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Word on the street is that Alex Smith will have to have a career year for the 49ers if they want to have a good season. I don't entirely agree, here's why.

Last year saw the return of the shamed QB from Utah when he was subbed in for JT'O during the second half of Houston game. Alex seemed to take command of the offense and inspire them as he threw 3 touchdowns. The defense stepped up during the second half after seeing Smith march down the field, but the first half deficit was too large.

For the rest of the year the Niners ran a spread offense that was basically drawn in the dirt. 3 receivers go deep, Vernon across the middle. Every play.

This worked pretty well but wasn't terribly consistent. Because of the terrible run game Smith would make attempts in the high 30s, thrice breaking 40. I am convinced that the only reason smith had a terrible ratting is that he was a volume passer. I believe he will thrive in the new Bronco's style offense. All Smith has to do is be accurate enough to hit a couple short passes and throw a couple bombs to 3 very fast receivers in Crabtree, Ginn Jr and Davis.

I would compare his situation to the numerous young, talented QB's entering the league right now. Matt Ryan and Joe Flaco were able to hand off the ball 2 or 3 times before throwing 1 or 2 accurate passes. Both teams had top 10 defenses which meant that the teams could play the field position game effectively, which takes pressure off of young QBs.

The beginning of last season show cased Singletary's pound on the ground old school offense. The flaw with this system is that there was no balance. JT'O could not make a clutch throw and despite being a good game manager, rarely showed guts or made inspiring plays. After the switch, the problem was in the line. The Niners did not have the correct personnel to be able disguise run or pass. Since some of the main starters were injured all the linemen were either run or pass specialist  and it was very obvious when they subbed their two pass defenders for their two run blockers. Defensive coordinators had a field day as they were able to decipher the personnel set so easily. The addition of 600 pounds of power and healthy starters will allow the Niners to mix up their linemen and keep defenses guessing.

The beefed up line, flexible play book and athletic weapons will allow Smith to do a lot by doing very little.