The Troy Smith Experiment

Troy Smith's audition to be the franchise quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers continues tonight.  He has six games left to prove to his front office, his coaches and his teammates that he is the guy to lead their team into the future.  You'll probably hear some stories tonight during the broadcast about how he is a bit of journey man and lost the starting job in Baltimore to Joe Flacco, but don't believe everything you hear.

Smith was slated to be the starter in Baltimore until an illness railroaded his season.  Flacco was forced to start from the beginning and because he played so well, the Ravens never looked back.  This left Smith out of the mix, however the Ravens coaches had nothing but positive things to say about the former Heisman Trophy winner.  

He was patient, sitting behind Alex Smith and David Carr for most of the season, and now has been given his chance.  If you're a Niners fan who is looking forward to drafting either Andrew Luck, Ryan Mallet of Jake Locker, I'll ask you to give this guy a chance.  Although he is extremely mobile, he has always been more of a pocket passer than a scrambler.  He can make all the throws and has great leadership qualities.

The 49ers team is being built to run the football and play good defence.  Drafting two offensive linemen in the first round to compliment Frank Gore reinforces that point.  Therefore, this type of team needs a smart quarterback who is great off play action and can take off and run when no one is open.  So while dreams of Luck, Locker and Mallet drift through your head tonight, just remember to watch this guy with an open mind.  He just might surprise you.