tell the media or the Saints who is going to play next weekend? Much like this week, Harbaugh makes a move to keep the opponent guessing and spread their practice time thin by preparing for two different QBs.

The Niners desperately needed this game not only to keep pace in the NFC top-seeding race, but to also reestablish confidence. They got that and a whole lot more. This is the kind of game teams like to use as a springboard and with remaining games that include visits to New Orleans, New England, and Seattle, they'll have to sustain that momentum for a while.

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