Alex Smith has disappointed 49er fans since he was drafted in 2005. High expectations followed him, as they follow all number-one picks. However, the 49ers' won-loss record and Alex Smith's individual performance had never risen above the mediocre through 2010.
Alex Smith really never had a fair shake. He sat out the equivalent of two full seasons due to injury, and because the 49ers constantly turned over their coaching staff, he had to learn a new system every year. But even the most forgiving and optimistic fans---those who hoped that under new coach Jim Harbaugh Alex Smith might lead the Niners to a 9-7 record and first place in a weak division--did not realistically hope for the actual outcome:
I know I didn't. And I also doubt that anyone predicted that Alex Smith would out-duel the great Saints quarterback Drew Brees in the playoffs or that the Niners would be hosting the NFC championship game on January 22, 2012.
At this stage it is no longer sufficient that Mr. Smith not make mistakes. The 49ers will need an outstanding performance from him to extend their season.
No comments:
Post a Comment